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Pancreatitis

Digestive system
Digestive system
Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Pancreatitis, acute - CT scan
Pancreatitis, acute - CT scan
Pancreatitis, chronic - CT scan
Pancreatitis, chronic - CT scan
Pancreas
Pancreas
Pancreatitis - series
Pancreatitis - series

Definition

  

Pancreatitis is an inflammation or infection of the pancreas. The pancreas is located behind the stomach. It releases the hormones insulin and glucagon and substances that help with digestion.


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

  

For more information, see the specific type of pancreatitis:


Symptoms

  

Symptoms may include:


Signs and tests

  

Abdominal x-rays, abdominal CT scans, or other tests may be recommended.


Treatment

  

See the specific types of pancreatitis.


Support Groups

  


Expectations (prognosis)

  

See the specific types of pancreatitis.


Complications

  

See the specific types of pancreatitis.


Calling your health care provider

  

Call your health care provider if you have persistent abdominal pain or jaundice, with or without other symptoms.


Prevention

  

See the specific types of pancreatitis.


References

  

Banks PA, Freeman ML; Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. Practice guidelines in acute pancreatitis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006 Oct;101(10):2379-400.


 
Review Date: 5/3/2007
Reviewd By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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