ABSTRACT
Chronic pancreatitis is particularly common in the Western world. Males are more frequently affected than females, although hypertriglyceridaemia-associated pancreatitis is more common in women. Chronic pancreatitis arises as a result of prolonged damage to the structure and function of the pancreas itself, and is often seen following continued inflammatory insult. In Europe the predominant cause is significant alcohol misuse. Additional causes include autoimmune damage, hyperparathyroidism and hypertriglyceridaemia. From a genetic perspective, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator gene is implicated in disease pathogenesis, with the delta F508 mutation causing impaired cyclic adenosine monophosphate regulation of chloride channels, thickened secretions and subsequent pancreatic duct blockage. Patients with chronic pancreatitis are at risk of developing diabetes as well as biliary tract and duodenal obstruction, and should therefore be monitored for such complications accordingly. Patients will benefit from advice and follow-up from a dietician to ensure that they are receiving their nutritional requirements.
