Pancreatic Diseases

There are a number of pancreatic disorders that may be detected by using ultra sound scanning machines to examine the abdomen. Tests to measure the levels of pancreatic enzymes in the blood or in the duodenum give results that can be used for accurate diagnosis of a pancreatic disorder. The pancreas can also be examined with endoscopic procedures.

The most common pancreatic disorder is diabetes mellitus. Other pancreatic disorders can be genetics disorders or autoimmune disorders, or disorders caused by infection, poisons, drugs, alcohol abuse, tumors, trauma, cancer or they may be idiopathic.

Diabetes is classified as either Type 1 Diabetes or as Type 2 Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the pancreas suddenly stops or dramatically slows the manufacture of insulin. It is commonly called juvenile diabetes because it often begins in childhood.

Type 1 Diabetes is usually caused by a virus or some immune system dysfunction that in effect “kills” the islets. Young adults may also develop this form of diabetes. It can be managed with insulin, diet and exercise.

Type 2 Diabetes is commonly associated with middle age onset in families with a history of diabetes. In many cases keeping body weight in normal limits, regular exercise and an appropriate diet can keep blood sugar levels under control. Diabetics should eat a diet that contain limited carbohydrates in complex forms; eliminate as much sugar as practical; avoid alcohol; have plenty of vegetables and appropriate levels of lean meats. The American Diabetic Association has created cook books for diabetics and other useful literature.

There is a wide array of medicines available for diabetics that can either stimulate the pancreas’ islets to produce more insulin or that promote the red blood cells to utilize insulin more effectively. Sulfonylureas, D-phenylalanine deratives and meglitinides stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin. Biguanides reduce the glucose made by the liver. The alpha-glucosidase inhibitory slows the absorption of starches. Thiazolidinediones increases sensitivity to insulin.

Diabetes and pancreatitis are considered risk factors for the development of pancreatic cancer. It is however, rarely the cause of pancreatitis. Chemotherapeutic agents L-asparaginase and azathioprine can contribute to the development of pancreatitis in cancer patients.

Diabetes is a growing health problem in the United States. The consumption of fat-laden fast foods, excessive quantities, poor nutritional habits, excessive consumption of food, and a general lack of exercise are contributing to an enormous increase in obesity in all ages and across most ethnic groups. Frequently the results are an increase in the onset of diabetes. Children [Page 1330]that are grossly overweight are prone to developing juvenile diabetes. The long term health effects are greatly increased health risks, health costs, and shortened life spans. The problem is spreading globally and rivals the number of people who lack enough to eat.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. It is very painful and can be fatal if not treated properly. It normally takes weeks to recover from an attack.

Normally the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine through the pancreatic duct. It also releases the hormones insulin and glucagons into the bloodstream. Normally the digestive enzymes are not activated until they reach the small intestines. However, this process is disrupted when pancreatitis occurs. The digestive enzymes become active inside the pancreas and begin to digest it.

...