Chapter 19: Pancreas

Chapter 19: Pancreas

Complete Chapter Questions With Answers

Sample Questions Are Posted Below

MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. Hereditary pancreatitis is most likely to be found in persons harboring the mutation of which of the following genes?
2. α₁-Antitrypsin
3. Amylase
4. Cationic trypsinogen
5. Enterokinase
6. Alkaline phosphatase

ANS: C, Mutation of the gene encoding cationic trypsinogen results in the synthesis of an enzyme that is resistant to inactivation. The abnormally active trypsin acts on other digestive enzymes, causing autodigestion of the pancreas and pancreatitis.

2. Which of the following is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis?
3. Alcohol
4. Thiazide diuretics
5. Viruses
6. Trauma
7. Vascular thrombosis

ANS: A, Alcohol and biliary disease are the cause of acute pancreatitis in most clinically diagnosed cases. Although the exact pathogenesis of alcohol-induced pancreatitis is not known, it is presumed that it acts by provoking a contraction of the sphincter of Oddi, causing a reflux of bile into the pancreas. Alcohol may also provoke pancreatitis by its direct toxic effect on acinar cells of the pancreas or by affecting the intracellular trafficking of enzymes.

3. A 65-year-old man complains of vague upper abdominal pain, weight loss, and loose fatty stools. Radiographs show visible calcifications within the pancreas. These findings are most consistent with a diagnosis of which of the following disorders?
4. Ductal carcinoma of the pancreas
5. Acinar cell carcinoma of the pancreas
6. Islet cell carcinoma
7. Chronic pancreatitis
8. Pancreatic pseudocyst

ANS: D, Upper abdominal pain, weight loss due to malabsorption that is associated with fatty stools (steatorrhea), and calcifications in the pancreas are typical signs and symptoms of chronic pancreatitis.