Fat necrosis of pancreas. Light micrograph of a setion through a pancreas showing fat necrosis (steatonecrosis, white areas). This is a condition where the body's enzymes break down fats from adipose tissue into fatty acids and glycerol. The fatty acids react to form soap-like compounds. It occurs in the pancreas during acute haemorrhagic pancreatitis, when enzymes that are normally secreted by the pancreas become activated too soon and begin to digest its tissues. Risk factors include alcohol abuse, gallbladder disease, infection, injury and some medications. Magnification unknown.