Pancreas

• The pancreas is a vital organ that lies in the abdomen, behind the stomach and in close proximity to the duodenum.
• It plays a crucial role in both the digestive system and the endocrine system, making it unique in its functions and importance to overall health.

Structure of Pancreas

1. Location and Appearance:

   • Elongated organ located behind the stomach, stretching across the back of the abdomen.

2. Parts of the Pancreas:

   • Head: Widest part, nestled in the curve of the duodenum.
   • Body: Extends toward the left side of the body.
   • Tail: Narrow part, extending to the spleen.

3. Tissue Composition:

   • Exocrine tissue: Clusters of acini cells produce digestive enzymes.
   • Endocrine tissue: Islets of Langerhans secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Function of Pancreas

1. Exocrine Function:

   • Produces digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, amylase) that break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in the small intestine.

2. Endocrine Function:

   • The islets of Langerhans secrete:
     • Insulin: Lowers blood glucose by helping cells absorb glucose.
     • Glucagon: Raises blood glucose by prompting the liver to release stored glucose.

Disorders of Pancreas

1. Diabetes Mellitus:

   • Type 1: Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells, leading to insulin deficiency.
   • Type 2: Insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency.

2. Pancreatitis:

   • Inflammation of the pancreas:
     • Acute: Caused by gallstones or alcohol, leading to sudden abdominal pain.
     • Chronic: Long-term inflammation causing permanent damage.

3. Pancreatic Cancer:

   • Aggressive cancer often detected in late stages. Risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and diabetes.

4. Cystic Fibrosis:

   • Genetic disorder affecting the exocrine pancreas, leading to blocked ducts, poor enzyme secretion, malnutrition, and poor growth.

5. Insulinoma:

   • Rare tumor causing excessive insulin production, leading to hypoglycemia.

Treatment of Pancreas

1. Diabetes:

   • Managed through blood glucose monitoring, diet and lifestyle changes, insulin injections, or oral medications.

2. Acute Pancreatitis:

   • Requires hospitalization for pain management, hydration, and sometimes surgery to remove blockages.

3. Chronic Pancreatitis:

   • Managed with pain relief, pancreatic enzyme supplements, and dietary adjustments.

4. Pancreatic Cancer:

   • Treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy depending on the stage and location of the cancer.

5. Cystic Fibrosis:

   • Focuses on symptom management, including pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion and prevent complications.

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