**Core Concept**
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, often triggered by a specific cause. The most common causes of acute pancreatitis include gallstones, alcohol consumption, and hypercalcemia. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and risk factors is crucial for diagnosis and management.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Haemochromatosis, a genetic disorder leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. In contrast, gallstones (C) are a common cause of acute pancreatitis due to gallstone impaction in the pancreatic duct, blocking the flow of pancreatic enzymes and leading to inflammation. Alcohol (A) consumption is another well-established cause, as it causes direct damage to pancreatic cells and leads to inflammation. Hypercalcemia of parathyroid origin (B) can also cause acute pancreatitis by inducing hypercalcemia-induced pancreatitis, a condition characterized by elevated calcium levels leading to pancreatic damage.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Alcohol is a well-documented cause of acute pancreatitis, so this option is incorrect.
**Option B:** Hypercalcemia of parathyroid origin can indeed cause acute pancreatitis, making this option incorrect.
**Option C:** Gallstones are a common cause of acute pancreatitis, so this option is incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that gallstones are the most common cause of acute pancreatitis, accounting for approximately 40% of cases. A high index of suspicion for gallstones should be maintained in patients presenting with acute pancreatitis.
**Correct Answer:**
β Correct Answer: D. Haemochromatosis
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.