Pancreatitis is an inflammation or infection of the pancreas. The pancreas is located behind the stomach. It releases the hormones insulin and glucagon and substances that help with digestion.
For more information, see the specific type of pancreatitis:
Banks PA, Freeman ML; Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. Practice guidelines in acute pancreatitis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006 Oct;101(10):2379-400.