What Is a Pancreatitis Evaluation?
A pancreatitis evaluation is a clinical assessment used to diagnose inflammation of the pancreas, determine its underlying cause, and assess the severity of disease. Pancreatitis may occur suddenly (acute) due to gallstones, alcohol use, or metabolic disturbances, or develop gradually as chronic disease. Early evaluation is critical because pancreatitis can lead to digestive impairment, infection, organ failure, and long-term metabolic complications if not promptly identified and treated.
When Is a Pancreatitis Evaluation Recommended?
Assessment may be recommended for individuals experiencing:
- Severe upper abdominal pain that worsens after eating
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Fever, rapid heartbeat, or dehydration
- Back pain or abdominal tenderness
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Fatty, foul-smelling, or oily stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- History of heavy alcohol use, gallstones, or high triglycerides
How Is a Pancreatitis Evaluation Performed?
Evaluation typically includes a medical history, physical exam, and blood tests to measure pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase. Additional labs may assess liver function, triglycerides, and markers of inflammation. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI help visualize the pancreas and identify causes like gallstones, structural abnormalities, or fluid collections. In chronic cases, function tests may be performed to assess the pancreas’ ability to produce digestive enzymes.
What to Expect After Testing
Most noninvasive tests require no recovery time. Patients undergoing imaging with contrast may experience brief nausea, bloating, or fatigue. Those with severe symptoms may require short-term hospitalization for hydration, pain control, or treatment of complications.
What Are the Benefits of a Pancreatitis Evaluation?
Key benefits include:
- Accurate diagnosis and identification of underlying cause
- Early treatment to prevent complications and hospitalizations
- Targeted therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
- Long-term management to improve digestion and metabolic health