Pancreatic injury disrupts endocrine (insulin/glucagon) and exocrine function, causing metabolic derangements:
β-cell loss → insulin deficiency → ↓ glucose uptake (GLUT4), ↑ hepatic gluconeogenesis/glycogenolysis → fasting/postprandial hyperglycemia. Symptoms: polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss, fatigue.
Peripheral insulin resistance (inflammatory cytokines, lipotoxicity) compounds deficiency → cellular energy crisis despite hyperglycemia.
Low insulin/glucagon ratio → ↑ hormone-sensitive lipase → FFA flux to liver → ketogenesis (β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate). Unchecked → DKA (pH <7.3, bicarbonate <15, anion gap ↑).
Filtered glucose > renal threshold (~180 mg/dL) → osmotic diuresis → dehydration, electrolyte loss.
Extreme hyperglycemia (>600 mg/dL) + dehydration → hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) — mental status change, no significant ketosis.
Multidisciplinary care (endocrine, surgery, nutrition) essential.