Which electrolyte abnormality is commonly seen in acute pancreatitis?

• A. Hypercalcemia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hyponatremia
• D. Hypocalcemia

Answer: (D)

In acute pancreatitis, fat necrosis releases fatty acids that bind calcium, forming calcium soaps in peripancreatic tissue. This trapping of calcium pulls calcium out of the bloodstream, leading to hypocalcemia. This low calcium level often accompanies the inflammatory process and can reflect greater severity. Hypercalcemia is not typical during an acute attack (it can be a risk factor for pancreatitis but not the common electrolyte finding here), and hyperkalemia or hyponatremia are not characteristic features of the pancreatitis itself, though they can occur in critically ill patients for other reasons.