Definition:

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammatory disease of the pancreas that will finally result in both exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Chronic pancreatitis develops gradually and worsens over time, resulting in permanent organ damage. It is usually caused by recurrent episodes of pancreatic necro-inflammation, leading to pancreatic atrophy and dysfunction. It manifests clinically as maldigestion, weight loss, abdominal pain and eventually diabetes. Six major etiologies for chronic pancreatitis have been identified, namely toxic-metabolic (including alcohol), idiopathic, genetic, autoimmune, recurrent and severe acute pancreatitis, and obstruction. Oral protease inhibitors are currently used as a medical treatment for chronic pancreatitis.