Pancreas

The pancreas is a glandular organ located in the abdomen. It produces enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. The most well-known hormone produced by the pancreas is insulin, which helps to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic and can lead to severe abdominal pain. Pancreatic cancer is a serious and often deadly disease that occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas.

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Location of the Pancreas :

The pancreas is located in the abdomen, behind the stomach and in front of the spine. It runs horizontally across the body and is about 6 inches long. The head of the pancreas is on the right side of the body and is connected to the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The tail of the pancreas is on the left side of the body and extends toward the spleen.

Function of pancreas:

The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine functions.

The exocrine function of the pancreas is the production of digestive enzymes which are secreted into the small intestine through ducts to aid in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in food.

The endocrine function of the pancreas is the production of hormones, primarily insulin, and glucagon. Insulin helps to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood by promoting the uptake and storage of glucose by cells, particularly in the liver, muscle, and fat tissue. Glucagon, on the other hand, increases blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose which is then released into the bloodstream.

Pancreas also plays a role in regulating the balance of water, electrolytes and acid-base balance in the body.

Enzymes include:

• Trypsin and chymotrypsin to digest proteins
• Amylase to break down carbohydrates
• Lipase, to break down fats into fatty acids and cholesterol.

The endocrine portion, or islets of Langerhans, secrete insulin and other hormones.

Pancreatic beta cells release insulin when blood sugar levels rise.

Insulin:

• moves glucose from the blood to muscles and other tissues, to be used for energy
• helps the liver absorb glucose, storing it as glycogen in case the body needs energy during stress or exercise

When blood sugar drops, pancreatic alpha cells release the hormone glucagon.

Glucagon causes glycogen to break down into glucose in the liver.

The glucose then enters the bloodstream, restoring blood sugar levels to normal.

Pancreas conditions:

There are several diseases and disorders that can affect the pancreas:

1. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
2. Pancreatic cancer: Malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. It is often asymptomatic in the early stages, but as it progresses, symptoms may include abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
3. Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder that can affect the exocrine function of the pancreas and lead to problems with digestion and nutrient absorption.
4. Diabetes: A disorder in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body is unable to properly use the insulin it produces.
5. Pancreatic pseudocyst: A fluid-filled sac that can develop in the pancreas as a complication of acute or chronic pancreatitis.
6. Pancreas divisum: A congenital condition in which the ducts of the pancreas do not fuse properly during development, which can lead to problems with the flow of pancreatic secretions.
7. Hyperinsulinism: A condition where there’s too much insulin in the blood, it can be caused by a tumor in the pancreas or a genetic disorder.

In some cases, these diseases and disorders can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery. However, in many cases, the damage to the pancreas is irreversible and treatment is focused on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Pancreas tests:

• Physical exam: By pressing on the center of the abdomen, a doctor can check for lumps or abdominal pain. They can also look for other signs of pancreas conditions. Pancreatic pain often radiates to the back.
• CT scan: A CT scanner takes multiple X-rays and a computer creates detailed images of the pancreas and abdomen. Contrast dye may be injected into your veins to improve the images.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Magnetic waves create highly detailed images of the abdomen. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is an MRI that focuses on the pancreas, liver, and biliary system.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): With a camera on a flexible tube that is advanced from the mouth to the intestine, a doctor can access the head area of ​​the pancreas. Small surgical tools can be used to diagnose and treat some conditions of the pancreas.
• Pancreas biopsy: Either with a needle through the skin or through a surgical procedure, a small piece of tissue is removed from the pancreas to look for cancer or other conditions.
• Endoscopic ultrasound: A probe is placed in the abdomen and harmless sound waves create images by reflecting off the pancreas and other organs.
• Amylase and lipase: Blood tests that show elevated levels of these pancreatic enzymes may suggest pancreatitis.
• Chloride sweat test – A painless electrical current stimulates the skin to sweat and chloride in perspiration is measured. People with cystic fibrosis often have elevated levels of chloride in their sweat.
• Genetic testing: Many different mutations in a single gene can cause cystic fibrosis. Genetic testing can help identify whether an adult is an unaffected carrier or whether a child will develop cystic fibrosis.

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