Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for chronic pancreatitis 2021

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pancreatology

Background:

• Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a fibro-inflammatory pancreatic syndrome linked to risk factors and persistent injury responses.
• Recent mechanistic definitions emphasize the pathological nature of CP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the revised 2021 Japanese clinical practice guidelines for chronic pancreatitis.
• To update diagnostic criteria and treatment recommendations based on new evidence.

Main Methods:

• Guidelines revised in 2021, incorporating 2019 Japanese diagnostic criteria.
• Clinical questions reclassified into clinical, background, and future research categories.
• Analysis of newly accumulated evidence to inform recommendations.

Main Results:

• Updated recommendations for treatment selection, lifestyle guidance, and pain control.
• Revised indications and timing for endoscopic and surgical interventions for pain.
• Guidance on managing exocrine/endocrine insufficiency and complications.

Conclusions:

• The updated guidelines provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating chronic pancreatitis.
• Clinicians can utilize these revised guidelines for improved patient care and management strategies.