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Progression of Chronic Pancreatitis

According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas that worsens over time. Much of the damage done to the pancreas as a result of the disorder cannot be reversed.

  1. Acute Pancreatitis

    • The American Gastroenterological Association notes that CP usually stems from acute pancreatitis, which occurs without warning when the pancreas is agitated or damaged by its own enzymes. Both types of pancreatitis are most often caused by alcohol abuse.

    Progression

    • As acute pancreatitis scars the pancreas, CP can develop, with attacks increasing in frequency and severity. Calcification of the pancreas occurs about 8 to 10 years after the disease first manifests itself.

    Significance

    • Cleveland Clinic estimates that each year 1.6 to 23 out of every 100,000 people around the world develop CP. In the United States, more than 55,000 people are hospitalized due to the condition each year.

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis are similar. They include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, fever, jaundice, shock and weight loss. CP symptoms are more persistent than those of acute pancreatitis.

    Cancer

    • Though rare, the gastroenterological association says CP can lead to pancreatic cancer.

    Treatment

    • Treatment involves addressing the pain and malnutrition associated with CP. An endoscope is often used to view and drain the pancreas. In severe cases, surgery is required to remove part of the pancreas.

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