Metastatic disease to the pancreas: an imaging challenge

Metastatic lesions of the pancreas are uncommon, accounting for approximately 2% of pancreatic malignancies. Many tumours involve the pancreas secondarily and may manifest with different clinical and imaging characteristics. Although many patients have widespread disease, isolated metastases can be found. Surgical management is associated with improved survival in these cases. The experience of the pancreatic surgery unit and imaging department of our hospital in many patients presenting with pancreatic metastases is presented, and a review of the recent literature is undertaken. Main Messages • The early recognition of secondary pancreatic tumours on US, CT and MRI is extremely important. • Pancreatic metastases may mimic primary pancreatic adenocarcinoma or induce acute pancreatitis. • Most pancreatic metastases are discovered on a CT examination performed for follow-up.