The pancreas is an endocrine and exocrine gland that is responsible for
the secretion of insulin, glucagon, pancreatic juice, somatostatin and
pancreatic polypeptide. It regulates blood sugar levels and breaks down
proteins, carbohydrates and fats entering the duodenum from the stomach.
The pancreas is susceptible to several kinds of diseases-pancreatitis,
diabetes mellitus, cystic fibrosis, congenital malformations, neoplasms
and cysts, etc. Pancreatitis is the chronic or acute inflammation of the
pancreas. When food is not properly digested owing to a lack of
digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas, a condition known as
exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs. Certain congenital
malformations of the pancreas include annular pancreas and pancreas
divisum. The diagnosis of pancreatic diseases is based on a physical
examination, blood tests, computed tomography scan, magnetic resonance
imaging and endoscopic ultrasound. Endoscopic retrograde
cholangiopancreatography and magnetic resonance
cholangiopancreatography, allow the evaluation of the pancreatic ducts.
Oral pancreatic enzyme supplements and insulin therapy are often
prescribed to manage pancreatitis and diabetes, respectively. This book
aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of pancreatic
diseases and the recent researches in their pathophysiology. The
objective of this book is to give a general view of the different kinds
of pancreatic disorders, and their diagnosis and management. It aims to
serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike.
