pankreatitidy

pankreatitidy, known in English as pancreatitis, is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that can present as acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis is typically a sudden episode of inflammation that may resolve, while chronic pancreatitis involves ongoing inflammation and irreversible damage to pancreatic tissue and ducts.

Causes include gallstones, excessive alcohol use, high triglyceride levels, certain medications, infections, and genetic factors. Common risk factors are gallstone disease, heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and a family history of pancreatitis. Autoimmune and congenital conditions can also contribute.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis usually include sudden, severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, along with nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis often causes recurrent or persistent abdominal pain, weight loss, and fat malabsorption leading to greasy stools; over time it may impair insulin production and cause diabetes.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment and laboratory tests showing elevated pancreatic enzymes such as lipase and amylase, though lipase is more specific. Imaging with ultrasound or computed tomography helps identify gallstones, pancreatic swelling, pseudocysts, or necrosis.

Treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient, which may require fluids, pain relief, and bowel rest. The underlying cause is addressed when possible: removing gallstones or the gallbladder, stopping alcohol, treating high triglycerides, or eradicating infections. Nutritional support is important; severe cases may require intensive care.

Complications can include pancreatic necrosis, pseudocysts, infection, organ failure, diabetes, and pancreatic insufficiency. The prognosis varies; many acute cases are mild and resolve, while chronic pancreatitis can lead to progressive loss of function. Prevention centers on avoiding alcohol, managing lipid disorders, and treating gallstone disease.