BACKGROUNDThe acute abdomen remains a challenge for all obstetricians and physicians who take part in the care of women in pregnancy. To add substantially to our understanding of acute pancreatitis (AP) in pregnancy, in particular affirming the increased risks for mother and fetus associated with AP, we explored features of clinical manifestation and the strategy of management of this disease during pregnancy, and its effects on maternal and fetal outcomes.

METHODSA retrospective review of medical records of all pregnant patients diagnosed with AP admitted to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University between 2005 and 2010 was performed. Information was collected from presentation, management, and outcome from medical records.

RESULTSThere were 11 cases in 2010, accounting for 44% of 25 cases. Among these cases, mild AP (MAP) occurred in 15 cases (60%), while the rest cases were severe AP (SAP) (40%). The major etiology of AP in pregnancy was due to gallstone and cholecystitis. Clinical features together with elevation of the plasma concentrations of pancreatic enzymes were the cornerstones of diagnosis. Positive conservative treatment was taken in most of the cases (21 cases, 84%) with a favorable outcome. Seven cases of critically ill patients were monitored in intensive care unit, and 4 patients underwent surgical interventions. As a result, all of 25 patients had better prognosis, no maternal death was observed. There were 8 preterm labors and 2 fetal losses, accounting for the perinatal mortality of 8%. Fetal malformation was not observed.

CONCLUSIONSWhile a pregnant woman suffers acute abdominal pain, early diagnosis and severity assessment of AP are very important. Conservative comprehensive treatment with intensive care is recommended. Surgical intervention should be performed as late as possible.