Pancreatitis

Pancreas is a long, flat gland located in the abdominal cavity, behind the stomach. It is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in the digestive system and endocrine system. The pancreas produces enzymes that help to break down food and hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, that help to regulate glucose levels in the blood.

Structure and Location

The pancreas is an elongated organ, approximately 12-15 cm long, and is divided into four parts: the head, neck, body, and tail. The head of the pancreas is located near the duodenum, while the tail extends towards the spleen. It is positioned behind the stomach and is surrounded by several important organs and blood vessels, including the liver, gallbladder, and small intestine.

Functions

The pancreas has two main functions: exocrine and endocrine.

Exocrine Function

The exocrine function of the pancreas involves the production and secretion of digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food. These enzymes include:

• Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates
• Lipase: Breaks down fats
• Protease: Breaks down proteins

These enzymes are secreted into the pancreatic duct, which eventually merges with the bile duct and empties into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.

Endocrine Function

The endocrine function of the pancreas involves the production and secretion of hormones that regulate blood glucose levels. The pancreas contains small clusters of cells called Islets of Langerhans, which are responsible for producing the following hormones:

• Insulin: Lowers blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake and storage of glucose in cells
• Glucagon: Raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the release of glucose from stored glycogen in the liver

These hormones work together to maintain proper glucose levels in the blood and ensure that the body has a constant supply of energy.

Pankreatitis CT

Pancreatic Disorders

Several disorders can affect the pancreas, including:

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic
• Diabetes: A condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production (type 1 diabetes) or reduced insulin sensitivity (type 2 diabetes)
• Pancreatic cancer: A malignant tumor originating in the pancreas
• Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder that affects multiple organs, including the pancreas, and can lead to a reduction in digestive enzyme production

See also

• Digestive system
• Endocrine system
• Insulin
• Glucagon
• Diabetes

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