This is an inflammatory condition, usually of unknown origin which involves the pancreas gland which produces enzymes to help digestion.
This can present with abdominal discomfort or vomiting/nausea and usually inflammation can be identified by a blood test, called lipase.
An abdominal ultrasound is usually indicated and gall stones can be identified sometimes as a cause. Sometimes there is a background genetic inherited condition leading to recurrent chronic pancreatitis and a genetic blood test can help in its identification.
Sometimes an MRI scan, called an MRCP can identify any anatomical abnormality in the pancreas, and very occasionally a sophisticated endoscopy called an ERCP may be necessary.
Pancreatitis is difficult to treat and sometimes pancreatic enzymes need to be taken as supplements and also vitamin supplements if it is a chronic condition.
It can be serious and require hospitalisation if it is acute and it is usually something which is identified by blood tests initially.