Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis

 

Acute pancreatitis presents with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, while chronic pancreatitis presents with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Unfortunately, these clinical symptoms are not specific for pancreatic diseases, so laboratory testing and imaging are essential in making a diagnosis. An approach to laboratory testing for diagnosis, prognosis, and guidance of management of these diseases will be discussed, as well as important clinical features, pathophysiology, and risk factors.

Originally published on November 3, 2021

Lecture Presenter

Nicole Leonard, MD

Nicole Leonard, MD

PGY 2, Anatomic and Clinical Pathology Resident
University of Utah School of Medicine

Dr. Nicole Leonard completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Utah in nutritional biology and earned her MD at the University of Vermont.

Objectives

After this presentation, participants will be able to:

  • Describe basic anatomy and physiology of the pancreas
  • Recognize clinical features of acute and chronic pancreatitis
  • Identify risk factors and etiologies of acute and chronic pancreatitis
  • Interpret test results in the work-up of acute and chronic pancreatitis

Sponsored by:

University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, and ARUP Laboratories