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 General Gastroenterology

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, incidence, and risk factors:

For more information, see the specific type of pancreatitis:
Symptoms:

Symptoms may include:
Signs and tests:

Tests that may be performed include:

See the specific types of pancreatitis for more information.
Treatment:

See the specific types of pancreatitis.
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.

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.
Review Date: 1/20/2010
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.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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