Question Title: Pancreatiis and Colitis

Topic Area: Pancreas
My 20 year old daughter developed colitis at age 11. She was
treated with Asacol when flare-ups occurred. The flare-ups
increased in frequency and severity in her teen years and have
continued to do so. For the past two years the diarrhea and
bleeding have been constant with the exception of a month here
or there. Salofalk rectal suspensions were used with little
success. In February this year she was admitted to hospital with
pancreatitis (amylase levels 800). Intravenous was given,
ultasound ruled out gallstones, gastroscopy ruled out stomach
ulcers. It was diagnosed as acute pancreatitis. She has been
home since then, unable to return to her studies, with the
colitis raging. The Asacol has been passing through undigested
so she was switched from Asacol to Pentasa three weeks ago.
Last week the pancreatitis symptoms returned. She does not
drink and has not received an injury.
Is there a connection between pancreatitis and ulcerative
colitis?
Why would this be happening? Any information or suggestions/
next steps for both conditions would be greatly appreciated.
Her life has been reduced to very limited activity for the past
seven weeks .
Thank you
Doren

Dear Doren,

Although fairly uncommon, acute pancreatitis has been reported with the use of Asacol. I had a patient who had acute pancreatitis where no other cause could be found. After discontinuing the Asacol the patient has been doing well. I hope you find this information helpful.

This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.

If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians’ Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.

HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: acute pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, Asacol