Chronic Inflammation of Pancreas

Chronic Inflammation of Pancreas

Article
Digestive Health
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHMar 21, 2018

The topic Chronic Inflammation of Pancreas you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Chronic Pancreatitis.

Quick Summary:

  • Chronic Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that results in an alteration of its normal structure, causing it to function in an irreversible manner
  • Chronic Pancreatitis affects both genders, although men are reported to be more susceptible to the condition. The onset of the condition is usually the mid-30s
  • Several risk factors are reported that could increase susceptibility to the disease. Some of them include alcohol use, smoking, hyperparathyroidism, use of certain medicines, and certain autoimmune disorders. In some instances, the disease is reported to run in families, implying an inherited risk of the disease in this group of individuals
  • The cause of Chronic Pancreatitis is the excess synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins, which is typically a response to injury. This leads to scarring of the pancreatic tissue. Since the pancreas are involved in the digestion process by supplying needed enzymes and are also the site of synthesis of insulin, several key processes in the body could get impaired
  • Typical symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis include pain in the upper abdomen, which could be continuous as the disease progresses. One could also experience pain after eating food or drinking something, as well as pain in the back. Fatty stools, diarrhea, vomiting, malabsorption of nutrients leading to weight loss, etc., are some other associated symptoms
  • Apart from a physical examination and assessment of medical history, a healthcare provider could use a variety of methods to diagnose Chronic Pancreatitis. Blood and stool tests and certain imaging procedures may be necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis
  • Chronic Pancreatitis is treated by using pain medication, replenishing fluids intravenously, managing digestive symptoms by adhering to a strict diet with low fat, reduced caffeine, and increased calcium intake
  • Many complications could arise in individuals with Chronic Pancreatitis. These include fluid accumulation in the stomach and pancreas, obstruction of the small intestine, and chronic weight loss
  • When an individual is in the initial stages (acute pancreatitis rather than chronic), a prompt and proper treatment could prevent the condition from progressing to its chronic form. Additionally, abstinence from alcohol could prevent the condition from occurring
  • Chronic Pancreatitis causes irreversible damage to the pancreas. Therefore, the condition can cause serious damage to one’s health and may even be fatal

Please find comprehensive information on Chronic Pancreatitis regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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