• Location : Behind the stomach, in the upper abdomen
• Exocrine Function : Produces digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, proteases) released into the small intestine. These enzymes are crucial for breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
• Endocrine Function : Produces hormones like insulin (lowers blood sugar) and glucagon (raises blood sugar). These hormones are released directly into the bloodstream to maintain glucose balance.

• Pancreatitis (Acute & Chronic) : Inflammation of the pancreas
  ○ Acute: Sudden, severe inflammation, often caused by gallstones or alcohol abuse.
  ○ Chronic: Persistent damage and scarring, leading to impaired function over time.
• Pancreatic Cancer : Malignant tumors, most commonly adenocarcinoma. Smoking, obesity, and chronic pancreatitis are significant risk factors.
• Pancreatic Cysts : Fluid-filled sacs, most benign but some have malignant potential. These often require regular monitoring.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) : Pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes, causing malabsorption. Commonly results from chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery.
• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus : Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells. This impacts the pancreas's endocrine function, leading to chronic high blood sugar.

Symptoms vary, and many conditions are asymptomatic initially:

• Abdominal Pain : Severe upper abdominal pain often radiating to the back (pancreatitis) or vague pain (cancer). Pain can worsen after eating.
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Unexplained Weight Loss & Loss of Appetite
• Steatorrhea : Fatty, foul-smelling stools due to poor fat digestion
• Jaundice : Yellowing of skin/eyes (if bile duct blocked)
• New-onset Diabetes or Worsening of Existing Diabetes
• Bloating, Gas, Fever, Chills

Involves:

• Medical History & Physical Examination
• Blood Tests : Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase), liver function, blood glucose, tumor markers (e.g., CA 19-9). Genetic tests may be performed for inherited conditions.
• Stool Tests : Fecal elastase for EPI, fecal fat test for malabsorption
• Imaging Studies : Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI/MRCP, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). EUS is excellent for detailed views and guiding biopsies.
• ERCP : Diagnostic and therapeutic for bile/pancreatic duct issues

Highly individualized:

• Acute Pancreatitis : Hospitalization, IV fluids, pain management, bowel rest, and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., gallstone removal).
• Chronic Pancreatitis : Pain management, Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT), dietary changes, alcohol abstinence. Endoscopic or surgical interventions may be needed for duct issues.
• Pancreatic Cancer : Surgery (if resectable), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, palliative care.
• Pancreatic Cysts : Observation, drainage, or surgery based on type and symptoms.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) : Lifelong PERT

Highly individualized:

• Limit Alcohol Consumption
• Healthy Weight Management
• Manage Gallstones effectively
• Healthy Diet, Avoid Smoking
• Control Diabetes and High Triglycerides

Can be severe:

• Chronic Pain
• Malnutrition & Diabetes
• Pancreatic Pseudocysts, Infection
• Pancreatic Cancer (increased risk with chronic pancreatitis)
• Bile Duct Obstruction, Blood Clots, Internal Bleeding