[Follow-up and care of patients with chronic pancreatitis]

The natural history of chronic pancreatitis (CP), aside from pain, is primarily marked by the risk of malnutrition and a poor quality of life. Addressing identifiable causes should be a priority whenever feasible, for instance, in cases of alcohol and/or tobacco dependence. The surveillance -including nutritional, anthropometric, biochemical, and bone assessments-should support a stepwise management approach, beginning with a balanced Mediterranean diet and extending to dietary counseling, oral nutritional supplements, and, if necessary, enteral and then parenteral nutrition.Beyond nutritional support, it is essential to evaluate for both exocrine and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy considered when appropriate. Close monitoring is also needed for screening of other complications, such as diabetes, local or regional complications, and pancreatic cancer. Lastly, the psychological impact of the disease on the overall well-being must not be underestimated.