Pancreatitis in Clinical Practice: An Observational Study of Risk Factors, Clinical Characteristics, and Medication Utilization

Abstract

Background: Pancreatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas and a significant cause of hospital admissions worldwide. The incidence of pancreatitis has increased due to lifestyle-related factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and metabolic disorders. Objective: To assess the risk factors, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, drug utilization patterns, and treatment outcomes among patients diagnosed with pancreatitis. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted over a period of six months in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 120 patients diagnosed with pancreatitis were included. Data regarding demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation, laboratory investigations, prescribed medications, and treatment outcomes were collected from patient records and analysed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The majority of patients were males aged 18–40 years. Alcohol consumption was identified as the predominant risk factor, followed by smoking, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension. Acute pancreatitis was more commonly observed than chronic pancreatitis. The most frequent clinical manifestations included abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal tenderness. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), amylase, and lipase were observed in a substantial proportion of patients. Drug therapy mainly consisted of paracetamol, tramadol, ondansetron, pantoprazole, and ceftriaxone when indicated. Most patients showed symptomatic improvement during hospitalization, while some achieved complete recovery and others required further management. Treatment outcomes were significantly associated with age, risk factors, clinical features, and laboratory parameters. Conclusion: Alcohol consumption remains the leading risk factor for pancreatitis. Early diagnosis, appropriate drug utilization, and modification of lifestyle-related risk factors are crucial for improving clinical outcomes and reducing disease-related complications.