Abdominal X-ray - Abnormal calcification
Retroperitoneal calcification

Key points

  • Pancreatic calcification is a sign of chronic pancreatitis
  • Adrenal calcification is usually an incidental finding

Other investigations

  • Retroperitoneal calcification can also be seen incidentally with CT

Occasionally you may see calcification of retroperitoneal organs such as the pancreas or adrenals, which only become visible when calcified.

Pancreatic calcification is a feature of chronic pancreatitis.

Adrenal (suprarenal) calcification is an uncommon finding and is usually incidental. Most often it is considered a result of previous haemorrhage or tuberculosis.

Chronic pancreatitis

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Chronic pancreatitis

  • This X-ray shows soft tissue calcification which follows the anatomical position of the pancreas
  • Also note calcification of the abdominal aorta which is of normal calibre

Adrenal calcification

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Adrenal calcification

  • The adrenal (suprarenal) glands form a triangle shape lying directly above the kidneys

Page author: Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust UK (Read bio)

Last reviewed: October 2019