My husband was just diagnosed with an atrophied pancreas. He is currently finishing up the last chemo treatment for third level colon cancer. He has suffered severe diarrhea since the operation in April. And, as a result, is on much additional medication. He has not had alcohol in over twenty five years, does not smoke, but always had a tendency to a protruding abdomen. He also had gallbladder removal (nacrosed) about 12 years ago. We had a child with a cystic fibrosis diagnosis. She lived to 11 yrs. old. What do you think is the most likely cause? No history of diabetes. No history of previous pancreas problems, but, he does have a history of esophageal spasims and discomfort which tends to be chronic. No meds for this.