OHSU specialists in gastroenterology treat patients with pancreatitis. We offer treatments for both types and all levels, from mild to severe.

What is pancreatitis? In pancreatitis, enzymes damage the pancreas, causing it to become inflamed (red and swollen). People with conditions such as diabetes, gallstones and certain genetic conditions are at higher risk.

Types of pancreatitis: Pancreatitis has two forms: acute (sudden) and chronic (ongoing). Both can have complications, such as damage to the pancreas.

• Acute pancreatitis: This form comes on suddenly. Most people get better over several days, though some cases are serious. Repeat episodes can lead to chronic pancreatitis.
• Chronic pancreatitis: This type typically comes on more slowly and may get worse over time. It may leave permanent scarring that can cause pain or impair digestion. It can lead to diabetes and pancreatic cancer.

Symptoms of pancreatitis: Signs can vary. Not all patients have pain, for example. But symptoms can include:

• Pain in the upper belly that may spread to the back
• Tender or bloated belly
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fast heartbeat

Patients with chronic pancreatitis may also have:

• Belly pain that may spread to the back, sometimes or all of the time
• Weight loss
• Greasy, smelly stools

As many as one in five patients with chronic pancreatitis have no pain. But others can have persistent pain in the upper belly that spreads to the back. It can be worse after meals.

Pain treatment may include:

• Care by our pancreas specialists
• Endoscopic or surgical treatments
• Care in OHSU’s Comprehensive Pain Center

OHSU offers some of the nation’s leading experts on pancreatic cancer.

• OHSU researchers are working to find new ways to prevent, detect and treat pancreatic cancer and other pancreatic conditions.
• A clinic at the Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care helps prevent pancreatic cancer in patients at high risk.
• Specialists and care teams at the Knight Cancer Institute include highly skilled gastroenterologists, radiologists and pathologists for a precise diagnosis.
• OHSU surgeons are able to offer surgery to more patients than ever.

OHSU specialists in gastroenterology treat patients with pancreatic cysts. Expert care is important because some cysts are or can become pancreatic cancer. Our providers will develop a treatment plan for your specific needs.

What are pancreatic cysts? Pancreatic cysts are small fluid-filled growths on or in the pancreas. Most are benign (not cancer). Some are cancer or can turn into cancer. Often, they are found when someone has a scan, such as an MRI or CT scan, of their belly for another reason.

Types of pancreatic cysts: They come in two types: neoplastic and nonneoplastic. Both have subtypes. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis because treatment varies by type. Neoplastic cysts may need surgery, while some nonneoplastic cysts need no treatment.

Symptoms of pancreatic cysts: Most patients with a pancreatic cyst have no symptoms.

Those who do have symptoms may have:

• Ongoing belly pain that spreads to the back
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating
• Weight loss

OHSU specialists understand the complexity of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, also called PNETs. Our team can develop the best possible care plan.

What are pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors? These tumors make up less than 5% of pancreatic cancers. They start in cells that make hormones such as insulin and glucagon to control blood sugar. Compared with the most common form of pancreatic cancer, they:

• Tend to be slower-growing.
• Tend to be resectable (removable with surgery).
• Often have better outcomes.
• Are also called islet cell tumors because they form in cell clusters that look like islands. 

People with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome, an inherited genetic condition, are at higher risk. 

Signs and symptoms of PNETs:

• Functional PNETs: These tumors cause the pancreas to overproduce hormones. This can cause symptoms that lead to quicker diagnosis and better outcomes. Symptoms vary by hormone type.
  • Gastrinomas make gastrin, which causes the stomach to make acid to digest food. Too much gastrin can lead to stomach ulcers (open sores) and pain.
  • Insulinomas make insulin. Too much can lead to low blood sugar, which can cause confusion, fatigue, irritability, weakness and lightheadedness.
  • Glucagonomas make glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels. Too much can cause diabetes, with symptoms such as thirst and frequent urination.
  • Somatostatinomas make somatostatin, which controls other hormones. Too much can lead to high blood sugar, diarrhea, gallstones, jaundice, weight loss and foul-smelling stools.
  • VIPomas produce vasoactive intestinal peptide. Too much can lead to severe watery diarrhea, thirst, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, weight loss, muscle weakness and belly pain or cramps.
  • PPomas make pancreatic polypeptide, which helps regulate the pancreas. Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, belly pain and an enlarged liver. 
• Nonfunctional PNETs: These tumors do not produce hormones. Sometimes there are no symptoms, or symptoms may be vague or like those of other illnesses. They may not be diagnosed until they’re advanced. Signs may include: 
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach upset 
  • Pain in the belly or back 
  • Jaundice
  • Weight loss