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Annular pancreas

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system
Digestive system
Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Annular pancreas
Annular pancreas

Definition    Return to top

An annular pancreas is a ring of pancreatic tissue that encircles the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine, just below the stomach).

Causes    Return to top

Annular pancreas is caused by malformation during the development of the pancreas, before birth. This condition may result in a narrowing of the duodenum due to squeezing by the ring of pancreas.

Complete obstruction of the duodenum is often seen in newborns with this condition. However, half of cases are not diagnosed until symptoms occur in adulthood. There are probably many cases that go undetected due to mild symptoms.

People with this condition are more like to have a peptic ulcer.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Signs that may indicate annular pancreas include:

Tests include:

Treatment    Return to top

Surgical bypass of the blocked part of the duodenum is the usual treatment for this disorder.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The outcome is usually good with surgery.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you or your child have any symptoms of annular pancreas.

References    Return to top

Russo MA, Redel CA. Anatomy, histology, embryology, and developmental anomalies of the stomach and duodeum. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006: chap 45.

Update Date: 11/17/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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