The reported incidence of pediatric pancreatitis is increasing. Non-invasive imaging, including ultrasound, computed tomography, and MRI, play important roles in the diagnosis, staging, follow-up, and management of pancreatitis in children. In this position paper, generated by members of the Pancreas Committee of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and the Abdominal Imaging Committee of The Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR), we review the roles of non-invasive imaging in pediatric acute, acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis. We discuss available evidence related to non-invasive imaging, highlighting evidence specific to pediatric populations, and we make joint recommendations for use of non-invasive imaging. Further, we highlight the need for research to define the performance and role of non-invasive imaging in pediatric pancreatitis.
DOI: 10.1097/MPG.0000000000002964
