Clinical profile of Acute Pancreatitis in Malwa region of Punjab and its correlation with Balthazar CT Severity Index

Background: Acute pancreatitis is a common condition with wide clinical variation, ranging from mild self-limiting pancreatic inflammation to extensive pancreatic necrosis with life-threatening consequences. The present study aimed to assess the clinical profile of acute pancreatitis in Malwa region of Punjab where there increased prevalence of alcoholism and gall stone disease and to assess the efficacy of Ranson’s score and Balthazar Computed tomography severity index (CTSI) in predicting the prognosis. Materials and methods: 50 patients with proven acute pancreatitis were included and data was collected to study their clinical, laboratory and radiologic profile to obtain prognostic indices Ranson’s score and CTSI which were then compared with outcome. Results: Mean age recorded was 43.40 ±12.004 years with a range of 19-64 years and male to female ratio 2.12:1. 62% of patients had alcohol induced pancreatitis and 32% had gall stone pancreatitis. Observed morbidity rate was 44% and mortality rate was 6%. Most common complications encountered were pleural effusion (18%), Hypocalcemia (20%) and sterile pancreatic necrosis (20%). 18 patients had Ranson’s score more than 3, whereas 11 patients had CTSI more than 7 indicating severe acute pancreatitis. On correlation Ranson’s score was found to be more sensitive while CTSI was more specific for an adverse outcome. Conclusion: Severe acute pancreatitis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality due to increased prevalence both alcoholism and gall stone disease in Malwa region of Punjab. In our setup Ranson’s score and CTSI when used in combination showed improved sensitivity for detection severe acute pancreatitis.