ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of pancreatitis that a clinician should be aware of when diagnosing?

1. Constipation

2. Diarrhea

3. Epigastric pain

4. Fever

The correct answer is: Epigastric pain

A common symptom of pancreatitis is epigastric pain. This pain is often described as severe, and it can present as a sharp or dull ache, typically felt in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back. The nature of the pain can help differentiate pancreatitis from other gastrointestinal disorders. Clinicians should be attentive to this symptom during the diagnosis, as it is not only characteristic of pancreatitis but also might be accompanied by other signs such as nausea, vomiting, and changes in appetite. Recognizing this symptom can lead to appropriate diagnostic tests, such as elevation of pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase), which are crucial in confirming the diagnosis. Understanding that epigastric pain is a hallmark of pancreatitis is vital for timely evaluation and management of this potentially serious condition.