It is the inflammation of the pancreas, which can arise from a variety of causes and may be either acute or chronic.

In acute pancreatitis, the symptoms are very severe abdominal pain, fever, sweating, and vomiting which may lead to shock and collapse. It requires immediate medical attention.

In chronic cases, symptoms include pain that varies in intensity and may last for several days with repeated attacks over a period of time. The function of the pancreas in secreting important digestive enzymes may be impaired and abnormal fatty stools are produced. Causes include excessive consumption of alcohol, gall stones and diseases of the gall bladder and bile duct.