What Is Pancreatitis?
The pancreas is a vital organ that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It produces enzymes that help break down food and releases hormones like insulin and glucagon to maintain blood sugar balance. However, conditions such as pancreatitis, benign tumors, and malignant tumors can disrupt its function, leading to serious health complications.
At Liv Hospital, we use the latest medical advancements to diagnose and treat pancreatic diseases, providing personalized solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. This article covers essential information on how to protect your pancreatic health.
What Is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and is classified into two main types: acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long-term). Both types can impair enzyme and hormone production, potentially leading to severe complications if not treated in time.
Acute Pancreatitis
This condition occurs suddenly and is most commonly caused by gallstones, excessive alcohol consumption, or blockages in the pancreatic ducts. Symptoms include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- High fever (in some cases)
In severe cases, pancreatic tissue damage (necrosis) may develop.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis can lead to permanent pancreatic damage. The most common causes include long-term alcohol use, genetic factors, and metabolic disorders. Over time, it may result in:
- Digestive problems
- Increased risk of diabetes
Treatment Options
At Liv Hospital, pancreatitis treatment follows a multidisciplinary approach:
• Acute pancreatitis may require hospitalization, fluid therapy, and pain management. In severe acute pancreatitis intubation and intensive care unit admission and repeated surgical interventions may be required. Severe form carries also high morbidity and mortality rates.
• Chronic pancreatitis treatment includes dietary adjustments, enzyme supplements, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
Benign Pancreatic Tumors
Some pancreatic tumors are non-cancerous but can still cause symptoms depending on their size and location. With advanced imaging techniques at Liv Hospital, these tumors can be accurately diagnosed, and the appropriate treatment can be determined.
Common Benign Tumors:
• Serous cystadenomas: Fluid-filled cysts that are usually harmless and more common in women.
• Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMNs): Growths in the pancreatic ducts that have the potential to become malignant.
• Mucinous cystadenomas: Rare lesions that may require removal due to their potential for cancerous transformation.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
MRI, CT scans, and endoscopic ultrasound are used for diagnosis. Small, asymptomatic tumors are monitored regularly, while larger or high-risk tumors may require surgical removal.
Malignant Pancreatic Tumors
Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, is one of the most aggressive and fatal cancer types. Symptoms typically appear at later stages, making early diagnosis crucial.
Symptoms:
• Persistent abdominal or back pain
• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Fatty stools (steatorrhea) and digestive problems
• Newly developed diabetes
Risk Factors:
Smoking, chronic pancreatitis, obesity, advanced age, and a family history of pancreatic disease are significant risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment at Liv Hospital
• Surgery: Surgery is the only treatment with curative intent for pancreatic cancer while neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy and or radiotherapy have also been shown to improve resectability or survival. It is known that 7 in 10 people with pancreatic cancer do not receive any active treatment. 1 in 10 people with pancreatic cancer will receive potentially curative surgery. 2 in 10 people with will receive only chemotherapy. It is also well known that 5 year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is poor (%13).
In operable early-stage cancer cases, Whipple procedure can be performed for tumors located in the head of the pancreas, while distal pancreatectomy is applied for cancers in the body and tail. In rare cases, total pancreatectomy which involves the removal of the entire pancreas, may be necessary.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy: Used to slow tumor growth and manage symptoms in advanced cases.
Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy have shown promising results in clinical trials.
• Supportive Care: Palliative treatments focus on improving the quality of life for late-stage patients.
Why Choose Liv Hospital for Pancreatic Care?
Liv Hospital integrates advanced medical technology with personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best possible care for pancreatic diseases. Our team of expert gastroenterologists, surgeons, and oncologists work together to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
