What is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis?

The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is gallstones. Gallstones can obstruct the pancreatic duct, leading to increased pressure and inflammation within the pancreas. This blockage prevents digestive enzymes from flowing into the small intestine and can cause them to accumulate in the pancreas, where they start to digest the pancreatic tissue itself, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

While alcohol abuse is also a well-known risk factor for acute pancreatitis, gallstones are statistically the leading cause, particularly in populations where gallstones are prevalent. High triglycerides and certain medications can also lead to pancreatitis but are less common causes compared to gallstones. Understanding the primary role of gallstones helps in diagnosing and managing patients with acute pancreatitis effectively.