Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What causes acute pancreatitis?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
digestive system disease
Learn why eating large meals can cause bloating, heartburn, and discomfort.
Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas caused by the escape of activated digestive enzymes into the organ's own tissues, which leads to self-destruction of the gland.12
While the exact trigger is not always clear, the condition is most commonly associated with alcoholism and gallstones, the latter of which can obstruct pancreatic ducts. Other contributing factors include:12
- Direct injury or trauma to the pancreas12
- Certain medications, such as thiazide diuretics, immunosuppressives, and corticosteroids1
- Viral infections1
- Hereditary factors1
- Hyperlipidemia (elevated blood fats)1
- Congenital deformities of the ductal system1
These factors can cause heavy stimulation of pancreatic cells or increased pressure within the ducts, resulting in damage to the fine ductal network. This allows enzymes to leak into the pancreas and surrounding areas, causing irritation, edema, and potential necrosis of pancreatic tissue.12