There are two forms of pancreatitis, which are different in causes and symptoms, and require different treatment: The pancreas is central in the pathophysiology of both major types of diabetes mellitus.

In type 1 diabetes mellitus, there is direct damage to the endocrine pancreas that results in insufficient insulin synthesis and secretion.

Cystic fibrosis, is a hereditary disease that affects the entire body, causing progressive disability and early death.

The name cystic fibrosis refers to the characteristic 'fibrosis' (tissue scarring) and cyst formation within the pancreas, causing irreversible damage, and often resulting in painful inflammation (pancreatitis).

X-ray computed tomography (CT scan) findings of cysts in the pancreas are common, and often are benign.

It results from an embryological malformation in which the early pancreatic buds undergo inappropriate rotation and fusion, which can lead to small bowel obstruction.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a collection of findings in individuals with gastrinoma, a tumor of the gastrin-producing cells of the pancreas.

Angiography may be used to diagnose hemosuccus pancreaticus, where the celiac axis is injected to determine the blood vessel that is bleeding.