Chronic pancreatitis in patients with sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis

In the 4-year period 1980-83 sclerosing cholangitis was demonstrated in 7 out of 151 patients with ulcerative colitis hospitalized in our department. Total ulcerative colitis was demonstrated in all patients with sclerosing cholangitis, whereas abnormal pancreatograms compatible with chronic pancreatitis were seen in four of these patients. According to the criteria of Kasugai, one had minimal, two moderate, and one advanced changes of chronic pancreatitis. Although three of four patients had been treated with drugs known to induce pancreatitis (sulfasalazine and corticosteroids), it is tempting to assume that ulcerative colitis, sclerosing cholangitis, and pancreatitis, when seen in combination, are manifestations of autoimmune diseases with a genetic predisposition. A mechanical mechanism for the development of chronic pancreatitis in sclerosing cholangitis must also be considered.