Diagnosis of Pancreatitis in Children
1. Acute pancreatitis
There is no single test to detect acute pancreatitis. The first step in the diagnosis process typically includes a blood test. This test will reveal whether there are abnormally high levels of enzymes, called amylase and lipase.

Imaging tests for acute pancreatitis may include: .
ultrasound examination
magnetic resonance imaging scan, also known as an MRI
computed tomography, also called a CT scan

Blood tests and radiology scans, such as ultrasound, CT or MRI, may not always provide a clear-cut diagnosis. When this occurs, your doctor will make a clinical judgment based on your child’s history and the severity of symptoms.

2. Chronic pancreatitis
Unlike acute, a blood test generally does not identify chronic pancreatitis. Your clinician will perform variety of tests to determine if your child has chronic pancreatitis.

Imaging tests for chronic pancreatitis may include:

Abdominal ultrasound: An ultrasound will indicate whether the pancreas is swollen or inflamed.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: This can help rule out other causes of abdominal pain.

Computed tomography (CT) scan: May also be used to help rule out other causes of abdominal pain.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A test that combines fluoroscopy (x-ray technique) with flexible endoscopy, involving a scope with a tiny high-definition camera on the end to see inside the body and help identify problems of the pancreas, pancreatic duct, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts.