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Center For Digestive Disorders
What is Pancreatis?
Pancreatitis is a rare disease in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Damage to the gland occurs when digestive
enzymes are activated and begin attacking the pancreas. In severe cases, there may be bleeding into the gland,
serious tissue damage, infection, and cysts. Enzymes and toxins may enter the bloodstream and seriously injure
organs, such as the heart, lungs, and kidney. There are two forms of pancreatitis. The acute form occurs suddenly
and may be a severe, life-threatening illness with many complications. Usually, the patient recovers completely.
If injury to the pancreas continues, such as when a patient persists in drinking alcohol, a chronic form of the
disease may develop, bringing severe pain and reduced functioning of the pancreas that affects digestion and
causes weight loss.
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