Proposal for a New Grading System for Chronic Pancreatitis

Abstract

A staging/grading system is proposed that is applicable to all types of diagnosed chronic pancreatitis and that allows comparison of similar groups. It also provides therapeutic guidelines. The system divides patients into grades A, B, and C, depending on the presence or absence of abdominal pain or complications. Further subdivision is based on the presence or absence of deficiency in pancreatic function. This staging system permits accurate description of the disease with relevance to therapeutic approach and prognosis.