24th July 2023

A 56-year-old man with a background of hypertension and COPD presents with a 6-hour history of sudden onset epigastric pain

A 56-year-old man with a background of hypertension and COPD presents with a 6-hour history of sudden onset epigastric pain, associated with vomiting. On examination, he is guarding in his epigastrium, and in considerable discomfort. Serum amylase is markedly elevated. He works as an IT consultant and says he “only drinks on special occasions”. He has had treatment on 4 occasions for exacerbations of COPD over the past 3 months.

What is the most likely cause of his condition?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.