Infection of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis is inflammation or infection of the large gland located behind the stomach---the pancreas. This gland secretes enzymes that join with bile to digest food. In pancreatitis, the digestive enzymes activate too soon and damage the tissues that produce them.

Types

• There are two types of pancreatitis---acute and chronic. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly, but usually resolves within a few days with treatment. Chronic pancreatitis is persistent and never heals or improves, instead getting worse over time.

Causes

• A number of things have been known to cause pancreatitis, including alcoholism, cigarette smoking and injury to the abdomen. Ulcers, family history and high levels of calcium in the blood can also contribute to the development of the disease.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain that radiates to your back and feels worse after eating. Chronic pancreatitis symptoms also include abdominal pain, indigestion and oily, smelly stools.

Diagnosis

• To diagnose pancreatitis, abdominal x-rays and CT scans may be performed. Blood and stool samples are taken for testing, and abdominal ultrasounds may also be recommended.

Treatment

• Hospitalization is usually required in order to treat pancreatitis, and once the condition is stabilized with rest and pain medications, doctors will begin treatment for the underlying cause of the inflammation.