Video - Pancreatitis: Pathology review

Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that produces hormones and enzymes that help the body digest food. Pancreatitis can be acute or chronic.

Acute pancreatitis occurs when there is a sudden and severe inflammation, which usually resolves within a few days with proper treatment. It is commonly caused by gallstones and alcohol, and typically presents with epigastric pain that radiates to the back, nausea, vomiting, and decreased bowel sounds.

Chronic pancreatitis occurs when there is a long-term inflammation that can cause permanent damage to the pancreas and lead to serious complications. It is usually due to long-term alcohol use, genetic diseases like SPINK1 mutations and cystic fibrosis, pancreatic duct obstruction due to tumors, and autoimmune conditions.

People with chronic pancreatitis may be initially asymptomatic for a long time, but they might develop epigastric pain that radiates to the back, steatorrhea, fat-soluble vitamin deficiency like vitamin A, D, or E; diabetes, and unintentional weight loss.