Liver, gallbladder & pancreasChronic inflammationICD-10 K86.1
Chronic pancreatitis
Long-term inflammation permanently scars the pancreas, causing chronic pain, poor digestion of fats and eventually diabetes.
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Causes
- Long-term heavy alcohol use
- Smoking
- Genetic mutations (PRSS1, SPINK1, CFTR)
- Autoimmune pancreatitis
- Recurrent acute pancreatitis
Risk factors
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Family history
Symptoms
- Recurrent or constant upper abdominal pain
- Oily, pale, foul-smelling stools
- Weight loss
- Diabetes
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- CT or MRCP (calcification, duct changes)
- Faecal elastase for exocrine insufficiency
- HbA1c
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Pancreatic enzyme replacement with meals
- Pain management
- Insulin for diabetes
- Steroids for autoimmune pancreatitis
Operations and procedures
- Endoscopic stone removal or stenting
- Surgical drainage or resection for intractable pain
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Complete abstinence from alcohol
- Stop smoking
- Small low-fat meals; vitamin supplements
Possible complications
- Malnutrition
- Diabetes
- Pseudocysts
- Pancreatic cancer (increased risk)
Prevention
- Avoid heavy drinking and smoking
Outlook
Chronic; stopping alcohol and smoking slows progression.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for recurrent upper abdominal pain, greasy stools or weight loss.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
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