Summary

• The pancreas is a small, thin organ that lies behind the stomach and under the liver.
• The pancreas is a vital organ with two crucial roles — helping the body digest food and making hormones that control blood sugar levels.
• Common diseases that can affect the pancreas include diabetes, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and cystic fibrosis.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 28 Jan 2025). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about diseases of the pancreas.

Relevant Tests

If your doctor suspects you have a disease of the pancreas, they may request one or more tests.

If you are diagnosed with a disease of the pancreas, some of these tests will be used to monitor and manage your condition.

Find information about specific tests:

• Amylase
• Lipase
• Pancreatic elastase faecal
• Immunoreactive trypsin