Autoimmune Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatic inflammation arising from immune system targeting of the pancreas.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 11, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Autoimmune Pancreatitis?

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder caused by immune attack on the pancreas. It has two subtypes: Type 1 (IgG4-related pancreatitis) and Type 2 (idiopathic duct-centric pancreatitis).

Type 1 AIP typically affects men over 60 and is characterised by elevated serum IgG4, IgG4-related involvement of other organs (biliary tree, salivary glands, retroperitoneum) and dramatic response to corticosteroids.

Pancreatic head involvement may produce obstructive jaundice; differentiation from pancreatic cancer is critical. CT often shows the characteristic 'sausage-shaped pancreas' appearance.

Symptoms

Painless jaundice (with pancreatic head involvement)

Mild abdominal pain

Weight loss

New-onset diabetes

Steatorrhoea (fatty stool — exocrine insufficiency)

Other organ involvement (dry mouth, retroperitoneal fibrosis)

Risk Factors

Advanced age (>50 years)

Male sex (Type 1)

History of other IgG4-related disease

Other autoimmune disorders (Type 2 — ulcerative colitis association)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Painless jaundice develops
Unexplained weight loss with new-onset diabetes
Pancreatic mass identified (cancer differentiation)
Elevated serum IgG4 detected

Treatment Methods

Induction therapy with prednisolone (dramatic response is typical)

Maintenance therapy with azathioprine (relapse prevention)

Rituximab (in refractory cases)

Temporary biliary stenting in obstructive jaundice

Enzyme replacement in pancreatic exocrine insufficiency

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.