Acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a common diagnosis and its incidence may be rising. The commonest aetiological agents remain gallstones and alcohol misuse. Eighty percent of patients will have a mild attack which resolves within a few days without specific treatment. Severe disease is characterized by a significant systemic inflammatory response which may be associated with varying degrees of organ dysfunction. The mortality in patients with multi-organ failure may be as high as 50%.This article reviews the definition, aetiology, pathophysiology, outcome and complications of acute pancreatitis. Therapeutic strategies are discussed in light of recent advances.