Chronic pancreatitis - an update

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive inflammatory process that causes irreversible damage to the pancreas due to fibrosis and scarring. The incidence of CP varies among regions. Alcohol consumption and smoking are the main aetiological factors of CP. In addition, autoimmune diseases, hereditary and genetic factors, and tropical CP also contribute to this condition. Though no single mechanism has been shown to initiate CP pathogenesis, this disease ultimately results in fibrosis, scarring, and insufficiency in the pancreas. Chronic upper abdominal pain, steatorrhea, malnutrition, and diabetes mellitus are the main clinical features of CP. Detecting this disease at an early stage is difficult unless it is explicitly checked for due to strong suspicions. Nevertheless, pancreatic function tests, imaging, and endoscopy are used to diagnose CP. Pain management, exocrine supplementation, diabetic management, and endoscopic or surgical drainage and resection procedures are essential for managing CP. Early surgical intervention can improve the remaining pancreatic reserve, delay pancreatic failure, and improve the quality of life of patients with this disease.