Is an inflammation process that affects the Pancreas .

Often pancreatic enzymes are disturbed. 

Typically enzymes are released into the small bowel for digestion. 

When they are disturbed then the enzymes can be found attacking the pancreas.

Most cases are minimal and often subside on their own, however, some cases are very severe and can be seen as life threatening.

Classifications

1.)   Acute Pancreatitis
2.)   Chronic Pancreatitis

Causes:

    -    Alcohol
    -    Blockage of a pancreatic duct
    -    Gallstones also called Cholelithiasis
    -    Infections
    -    Medications
    -    Trauma
    -    Pregnancy
    -    Previous surgery to surrounding area
    -    others

Medications involved:
  -    some diuretics
  -    L-asparaginase
  -    Azathioprine
  -    Estrogen
  -    Pentamidine
  -    Didanosine

Symptoms

   –   Abdominal pain
   –   Nausea
   –   Vomiting
   –   Fever
   –   Chills
   –   Elevated blood pressure

Some relief has been noted by a change in position

CT scan and MRI of abdomen are sometimes helpful

Amylase and Lipase are often elevated. 

These are enzymes produced in pancreas and can “leak” when inflammation is present.

Under normal circumstances amylase and lipase would not be widely detected in blood.

Treatment

1.)  Hospital admission in some cases

2.)  Pain medications
.         Morphine

3.)  IV and hydration

4.)  Decrease or stop oral food

5.)  Antibiotics may be necessary in some cases
   .        Floroquinolone
   .        Metronidazole
   .        Imipenem

6.) Surgery