[Identical Variants Different Disease Course - Genetics of Chronic Pancreatitis].

Multiple genetic associations with chronic pancreatitis have been identified. In cases with hereditary pancreatitis family history is reported and mostly distinct causative variants in cationic trypsinogen (PRSS1) are identified. Furthermore, variants in other genes of proteases and anti-proteases of the digestive enzyme cascade (SPINK1, CTRC, CPA1), are also associated with chronic pancreatitis. Interestingly, penetrance of associated variants as well as the disease course are variable. As such environmental factors like smoking may play an important role. Patients with chronic pancreatitis of unknown etiology should be offered genetic testing after referral to a pancreatic center.