Pancreaspathologie

Pancreaspathologie refers to the study of diseases affecting the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and hormone production. Its pathological conditions can be broadly categorized into exocrine and endocrine disorders.

Exocrine pancreatic diseases primarily involve issues with the digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. Pancreatitis, both acute and chronic, is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis can be caused by gallstones or alcohol abuse, leading to severe abdominal pain and enzyme leakage. Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammation that results in irreversible damage, impairing digestive function and potentially leading to malabsorption and diabetes. Pancreatic cancer, often arising from the exocrine tissue, is a serious malignancy with a generally poor prognosis. Cysts and pseudocysts can also form within or around the pancreas, often as complications of pancreatitis.

Endocrine pancreatic disorders relate to the hormones, insulin and glucagon, produced by the islets of Langerhans. Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 1 and type 2, are the most well-known conditions, resulting from insufficient insulin production or impaired insulin sensitivity. Other endocrine tumors, such as insulinomas and glucagonomas, can arise from the islet cells, leading to hormonal imbalances and specific symptoms. Diseases of the pancreas can manifest with a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques like CT scans and MRIs, blood tests to assess enzyme and hormone levels, and sometimes biopsies. Treatment varies widely depending on the specific pathology, ranging from dietary changes and medication to surgical interventions.