Emphysematous Pancreatitis - Clinical and Radiological Insights

Acute pancreatitis is a prevalent emergency encountered in clinical practice, presenting with varying degrees of severity.[1,2] Emphysematous pancreatitis (EP), a rare complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis, is characterized by the presence of gas within or surrounding the pancreas.[1,2] This condition is associated with a significantly poor prognosis, making early radiological assessment critical for influencing patient outcomes. Computed tomography (CT) is the primary modality for diagnosing emphysematous pancreatitis, revealing pancreatic parenchymal necrosis as areas of non-enhancement, along with intra- or peripancreatic fluid collections. CT findings typically include single or multiple foci of gas in the pancreatic bed, as well as an assessment of the degree of inflammatory changes and potential complications associated with this severe form of necrotizing pancreatitis.[2] The objective of this case report is to present a classic case of emphysematous pancreatitis, an uncommon manifestation of acute pancreatitis. Early diagnosis of emphysematous pancreatitis is crucial, as it represents a potentially fatal subtype of severe necrotizing pancreatitis. Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for this condition to ensure timely intervention and improve patient outcomes.[2]