Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, the organ that produces digestive enzymes and important hormones. It can occur suddenly (acute pancreatitis) or develop gradually over time (chronic pancreatitis). Causes include gallstones, alcohol use, certain medications, high triglycerides, trauma, or anatomical variations such as pancreas divisum. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening illness.
What is it?
Pancreatitis occurs when digestive enzymes become activated inside the pancreas, causing inflammation and damage. Acute pancreatitis often develops suddenly due to gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct or irritation from alcohol. Chronic pancreatitis develops over years, typically due to repeated inflammation, leading to scarring, duct narrowing, and reduced ability to digest food.
Imaging helps determine the severity of inflammation, detect complications, and identify underlying causes. CT and MRI can show swelling, fluid collections, calcifications, duct dilation, or dead tissue (necrosis). MRCP helps evaluate the pancreatic ducts, and ultrasound is useful for detecting gallstones that may have triggered the inflammation.
Important to Know
Acute pancreatitis can range from mild to severe. Severe cases may cause infection, fluid collections, bleeding, or organ failure. Chronic pancreatitis may lead to long-term pain, poor digestion, and diabetes due to damage of the pancreas.
Red flag symptoms include severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, jaundice, fever, shortness of breath, or signs of dehydration—these may indicate complications and require urgent medical evaluation. Follow-up imaging may be needed to monitor recovery, assess fluid collections, or identify underlying duct problems.