Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas often caused by gallstones, genetic factors, smoking, or severe alcohol abuse. It is characterized by upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Acute cases may last a few days, while chronic cases persist long term. A patient hospitalized with pancreatitis is provided IV fluids and pain management. Which of the following are LEAST likely to be affected by this condition?
A. bile salts
B. glucagon
C. insulin
D. digestive enzymes
Click for Explanation
The pancreas possesses endocrine function secreting insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide directly into the blood. The pancreas also possesses exocrine function secreting digestive fluids into ducts that secrete into the digestive tract at the duodenum. Bile salts are made in the liver.
A. bile salts, Correct, Bile salts are made in the liver.
B. glucagon, incorrect, Glucagon is made in the pancreas and counters the effects of insulin.
C. insulin, incorrect, Insulin is made in the pancreas.
D. digestive enzymes, incorrect, The pancreas has exocrine function releasing digestive enzymes into the digestive tract.
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