chronic alcoholic pancreatitis
Last reviewed 03/2022
NICE suggest that for diagnosis of chronic alcohol-related pancreatitis use all of the following:- the person's symptoms
- imaging to determine pancreatic structure and
- tests of pancreatic exocrine and endocrine function
- computed tomography is the first-line imaging modality for people with a history and symptoms suggestive of chronic alcohol-related pancreatitis
Management
- for people with steatorrhoea or poor nutritional status, offer pancreatic enzyme supplements
- if pain is the only symptom, do not give enzyme supplements.
- for people with pain:
- refer to a specialist centre for multidisciplinary assessment
- offer surgery (in preference to endoscopic therapy) to people with large-duct (obstructive) chronic pancreatitis
- offer coeliac axis block, splanchnicectomy or surgery to people with small-duct (non-obstructive) chronic pancreatitis if their pain is poorly controlled.
- for people with pain:
Reference: