In this Article What is pancreatitis? Comment on this Read 24
Comments Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The
pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the
duodenum - the first part of the small intestine. The pancreas
secretes digestive juices, or enzymes, into the duodenum through
a tube called the pancreatic duct. Pancreatic enzymes join with
bile - a liquid produced in the liver and stored in the
gallbladder - to digest food. The pancreas also releases the
hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream. These
hormones help the body regulate the glucose it takes from food
for energy. Normally, digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas
do not become active until they reach the small intestine. But
when the pancreas is inflamed, the enzymes inside it attack and
damage the tissues that produce them. Pancreatitis can be acute
or chronic. Either form is serious and can lead to
complications. In severe cases, bleeding, infection, and
permanent tissue damage may occur. Both forms o