Abstract:
Aim: To investigate the relationships between age, smoking status, inflammatory markers, and endotoxicosis in patients with chronic pancreatitis, focusing on C-reactive protein (CRP) and middle molecular peptides, specifically MMP254 and MMP280.
Materials and Methods: The study involved the examination of 108 patients diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. These patients were categorized by age according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Additionally, patients were stratified based on smoking status. Key biochemical markers were assessed, including fecal α-elastase, medium molecular weight peptides, and C-reactive protein levels. This approach allows for a comprehensive evaluation of how age and smoking may influence the course of chronic pancreatitis, while also considering the diagnostic value of these specific biomarkers in monitoring pancreatic function and inflammatory responses in these patients.
Results: A statistically significant impact of age on fecal α-elastase, C-reactive protein, and medium molecular peptides levels has been identified. Additionally, smoking has been shown to exacerbate pathological changes in these markers.
Conclusions: these findings underscore the necessity for individualized treatment approaches that consider age and smoking history, particularly in older patients. Future research should further explore the underlying mechanisms linking these variables to chronic pancreatitis, with an emphasis on the long-term effects of smoking cessation and interventions targeting inflammatory markers and endotoxicosis. This understanding is crucial for enhancing management strategies and improving the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic pancreatitis.