Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors and Pancreatitis: A Potential Dose-dependent Relationship

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis (AP) remains one of the most common causes of emergency department visits in the USA. The literature supports an association between angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), mainly at steady-state doses, and AP. We present a case of recurrent AP and pseudocyst formation following multiple ACEi dose adjustments after a steady-state period lasting for over a decade. Previous reports have rarely described ACEi-induced pancreatitis and pseudocyst development. ACEi can cause significant ductal obstruction and fluid retention due to its angioedema effects. Consequently, it may trigger AP complicated by pseudocyst formation. Therefore, ACEi administration must be considered in the appropriate clinical context.

Keywords

• acute pancreatitis
• drug-induced pancreatitis
• acei
• recurrent acute pancreatitis
• lisinopril