MR features of primary and secondary malignant lymphoma of the pancreas: a pictorial review

OBJECTIVE: To describe the imaging findings of primary and secondary pancreatic malignant lymphoma on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to help differentiate lymphoma of the pancreas from primary adenocarcinoma and autoimmune pancreatitis among others, and to discuss a few atypical presentations of pancreatitis mimicking lymphoma. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of these imaging manifestations of lymphoma may be helpful to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and avoid unnecessary morbidity and mortality from inadvertent surgery. MAIN MESSAGES: • Pancreatic malignant lymphoma is shown as a nodular low-density area with mild enhancement on CT. • It sometimes shows variable manifestations mimicking other tumours and inflammatory conditions. • MRI provides useful information for differentiating malignant lymphoma from other mimickers.