CT Analysis and Differentiation of Chronic Pancreatitis with Mass in the Head of the Pancreas and Pancreatic Carcinoma

Objective To analyze CT characteristics of pancreatic carcinoma and chronic pancreatitis with mass in the head of the pancreas in order to improve its CT differential diagnostic accuracy. Materials and Methods CT findings of 15 cases with chronic pancreatitis with mass and 12 cases with pancreatic carcinoma in the head of the pancreas were retrospectively analyzed.Both plain and enhanced CT scanning were performed in all cases. Both the slice thickness and interval were of 5～8 mm. Results The main CT signs of chronic pancreatitis with mass and pantreatic carcinoma in the head of the pancreas was followed respectively: (1) Lesions in enhanced imaging presented hypodensity or mixed density(2 cases and 8 cases); (2) Both pancreatic duct and bile duct were dilated (6 cases and 8 cases);(3)The lower part of dilated common bile duct were suddenly obstructed( 0 case and 7 cases); (4) Peripancreatic blood vessels were invaded or surrounded (0 case and 6 cases). Conclusion Characteristics of blood supply and biological behavior of pancreatic carcinoma with mass in the head of the pancreas are of important basis in CT distinguishing pancreatic carcinoma from chronic pancreatitis with mass in the head of the pancreas.