Pathophysiological explanation of pancreatitis

Sample Answer

Pancreatitis in a Working 35-Year-Old Adult Female

Pathophysiological Explanation of Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach that produces enzymes for digestion (exocrine function) and hormones like insulin and glucagon (endocrine function). In pancreatitis, the digestive enzymes, which are normally inactive until they reach the small intestine, become prematurely activated within the pancreas itself. This leads to auto-digestion of the pancreatic tissue.

The process typically unfolds as follows:

Triggering Event: In about 80% of cases, pancreatitis is caused by gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption. Other causes include hypertriglyceridemia, abdominal trauma, certain medications (e.g., thiazide diuretics, some antibiotics), hypercalcemia, infections (e.g.