Chronic pancreatitis

Question 1

What is chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 1

Progressive and persistent inflammation of the pancreas, leading to loss of function and irreversible glandular destruction

Question 2

What is the main cause of chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 2

80% alcohol

Question 3

What are the causes of chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 3

O A TIGER
Obstruction
Autoimmune
Toxins e.g. alcohol, drugs
Idiopathic
Genetic
Environmental
Recurrent injury

Question 4

What are the features of chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 4

Upper abdo pain- worse with food/alcohol
Weight loss
Jaundice
Portal hypertension
Fat malabsorption
Diabetes mellitus
Acute exacerbations

Question 5

What investigations should be done for chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 5

Bloods- amylase, BM
AXR- calcification of pancreas
Abdo US
CT

Question 6

What are the principles of management of chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 6

Pain control
Pancreatic enzyme supplements
Surgery

Question 7

What is done for pain control in chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 7

Avoid alcohol
Opiates
Celiac plexus block

Question 8

What pancreatic enzyme supplements are given in chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 8

Insulin

Pancreatin with PPI

Question 9

What are the indications for surgery in chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 9

Malignancy
Persistent pain
Cyst/pseudocyst
Obstruction
Venous thrombosis/compression

Question 10

What are the complications of chronic pancreatitis?

Answer 10

Death from acute exacerbations
Cirrhosis
Diabetes
Drug dependence
Suicide