Acute Pancreatitis
Understanding Acute Pancreatitis:
Acute pancreatitis is the sudden and severe inflammation of the pancreas, which is typically characterized by a sharp onset of symptoms.
Clinical Presentation (What It Feels Like)
When this inflammation occurs, patients typically experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling (distension)
- Vomiting
- Constipation
In severe cases, the condition can impact other systems, leading to complications such as decreased urinary output and respiratory distress.
Common Causes:
The inflammation of the pancreas can be triggered by several factors, the most common being:
- Gallstones: Stones blocking the pancreatic duct.
- Alcohol intake: Excessive consumption.
- Elevated Blood Lipids: Specifically, high levels of triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia) or general increased lipids in the blood.
- Hypercalcemia: High levels of calcium in the blood.
- Certain Drugs/Medications.
- Tumors: located in the pancreas or the ampulla (where the bile duct and pancreatic duct join).
- Worms: obstructing the pancreatic duct.
Diagnosis:
If a patient presents with pain suggestive of a pancreatic origin, the following tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis:
- Serum Amylase and Lipase: Blood tests to measure the levels of these pancreatic enzymes.
- USG (Ultrasound) of the abdomen: To visualize the pancreas and check for common causes like gallstones.
- CECT (Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography) of the abdomen: Provides a detailed assessment of the extent of inflammation and complications.
Treatment:
Management for acute pancreatitis requires immediate hospitalization and focuses on supportive care and addressing complications:
- Adequate Intravenous (IV) Fluids: Essential for rehydration and circulatory support.
- Organ Support: Provided in cases where organ failure develops.
- IV Antibiotics: Administered if infection is suspected or confirmed.
- Intervention for Collections: Surgery or endoscopic/percutaneous drainage may be required to remove infected fluid or dead tissue collections.