Autoimmune Pancreatitis

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare and chronic inflammatory disease of the pancreas that is characterized by an autoimmune response, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas.

Types of Autoimmune Pancreatitis

There are two main types of AIP:

  • Type 1 AIP: This type is characterized by elevated levels of IgG4, a type of antibody, and is often associated with other autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Type 2 AIP: This type is not associated with elevated IgG4 levels and is more commonly seen in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of AIP is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an autoimmune response. Risk factors for developing AIP include:

  • Family history of autoimmune disorders
  • Other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Inflammatory bowel disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of AIP can vary, but common presentations include:

Diagnosis

Diagnosing AIP can be challenging, but a combination of the following tests and procedures may be used:

  • Imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans to visualize the pancreas
  • Blood tests to measure IgG4 levels and other markers of inflammation
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to evaluate the pancreas and bile ducts
  • Biopsy of the pancreas to confirm the diagnosis

Treatment

Treatment for AIP typically involves:

  • Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
  • Immunomodulatory medications such as azathioprine or mercaptopurine to modify the immune response
  • Pain management with analgesics or other medications
  • Nutritional support to manage malabsorption and weight loss

Prognosis

The prognosis for AIP is generally good, with most patients responding well to treatment. However, some patients may experience relapses or develop complications such as pancreatic insufficiency or bile duct strictures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is autoimmune pancreatitis?
Inflammation of the pancreas caused by an abnormal immune response.

What are the symptoms of autoimmune pancreatitis?
Abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and diarrhea.

How is autoimmune pancreatitis diagnosed?
Imaging tests, blood tests, and biopsy.

What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 autoimmune pancreatitis?
Type 1 is associated with other autoimmune disorders, while type 2 is not.

Is autoimmune pancreatitis a rare condition?
Yes, it is relatively rare.

Can autoimmune pancreatitis be treated?
Yes, with corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications.

What are the complications of untreated autoimmune pancreatitis?
Pancreatic damage, diabetes, and bile duct obstruction.

Is surgery necessary for autoimmune pancreatitis?
Usually not, but may be needed in some cases.

Can autoimmune pancreatitis increase the risk of pancreatic cancer?
Possibly, but more research is needed to confirm this.

Is there a cure for autoimmune pancreatitis?
No, but symptoms can be managed with treatment.

Article last updated on: 12th July 2025.
If you have any feedback, please get in touch.

See more

 Conditions  Symptoms  Procedures

Diagnosis Pad
Medical AI Assistant with Differentials, Guidance, Transcriptions, Notes, Medical Encyclopedia and Explainable AI.


Available for iOS, macOS and Android.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this site. We we do not guarantee, and assume no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, currency, or completeness of the information provided.