Pancreatitis, Chronic

Description

• Long-standing and progressive destruction of pancreatic tissue due to persistent inflammation
• Results in exocrine and/or endocrine insufficiency
• Major features
  • Pain
  • Malabsorption
  • Diabetes mellitus (type 3)
  • Increased risk of pancreatic cancer

Epidemiology

Incidence

• Predominant age: 35 to 45 years (usually related to alcohol abuse)
• Predominant sex: male > female
• Hospitalization more common for blacks than whites

Prevalence
8/10,000

Genetics
Hereditary pancreatitis is a rare condition with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern; mutations in PRSS1 gene and SPINKI gene

General Prevention

• Avoid tobacco.
• Avoid excess alcohol.