Pancreatic Diseases

What is the Pancreas?

The pancreas is a vital gland located behind the stomach. It performs two major functions:

• Digestive function: Produces enzymes that help break down food in the small intestine
• Hormonal function: Releases hormones like insulin and glucagon that regulate blood sugar levels

Disorders affecting the pancreas can disrupt digestion, blood sugar control, and overall metabolic health. Some pancreatic diseases can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Common Pancreatic Diseases

1. Acute Pancreatitis

A sudden inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use. It may cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and requires hospitalization.

2. Chronic Pancreatitis

Long-term inflammation that leads to permanent damage. It may result in pain, malabsorption, weight loss, and diabetes. Causes include long-term alcohol use, genetic factors, or autoimmune conditions.

3. Pancreatic Cancer

A serious and often aggressive cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas. Early symptoms are usually vague, such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or weight loss, making early detection challenging.

4. Pancreatic Cysts and Pseudocysts

Fluid-filled sacs in or around the pancreas, often forming after an episode of acute pancreatitis. Some may resolve on their own, while others may need drainage or surgical intervention.

5. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

A condition where the pancreas doesn’t produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to poor digestion, weight loss, and greasy stools. It’s common in chronic pancreatitis or after pancreatic surgery.

6. Cystic Fibrosis-Related Pancreatic Disease

In people with cystic fibrosis, thick secretions can block the pancreatic ducts, causing malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies.

7. Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs)

Rare tumors that originate from hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. Some produce excess hormones like insulin or gastrin, while others are non-functional.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Diseases

• Upper abdominal pain (may radiate to the back)
• Bloating or indigestion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• High or low blood sugar levels
• Fatigue or loss of appetite

Not all symptoms appear in every condition, so evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Gallstones
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• High triglyceride levels
• Family history of pancreatic disease
• Chronic conditions like diabetes
• Certain genetic mutations or syndromes
  Diagnosis

To identify pancreatic diseases, your doctor may recommend:

• Blood tests to assess pancreatic enzyme levels
• Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for detailed images
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) to examine pancreatic ducts
• Biopsy if cancer or tumor is suspected
• Stool tests to evaluate digestive enzyme function

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific condition and severity:

• Acute Pancreatitis: Hospitalization, IV fluids, pain management, fasting, and treating the underlying cause
• Chronic Pancreatitis: Enzyme replacement therapy, pain control, dietary management, and possibly surgery
• Pancreatic Cancer: Surgery (Whipple procedure), chemotherapy, radiation, or palliative care
• Cysts/Pseudocysts: Monitoring, drainage, or surgical removal if symptomatic or large
• EPI: Pancreatic enzyme supplements, high-calorie diet, and vitamin supplementation
• Neuroendocrine Tumors: Surgery, hormone therapy, or targeted medications

Lifestyle and Dietary Tips

• Eat a low-fat, high-protein diet
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Stay hydrated
• Take enzyme supplements if prescribed
• Manage blood sugar levels if diabetic
• Follow up regularly with your healthcare team

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Pancreatic Diseases?

Aster Hospitals offers comprehensive and specialized care for pancreatic diseases through a multidisciplinary team of expert gastroenterologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, and oncologists. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and imaging facilities, we ensure accurate and timely diagnosis. Our approach includes minimally invasive surgical and endoscopic procedures, tailored treatment plans, and integrated management of conditions such as pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and chronic digestive disorders. Patients also benefit from dedicated nutritional counseling and diabetes management, ensuring holistic and long-term care.