The coexistence of autoimmune pancreatitis and elevated serum IGG4 in autoimmune diseases

Background: In 50–63% of the cases autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is associated with autoimmune diseases (AID), suggesting that it may be a systemic disorder. The aim of the present study was to investigate the coexistence of AIP and an elevated serum IgG4 level in AID. Methods: The serum level of IgG4 was measured in 61 patients with AID of different types who had not yet participated in steroid treatment. Abdominal ultrasonography (US) and in some cases computer tomography (CT) were performed in patients with an elevated IgG4 level. Results: Elevated serum IgG4 levels (919±996mg/l) were detected in 17 of the 61…