Presentation
Diabetic patient with chronic abdominal pain
Patient Data



The pancreas is visualised showing nearly complete replacement by diffuse fatty density. There is evidence of a relatively large nearly rounded inhomogeneous density noted within the retroperitoneal region within the pancreatic head site and abutting the superior mesenteric vein as well as minimally the confluence of the portal vein. It measures ~34 x 31 mm (AP x ML) with irregular margins and mild stranding of the surrounding fat as well as faint mild enhancing wall and internal turbid contents/septa with a small enhancing centre.
Images are suggestive of loculated fluid most likely due to focal acute pancreatitis of the head of the pancreas.
Case Discussion
Pancreatic lipomatosis is defined as fatty replacement of the pancreatic parenchyma. It is most often associated with obesity and ageing. It tends to be the commonest pathological condition involving the pancreas.