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Online Health Library
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Pancreatitis
Definition
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach. It releases the hormones insulin and glucagon, as well as digestive enzymes that help you digest and absorb food.
Causes
For more information, see the specific type of pancreatitis:
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Chills
- Clammy skin
- Fatty stools
- Fever
- Mild jaundice
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
Exams and Tests
Tests that may be performed include:
- Abdominal x-rays
- Abdominal ultrasound or CT scans
- Blood and urine tests
See the specific types of pancreatitis for more information.
Treatment
See the specific types of pancreatitis.
Outlook (Prognosis)
See the specific types of pancreatitis.
Possible Complications
See the specific types of pancreatitis.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
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;101:2379-2400.
Frossard JL, Steer ML, Pastor CM. Acute pancreatitis. Lancet. 2008;371:143-152.
Owyang C. Pancreatitis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 147.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
