Question

A 45-year-old man with heavy alcohol use presents with epigastric pain radiating to the back and vomiting. Serum amylase and lipase are markedly elevated. There is no organ failure. What is the MOST appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Aggressive IV fluid resuscitation, analgesia and bowel rest

Answer

Immediate ERCP for all cases

Answer

Start broad-spectrum antibiotics routinely

Answer

Immediate laparotomy

Answer

Oral intake as tolerated with no IV fluids

Practice question

A 45-year-old man with heavy alcohol use presents with epigastric pain radiating to the back and vomiting. Serum amylase and lipase are markedly elevated. There is no organ failure. What is the MOST appropriate initial management?