What is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis?

The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is gallstone obstruction of the pancreatic duct. When a gallstone travels down the bile duct and lodges in the ampulla of Vater, it can obstruct the flow of pancreatic digestive enzymes into the duodenum. This obstruction leads to inflammation and can trigger an acute episode of pancreatitis.

While alcoholism is also a significant cause of acute pancreatitis, it is not as common as gallstone-related issues in many populations. Hypertriglyceridemia can contribute as well, but its incidence is less prevalent compared to gallstones as an immediate precipitating factor. Therefore, the combination of gallstone obstruction and alcoholism does acknowledge both leading causes but does not prioritize the primary one that most commonly results in acute pancreatitis episodes. Understanding the mechanisms of how these conditions contribute to acute pancreatitis is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.