Book an Appointment
Emergency: 022-61305005
I want to find
My Health Records
Management Team

Pancreatic Fibrosis

Overview

Pancreatic fibrosis is characterised by the accumulation of fibrous tissue in the pancreas, leading to a reduction in its ability to function properly. This condition is often a result of chronic inflammation and damage to the pancreatic cells, disrupting the normal structure and function of the pancreas.

  • Cystic fibrosis-related pancreatic fibrosis: This is the most common cause of pancreatic fibrosis in children and young adults. It results from cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that causes thick and sticky mucus to build up in various organs, including the pancreas. The mucus can obstruct ducts in the pancreas, leading to fibrosis.
  • Chronic pancreatitis-related fibrosis: Chronic inflammation of the pancreas (chronic pancreatitis) is a major cause of pancreatic fibrosis. This can result from repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis or prolonged damage from alcohol use, gallstones, or other factors.
  • Fibrosis due to pancreatic cancer: Tumours or cancers of the pancreas can lead to fibrosis, both as a result of tumour growth and the body's response to the tumour. In this case, fibrosis can contribute to impaired pancreatic function.
  • Autoimmune pancreatitis: A rare type of pancreatitis in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas, causing inflammation and fibrosis.

  • Chronic pancreatitis:Long-term inflammation of the pancreas caused by alcohol abuse, gallstones, high triglycerides, or autoimmune diseases.
  • Genetic disorders:
    • Cystic fibrosis: A genetic condition that leads to thick mucus buildup in the pancreas.
    • Hereditary pancreatitis: A rare genetic condition that increases the risk of recurrent pancreatitis and fibrosis.
  • Pancreatic cancer:
    • Pancreatic cancer can lead to the formation of fibrous tissue as part of the tumour's progression.
  • Metabolic disorders:
    • Conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood sugar (diabetes), and hypercalcemia can increase the risk.
  • Infections and trauma:
    • Certain infections or injury to the pancreas can lead to fibrotic changes.
  • Smoking and alcohol abuse:
    • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for developing chronic pancreatitis and fibrosis.

Symptoms of pancreatic fibrosis are often linked to the underlying cause (e.g., chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis), but the fibrotic changes themselves can result in the following:

  • Abdominal pain: Persistent or episodic abdominal pain, often in the upper abdomen or back.
  • Digestive problems: Difficulty digesting food, leading to bloating, diarrhea, or fatty stools (steatorrhea) due to malabsorption of nutrients.
  • Unexplained weight loss: Due to malabsorption of nutrients and insufficient pancreatic enzymes.
  • Jaundice: Typically caused by a blockage in the bile ducts.
  • Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms may occur, especially during acute episodes of pancreatic inflammation.
  • Diabetes: As fibrosis progresses, insulin production in the pancreas can decrease, leading to diabetes.

  • Blood tests:
    • Elevated levels of certain enzymes (e.g., amylase, lipase) can indicate pancreatic inflammation.
    • Blood glucose levels may be elevated if diabetes develops.
  • Imaging tests:
    • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Provides detailed images of the pancreas and can show changes consistent with fibrosis.
    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used to assess the pancreas and surrounding tissues.
    • Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): A highly sensitive method to detect fibrosis and pancreatic duct abnormalities.
    • MRI/CT Cholangiopancreatography: For detailed visualization of pancreatic ducts.
  • Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the presence of fibrosis.
  • Genetic testing: In cases suspected to be related to cystic fibrosis or hereditary pancreatitis.

Treatment of pancreatic fibrosis primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. The options include:

  • Managing chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis:
    • Pain Management: Medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs, and in severe cases, opioids.
    • Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT): To help with nutrient digestion and alleviate digestive symptoms.
    • Insulin Therapy: For patients who develop diabetes due to the loss of insulin-producing cells.
  • Alcohol and smoking cessation:Reducing or eliminating alcohol use and smoking, which can worsen fibrosis and inflammation.
  • Surgical interventions:In cases of obstructed ducts or pancreatic cancer, surgery may be necessary to remove parts of the pancreas or treat the underlying cause.
  • Endoscopic treatment:Endoscopic procedures to treat ductal obstructions, pancreatic cysts, or stones.
  • Stem cell and regenerative therapies:Research into regenerative treatments is ongoing, but stem cell therapy and pancreatic islet cell transplants show potential in improving pancreatic function.
  • Supportive Care:Nutritional support through a high-calorie, low-fat diet may be recommended to counteract malnutrition. Vitamins and minerals may be supplemented.
  • Addressing diabetes:If diabetes develops, insulin or other diabetes medications may be prescribed to manage blood sugar levels.
Bottom to top