Pancreatitis

Overview

Mayo specialists each year treat more than 2,000 patients for pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can have serious consequences. Mayo Clinic is known for its state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment for acute and chronic pancreatitis. A team of specialists, usually a gastroenterologist, surgeon and an endoscopy specialist, work together to give patients comprehensive and compassionate care. Mayo researchers have studied pancreatic disease extensively and have written numerous journal articles on this subject. (See articles under Research.)

Diagnosis

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include nausea, upper abdominal pain and fever. Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include pain after eating and, if advanced, diabetes mellitus and diarrhea from digestive failure. Diagnostic tests for pancreatitis include blood tests, ultrasound and CT scans, as well as endoscopic tests and pancreatic function tests. These tests help physicians determine if surgery or endoscopic therapy is necessary. Read more about pancreatitis diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Acute pancreatitis usually requires hospital treatment. The main goals of treatment for chronic pancreatitis are to stop alcohol intake (if alcohol is the cause), control pain and improve malabsorption problems. Surgery may be needed for cysts resulting from chronic pancreatitis or in severe cases of acute pancreatitis in which pancreas tissue dies. Complications of pancreatitis are often managed with endoscope procedures. Read more about pancreatitis treatment options.

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About Pancreatitis

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The pancreas is a long, flat gland tucked behind the stomach between the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) and the spleen.

Pancreatitis causes painful inflammation in the abdomen that often feels as if pain goes through the upper abdomen (below the breastbone) and into the back. It occurs when digestive enzymes, instead of breaking down food in the small intestine, attack the pancreas, affecting digestion and the hormones that help control blood sugar levels.

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