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Hereditary Pancreatitis

At GastroDoxs in Katy, our specialized Hereditary Pancreatitis care combines expert genetic evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support to empower local families, ensuring relief and proactive management for those affected by this inherited pancreatic disorder in our community.

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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Hereditary Pancreatitis?

Hereditary pancreatitis is a long-term condition caused by inherited gene changes that make your pancreas prone to repeated inflammation. It often begins in childhood or adolescence and, over time, can lead to digestive problems and early-onset diabetes. The ICD-10 code for this condition is K86.1.

Common Symptoms

During flare-ups or ongoing inflammation you may experience:

  • Recurrent belly pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss or difficulty gaining weight
  • Steatorrhea (oily, greasy stools)
  • Diabetes diagnosed at a young age

Causes

Hereditary pancreatitis is driven by genetic mutations that cause premature activation of digestive enzymes in the pancreas, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. The most common genes involved are:

  • PRSS1
  • SPINK1
  • CFTR
  • A family history of pancreatitis further increases your risk
Treatment

Treatment Options for Hereditary Pancreatitis in Katy

Treatment includes medication, procedures, and nutritional support:

  • Pain management: Prescription pain medications (NSAIDs, opioids) tailored to control chronic and acute flare-up pain.
  • Enzyme replacement therapy: Pancreatic enzyme supplements taken with meals to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Antioxidants and medications: Supplements like vitamins C and E plus other drugs to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the pancreas.
  • Endoscopic procedures: Minimally invasive techniques (ERCP, stent placement) to open blocked ducts and alleviate pain.
  • Nutritional support: Customized diet plans, vitamin supplementation, and guidance from a dietitian to maintain healthy weight and prevent malnutrition.
  • Surgical options: Advanced surgeries such as the Puestow (lateral pancreaticojejunostomy) or partial pancreatectomy for severe, refractory cases.

Ready to Take Control of Your Health?

Don't let hereditary pancreatitis hold you back. At GastroDoxs in Katy, our multidisciplinary team offers personalized treatment plans-ranging from advanced genetic testing and endoscopic therapies to nutrition counseling and pain management. We're here to guide you every step of the way. Call us or book online today to schedule your appointment and start your journey toward lasting relief and improved quality of life.

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Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

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Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for hereditary pancreatitis?

The ICD-10 code for hereditary pancreatitis is K86.1, which is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition.

What causes hereditary pancreatitis?

Hereditary pancreatitis is caused by genetic mutations passed down in families, most commonly in the PRSS1, SPINK1, or CFTR genes, leading to premature activation of digestive enzymes and pancreatic inflammation.

What are the symptoms of hereditary pancreatitis?

Common symptoms include recurring abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting during flare-ups, difficulty gaining weight or unexplained weight loss, oily or greasy stools (steatorrhea), and early-onset diabetes in some cases.

How is hereditary pancreatitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of genetic testing, imaging studies (like MRI or CT scans), blood tests to assess pancreatic function, and a detailed family medical history.

What medications are used to treat hereditary pancreatitis?

Treatment may include pain management drugs, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy to aid digestion, and antioxidants or other medications tailored for chronic pancreatitis.

What surgical procedures are used for hereditary pancreatitis?

For severe or refractory cases, surgical options may include the Puestow procedure (lateral pancreaticojejunostomy) to drain the pancreas or partial or total pancreatectomy to remove diseased tissue.

Can hereditary pancreatitis lead to diabetes?

Yes. Over time, chronic inflammation and damage to pancreatic tissue can impair insulin production, leading to diabetes in some individuals with hereditary pancreatitis.

Do I need a referral to see a doctor at GastroDoxs?

No referral is required. Patients can contact GastroDoxs in Katy directly to schedule an appointment with our hereditary pancreatitis specialist.

How often should I have check-ups for hereditary pancreatitis?

Most patients benefit from follow-up visits every 3 to 6 months to monitor symptoms, adjust treatments, and perform necessary imaging or lab tests.

How do I find a hereditary pancreatitis specialist near me?

To find a specialist, simply call or book online with GastroDoxs in Katy. Our team will help you schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist experienced in hereditary pancreatitis care.

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