Acute pancreatitis (AP) is probably more common in childhood than has previously been thought, and it carries significant morbidity and mortality. A high index of suspicion for pancreatitis when a child presents with the nonspecific symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and localized upper abdominal pain is important for AP diagnosis. A through history and physical examination that emphasizes recent infections, medications used, recent trauma, and underlying medical conditions may make the diagnosis clearer. Using serum digestive enzyme testing alone (amylase and lipase) to diagnose AP remains a challenge because although clinical sensitivity has improved, clinical specificity remains suboptimal. Abdominal ultrasonography and computerized tomography of pancreas are primarily used to document pancreatitis, determine the severity or identify complication. Recently, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic ultrasound are used in AP in children but the experiences are limited. The basis of AP treatment is supportive. New experimental therapeautic strategies in AP are promising.

Keywords: akut pankreatit, çocuk, karın ağrısı, kusma, acute pancreatits, children, abdominal pain, vomiting