stools collected and analyzed for high fat content.an abdominal X-ray (which can show calcifications in the pancreas).Simple investigations used to diagnose chronic pancreatitis include: Bowel movements classically are bulky, loose and foul smelling because of their oily nature, they may float in the toilet bowl, and are difficult to flush. Pancreatic insufficiency is suspected in a patient who develops diabetes, upper abdominal pain and features of malabsorption. Chronic pancreatitis can also manifest with abdominal pain, and diabetes. However, with ongoing destruction of the gland and loss of its function, symptoms of malabsorption may develop. Patients with chronic pancreatitis may not have any symptoms.

Clinical features of pancreatic insufficiency Severe malabsorption may cause deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Chronic pancreatitis and subsequent insufficiency can also run in families (hereditary pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis).

It has many causes, but chronic alcohol abuse is the most common one in western countries. Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive disorderĬhronic pancreatitis is a serious risk factor resulting from too many instances of pancreatic inflammation.cystic fibrosis, a disease damages glandular organs by creating mucus that impairs their function.Malabsorption is the result of food that is not properly converted into usable energy by the digestive system.Īdditionally, there are genetic factors that may cause damage to the pancreas: When the pancreas becomes damaged, pancreatic enzymes are not produced, and malabsorption results. Pancreatic insufficiency may also cause bone pain and muscle cramps. Insulin causes the body's cells to take up glucose from the blood glucagon causes the liver to release glucose into the blood. The islet cells of the pancreas secrete the hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream.

The adrenal gland releases a hormone when you are shocked or frightened. Hormones are signaling chemicals that tell the body how to respond to a specific stimulus. The pancreas also secretes digestive enzymes which are released into the small intestine and play an important role in breaking down food products for absorption. Enzymes and HormonesĮnzymes are catalysts that perform specific chemical functions in the body, such as breaking down foods, or synthesizing DNA. The pancreas produces both enzymes and hormones.

That means the pancreas secretes juices that maintain the proper function of the body. Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a condition which occurs when the pancreas does not make enough of a specific enzyme the body uses to digest food in the small intestine.

Pancreatic juices