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Hereditary Pancreatitis
Hereditary pancreatitis is a genetic condition causing recurrent pancreatic inflammation, severe pain, and digestive issues. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in genetic testing, advanced imaging, and personalized treatment plans, empowering patients to manage symptoms and improve pancreatic health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gene mutations in PRSS1, SPINK1 or CFTR
Family history of pancreatitis
Smoking
Alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Recurrent upper abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting during flare-ups
Unexplained weight loss
Steatorrhea (oily, foul-smelling stools)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical and Family History
He reviews your history of epigastric pain, previous pancreatitis attacks, alcohol use, and any family members with pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.
Blood Tests and Enzyme Levels
We measure serum amylase and lipase to confirm pancreatic inflammation and rule out other causes of upper-abdominal pain.
Genetic Testing
Analysis of PRSS1, SPINK1, and CFTR genes identifies mutations that underlie hereditary pancreatitis and helps tailor your care plan.
Imaging Studies
Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) - Non-invasive view of pancreatic ducts to spot strictures or stones.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) - High-resolution assessment of gland texture, early fibrosis, or ductal changes.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan - Detects complications such as pseudocysts, calcifications, or fluid collections.
Additional Procedures (if needed)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) - Both diagnostic and therapeutic, allowing ductal sampling or stent placement to relieve obstruction.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hereditary pancreatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat low-fat foods to ease stress on your pancreas
Quit smoking and avoid alcohol to reduce risk of flare-ups
Have small, frequent meals to improve nutrient absorption
2. Medications
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion and prevent fatty stools
Pain management with Tylenol, NSAIDs, or targeted nerve blocks
Vitamin supplementation to address malabsorption and support overall health
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to open blocked ducts
Stent placement to keep pancreatic ducts patent
Endoscopic fluid drainage for pseudocysts or localized collections
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hereditary pancreatitis?
Gene mutations (PRSS1, SPINK1, CFTR) passed down from parents.
