In the vast majority of cases, chronic pancreatitis is accompanied by persistent acute or recurrent pain. Less common is a latent( painless) course of chronic pancreatitis, which can only be diagnosed when conducting a thorough medical examination.
According to statistics for chronic pancreatitis latent flow is observed only in five percent of cases. In this case it is a question of latent pancreatitis. It can be the result of acute pancreatitis, and can develop as a result of cholelithiasis, acute gastritis of the stomach and duodenum, liver cirrhosis, as well as hepatitis.
Diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis with this form follows on the basis of a laboratory study of pancreatic enzymes. In this case, the clinical picture of the disease can be the same as in the usual course of chronic pancreatitis, except for the presence of an acute pain syndrome. Patients complain of decreased appetite, unstable stools, weight loss, nausea and vomiting.
Radiographic examination, as well as duodenofibroscopy and radioisotope investigation, help to identify the correct diagnosis, and accompanying diseases of the digestive system.
Treatment of latent pancreatitis is the same as chronic pancreatitis with the usual clinical picture of its course. Patients are assigned bed rest and a strict diet with high protein content. In severe cases, full abstinence from meals( hunger) is recommended for several days.
Pancreatin, mezim-forte and other preparations of a similar spectrum of action with equal breaks are of great importance in the treatment of pancreatitis with latent flow. During the year, such courses of substitution therapy are conducted 5-6 times.
Treatment of chronic pancreatitis with its latent flow can be supplemented with the use of cholagogue preparations, including herbal decoctions and infusions, as well as the intake of enveloping drugs and anabolic hormones.
Improvement of the health status is possible only with complex treatment and strict observance of all the doctor's recommendations. Even in a period of persistent remission, you must adhere to the right diet and avoid physical exertion.