Autoimmune pancreatitis or AIP is a rare autoimmune medical condition, in which the immune system of the body attacks its healthy cells. This condition can be of two types:
- Type 1: This is the most common variant of AIP that affects the pancreas, as well as other organs of the body, like the gallbladder and the liver.
- Type 2: This condition only affects the pancreas, and is commonly associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
Any person diagnosed with type 1 or 2 AIP must consult the best pancreas specialist in Delhi for proper treatment. Type 1 AIP can be misdiagnosed as pancreatic cancer at times, as both of them have multiple overlapping signs and symptoms. Hence, it is crucial to get the diagnosis of the symptoms done through an expert as well, to make sure that there is no scope for mistakes. The common signs of autoimmune pancreatitis include:
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Yellow skin and eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or extreme tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss for no known reason
- Pain in the upper abdomen or middle part of the back
Type 1 of AIP is most common among males able the age of sixty, while its type 2 is often seen among both men and women above 40. People suffering from type 2 AIB additionally are more likely to have an inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis.
Complications Faced by Patients Suffering from Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Autoimmune pancreatitis can lead to a number of complications. Here are a few of them:
- Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency: Autoimmune pancreatitis can affect the ability of the pancreas to make more enzymes. The symptoms of such a condition include metabolic bone disease, weight loss, diarrhoea, metabolic bone disease as well as vitamin or mineral deficiency.
- Diabetes: As pancreas is the organ responsible for producing insulin, any damage suffered by it may cause diabetes, due to which the patients may need treatment with oral medication or insulin.
- Pancreatic calcifications or stones
- Pancreatic and bile duct stricture
The best pancreas specialist in Delhi can create a perfect treatment plan for both type 1 and 2 AIP, as well as provide the patients with valuable guidance.
Dr. Vikas Singla 