Chronic pancreatitis is the progressive disorder associated with the destruction of the pancreas. It is more common seen in men and develops in persons between 30 and 40 years of age. Chronic pancreatitis may be confused with acute pancreatitis because the symptoms are similar – upper abdominal pain and diarrhea. Acute recurrent attacks of pancreatitis early in life can also progress to chronic pancreatitis.

As the disease becomes more chronic, patients can develop malnutrition and weight loss. If the pancreas is devastated in the latter stages of the disease, patients may develop diabetes mellitus.

The most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is chronic alcohol consumption. Other causes are cystic fibrosis and other hereditary disorders of the pancreas. For most patients there is no known cause.

The treatment for chronic pancreatitis depends on the symptoms. Therapies focus on pain management, nutritional support, and oral pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid in the digestion of food. Patients who develop diabetes require insulin to control blood sugar. Alcohol must be abstained from under all circumstances.