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==Description==  

==Description==  

Is due to the activation of digestive enzymes within the pancreas leading to autodigestion of the gland. Can be referred to as Acute or chronic pancreatitis.  

Is due to the activation of digestive enzymes within the [[Pancreas - Anatomy & Physiology|pancreas]] leading to autodigestion of the gland. Can be referred to as Acute or chronic pancreatitis.  

*'''Acute Pancreatitis''' is rapid onset inflammation of the pancreas with little or no pathological changes occuring post recovery. This may completely resolve or 'wax and wane' into the future.  

Acute Pancreatitis is rapid onset inflammation of the pancreas with little or no pathological changes occuring post recovery. This may completely resolve or 'wax and wane' into the future.  

*'''Chronic Pancreatitis''' is continued inflammation leading to irreversible pathological changes (fibrosis, atrophy) and possible decreases in function.

Chronic Pancreatitis is continued inflammation leading to irreversible pathological changes (fibrosis, atrophy) and possible decreases in function.

The specific cause is usually idiopathic but several risk factors exist:

The specific cause is usually idiopathic but several risk factors exist: