True/False MCQ · Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer
Regarding acute pancreatitis, the following statements are TRUE:
- AA serum amylase below the normal range supports the diagnosis
- BSevere acute pancreatitis is defined by the absence of any complications
- CWithholding all fluids is a key part of management
- DSerum amylase is always normal in acute pancreatitis
- EGallstones and alcohol are the commonest causes
Show answers and explanation
- A. False: Raised, not low, amylase supports acute pancreatitis.
- B. False: Severe disease has complications, not their absence.
- C. False: Aggressive fluids, not withholding them, are key.
- D. False: Serum amylase is typically markedly elevated (> 3x ULN) in acute pancreatitis; it is in chronic pancreatitis that amylase is often normal.
- E. True
Acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is diagnosed clinically and biochemically, and managed supportively.
Key facts
- Gallstones and alcohol are the commonest causes.
- Amylase > 3x ULN (or > 1000 IU) supports the diagnosis.
- Severe disease involves organ failure and/or local complications (necrosis, pseudocyst, abscess).
- Aggressive fluid resuscitation is central to management.
The error
- Amylase is typically markedly raised in acute pancreatitis, not always normal.
Statement-by-statement verdict
Why A is false
A serum amylase ABOVE three times the upper limit of normal supports the diagnosis.
Why B is false
Severe acute pancreatitis is associated WITH organ failure and/or local complications.
Why C is false
AGGRESSIVE fluid resuscitation, not withholding fluids, is key to management.
Why D is false
Amylase is typically markedly raised, not always normal, in acute pancreatitis.
Why E is true
Gallstones and alcohol are the commonest causes.
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