Management of Pain, Exocrine and Endocrine Insufficiency in Chronic Pancreatitis

Abstract

Chronic pancreatitis is the progressive and inflammatory disease which will result in the irreversible destruction and fibrosis of the pancreas. These processes cause chronic pain and pancreatic dysfunctions such as exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Medical treatment for chronic pancreatitis would be reviewed in this article. Abdominal pain should be accessed by using multidimensional approach including pain intensity, pattern, impact on daily function and quality of life. Abstinence from alcohol and smoking should be strong recommendation. The guideline for analgesic therapy follows the principles of the “pain relief ladder” by World Health Organization. The pancreatic enzyme replacement should be considered when exocrine insufficiency is suspected. Enteric-coated microspheres or mini-microspheres of <2 mm in size with a minimum lipase dose of 40,000–50,000 United States Pharmacopeia are the recommended preparations. These preparations should be taken with main meals. Increasing the oral enzyme dose and the addition of a proton pump inhibitor could be considered in cases of unsatisfactory clinical response. Diabetes mellitus secondary to chronic pancreatitis is classified as Type IIIc diabetes mellitus. Optimal pharmacological treatment has not been established yet but should promote life-style changes, which may improve glucose control and avoid hypoglycemia. In patients with severe malnutrition, insulin therapy is recommended as a first choice. Treatment for chronic pancreatitis can include medication, therapeutic endoscopy, interventional radiology, and surgery. Among them, medical treatment is the most important and should be well understood.