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Chronic pancreatitis
Joan M Braganza1, Stephen H Lee, Rory F McCloy
1Department of Gastroenterology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK. jenny.parr@manchester.ac.uk
Lancet (London, England)
|March 15, 2011
Summary
Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive disease often caused by environmental and genetic factors. Emerging treatments like micronutrient therapy offer new hope for managing symptoms beyond pain relief.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive fibroinflammatory disease with large-duct and small-duct forms.
- Etiology involves a complex interplay of environmental (alcohol, smoking, chemicals) and genetic factors (gene mutations, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator).
- Hereditary and autoimmune conditions are less common causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the multifaceted nature of chronic pancreatitis.
- To outline current and emerging therapeutic strategies.
- To highlight the diverse clinical challenges associated with the disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on chronic pancreatitis.
- Analysis of etiological factors, including environmental and genetic influences.
- Examination of current and investigational treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Pain is the predominant symptom, managed empirically with analgesics, drainage procedures, or pancreatectomy.
- Steroids are effective for autoimmune pancreatitis; micronutrient therapy shows promise for other forms.
- Steatorrhea, diabetes, local complications, and psychosocial issues present additional management challenges.
Conclusions:
- Chronic pancreatitis requires a comprehensive management approach addressing pain, underlying causes, and associated complications.
- Emerging therapies like micronutrient correction offer potential advancements in treatment.
- Multidisciplinary care is essential for managing the complex needs of patients with chronic pancreatitis.
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