Pancreatitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is meant by pancreatitis?
A
Inflammation of the pancreas
2
Q
What are the causes of pancreatitis?
A
I GET SMASHED:
- Idiopathic
- Gallstones
- Ethanol
- Trauma
- Steroids
- Mumps
- Autoimmune
- Scorpion sting
- Hyperlipidaemia
- ERCP
- Drugs (furosemide, thiazide diuretics)
The most important ones to remember are gallstones, alcohol and ERCP
3
Q
Acute pancreatitis typically presents with…
A
Epigastric abdominal pain
4
Q
Which investigation is key in diagnosing acute pancreatitis?
A
Amylase - which is usually at least 3x upper limit of normal
5
Q
Give two examples of textbook examination signs which may be present in acute pancreatitis
A
- Cullen’s sign (periumbilical bruising/discolouration)
- Grey-Turner’s sign (flank bruising/discolouration)
6
Q
Which scoring system is used to assess the severity of pancreatitis?
A
Glasgow score
7
Q
Describe the management of acute pancreatitis
A
Supportive management:
- Treat underlying cause if possible, e.g. gallstones
- NBM
- IV fluids
- Analgesia
8
Q
What is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis?
A
Alcohol
