Initial and convalescent treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP) is important in order to improve the prognosis and prevent the recurrence in the patients with AP. Initial intensive treatment includes fluid therapy, pain control, antimicrobial therapy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and nutritional support. Goal-directed therapy is recommended for fluid therapy, and the routine use of prophylactic antibiotics is not recommended. In acute gallstone pancreatitis, urgent ERCP should be performed only in patients with cholangitis or persistent cholestasis. Early oral feeding is advisable as tolerated and enteral feeding via nasogastric or nasojejunal tube appear comparable. In convalescent treatment, cholecystectomy during the initial admission is advisable for mild biliary pancreatitis with gallstone as possible, and treatment against alcohol dependence is considerable for recurrent acute alcoholic pancreatitis. In this review, we recommend practice guidelines for initial treatment, nutritional support, and convalescent treatment.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies. Despite the availability of newer and better antineoplastic combinations, the 5-year survival rate for all stages of pancreatic cancer remains only 6%. Palliative care represents an important aspect of care in patient with pancreatic cancer. Thus, optimal palliation of symptoms to maximize remaining quality of life is of primary importance to most patients. This review discusses highlights the most significant problems faced when caring for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Common problems include pain, pancreatic insufficiency, anorexia-cachexia and depression. To provide optimal and meaningful supportive care for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer is complex and requires ongoing close monitoring of the physical and emotional aspects of the patient. Prompt management of the many symptoms and problems associated with pancreatic cancer is essential to minimize distress and improve quality of life for patients with this fatal disease. Recognizing end-of-life concerns and patient preferences during the dying process helps clinicians find ways to alleviate suffering for patients and families.