Question

Varun is diabetic. His latest ultrasound reports showed a blockage in his pancreatic duct. How will this affect the dual functioning of the pancreas?

Answer 1

A blockage in the pancreatic duct affects the dual functions as follows:

1. Exocrine Function: The blockage prevents digestive enzymes (like amylase, lipase, and trypsin) from reaching the small intestine. This leads to nutrient malabsorption and can cause pancreatitis (self-digestion of the gland).
2. Endocrine Function: Although hormones enter the bloodstream, the resulting inflammation and scarring from the blockage can damage the Islets of Langerhans. This reduces insulin production, making Varun’s blood sugar levels much harder to regulate.