Increased echogenicity of the pancreas usually occurs in the chronic form of pancreatitis. In this case, it can occur only in the form of several inclusions, referring to focal lesions, and may affect the entire organ. Quite often pseudocysts can be formed, whose echogenicity is also increased. At the same time, changes in the echostructure of the gland are noted in the pancreas, the contour changes, becoming jagged and small-hummocky. In case of proliferation of fibrous tissues, the contours will show hyperechoinality.
In this case, calcifications and concrements are often found in the tissues, the foci of which can create a shadow in the study. In 40% of patients, such focal formations are found around the ducts of the gland, where calcification occurs in combination with the expansion and obstruction of the pancreatic duct.
Inclusions of increased echogenicity may be noted in the formation of false cysts, not only in the pancreas itself, but also in surrounding tissues. Usually a false cyst is called fluid accumulation with pancreatic enzymes that have non-epithelial walls. Over time, the walls of such cysts can undergo fibrosis followed by calcification. Although pseudocysts usually have the appearance of anehogenous spaces with a liquid inside, they can be complicated by the formation of ruptures and bleeding in adjacent structures, which leads to the development of an abscess. It is the zones with bleeding caused by false cysts and abscesses that look like areas of hyperechoic inclusions in the pancreas.
Increased echogenicity of the gland is peculiar to such a process as fibro-cystic degeneration, which can develop as an independent disease, and be a consequence of a prolonged course of chronic pancreatitis. There is clearly pronounced atrophy of the pancreas and a decrease in the anteroposterior size. In addition to various diseases, insignificant hyperechoic pancreas in relation to the liver, occurs in 48% of healthy people, but the changes are almost imperceptible. Also, its normal increase is observed in people in the process of aging, since the body loses some of the water, and the tissue is partially replaced by fibrous tissue.
In order to correctly recognize the condition of the pancreas for echogenicity, the spleen, liver and gallbladder are examined together with the gland, which makes it possible to assess the condition of the organ.
Echogenicity of the pancreas diffusely increased
Similar conclusion of the ultrasound of the pancreas is pronounced by specialists quite often. What does this mean and how serious is the verdict?
If to speak the philistine's language, echogenicity is an indicator that reflects the possibility of organ tissues to transmit ultrasonic waves. The higher it is, the denser the iron. In medical practice, increased echogenicity of the pancreas, occurs quite often. It can be of two types: diffuse and local.
In the event that it was found that the pancreatic echogenicity diffusely increased, this could mean the following:
- In the body, the lipomatosis of this organ occurs. Or, simply put, normal tissues begin to be replaced by fat. The process is asymptomatic. Global treatment is not required.
- Pancreatitis begins to develop. In this situation, it is worth worrying. Inpatient treatment is needed. This state is quite easy to recognize - pains in the abdomen begin to appear, and there are periodic problems with the stool. It is not uncommon for nausea and vomiting.
- A tumor is formed. Additional symptoms are stool disorders, increased gas production, decreased appetite and general weakness.
However, at the same time, doctors emphasize that a diffuse increase in echogenicity can be a temporary phenomenon that is caused by various factors. Starting from the usual cold and ending with a violation of diet. In this case, a repeated ultrasound is assigned.
High pancreatic echogenicity
Such a conclusion after the study can not be regarded as a full diagnosis. In order to establish the cause of such a process, one should not only consult a competent specialist, but also pass a number of tests.
Speaking in general, hyperechoinality can be a sign of a rather serious ailment, for example, such as the development of a variety of neoplasms, pancreatitis, and also indicate temporary processes in the body. In the first case, of course, serious medical intervention will be required. In the second, often, the process is eliminated. As evidenced by repeated results of ultrasound.
However, in any case, high echogenicity is a deviation from the norm and reports that the pancreas structure is compacted. Therefore, this fact should not be ignored. An immediate consultation with a specialist is recommended.
Pancreatic echogenicity increased slightly and significantly
In a healthy person, the pancreatic echogenicity is uniform. But, not always an increase in this sign, will indicate the presence of a serious disease. For example, if the echogenicity is not significantly increased, most likely, this is due to temporary changes in the body. It can be calcification of the pancreas, a violation of diet, a failure of the diet.
In the event that it has been found that the echogenicity is increased significantly, further serious research is needed. A similar conclusion of ultrasound may indicate the development of all kinds of concomitant diseases: cysts, inflammations.
Causes and treatment of
Factors that cause this condition are huge. Commonly encountered are the following:
- Different types of pancreatitis;
- Presence of diabetes mellitus;
- Lipomatosis;
- Development of inflammatory elements;
- Tumor events;
- Pancreatic edema.
If we talk about the treatment methods that are assigned in connection with this condition, it will directly depend on the reason for which increased echogenicity has occurred. In a number of cases, only medicinal therapy is prescribed. However, it is not uncommon for a surgical procedure to be performed.