Unexpressed diffuse changes in the pancreas Diffuse changes in the pancreas: what is it, causes and how to treat. Diffuse changes - good or bad

The human body is a reasonable and fairly balanced mechanism.

Among all infectious diseases known to science, infectious mononucleosis has a special place ...

The disease, which official medicine calls "angina pectoris", has been known to the world for quite a long time.

Mumps (scientific name - mumps) is an infectious disease ...

Hepatic colic is a typical manifestation of cholelithiasis.

Cerebral edema is the result of excessive stress on the body.

There are no people in the world who have never had ARVI (acute respiratory viral diseases) ...

A healthy human body is able to absorb so many salts obtained from water and food ...

Bursitis of the knee joint is a widespread disease among athletes...

Moderately pronounced diffuse changes in the pancreas

Moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas - ultrasound conclusion

Such ultrasound findings indicate that some changes have occurred in the entire pancreatic tissue. How much they affected the patient's condition and the work of the pancreas, only a doctor can judge on the basis of a complete examination of the patient.

If during the ultrasound examination (ultrasound) moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas were detected, this means that some changes have occurred in the pancreas, evenly distributed throughout its tissue. Which ones, it is impossible to establish on ultrasound.

How serious it is, the doctor will decide. First of all, he will find out from the patient if he has any complaints from the digestive organs. If there are such complaints, then the function of the pancreas and liver is checked, since these organs are interconnected by a single excretory duct. For this, biochemical analyzes are taken. If the function of the liver and pancreas is not changed, but the patient is still worried about something, a more detailed examination of all digestive organs is carried out - violations in any of them can adversely affect the work of the pancreas. After the final diagnosis is established, treatment is carried out.

But most often in patients who have such changes on ultrasound, there are no complaints from the digestive organs. This means that the function of this organ, if impaired, is insignificant and does not need treatment.

Sometimes the doctor advises to follow a diet and diet - do not eat fatty foods, eat often and in small portions - this relieves the burden on the pancreas and liver.

Changes in the pancreas in pancreatitis

In acute and chronic pancreatitis, there may be diffuse changes in the pancreas. But with these diseases, the state of the pancreas (and hence the picture on ultrasound) can vary depending on the phase of the inflammatory process.

Thus, moderate diffuse changes in the gland tissue can be detected at the onset of acute pancreatitis in the stage of gland edema. But even here there may be nuances: sometimes these changes are distributed unevenly, that is, they are partially focal in nature. Based on one ultrasound, it is impossible to form an opinion about the severity of the patient's condition: at the time of acute edema, he has severe pain, he needs immediate hospitalization, while ultrasound shows only moderate widespread changes in the pancreas.

It is also impossible to accept as a guide to action the conclusion of ultrasound in chronic pancreatitis: during an exacerbation of the process, moderate diffuse changes can be due to swelling of the gland, and outside the exacerbation - due to the uniform growth of connective tissue, which after each exacerbation replaces the destroyed cells of the gland.

Nevertheless, ultrasound data are of great importance in the diagnosis of acute and chronic pancreatitis, when considered in combination with data from other studies.

For example, moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas, combined with a significant increase in the content of pancreatic enzymes in the blood and urine, indicate acute stagnation of the secret and the danger of self-digestion of the pancreatic tissue - that is, signs of acute pancreatitis. This patient needs urgent medical attention.

Exactly the same changes on ultrasound, combined with "calm" blood and urine tests, indicate that there are slight changes in the gland tissue. To treat or not to treat such changes depends on the condition of the patient.

Changes in the pancreas in metabolic-dystrophic disorders

Circulatory disorders in this area lead to metabolic and dystrophic disorders in the pancreatic tissue (for example, in old age, against the background of atherosclerosis and blockage of the vessel lumen by atherosclerotic plaques), various metabolic disorders and endocrine diseases (obesity, diabetes mellitus), liver diseases and biliary tract, diseases of other digestive organs, long-term infectious and inflammatory processes, malignant tumors.

Under the influence of these processes, metabolism is disturbed, which leads to the replacement of the pancreas's own tissue with adipose or connective tissue. As a rule, such patients do not complain about the pancreas and do not need treatment.

The conclusion of ultrasound about the presence of moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas is not a diagnosis, but the result of a diagnostic study, which is not important in itself, but only in combination with other research methods and the patient's condition.

Galina Romanenko

www.womenclub.ru

How to treat diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

Often in the conclusion of an abdominal ultrasound there is a record of "diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma." What does this mean, how dangerous and should I be worried? By themselves, these changes are not a diagnosis, but only a consequence of the disease.

The parenchyma of the gland has a fragile structure due to the presence of many glandular cells that secrete pancreatic juice. It is divided by connective tissue bridges into lobules, and adipose tissue is also present. Parenchyma cells are very sensitive to various influences, they are easily damaged and die, and the voids in their place are filled with connective or adipose tissue. If this process occurs in a limited area, these are focal changes, and if in the entire parenchyma, these are diffuse changes in the gland.

Important! Even if minor diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma are detected, this is an alarming symptom. He always says that there is damage to her cells.

So figuratively looks like a gland with diffuse changes in chronic pancreatitis

Causes and types of diffuse changes

Damage to glandular tissue cells occurs as a result of the following reasons:

Chronic inflammatory process (pancreatitis).
Diseases of the liver and biliary tract with the presence of stones that prevent the outflow of pancreatic juice.
Overeating, especially fatty foods, when glandular cells work with increased stress.
Drinking alcohol, which has a double effect: toxic and "overloading" due to the high carbohydrate content.
Past acute pancreatitis or pancreatic injury.
Long-term use of drugs that have a toxic effect.

Alcohol is enemy number 1 for the pancreas

There are 3 degrees of changes in the parenchyma: minor, moderate and severe, they are determined by the results of ultrasound, taking into account clinical symptoms.

Minor diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

An ultrasound of the gland reveals a slight change in its echogenicity - the ability to reflect ultrasonic waves, it looks brighter in the picture. Clinical manifestations, as a rule, are not observed.

Moderate diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

The ultrasound picture reveals uneven echo density of the gland, a combination of areas of increase with areas of decrease. Most patients complain of discomfort, nausea after eating, recurrent epigastric pain, and upset stool. Laboratory analyzes in most cases are not changed.

The echogenicity of the pancreas is increased, it is lighter, the structure is heterogeneous

Severe diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

With ultrasound scanning, iron reflects waves well, that is, it has hyperechogenicity. In the picture, it has a light color, with white echo-positive areas throughout the parenchyma, they indicate fibrous, cicatricial changes. Symptoms are pronounced, it is manifested by insufficiency of the function of the gland - indigestion, weight loss, protein deficiency, anemia, and a violation of the general condition. Diabetes mellitus develops due to atrophy of insulin-producing islet cells in the tail of the gland.

Fibrosis of the pancreas: reduced in size, echo density sharply increased (marked by arrows)

Important! The types of changes in the gland described are, in fact, the stages of a process that gradually progresses in the absence of diet and adequate treatment.

How is the diagnosis carried out?

Primary diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma are detected by ultrasound scanning. If this information is not enough, additional computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are prescribed, which make it possible to more accurately determine the nature and localization of changes.

Ultrasound of the pancreas - its mandatory and priority study

Echo-signs of diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma are:

increased or decreased echogenicity (lighter or darker image);
increased echogenicity with multiple hyperechoic foci - signs of gland fibrosis;
increase or decrease in size against the background of diffuse fibrosis - with pronounced changes;
uneven contours.

Ultrasound determines only morphological changes, to assess the function of the gland, a laboratory test is carried out for the content of enzymes, blood sugar.

Important! In the elderly, hyperechogenicity of the gland is considered the norm, this is due to the natural aging of the body, the development of atherosclerosis and atrophic processes in all organs.

What is the treatment?

How to treat diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma, and can they be cured? In some cases, it is possible if these changes have not developed for a long time. For example, after acute pancreatitis, with reactive inflammation of the gland, allergic edema. In such cases, they are reversible, with adequate treatment and diet are completely eliminated.

Foods that harm the pancreas

When there are chronic diseases - pancreatitis, cholelithiasis, fatty or fibrous degeneration, these changes are irreversible. The question of treatment is to stop their further development and normalize the function of digestion.

If changes in the parenchyma on ultrasound are persistent, but slightly pronounced, and there are no symptoms of indigestion, it is enough to follow a diet and get rid of bad habits. But you should not relax either, because with the slightest violation of the diet, changes in the gland can progress.

Important! It should be remembered that the main "enemy" of the pancreas is alcohol, even in small doses. Most of the diseases of the pancreas are associated with its use.

With moderate and pronounced changes, when the enzymatic function of the gland is disturbed, complex treatment is necessary:

replacement enzyme preparations (Festal, Mezim, Digestal, Creon and analogues);
drugs that improve blood circulation;
anti-inflammatory drugs - according to indications;
vitamin complexes;
physiotherapy procedures;
diet therapy with the restriction of fatty and carbohydrate foods, with the exception of spicy dishes.

One of the most modern complex enzyme preparations for substitution therapy

A good addition to the main treatment are natural traditional medicine: decoctions and teas from immortelle, St. John's wort, chamomile, yarrow, parsley root, Rhodiola rosea. Their use should be agreed with the doctor.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas are always a consequence of its diseases. In any case, they require constant adherence to diet, lifestyle changes, and, if necessary, drug treatment.

pozhelezam.ru

Diffuse changes in the pancreas: what does it mean

Often, during an ultrasound scan of the pancreas, diffuse changes in it are detected, these can be moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas. Many are concerned about the question of what harm this can bring to health.

You need to know that such changes are not a diagnosis, but only the conclusion of an ultrasound scan. Under the influence of various factors, the ultrasonic structure of the entire organ can evenly change. The severity of these processes varies.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas indicate that there are no focal processes in the gland, that is, stones, tumors or cysts. The final diagnosis can only be made by the attending physician, based on the clinical picture, patient complaints, ultrasound results and other tests.

The pancreas is an organ of the endocrine and digestive systems. It is located on the posterior abdominal wall behind the stomach and slightly extends into the region of the left hypochondrium. Conventionally, three parts of the gland are distinguished - the head, body and tail. The main part of the organ performs the function of external secretion - enzymes for the digestion of food into the duodenum through the excretory ducts.

The endocrine part consists of pancreatic islets, which are located mainly in the tail of the gland, and produces the following hormones:

glucagon and insulin - they have the exact opposite effect, due to which they regulate the concentration of glucose in the blood;
somatostatin - suppresses the secretory function of other glands;
pancreatic polypeptide - promotes the formation of gastric juice, and inhibits the enzymatic activity of the pancreas;
Ghrelin - increases appetite.

During ultrasound, the size of the pancreas, its shape, the presence of volumetric structures, tissue homogeneity, and diffuse changes in the pancreas are evaluated. Ultrasound is quite difficult to perform, because the gland is located behind the stomach and intestines, which contain gases. Therefore, the day before the study, you need to follow a diet aimed at reducing gas formation.

During the examination itself, the doctor evaluates the density of the echo gland structure, (echogenicity), which can be evenly increased, or, conversely, reduced.

In such cases, it is noted that diffuse changes and changes in the parenchyma have begun in the pancreas. Due to the fact that it has a close relationship with the gallbladder and liver, all changes in their structure necessarily affect its condition, and vice versa, they may appear compacted.

In order to clarify the preliminary diagnosis, and to notice signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas and parenchyma, it is necessary to pass urine, feces and blood tests, as well as to carry out endoscopy of the digestive tract.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas and parenchyma, the main causes:

improper diet and diet containing a large amount of salty, fatty, spicy, floury and sweet foods;
excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, leads to the fact that there is a seal;
chronic stress;
uncontrolled use of medicines;
hereditary factor;
diseases of other organs of the gastrointestinal tract, in which the diet is also not observed;
advanced age.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas, and thickening on the echo, are often noted in people with diabetes mellitus, in which insulin production is reduced. These processes lead to an increase in blood sugar and the detection of glucose in the urine, regardless of whether there is a diet and what the echo shows.

Such a change and compaction have no specific treatment, since therapy should be aimed at correcting the underlying disease, and this is already a diet and other measures.

Why diffuse changes in the pancreas can begin

In older people, atrophy of the gland and a decrease in its size can be observed. At the same time, the echogenicity of the organ remains normal, and can also be increased or decreased. Patients do not complain about anything and they do not need any treatment.

Diffuse changes can also occur with pancreatitis, what is it - an inflammatory disease of the pancreas. With this disease, digestive enzymes show their activity inside the organ itself and digest it. By the way. It is helpful to know what the symptoms of diabetes might be, along with looking at pancreatic problems.

During this process, toxic substances and enzymes are released that enter the general circulation and lead to the destruction of other organs and systems, such as the lungs, kidneys, brain, heart, and here the diet no longer helps.

The greatest danger is acute pancreatitis, which is determined by both symptoms and echo. Patients complain of a sharp girdle pain under the ribs, vomiting, their temperature rises, the pulse quickens, and cyanotic spots appear on the abdomen.

When pus enters the abdominal cavity, a person loses consciousness, he develops sepsis, which can lead to death. Such cases require urgent surgical treatment.

In acute pancreatitis, ultrasound shows that the gland is enlarged, has a fuzzy structure and reduced echo signs, which means that sometimes there is an expansion of the ducts, the appearance of fluid around the organ, as well as areas of necrosis.

Chronic pancreatitis has pronounced manifestations. Usually such patients feel heaviness after eating and pain in the left hypochondrium, they develop flatulence, nausea and bitterness in the mouth, if the diet is also not followed. In the early stages, ultrasound shows that the gland is of normal size, which means that its echo is reduced. The edges of the organ are uneven, and the duct becomes tortuous and expands, and sealing may also occur.

If the process begins to progress, then cysts and calcifications are found in the parenchymal tissue of the organ, and areas of fibrosis with increased echo appear, which have an irregular shape.

Treatment of pancreatitis must be accompanied by a change in lifestyle, and a diet is also required. Drug therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, antispasmodics and anti-enzyme drugs are prescribed, and the body is detoxified. If necessary, surgical intervention is performed.

As a result of chronic inflammatory processes in the pancreas, the development of fibrosis begins. This means that in this case there is an overgrowth of connective tissue, which comes to replace the damaged parenchyma.

Fibrosis of the parenchyma can begin with cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, primary siderophilia. At the same time, ultrasound examination shows that the size of the gland is normal, but its echo increases and the density of the parenchyma increases. If the patient does not make any complaints, then he does not need treatment.

Another factor that causes diffuse changes in the parenchyma is lipomatosis. This is the name of the growth of adipose tissue without a clear limitation, while the replacement of the organ's own tissue occurs. Lipomatosis can occur in older people or in people with diabetes. The dimensions of the pancreas remain normal, and the echogenicity increases, but there is no large compaction of the organ.

diabethelp.org

The danger of diffuse changes in the structure of the pancreas

The pancreas plays a huge role in the process of digestion, so any failures in its functioning lead to significant disturbances in human health. In order to identify possible pathological changes in the work of this organ, people who have negative symptoms of gastrointestinal problems are required to undergo ultrasound. During this study, the “picture” that appears on the screen shows any changes in the structure of the pancreas.

The most dangerous is when diffuse changes in the pancreas (DIPG) are detected during an ultrasound examination. The question of what it is arises in all patients who have been diagnosed with this. As experts explain, this entry, made in a person’s medical history, does not indicate a specific disease, since there is no pathology with such a name, but about metabolic-dystrophic changes that affected the parenchyma (the so-called tissues that make up the internal structure of this organ). In order to have an idea of what kind of pathologies this phenomenon may be associated with, it is worth understanding it in more detail.

Signs of a negative phenomenon

What are diffuse changes in the pancreas, and how each of their manifestations is difficult and dangerous for a person, the doctor always explains in detail to those people who are at risk for the development of this pathology. He will be able to most popularly acquaint his patient with the negative symptoms corresponding to the pathology. The inflammatory process is usually protracted. At the initial stage, it is quite difficult to recognize it, since all the negative sensations that arise at this time in a sick person are similar to those in other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract:

stool disorders, expressed in the alternation of diarrhea and constipation;
heaviness and discomfort in the stomach after eating, even if a very small portion was eaten;
soreness in all projections of the abdomen, which does not have a clear localization;
almost complete loss of appetite.

But over time, they become more specific, not causing the specialist conducting the initial survey of the patient, no doubt that a diagnostic study of this particular organ is necessary. Such an aggravation of symptoms is due to the fact that with the progression of the disease, the pancreatic parenchyma begins to sclerotize, that is, overgrow with connective tissue that is unable to produce a digestive enzyme. The ultrasound examination carried out at this time is able to give a clear picture of what kind of disease caused the appearance of pronounced or moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas.

Types of pathological destruction

Changes in the pancreas are necessarily classified. This helps to more correctly and quickly determine the pathology that provoked them, and to choose an adequate therapeutic course that is able to cope with the misfortune as soon as possible. The types of DIP are divided according to the degree of severity and the place of localization. The moderate nature of the restructuring of the pancreatic parenchyma is observed when a person begins to develop lipomatosis.

When diagnosing such a phenomenon, gastroenterologists note that an irreversible process has arisen in the patient's pancreas, in which the pancreas's own cells are replaced by a fatty layer. There are no obvious signs of tissue degeneration and symptoms indicating enzyme deficiency in moderately severe pathology, but internal diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma have already appeared. If adequate conservative treatment is not started at this time, they will progress.

If the degree of pathology is pronounced and the patient develops chronic diseases of this organ, then such phenomena are irreversible and cannot be completely cured. Doctors in this case can only temporarily stop their progression.

Classification of DIP by the nature of occurrence

Diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma, to which the development of the inflammatory process in this organ leads, are characterized by the fact that its constituent tissues cease to be homogeneous. In this regard, there is an increase in some and compression of other parts of the pancreas, which is directly involved in the process of digestion.

The heterogeneous structure of the organ is usually present in pathologies such as acute or chronic pancreatitis and diabetes. These diseases occur due to the fact that the process of inflammation begins to develop in the pancreas, accompanied by severe swelling, or pseudocysts appear. But the presence of malignant tumors in this case is completely excluded. According to the nature of the occurrence of restructuring that appeared in the pancreatic parenchyma, they are as follows:

Reactive. Such diffusion of the pancreas is secondary, that is, it develops against the background of pathologies of the hepatobiliary system (a set of internal organs that respond to the processes of digestion and excretion of metabolic products from the body).
Fibrous. Characterized by the appearance of scars. In this case, a diffusely heterogeneous consistency of pancreatic tissues is formed against the background of frequent alcohol exposure to the digestive organs, an inflammatory process developing in them, or an infectious viral lesion. Often, this type of DIP also indicates that an insignificant benign process is taking place in the organ.
Dystrophic diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma is a complete replacement of the glandular tissues of the pancreas with fatty ones.

In the case when the above changes in the structure of the pancreas are moderate, it is enough to prescribe medication and diet therapy to restore the normal functioning of the organ. But when more than 50% of the gland is included in the pathological process, it may not be possible to do without surgical intervention.

What does ultrasound show

Ultrasound examination is the main method for diagnosing damage that has appeared in the pancreas. Ultrasound pictures allow an experienced diagnostician to assess the clinical condition of the ducts of the digestive organ, the presence of pathological formations in it, as well as to see the evenness of the contours of the pancreas, its size (there is any increase or not) and the consistency of the parenchyma. All these data, perfectly visible on the echogram, make it possible to identify the disease that caused pathological destruction with the greatest accuracy.

Echo signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas, as already mentioned, are not a specific diagnosis, but a symptom of inflammatory or oncological pathologies of the pancreas. Their external manifestations, visible to a specialist, are different, as they depend on the stage of the pathological process. For example, in the acute form of pancreatitis, there is a decrease in echogenicity and, at the same time, an increase in the size of the organ under study. If the inflammatory process was transferred by the patient in the past, the echogenicity of the pancreas will increase. All the signs observed by the ultrasound doctor are of a completely different nature, which allows you to correctly diagnose:

The loose and heterogeneous echostructure of a slightly enlarged gland indicates acute inflammation associated with the process of self-digestion developing in the digestive organ. This negative phenomenon can occur when the excretory ducts are clogged and enzymes cannot penetrate the duodenum.
In chronic pancreatitis, there is a reduced echogenicity of the pancreas that has not changed its size.
A hyperechoic gland occurs with limatosis, when normal cells are replaced by connective tissue, as well as abscesses and pseudocysts that appear in the digestive organ.

All echo changes should not be analyzed separately, but in conjunction with the results of laboratory tests. Only in this case is it possible to make the most accurate diagnosis.

How to get rid of adversity

This question, asked by patients with various diseases of the pancreas, can only be correctly answered by qualified gastroenterologists. Treatment of diffuse changes in the pancreas is very difficult and almost never brings positive results. This pathology, which is considered lifelong, is characterized by the fact that negative symptoms constantly appear and treatment is carried out for life only to eliminate them.

If a small part of the organ has been destroyed, the consequences are treated through surgical intervention, and if the entire gland has suffered, the only way out is a lifelong intake of enzymes and sympathetic medications. Their appointment is carried out exclusively by a specialist.

Self-acquisition and use of drugs is strictly prohibited, as it can lead to irreparable consequences.

People who have been diagnosed with this pathology are most interested in what to eat now. They ask their doctor about it first. Such interest arises for a reason, because any person who has experienced the unpleasant symptoms of pathology is well aware of its direct connection with nutrition. One has only to eat something non-dietary, and long-term pain in the abdominal cavity will immediately appear. That is why, with a diffuse change in the pancreas, diet is the key to maintaining the normal functioning of the digestive organs in a person.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas - a concept that is not related to the diagnosis. This term is the conclusion of a specialist in ultrasound diagnostics, indicating that the patient has pancreatitis of various forms or its consequences. The degree of diffuse rebirth varies depending on the stage of the pathological process.

What are diffuse changes

Diffusion in the context of anatomy is the process of replacing some components of cellular tissue with others. A similar phenomenon is diagnosed in the pancreas, where affected areas coexist next to normal cells. Therefore, such manifestations are detected using the ultrasound method.

Under the influence of factors such as advanced age, diabetes, circulatory disorders, diseases of the cardiovascular system, there is a loss of pancreatic cells with the formation of adipose or connective tissue in their place. Experts do not recognize this condition as a disease. Persistent modifications are observed in violation of blood circulation and the functioning of endocrine organs, failures of metabolic processes.

Changes in the structure of the pancreas are characteristic of pancreatitis and dystrophic disorders occurring in the metabolic system. Such processes can proceed for a long time, without being accompanied by any painful symptoms.

Moderate diffuse changes

In most cases of painful symptoms, this condition does not necessitate therapeutic intervention. Moderate diffuse changes are transformations evenly located on the parenchyma. Medical specialists call the parenchyma the union of the main functioning cells of the glandular organ, the transformations in which affect the level of density.

If the patient has complaints, then it becomes necessary to conduct an additional examination of the pancreas, gallbladder, digestive organs, and liver. These organs are interconnected, and the failure that occurred in one of them may be similar in symptomatic picture to the pathology of the other.

Unexpressed changes

Minor diffuse distortion is not a cause for concern. The identification of such a symptom may indicate recent inflammation, improper diet, and often stressful situations. One of the causes of pancreatic dysfunction is a malfunction in the nervous system. Regular experience of stress leads to an increase in the level of excreted secretion, and depression inhibits this function of the gland.

Eliminating the cause of such violations, which consists in observing the rules of nutrition and maintaining a positive emotional mood, allows you to correct the changes. If the initial stage of an unexpressed pathological process is left without due attention, then there is a high probability of the formation of reactive lesions, which can lead to dangerous diseases.

Pronounced diffuse changes

Transformations in the pancreas indicate the presence of an inflammatory process or disease in the body. When the modification of the organ is expressed, the doctor conducts additional studies of the digestive system. In difficult cases, diffuse transformations are accompanied by pain, a feeling of compaction in the pancreas zone, and digestive disorders.

The most common cause of the formation of pronounced changes is pancreatitis, which manifests itself in several forms:

The acute stage of the disease causes stagnation of pancreatic fluid in the glandular organ. The patient is in critical condition and is in severe pain. In this case, doctors recommend taking drugs aimed at relaxing the digestive muscles and inhibiting the function of the gland.
The chronic course of the pathology can be determined by both pronounced and moderately pronounced changes. With this type of disease, stages of remission and exacerbation are recorded. The acute phase requires therapeutic intervention.

Symptoms

Signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas depend on the underlying disease. The list of clinical symptoms includes the following conditions:

heaviness in the stomach;
diarrhea;
regular constipation.

Pancreatitis in acute form and dystrophic changes are characterized by a significant increase in pressure in the duct of the gland, which leads to deformation of the organ. Enzymes necessary for digestion penetrate the cellular structures of the pancreas, causing intoxication of the body. Such poisoning is accompanied by pain localized under the sternum on the left side. Also, the patient experiences nausea, vomiting, lowering blood pressure, tachycardia. The condition requires surgical intervention.

The initial stage of chronic pancreatitis is manifested by the formation of edema, hemorrhages in the pancreas. With the progression of the pathology, there is a decrease in the size of the gland, the growth of connective tissue, which replaces the enzyme-forming damaged cells. As a result, there is a violation of the production of digestive substances.

With the development of fibrosis, the displacement of healthy pancreatic cells with the formation of connective tissue is diagnosed. Thanks to this replacement, there is a sharp decrease in the production of enzymes and hormones. The onset of the disease is not accompanied by a bright symptomatic picture.

Lipomatosis is characterized by the replacement of normal gland cells with adipose tissue. The patient has a deficiency of hormonal and enzyme substances. The severity of the pathology depends on the volume of diffuse transformations. With minimal changes, the disease does not manifest itself. With the progressive growth of lipoid cells, there is a malfunction of the gland with painful symptoms.

Causes

The causes of diffuse changes vary considerably. Elderly people are often diagnosed with atrophy of the gland, which is expressed by a decrease in its size. In this case, echogenicity (a situation where the pancreatic tissue reflects ultrasonic waves) is within the normal range. Patients do not experience pain and do not need treatment.

Another cause of diffuse modifications of the gland is pancreatitis, in which enzymes and toxic substances are released. Getting into the blood, toxins cause the destruction of all organs and systems, including the pancreas. Patients complain of severe pain, fever, vomiting, rapid pulse. In this disease, the gland has an enlarged size and a fuzzy structure. Echo signs are reduced, the diameter of the ducts is changed, neurotic areas are revealed.

Inflammatory processes that occur for a long time in the pancreas cause the development of fibrosis, accompanied by the growth of connective tissue that replaces damaged cells. Pathology is detected during ultrasound diagnostics, echoscopically determined by the increase, increased density of the organ. In the absence of complaints of malaise, the patient does not require treatment.

Lipomatosis, characterized by diffuse distortion, occurs in the elderly and diabetics. The disease is manifested by the growth of fat cells, as a result of which the tissues of the gland are pinched. Steatosis, which belongs to the category of diseases caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, can lead to excessive formation of lipids.

Complications

Various pathologies accompanied by DIIP can lead to serious consequences:

abscess - penetration of pus into organs and systems, leading to the development of an inflammatory process;
neoplasms in the form of cysts and tumors;
internal bleeding;
pleurisy, pneumonia develop as a result of infection entering the circulatory system;
duodenal stenosis - excessive pressure of the pancreas on the duodenum leads to a narrowing of its lumen.

You can prevent the formation of complications with the help of detailed compliance with the doctor's prescriptions, proper diet, and lifestyle revision. Identification of diffuse rebirths at an early stage allows a person to avoid the formation of severe consequences.

Diagnostics

Examination of changes in the gland is carried out using ultrasound diagnostics. This method allows you to determine the level of density of the gland and the change in uniformity, to identify the area of inflammation. You can confirm the presence of diffusion using a comprehensive examination, which consists in carrying out the following activities:

collection of anamnesis;
clarification of patient complaints;
palpation of the pancreas zone;
complete blood count (performed to determine the level of pancreatic substances);
urinalysis (allows to identify pancreatic enzymes);
CT scan.

Determination of echographic signs of diffuse changes occupies a leading position in the conduct of ultrasound examination. The method, based on the ability of the tissues of the human body to reflect ultrasonic waves, allows you to get an objective picture of the state of internal organs. First of all, the specialist pays attention to the decoding of the following echo signs:

heterogeneity of the structure of the organ with the definition of areas of increased echogenicity;
change in the size of the gland;
the degree of expansion of the ducts;
the presence of neoplasms.

The pancreas on ultrasound is defined as an organ with a homogeneous structure and unchanged echogenicity. The level of density may vary from normal values in the direction of decrease or increase. A decrease in echo characteristics and density is detected with the formation of cysts, the presence of fluid in the organ. Increased echogenicity indicates the development of fibrosis.

Treatment

Diffuse changes in the pancreas do not require treatment, since this condition is not an independent disease. Modifications of the organ indicate the natural processes occurring in the body, or diseases suffered in the past. In such cases, the changes do not cause pain and anxiety, so therapy is prescribed when the diagnosis is clarified.

Treatment in both children and adults is aimed at correcting the underlying disease. It is impossible to eliminate the formed diffuse degenerations, since there has been a significant replacement of healthy pancreatic cells with adipose or connective tissues.

If the cause of the changes is diabetes mellitus, then the therapeutic effect is aimed at maintaining the level of glucose. Such treatment involves following a specialized diet, taking hypoglycemic medications. Elderly patients who have had gland modifications are advised to do gymnastics and follow other rules of a healthy lifestyle.

Diet

The diet in diffuse metamorphoses is determined by the final diagnosis, since the condition is caused by various pathologies, including pancreatitis, moderate hepatomegaly, and diabetes. Regardless of the identified disease, alcohol is contraindicated for patients. Alcohol-containing drinks cause deterioration and exacerbation of painful sensations.

The basis of the diet of people suffering from pancreatic pathologies is dairy and vegetable products, various cereals. Smoked and salty dishes, spices, preservatives are excluded from the diet. Portions should not be large, contributing to the increased production of digestive juice.

The list of prohibited foods includes alcoholic beverages, foods with a bright salty, smoked, spicy taste, sausages, canned food, seasonings.

As the most suitable foods for eating, experts recommend the following dishes:

cereals;
lean meat, fish;
fruit;
dairy products;
vegetables.

Steam cooking is the preferred cooking method. Dry food should be avoided, as well as excessive consumption of salt and sugar, as this can lead to the deposition of unnecessary substances in the body.

Prevention and consequences of the disease

Prevention of diffuse changes occurring in the tissues of the pancreas consists in observing certain principles:

in order to increase the efficiency of the body, it is necessary to exclude the impact on the body of fatty foods, alcohol, nicotine;
the use of teas based on medicinal herbs;
moderation and fragmentation of nutrition;
conducting regular examinations of the whole body.

Compliance with preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of diffuse transformations, as well as severe consequences, expressed in severe pain and the need for surgical intervention. By themselves, diffuse rearrangements are not a disease and do not require specialized therapy.

Important! Even if minor diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma are detected, this is an alarming symptom. He always says that there is damage to her cells.

Causes and types of diffuse changes

Damage to glandular tissue cells occurs as a result of the following reasons:

Chronic inflammatory process (pancreatitis).
Diseases of the liver and biliary tract with the presence of stones that prevent the outflow of pancreatic juice.
Overeating, especially fatty foods, when glandular cells work with increased stress.
Drinking alcohol, which has a double effect: toxic and "overloading" due to the high carbohydrate content.
Past acute pancreatitis or pancreatic injury.
Long-term use of drugs that have a toxic effect.

There are 3 degrees of changes in the parenchyma: minor, moderate and severe, they are determined by the results of ultrasound, taking into account clinical symptoms.

Minor diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

Moderate diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

Severe diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma

With ultrasound scanning, iron reflects waves well, that is, it has hyperechogenicity. In the picture, it has a light color, with white echo-positive areas throughout the parenchyma, they indicate fibrous, cicatricial changes. Symptoms are pronounced, it is manifested by a lack of function of the gland - indigestion, weight loss, protein deficiency, anemia, and a violation of the general condition. Diabetes mellitus develops due to atrophy of insulin-producing islet cells in the tail of the gland.

Important! The types of changes in the gland described are, in fact, the stages of a process that gradually progresses in the absence of diet and adequate treatment.

How is the diagnosis carried out?

Echo-signs of diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma are:

increased or decreased echogenicity (lighter or darker image);
increased echogenicity with multiple hyperechoic foci - signs of gland fibrosis;
increase or decrease in size against the background of diffuse fibrosis - with pronounced changes;
uneven contours.

Ultrasound determines only morphological changes, to assess the function of the gland, a laboratory test is carried out for the content of enzymes, blood sugar.

Important! In the elderly, hyperechogenicity of the gland is considered the norm, this is due to the natural aging of the body, the development of atherosclerosis and atrophic processes in all organs.

What is the treatment?

Important! It should be remembered that the main "enemy" of the pancreas is alcohol, even in small doses. Most of the diseases of the pancreas are associated with its use.

With moderate and pronounced changes, when the enzymatic function of the gland is disturbed, complex treatment is necessary:

replacement enzyme preparations (Festal, Mezim, Digestal, Creon and analogues);
drugs that improve blood circulation;
anti-inflammatory drugs - according to indications;
vitamin complexes;
physiotherapy procedures;
diet therapy with the restriction of fatty and carbohydrate foods, with the exception of spicy dishes.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas are always a consequence of its diseases. In any case, they require constant adherence to diet, lifestyle changes, and, if necessary, drug treatment.

With any pathologies of the pancreas, its structure, dimensions, and the state of the parenchyma often change, which is determined using ultrasound. The detected deviations from the norm are indicated by the diagnostician in the conclusion as diffuse changes in the pancreas. This wording is not the name of an independent disease, but indicates the presence of symptoms that develop against the background of any disease or exposure to adverse factors. In general, diffuse changes are called changes that affect the entire organ, since the affected area cannot be clearly distinguished.

The appearance of diffuse changes in the pancreas can be caused by a variety of reasons and factors. Most often they are caused by:

metabolic-dystrophic processes in the organ itself, caused primarily by acute or chronic pancreatitis;
circulatory disorders at its location;
diseases of the digestive and endocrine systems, in particular diabetes mellitus with insufficient insulin production;
and bile ducts;
unbalanced diet with a predominance of fatty, floury and aggressive foods;
constant psycho-emotional overstrain, stress;
uncontrolled medication;
alcohol or chemical (including drug) intoxication;
hereditary predisposition.

In MBC-10, the pathology code is K87.1*, belonging to the group Pancreatic disorders in diseases classified elsewhere.

In old age, against the background of diabetes, pancreatic tissue is destroyed and replaced by adipose tissue. Such diffuse changes do not require treatment. A similar uniform replacement of the affected tissues with connective tissue with the preservation or slight decrease in the size of the organ occurs in acute pancreatitis, which must be treated.

In most cases, any diffuse changes are not considered as an independent disease, but only as a symptom of a particular pathological condition of the pancreas, which does not always develop against the background of the underlying disease. Often the reasons lie in the aging of the body or the deterioration of its condition due to an unhealthy lifestyle.

The video tells the main causes of problems with the pancreas.

Symptoms of pathology

The symptoms of diffuse changes in the pancreas themselves may be mild or completely absent, since the main symptoms appear depending on the underlying disease that caused such transformations. But regardless of the root cause, most pathological processes in the pancreas are manifested by the following clinical picture:

feeling of heaviness in the stomach;
stool disorders (diarrhea or constipation);
lack of appetite;
nausea-vomiting syndrome;
pains of different nature and severity.

The remaining symptoms of diffuse changes that develop against the background of specific diseases can be classified as follows:

At- due to significant negative processes in the organ itself, very severe pains appear under the left rib, persistent nausea and vomiting, tachycardia. To eliminate such manifestations is possible only with the help of intensive therapy or surgery.
For chronic pancreatitis- at the initial stage, the tissues of the gland are damaged, swelling and minor petechiae appear. Then the gland decreases, fibrosis (sclerosis) of tissues develops, which significantly reduces its functionality and leads to the appearance of a pronounced pain and nausea-vomiting syndrome, constant diarrhea, and rapid weight loss. Over time, allergic reactions develop, insulin secretion is impaired and diabetes mellitus occurs. Similar symptoms are observed in fibrosis, not aggravated by pancreatitis.
With diffuse changes caused by pancreatic lipomatosis - due to the replacement of cells with adipose tissue, which does not carry a functional load, the gland ceases to produce the required amount of substances. The severity of the symptoms of lipomatosis depends on the degree of tissue damage - with a slight one they are practically absent, and with a progressive one, severe pain and disturbances in the activity of the digestive tract appear.

In the presence of these diseases of the pancreas, its chronic diffuse changes develop, characterized by uniform tissue damage. In addition, there are other options for the development of such violations:

diffuse focal- appear in the presence of tumors or calculi and are manifested by local (focal) tissue lesions;
diffuse fibrous- are formed during scarring of the connective tissue with the formation of fibroma, are characterized by an increased density of certain areas with a decrease in the size of the organ, depending on the degree of damage;
diffuse-dystrophic- this is lipodystrophy, which develops when healthy cells are replaced by fat cells with the loss of basic functions, while the severity of manifestations depends on the size of the affected area;
diffuse-parenchymal- these are changes in the parenchyma, in which normal cells are also replaced by fatty or connective cells, which impairs the functional abilities of the gland;
diffuse tail- observed with compaction or expansion of the tail of the gland.

In addition, there are reactive diffusions that appear as a reaction of the pancreas to pathologies of other organs, primarily the digestive system, especially the liver or biliary tract. Such pathologies arise due to malnutrition, developmental anomalies, uncontrolled medication, bad habits. Symptoms resemble the picture of acute pancreatitis and are accompanied by symptoms of the underlying disease.

Diagnostics of changes

To identify the pathology under consideration, an anamnesis is compiled on the basis of a patient interview, an examination and palpation of the pancreas area is performed. Then laboratory and hardware diagnostic examinations are carried out:

ultrasound procedure;
CT scan;
radiography;
endoscopy (retrograde pancreatocholangiography);
blood, urine and stool tests for the amount of pancreatic enzymes.

The main and first method of diagnostic examination for diffuse changes in the pancreas is ultrasound. Based on the conclusion obtained, other diagnostic methods are prescribed, which are necessary in each specific case.

The definition of this pathology during an ultrasound examination is based on echogenicity indicators. Most often, its increase is a sign of parenchymal compaction or the presence of replacement tissues, a decrease confirms inflammation or. The explication and specificity of the changes themselves may indicate the presence of other diseases, various neoplasms, abscesses, as well as their consequences.

Treatment of pancreatic diffusion

Diffuse changes in the pancreas are not treated separately. Only those disorders that are pathological in nature are subject to treatment. In such cases, therapeutic measures to eliminate diffuse changes are prescribed and performed as part of the complex therapy of the underlying disease that caused them. At the same time, a diet and traditional medicine recipes are used to improve the condition of the pancreas. The same methods are used for age-related or other non-pathological changes.

Diet

Like the main treatment, the diet for diffuse pancreatic changes is determined by the root cause of their appearance. The highest requirements are placed on the diet if the changes develop against the background of diabetes, pancreatitis, and other serious pathologies.

At the same time, the presence of the diffuse changes under consideration also requires compliance with certain nutritional rules:

Any alcohol-containing drinks are absolutely excluded, since alcohol is just as harmful for the pancreas as it is for the liver, and can significantly aggravate the situation.
The diet should have a low calorie content and be based on the use of plant foods, grain dishes, lactic acid products, lean fish and meat.
Prohibited foods include spicy, salty, other aggressive foods, dishes and seasonings, as well as fast carbohydrates - sweets, pastries, packaged juices, etc.
Dishes are prepared without frying and using fat.
Drinking regime should be moderate and uniform throughout the day.
You need to eat fractionally (often and little by little) and so as to prevent overeating or excessive secretion of gastric enzymes.

It is necessary to switch to dietary nutrition immediately after diagnosing diffuse changes in the pancreas, regardless of their cause. After establishing an accurate diagnosis, the diet is adjusted taking into account the limitations of the underlying disease.

Folk recipes

To normalize the condition in the presence of diffuse pancreatic changes, herbal infusions prepared according to the following recipes are considered very effective:

From chamomile and immortelle - 1 tbsp. l. each herb to 1 cup of boiled water. Let cool, filter, drink 2 tbsp. l. before every meal. Course - 21 days. You can repeat until the condition is relieved with a week break.
From calendula, celandine, yarrow - 1 tbsp. l. collection in 1 cup of boiling water. Allow to cool, filter, drink according to the scheme of the previous recipe, but for 30 days.
From chamomile, mint, plantain, yarrow, St. John's wort, cudweed - 1 tbsp. l. collection in 1 cup of boiling water. Let cool, filter. Drink the resulting infusion 3 times a day. The duration of admission is not limited.
From Japanese Sophora -1 tbsp. l. for 1 glass of boiling water, insist in a thermos all night. Drink 2 tsp. before each meal for 12 days. You can repeat after a week break.

When choosing medicinal plants for home treatment, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of allergic reactions. In chronic lesions of the pancreas, they develop quite often.

Preventive measures

With the help of preventive measures, it is impossible to completely exclude the development of diffuse changes in the pancreas if they appear against the background of other diseases. But you can significantly reduce their severity or prevent transformations associated with aging or deterioration of the body. To do this, you must adhere to the following rules:

Quit smoking, drinking alcohol.
Observe the diet, do not overeat, eat little and often.
Switch to a correct, balanced and healthy diet, excluding junk or junk food.
Constantly use herbal infusions prepared according to the above traditional medicine recipes, using different fees.
Timely treat all diseases, especially of the digestive system.
Regularly undergo preventive examinations.

Diffuse changes in the pancreas are often a natural process and may not cause any discomfort. But if they are manifested by pain or other negative symptoms, then they definitely require the identification of causes with the help of competent diagnostics, as well as adequate further treatment. The prognosis depends on the timeliness of all activities, the degree of damage to the pancreas and the severity of the underlying disease, against which they appeared. But most often it is positive and the organ's performance can be maintained.

The echogenicity of the parenchyma of a healthy pancreas on ultrasound is similar to the echogenicity of the liver and spleen. In its structure, the gland has a head, body and tail of optimal sizes. Unfortunately, people who already have problems turn to specialists, and on the monitors of diagnostic devices, signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas are often observed due to its inflammation or other pathology.

About diffusion

The term "diffusion" in Latin means "spreading" or "interaction". From the point of view of physics and chemistry, this is the penetration and interaction of atoms or molecules of one substance with atoms and molecules of another. Studying the phenomenon of diffusion, scientists began to better understand the essence of the processes occurring in the human body. This is most often the case with the pancreas. Diffuse changes - what is it?

It is easy to observe this phenomenon. It is enough to add a little ink to a glass of water and see how the substances mix. In anatomy, this phenomenon is associated with the interaction and replacement of some cells by others. This is exactly what is detected by ultrasound: pathologically altered cells are located next to healthy ones. Signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas, as a rule, are local (focal) or mixed (diffuse).

What are diffuse changes in the pancreatic parenchyma?

Pathogenic changes in the tissue of the gland are most often chronic, and therefore there are no symptoms. But on ultrasound, with normal sizes, the echogenicity of the gland is increased. In elderly patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, healthy cells gradually die off, they are replaced by connective or adipose tissue.

Also, similar transformations are observed in violation of the blood supply to the enzyme-forming organ, the liver, in violation of the functioning of the biliary tract, in violation of endocrine and metabolic processes. In what other cases do diffuse changes in the liver and pancreas occur?

Similar symptoms are observed with pancreatitis or dystrophic disorders of the metabolic process. may not be confirmed, and then treatment is not prescribed, and the patient does not recognize DIGI. As a rule, spreading changes occur in the chronic course of diseases, pathogenic tissue changes are almost asymptomatic. These are moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas.

Provoking factors

The disease can be triggered by various reasons:

1) Imbalance in nutrition. Abuse of fatty, floury, salty, sweet and spicy foods.

2) Predisposition along the genetic line.

3) Stress and nervous strain.

4) Drug and alcohol addiction.

5) Chronic diseases of the digestive system.

6) Self-medication and indiscriminate use of drugs.

How to treat diffuse changes in the pancreas? Let's look at it below.

Insufficient amounts of insulin in the blood and the detection of glucose in the urine are also provoked by DIGI. As a rule, the cause of these changes is pancreatitis, which must be treated. It is also necessary to observe certain rules of patient behavior, adherence to a diet.

The main signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas

As a rule, the signs of DI are associated with the underlying disease. Most often, patients complain that they feel heaviness in the stomach, they suffer from frequent diarrhea or, conversely, constipation. In acute pancreatitis, pressure in the pancreatic duct often increases, which can cause its deformation. Due to a violation of the enzymatic function, part of the digestive enzymes can pass through the cells of the pancreatic parenchyma and cause poisoning of the body. In this case, the patient experiences pain on the left under the sternum, nausea, often accompanied by vomiting. There is a rapid pulse and low blood pressure. This condition usually requires hospitalization.

The initial stage is accompanied by the appearance of edema and hemorrhages in the tissues of the gland. Then atrophy sets in, the gland decreases in size, the connective tissue grows, and the enzyme-forming cells stop producing digestive enzymes. Fibrosis is also accompanied by displacement of healthy pancreatic cells and their replacement by connective tissue. The production of hormones and enzymes stops. Initially, symptoms are mild and often mimic signs of pancreatic inflammation. There are moderate diffuse changes in the pancreas.

About lipomatosis

The replacement of normal organ cells with adipose tissue is called lipomatosis. The symptomatology of DIP with lipomatosis depends on its volume. With minor changes in CI, the pathology may not manifest itself, however, in more serious cases, the body begins to gradually experience a deficiency of hormones and enzymes. The proliferation of lipoid tissue leads to compression of the parenchyma and, as a result, disruption of the functioning of the pancreas and the appearance of pain. These are diffuse changes in the pancreas by the type of lipomatosis.

Hollow organs include: stomach, urinary and gall bladders. Organs consisting of parenchyma (glandular tissue): pancreas, spleen, liver, etc. The main function of the pancreatic parenchyma is the production of enzymes and hormones.

In diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis or acute pancreatitis, there are often changes.

On ultrasound, an increase in the echogenicity of the glandular tissue is noted, this occurs due to the inflammatory process and when the connective tissue coarsens (fibrosis), which leads to an increase in density. The reason for this anomaly is an imbalance in metabolism. Another reason for the increase in echogenicity is lymphomatosis (replacement of the parenchyma with fat cells).

Puffiness of the gland can occur due to pancreatitis, due to which the density of the parenchyma changes and, as a result, the echogenic reaction also changes.

How do diffuse changes in the parenchyma of the liver and pancreas affect the state of the organs?

Structure changes

The structure of the parenchyma can be homogeneous and fine-grained. Slightly increased graininess is also not a big deviation. Taken together, an increase in granularity indicates the presence of inflammation and dystrophic changes in the gland associated with malnutrition.

A healthy parenchyma of the pancreas resembles the echostructure of the liver, the same homogeneous and fine-grained. Age-related changes in the echogenicity of the structure of the gland indicate developing lipomatosis, which is often associated with the onset of diabetes. Signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas can be very informative.

Reactive DIPs

These are its secondary changes, a response to pathology in neighboring digestive organs, closely related to it. Especially often, DI glands occur due to problems with the liver and biliary tract, as it interacts most closely with these organs. On ultrasound, reactive echo signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas resemble acute pancreatitis, since they are most often its secondary consequence.

Fibrous DIGI

Fibrotic DIs are scarring in the connective tissue gland that spreads through the cells of the tissue. The reasons for this process are often:

1) Metabolic disorders.

2) Alcohol poisoning.

3) Viral lesions.

4) Inflammatory processes.

Moreover, the lesions caused by viruses concern the entire and not just the pancreas. On ultrasound, diffuse changes in the pancreas have high echogenicity and density. The presence of diffuse fibrous changes may indicate an existing benign tumor of the glandular tissue - fibroma, the growth of which can compress the gland and cause pain.

Depending on the location of the fibroma, different symptoms will be present. For example, when it is in the head of the pancreas, the flow duct is clamped, and a symptom of jaundice occurs. If the tumor presses on the duodenum, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms occur that require differentiation from intestinal obstruction. What other echo signs of diffuse changes in the pancreas are there?

Dystrophic DIPG

There is a replacement of healthy glandular cells with fatty tissues that are unable to perform the enzymatic function of the pancreas, which leads to hypofunction of the gland. For lipodystrophy, which occupies less than half the volume of the entire gland, mixed drug treatment is used in conjunction with a diet. If the lesion covers more than half of the organ and its work is impaired, surgical intervention is indicated. Diffuse changes in the parenchyma of the liver and pancreas in some cases are life-threatening.

In the structure of this secretory organ, three elements are distinguished: the body, the head and the tail, which is pear-shaped and adjacent to the spleen. Normally, its width is 2-3 cm. An excretory duct about 15 cm long passes through the entire gland. Blockage of the hepatic vein can lead to DI of the tail of the pancreas, the symptoms of this are that this part is thickened.

Approximately a quarter of all pancreatic diseases are associated with diffuse changes in the tail. In case of minor lesions of the tail, they are treated with conservative methods. In the case of deep lesions, removal of the tail is indicated, followed by occlusion of the blood vessels.

How are diffuse changes in the liver and pancreas detected?

Diagnostics

DIGI are determined by ultrasound. Ultrasound reveals that the density and structure of the tissue are changing, foci of inflammation are determined.

But this is not enough to make a diagnosis. To confirm the CI, a biochemical blood test and endoscopy of the gland are performed. It is very important to correctly collect an anamnesis from the patient (a survey about the presence of complaints), as well as conduct additional instrumental studies and palpation.

The overall picture is complemented by a general blood test, urine, endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract, coprogram, etc. Pancreatic enzymes and blood glucose, as well as an inhibitor against trypsin, play an important role.

With the help of ultrasound, the size of the gland and its ducts are determined, neoplasms and seals are detected. To clarify the diagnosis, the following are shown: computed tomography and ERCP, which make it possible to more accurately identify the causes of the changes that have occurred in the tissues of the enzyme-forming organ. Diffuse changes in the pancreas by the type of lipomatosis are most clearly manifested.

Prevention

The process of development of DI in the pancreas, liver and other organs can be slowed down. Here are some rules:

1) It is necessary to completely abandon alcohol.

2) Follow a diet, take food in small portions, but often.

3) Minimize the consumption of fatty foods.

4) Refuse canned foods.

5) Drink freshly squeezed juices and drink herbal teas.

You should not give up if you have been diagnosed with PDIP. It’s just worth going through the necessary studies and in the future carefully listening to your body, monitoring the health of such important organs as the liver and pancreas. Diffuse changes, what they are and what are the methods of treatment, we examined in the article.