Ravi K. Sharma ^1* Francesco Vitali ² Puneet Chhabra ³

• ¹ Chandigarh University, Mohali, India
• ² Department of Internal Medicine, A University Hospital of Greifswald,, Greifswald,, Germany
• ³ Calderdale Royal Hospital, Halifax, United Kingdom

Pancreatitis represents an inflammatory disease of the pancreatic gland with multiple genetic and environmental etiological factors that cause considerable clinical concern commonly associated with hospital admissions, increased morbidity, and mortality worldwide. (1) According to the clinical course, pancreatitis is classified as acute and chronic, although sometimes an overlap between the two entities, like in recurrent pancreatitis, can be found. (2) A progression from acute to chronic pancreatitis has also been described (3) Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare disease with a low annual incidence, which varies substantially between geographical regions. (4)(5) AP is defined by sudden pancreatic inflammation, involving the acini and the pancreatic ducts. It's an unpredictable and potentially fatal illness. The prognosis is primarily determined by the development of organ failure, pancreatic or peripancreatic necrosis and subsequent infection. Gallstones, alcohol usage, hyperlipidaemia, or certain drugs are the most common causes. Severe abdominal pain (often radiating to the back), high serum amylase and lipase levels, and signs of pancreatic edema or inflammation on imaging techniques such as abdominal ultrasonography or CT scans are common features. (6) AP is managed primarily by supportive treatment, which includes fluid resuscitation, pain management, and nutritional assistance. Severe cases may require radiological and endoscopic intervention in a step-up approach manner, especially if patients develop complications such as abscess or suprainfection of necrosis (7)(8). In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the diverse forms of pancreatitis is crucial for clinicians. By advancing diagnostic methods and tailoring management strategies, we can significantly impact patient care, mitigate complications, and improve overall quality of life for those affected by this complex condition.