Basic Science And Pathophysiology – Pathopysiology Phases

The pathophysiology of pancreatitis is generally considered in three phases:

Phase 1

Obstruction of bile or pancreatic ducts, or direct toxicity, leads to premature activation of trypsin within pancreatic acinar cells which activates a variety of injurious pancreatic digestive enzymes.

Phase 2

Intrapancreatic inflammation which can lead to necrosis, haemorrhage, infection or the collection of fluid and formation of a pseudocyst

Phase 3

Extrapancreatic inflammation.

Phases 2 and 3 can, in approximately 10-20% of cases, lead to shock and SIRS.