Liver Cirrhosis in Chronic Pancreatitis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Pilot Study to Determine the Rate of Liver Cirrhosis in Chronic Pancreatitis Patients with Biliary Obstruction
IRAS ID
138447
Contact name
Andrew M Smith
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Research summary
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is the continual inflammation of the pancreas characterised by irreversible structural changes that results in loss of function manifesting as malabsorption, diabetes and pain. Hospital readmission for CP is high, utilising significant resources with an annual incidence of 1 in 100,000 in the UK. Excess alcohol is the commonest cause and with the increase of alcoholism, the annual incidence of CP is predicted to rise.
Scarring of the bile duct in CP can result in obstructive jaundice. Jaundice in patients with CP normally resolves within a few weeks without the need for surgical intervention. However, recurrent episodes can result in persistent jaundice which can lead to organ dysfunction, scarring of the liver and ultimately liver failure or cancer.
Patients identified as having CP according to the Cambridge Criteria of 1983 will be invited to undergo a specialised ultrasound scan of their liver (FibroScan™) after informed consent. This will be done in a dedicated clinic. No change to their management or impact on their health is involved.
REC name
London - Surrey Borders Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1957
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jan 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion