Exploring the Dual Functions of the Pancreas

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Pancreas Histology The pancreas can be divided into two sections when studying the histology. The pancreas has exocrine and endocrine functions, each with unique cell types. The exocrine pancreas serves to secrete digestive enzymes into the duodenum. Some of the specific enzymes and secreted substances are Proteases, lipase, amylase, bicarbonate, and water (Bowen, “Exocrine Secretions”). These enzymes are used to break down protein, fat, and carbohydrates respectively. The bicarbonate simply act as an acid buffer to prevent damage of the small intestine as the stomach acid must be neutralized. The enzymes are created in acinar cells and the bicarbonate is synthesized in epithelial cells surrounding pancreatic ducts (Bowen “Exocrine …show more content…

According to Bowen, There are four different types of ducts which all end up emptying into the main pancreatic duct. Intercalated ducts are lined by cuboidal epithelium and receive the secretions from acinar and duct cells. (“Pancreatic Histology”). Intralobular ducts receive secretions from the intercalated ducts and are lined by cuboidal epithelium (“Pancreatic Histology”). Interlobular ducts receive secretions from the intralobular ducts into the main pancreatic duct and reside in connective tissue between the lobules that divide up the pancreas (“Pancreatic Histology”). Finally, the main pancreatic duct transmits secretions from the interlobular ducts and empties into the duodenum after joining with the bile duct (“Pancreatic …show more content…

Frequent urination results from the body trying to excrete the excess glucose and thirst follows as dehydration sets in. Hunger, fatigue, mental fogginess, irritability, and mood changes result from a deficiency in ATP as the body cannot produce enough purely through fat metabolism via ketones. Acetone breath quickly follows as the body starts to upregulate fat metabolism in an attempt to use ketones for ATP production. This metabolic pathway creates various ketones, but one ketone acetone, is toxic and is excreted via the lungs. It can be detected as a “fruity” odor in the breath. This upregulation of fat metabolism creates a crisis known as diabetic ketoacidosis which can lead to a coma or even death (Harvey, 2012). Another life threatening acute symptom which is not as common in type 1 as type 2 diabetes is hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketonic syndrome or HHNS which can result in serious consequences such as a coma or even death. It is caused by increasing blood sugar and dehydration without the presence of ketones (Harvey, 2012). It can be caused by severe infection, severe illness, and medications that reduce glucose tolerance and increase fluid loss (Harvey, 2012). The various acute symptoms of type 1 diabetes are just as deadly as the long term effects of poor blood sugar

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