The diagnosis of inflamed pancreas, or pancreatitis, requires a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests.
Medical History and Physical Examination
A doctor will take a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination when diagnosing pancreatitis. The doctor will ask about the symptoms, the patient's diet, alcohol intake, and any other medications that the patient may be taking. The doctor will also check the abdomen for tenderness, swelling, and enlargement, which are all signs of pancreatitis.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as an abdominal X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan, can be used to diagnose pancreatitis. The X-ray and ultrasound can be used to identify any stones in the pancreas that may be causing the inflammation. The CT scan can be used to identify any enlargement of the pancreas, as well as any fluid collections or inflammation of the organ.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and amylase and lipase tests, can be used to diagnose pancreatitis. The CBC will measure the white blood cell count, which will help determine if there is an infection present. The liver function tests will measure the levels of certain enzymes, which can be elevated in the presence of pancreatitis. The amylase and lipase tests measure the levels of these enzymes in the blood, which can be elevated in the presence of pancreatitis.
Once the diagnosis of pancreatitis is made, the doctor can then determine the best treatment plan for the patient. Treatment may include antibiotics, pain medications, and fluid replacement, depending on the severity of the inflammation.
