Alegent; Omaha - Pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation or infection of the...

Digestive system

Endocrine glands

Pancreatitis, acute - CT scan

Pancreatitis, chronic - CT scan

Pancreas

Pancreatitis - series

Pancreatitis

Definition:

Pancreatitis is inflammation or infection of the pancreas. The pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach, releases the hormones insulin and glucagon and substances that help with digestion.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

For more information, see the specific type of pancreatitis:

Symptoms:

Symptoms may include:

Abdominal pain
Chills
Clammy skin
Fatty stools
Fever
Mild jaundice
Nausea
Sweating
Weakness
Weight loss
Vomiting

Signs and tests:

Abdominal x-rays , abdominal CT scans, or other tests may be recommended.

Treatment:

See the specific types of pancreatitis.

Support Groups:

Expectations (prognosis):

See the specific types of pancreatitis.

Complications:

See the specific types of pancreatitis.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have persistent abdominal pain or jaundice, with or without other symptoms.

Prevention:

See the specific types of pancreatitis.

References:

Banks PA, Freeman ML; Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. Practice guidelines in acute pancreatitis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006 Oct;101(10):2379-400.

Owyang C. Pancreatitis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 147.

Review Date: 11/17/2008
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Health Illustrated Encyclopedia - Disease & Conditions

Pancreatitis