Disease Comparison

Overview

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. It may occur suddenly as acute pancreatitis or persist or recur as chronic pancreatitis. Symptoms commonly include upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back, nausea and vomiting. Severe disease can cause complications involving digestion and other organs.

Anal Fistula

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the inside of the anus or rectum and the skin near the anus. It often develops after an infection or abscess in an anal gland. Symptoms may include persistent drainage, pain, swelling, irritation, or recurrent abscesses around the anus.

Symptoms

Shared

None

Only in Left Disease

Blood In Vomit Lower Abdominal Pain Vomiting

Only in Right Disease

Fever Painful Urination

Causes

Shared

Inflammation

Only in Left Disease

Alcohol

Only in Right Disease

Infection

Diagnosis

Pancreatitis

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, blood tests and imaging. Blood tests commonly measure pancreatic enzymes such as lipase and may assess liver function and other abnormalities. Ultrasound, CT or MRI can help identify inflammation, gallstones or structural problems. Additional tests may be required when the cause is unclear or chronic pancreatitis is suspected.

Anal Fistula

An anal fistula is diagnosed through a medical history and examination of the anus and surrounding skin. The healthcare professional may look for an external opening, drainage, swelling, or tenderness. A digital rectal examination may help identify the tract. Imaging such as MRI or ultrasound may be used when the fistula is complex, recurrent, or difficult to identify during examination.

Prevention

Pancreatitis

The risk of pancreatitis can sometimes be reduced by avoiding heavy alcohol use, not smoking and maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels. Treatment of gallstones or other underlying conditions may prevent recurrent episodes. People who have previously had pancreatitis should follow medical advice about diet, alcohol, medicines and treatment of the underlying cause.

Anal Fistula

Preventing anal fistula mainly involves reducing the risk of anal abscesses and treating infections promptly. People with inflammatory bowel disease should follow appropriate medical treatment and monitoring. Persistent pain, swelling, drainage, or recurrent abscesses around the anus should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than left untreated.

Risk Factors

Pancreatitis

Risk factors include heavy alcohol consumption, gallstones, smoking, high blood triglyceride levels, certain genetic conditions and a family history of pancreatic disease. Previous episodes of pancreatitis can increase the risk of recurrence or chronic disease. Some medicines and medical conditions may also increase risk.

Anal Fistula

Risk factors include a previous anal abscess, inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn disease, recurrent infections in the anal region, previous anal or rectal surgery, and conditions that interfere with normal healing or immunity. A history of an anal fistula also increases the likelihood of recurrence.