Abdominal X-ray
Abnormal calcification
Retroperitoneal calcification
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.
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
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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
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Hover over image to show findings
Adrenal calcification
- The adrenal (suprarenal) glands form a triangle shape lying directly above the kidneys