Which finding is most characteristic of chronic pancreatitis on ultrasound?

Which finding is most characteristic of chronic pancreatitis on ultrasound?

• A. Dilated pancreatic duct
• B. Decreased echogenicity
• C. Calcifications
• D. Normal duct size

Answer: (C)

Calcifications in the pancreas on ultrasound are the most characteristic finding of chronic pancreatitis. Long-standing inflammation leads to fibrosis and calcium deposition, which shows up as bright echogenic foci within the pancreatic parenchyma with posterior acoustic shadowing. While duct changes and atrophy can accompany chronic disease, the presence of intraparenchymal calcifications is especially indicative. Duct dilation or a normal duct size are less specific, and decreased echogenicity would not fit the fibrotic, calcified nature of chronic pancreatitis.

Calcifications in the pancreas on ultrasound are the most characteristic finding of chronic pancreatitis. Long-standing inflammation leads to fibrosis and calcium deposition, which shows up as bright echogenic foci within the pancreatic parenchyma with posterior acoustic shadowing. While duct changes and atrophy can accompany chronic disease, the presence of intraparenchymal calcifications is especially indicative. Duct dilation or a normal duct size are less specific, and decreased echogenicity would not fit the fibrotic, calcified nature of chronic pancreatitis.