Acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is sudden onset severe inflammation of pancreas manifesting as pain abdomen, abdomen distension, vomiting and constipation.

 Patients with severe disease may have decreased urinary output and respiratory distress.

 Common causes of acute pancreatitis are: 

1.    Gall bladder stone

2.    Alcohol intake

3.    Increased lipids in blood

4.    Hypercalcemia

5.    Drugs

6.    Hypertriglyceridemia

7.    Tumor in pancreas or ampulla

8.    Worms in pancreatic duct 

Diagnosis: 

In a patient with the history of pain suggestive of pancreatic in origin, following test are done to confirm the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. 

1.    Serum Amylase and Lipase

2.    USG abdomen

3.    CECT abdomen 

Treatment:

Patients with acute pancreatitis should be hospitalized and should be treated with 

1.    Adequate IV fluids

2.    Organ support in the case of organ failure

3.    IV antibiotics in case of infection