Pancreatitis

The pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and trypsinogen.

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) occurs due to auto-digestion of the pancreas via the premature activation of trypsinogen (into trypsin) within the pancreas. This is usually caused by a blockage of the pancreatic duct preventing trypsinogen from reaching the duodenum.

Acute Pancreatitis

Occurs due to a temporary obstruction of the pancreatic duct.

Risk factors include heavy alcohol use. Sign and symptoms include elevated blood amylase and lipase released from necrotic cells. Sequelae includes sepsis, diagnosed via elevated cytokines.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Occurs due to a permanent obstruction of the pancreatic duct.

Risk factors include:

• Alcohol use disorder.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Causes of chronic inflammation.

Signs and symptoms include weight loss from malabsorption of nutrients.

Sequelae include possible diabetes from damage to pancreatic beta cells.