Long-term course following severe acute pancreatitis

Abstract

Background Although improvements in intensive care have reduced the mortality rate of severe acute pancreatitis, limited attention has been paid to subsequent health and pancreatic function among survivors. Method A follow-up study was conducted among 54 patients who survived an attack of severe acute pancreatitis. The main outcome measures were general condition, pain, evidence of exocrine and endocrine dysfunction, alcohol consumption, recurrent attacks of acute pancreatitis, working capacity, late death and its cause. Results 27 patients developed recurrent attacks of acute pancreatitis, more often following alcohol-induced pancreatitis (p Pain was frequent during the first year after the severe acute pancreatitis, but diminished with time. Nine patients (17%) among long-term survivors developed chronic pancreatitis. Temporary exocrine dysfunction after pancreatitis was frequent and one-third of patients developed diabetes mellitus. A tendency towards a lower consumption of alcohol was noted. General condition improved with time and working capacity was retained in most patients. Discussion Patients surviving severe acute pancreatitis generally seem to regain a good quality of life, thereby justifying the extensive management efforts needed during the acute phase of their illness.