Chronic pancreatitis involves persistent inflammation of the pancreas -- an elongated, tapered gland that is located behind the stomach and secretes digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon .

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Chronic pancreatitis is most often caused by alcoholism and alcohol abuse , but sometimes the cause cannot be determined. Conditions such as hyperlipidemia or hyperparathyroidism , injury, and chronic obstruction of the pancreatic duct can also be associated with chronic pancreatitis. In this condition, inflammation and fibrosis cause the destruction of functioning glandular tissue in the pancreas. The resulting lack of pancreatic enzymes interferes with the ability to properly digest fat . The production of insulin is also affected, which can lead to diabetes . This condition is marked by attacks of abdominal pain and digestive problems that may become more frequent as the condition progresses. Chronic pancreatitis occurs more frequently in men than in women, perhaps because alcohol use disorders are more common in men. Note: pancreatic cancer can cause symptoms and signs that are similar to those of chronic pancreatitis.

Signs and tests

Serum lipase

may be elevated, but can normalize as the disease progresses.

Serum amylase

may be elevated, but can normalize as the disease progresses.

Serum trypsinogen

may be low.

Fecal fat test

shows fatty stools.

Inflammation and/or calcium deposits of the pancreas may be evident on:

Abdominal CT scan

Abdominal ultrasound

ERCP

An

exploratory laparotomy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of pancreatitis.

Treatment

Management of the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis is achieved by reducing pancreatic stimulation, alleviating indigestion caused by fat, reducing pain, and treating diabetes with the following measures:

Eating a

low-fat diet

Getting adequate fat-soluble

vitamins and calcium in the diet

Relieving pain with

analgesics or surgical nerve block

Controlling

blood sugar levels by giving insulin

Taking supplemental pancreatic enzymes to correct underproduction

Abstinence from alcohol is required. Surgery may be recommended if an obstruction is found. In advanced cases, part or all of the pancreas may be removed.

Expectations (prognosis)

This is a serious disease that may lead to disability and death. The risk of death can be lowered if abstinence from alcohol is maintained.

Complications

Obstruction of the

small intestine or bile ducts

Pancreatic insufficiency

diabetes

fat

malabsorption

Ascites

Pancreatic pseudocysts (fluid collections), which may become infected

Blood clots in the splenic vein

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of pancreatitis . Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have pancreatitis and your symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.

Prevention

Determining the cause of acute pancreatitis and treating it promptly may help to prevent chronic pancreatitis. Avoiding heavy consumption of alcohol dramatically reduces the risk of developing this condition.