2002 to 2005. 4 Gallstone-related disorders may be the cause of this increase in the United States, because of increases in obesity and the aging population, although it also may be related to an increased frequency of testing (Figure 1). 4 This comes at a huge cost to the healthcare system, with more than $2.4 billion spent per year in the United States alone. 5 Management of acute pancreatitis has changed considerably in the past 10 years, including a multidisciplinary methodology, and tailored interventions with a minimally invasive endoscopic approach rather than open surgical intervention for complications. 6 To reduce patient morbidity and mortality, clinicians must be familiar with the presentation, diagnosis, and management of this disease.© MEDICALSTOCKS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM I n most patients, acute pancreatitis is mild, self-limited, and follows an uncomplicated course. 1 However, 15% to 20% of all patients have severe acute pancreatitis, and 5% to 10% of them will develop necrosis of the pancreatic glands, peripancreatic tissue, or both. 2 In severe cases, if the necrotic collection becomes infected, patient mortality can reach 30%. 3 The incidence of acute pancreatitis requiring hospitalization in the United States continues to rise, with a 13.2% increase between 2009 and 2012 compared with ABSTRACT Acute pancreatitis is associated with signifi cant morbidity and mortality, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders requiring hospitalization. This article describes current concepts in the diagnosis and management of severe acute and necrotizing pancreatitis. Management of this disease requires IV fl uids, pain control, and advanced medical and interventional care. Early identifi cation and intervention may help to prevent patient morbidity and mortality.