Medical Symbols

ACUTE PANCREATITIS

• Cause: Blockage in the pathway that allows pancreatic enzymes to enter the intestine.

• What Happens:

  • Normally, enzymes are stored in an inactive form in the pancreas.

  • In pancreatitis, these enzymes activate too early, while still in the pancreas, and start digesting pancreatic tissue.

• Effects:

  • Severe Pain: The pancreas begins to "self-digest," causing intense pain.

  • Tissue Damage: This digestion damages the pancreas and can be fatal