In which condition does autodigestion of the pancreas occur?

Autodigestion of the pancreas occurs in acute pancreatitis. This condition is characterized by the activation of pancreatic enzymes within the pancreas itself, rather than the normal process of these enzymes being secreted into the intestine to aid in digestion. When the enzymes such as trypsin are prematurely activated, they begin to digest the pancreatic tissue itself, leading to inflammation, swelling, and damage.

Acute pancreatitis may be caused by factors such as gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to the obstruction of the pancreatic duct or direct toxicity to pancreatic cells. The process of autodigestion results in severe abdominal pain, swelling, and can have serious complications if not managed properly.

In contrast, chronic pancreatitis leads to a progressively damaged pancreas due to long-term inflammation, but the mechanism of autodigestion does not occur in the same acute manner as in acute pancreatitis. Cholecystitis and cholelithiasis are conditions related to the gallbladder and bile ducts, where autodigestion of the pancreas does not play a role.