What is chronic pancreatitis?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Chronic pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that lasts for a long period of time, causing irreversible damage to the pancreas. The cause of most cases of this condition is not known, but it can sometimes be the result of alcoholism, gallstones, acute pancreatitis, or hyperparathyroidism. In some tropical countries, children and young adults have chronic pancreatitis with no known cause. The symptoms are similar to those of acute pancreatitis, but they appear slowly. Abdominal pain is the most common complaint.

Beth A. Schrope, MD on behalf of Columbia University Department of Surgery

Surgery

Chronic pancreatitis is a relatively rare condition characterized by progressive, irreversible damage to the pancreas. It may be caused by gallstones, alcoholism, or hypertriglyceridemia (high concentrations of fatty molecules called triglycerides), to name a few, or it may develop after an episode of acute (short-term) pancreatitis.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pancreatitis

A disease of the endocrine system, pancreatitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever and nausea and vomiting. Pancreatitis develops when the digestive juices that your pancreas makes actually begins to break down the organ itself. This disease, which can either be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), can cause internal bleeding, infection, tissue scarring and organ failure. Chronic pancreatitis actually causes the pancreas to slowly destroy itself. Gallstones that block the pancreatic duct, a tube that connects the pancreas to part of the small intestine, can cause acute pancreatitis. However, heavy alcohol use is a primary cause of both acute and chronic pancreatitis. Several days in the hospital can help resolve acute pancreatitis, but chronic pancreatitis can be much more difficult to treat, especially if the patient is an alcoholic. The surgical removal of certain nerves may be needed to relieve the severe abdominal pain associated with chronic pancreatitis.

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