Autoimmune Pancreatitis

This book provides up-to-date information on all aspects of autoimmune pancreatitis, a unique form of pancreatitis characterized clinically by frequent presentation with obstructive jaundice and dramatic response to steroids, histologically by a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with fibrosis, and radiologically by pancreatic enlargement. Current concepts regarding the disease and its classification into subtypes 1 and 2 are explained, and clinical, serological, and histopathological findings are carefully described. Imaging features on all the relevant modalities are illustrated, covering both the pancreas and other involved organs. Current and emerging therapeutic strategies, including steroids, immunomodulatory drugs, and rituximab, are then discussed. The reader will find the book to be an excellent aid to the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis and its differentiation from pancreatobiliary malignancies, as well as a clear guide to treatment.