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Pancreatic Inflammation

Lee Surgery and Endoscopy was founded by Dr. Lee Chin Li, with the mission to deliver accessible and quality healthcare to our patients. We are committed to ensuring your comfort from consultation to procedures.

What is pancreatic inflammation?

Pancreatic inflammation, or pancreatitis, occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. It is classified into two types, mainly acute and chronic. 

  • Acute pancreatitis: acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation that goes away after a few days to weeks, accompanied by proper treatment, hydration, and medication. The level of discomfort can range from mild to severe. Severe pancreatitis can be life-threatening, as it can damage other vital organs like the kidneys, lungs, and heart.
  • Chronic pancreatitis: chronic pancreatitis is an ongoing progressive inflammation that often occurs following recurrent acute pancreatitis. Due to the recurring injury or damage to the pancreas, chronic pancreatitis can gradually cause permanent damage. One of the damages is fibrosis or scarring of the pancreas, which prevents it from producing the relevant enzymes and hormones. 
Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed.

What are the causes of pancreatic inflammation?

Various factors can cause pancreatitis, but the two most common causes of pancreatitis are gallstones and alcohol consumption.

  • Gallstones: gallstones are a common cause of acute pancreatitis. They can travel from the gallbladder into the bile duct , resulting in pancreatitis.
  • Alcohol consumption: excessive or heavy alcohol consumption is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis.

What are the symptoms of pancreatic inflammation?

The symptoms of pancreatitis may vary, but the first major symptom is abdominal pain. 

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:

  • Pain mainly at the upper abdomen radiating to the back
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal distension
  • Fast and shallow breathing
  • Rapid heart rate

Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include:

  • Fatty and smelly stools that leave an oily film in the toilet
  • Indigestion and discomfort after eating
  • Unexplained weight loss

One of the major signs that your digestive system is slowly declining due to long-term, chronic pancreatitis is your body’s inability to absorb food nutrients. This will lead to passing loose stools and even feeling discomfort after eating, which eventually will translate into weight loss.

Who is at risk of developing pancreatic inflammation in Singapore?

Some individuals are more at risk of developing pancreatitis due to certain factors. Risk factors for developing pancreatic inflammation include:

  • Gallstones: individuals with gallstones are at an increased risk of developing acute pancreatitis. Gallstones can travel to the bile ducts, cause an obstruction, and block bile flow.
  • Alcohol consumption: individuals who consume alcohol excessively and chronically are more prone to chronic pancreatitis. Chronic alcohol abuse can irritate and damage pancreatic tissue, leading to inflammation and the development of pancreatitis.
  • Gender: males are more inclined to develop pancreatitis than females.
  • Genetics: a family history of hereditary pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and specific genetic mutations can predispose individuals to pancreatitis.
  • Smoking: tobacco has been linked to an increased risk for a plethora of diseases, including pancreatitis.
  • Obesity: obese or overweight individuals are more prone to gallstones, fatty liver, and other medical conditions that increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
  • Medications: some medications can cause drug-induced pancreatitis, especially if taken at high doses or for an extended period of time.
  • Elevated lipid levels: high triglycerides have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis.
  • Infections: certain bacterial, parasitic, or viral infections can result in inflammation of the pancreas.
  • Pancreatic conditions: some pancreatic conditions, such as pancreatic cancer or pancreatic cysts, increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.

How is pancreatic inflammation diagnosed in Singapore?

Pancreatitis is diagnosed using a combination of the following:

  • Medical history and physical examination: your specialist will ask about your medical history, symptoms, and possible risk factors. A physical exam will be conducted to check for tenderness and bloating. 
  • Blood tests: blood tests are used to assess pancreatic enzymes and evaluate markers of inflammation. Other blood tests may include complete blood count (CBC) for signs of infection or inflammation, liver function tests (LFTs) to evaluate liver function, and serum triglyceride levels to assess for hypertriglyceridemia. Serum amylase or lipase will aid in the diagnosis of pancreatitis.
  • Imaging tests: ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging may be employed to visualise the extent of the inflammation or to identify the cause of pancreatitis.
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): an EUS may be performed to obtain tissue samples for microbiology in severe pancreatitis. 
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): an ERCP may be performed to assess the pancreatic and bile ducts, particularly in cases where obstruction or structural abnormalities are suspected.
diagnosing pancreatitis Singapore
An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is deployed to diagnose or treat pancreatitis.

What are the treatment options for pancreatic inflammation in Singapore?

The treatment for acute pancreatitis differs from the treatment for chronic pancreatitis. For instance, acute pancreatitis treatment is mainly supportive and includes:

  • Antibiotics to fight infection
  • Intravenous (IV) fluids for hydration
  • Pain medications

The likelihood of you being hospitalised while undergoing acute pancreatitis treatment is high. Additionally, in more severe acute pancreatitis cases, the treatment plan includes:

  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for bile duct obstruction
  • Gallbladder removal surgery if the cause of pancreatitis is gallstones
  • Pancreatic surgery to remove necrosis or drain out the fluids

On the other hand, chronic pancreatitis would require either one of the following treatments:

  • Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy
  • Insulin injections
  • Pain medications
  • Surgical interventions to alleviate pain, drain out the fluids, or treat blockages

Frequently asked questions

Is pancreatitis very serious?

Yes, pancreatitis can be a very serious condition, particularly when it is severe or complications occur. The severity of pancreatitis can vary from mild and self-limiting to severe and life-threatening. Complications associated with pancreatitis include systemic effects such as sepsis or multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), pancreatic necrosis, haemorrhage, and pseudocyst formation.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?

The most common symptom of pancreatitis is abdominal pain. Other symptoms to watch out for include fever, nausea, vomiting, bloating and a general feeling of unwellness.

Will smoking or alcohol consumption impact my condition?

Yes, smoking and drinking alcohol increase the risk of pancreatitis. In addition, these may also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer in the long term.

Any other questions?

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