What is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis?

The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is gallstones. This is primarily because gallstones can obstruct the common bile duct or the pancreatic duct, leading to an inflammatory response within the pancreas. When a gallstone obstructs the pancreatic duct, it causes the accumulation of digestive enzymes within the pancreas, which can lead to autodigestion and inflammation, resulting in acute pancreatitis.

While alcohol abuse is also a significant cause of acute pancreatitis, especially in certain populations, gallstones are statistically the leading cause overall. Hyperlipidemia and medications can also contribute to the development of pancreatitis but are less frequently responsible than gallstones. Understanding that gallstones can directly impact the anatomy and function of the biliary and pancreatic systems is crucial for grasping why they are the primary cause of this condition.