Acute pancreatitis.

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis is most often secondary to prolonged excessive alcohol intake or biliary tract disease. The diagnosis is based on a combination of physical, laboratory, and radiologic findings. Differentiation from intra-abdominal processes that require surgical intervention is important. Treatment involves restoration of intravascular volume, correction of hypoxemia and metabolic derangements, and resting the gastrointestinal tract. Prognostic indicators are useful in identifying severe cases that may benefit from more aggressive monitoring, peritoneal lavage, antibiotic therapy, and surgical intervention. The recovery period may be complicated by sequellae of pancreatic necrosis and by sepsis.