American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What percentage of patients with type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis respond to glucocorticoids?

1. 50%

2. 75%

3. 90%

4. 100%

The correct answer is: 90%

In cases of type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis, it has been observed that a significant proportion of patients respond favorably to treatment with glucocorticoids. Specifically, approximately 90% of individuals with this condition will exhibit a positive response to glucocorticoid therapy. This strong response can manifest as a reduction in symptoms, improvement in pancreatic function, and resolution of imaging findings associated with the inflammation. The reason glucocorticoids are effective in this context stems from their powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help to suppress the autoimmune process driving the pancreatitis. Consequently, this high rate of response underscores the role of glucocorticoids as a cornerstone in the management of type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis. Patients experiencing autoimmune pancreatitis are often monitored closely, and those presenting with clinically substantiated symptoms and imaging characteristics consistent with the disease frequently see an improvement following initiation of glucocorticoid therapy. Consequently, understanding this response rate informs both diagnosis and treatment strategies in clinical practice.