Acute pancreatitis occurs in two forms: edematous (or interstitial) and necrotizing. Both forms begin in the acinar cells, causing inflammation. The severity of the disease depends on the degree of the inflammatory response and resulting cell damage.
Edematous pancreatitis
- Usually mild
- Eighty-five percent of cases
- Self-limiting, typically resolving in 5 to 7 days
- Triggers an inflammatory response
- Causes fluid accumulation and swelling
- Results in minimal organ damage
- May cause scattered areas of fat necrosis
Necrotizing pancreatitis
- Severe
- Fifteen percent of cases
- Progressive
- Triggers a hyperinflammatory response
- Causes tissue damage and cell death
- Results in organ failure
- May cause life-threatening complications