Feeding Intolerance—A Key Factor in the Management of Acute Pancreatitis: A Review

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which in 20% of cases can turn into a severe form, with mortality reaching up to 30%. One of the cornerstones of AP treatment is early nutritional treatment. Feeding intolerance (FI) occurs in up to 25% of patients with AP and is associated with a more severe disease course and poorer clinical outcome. Feeding intolerance can have a multifaceted clinical presentation. The early identification of FI risk factors and appropriately conducted nutritional treatment are critical to the course of the disease. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of feeding intolerance in AP, its pathomechanisms and risk factors, and its impact on disease progression. We also present suggestions for the management of feeding intolerance.