Pancreas divisum

Pancreas divisum is a congenital anomaly in the anatomy of the ducts of the pancreas in which a single pancreatic duct is not formed, but rather remains as two distinct dorsal and ventral ducts. This condition can lead to pancreatitis.

Anatomy

In a normal pancreas, the dorsal and the ventral ducts will fuse together to form one main pancreatic duct. This main duct will join the common bile duct before entering the duodenum via the ampulla of Vater. However, in pancreas divisum, this normal fusion of the ducts does not occur, and the dorsal and the ventral ducts remain separate.

Symptoms

The symptoms of pancreas divisum can vary, but often include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms are often associated with pancreatitis, which can be a complication of pancreas divisum.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pancreas divisum can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. However, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can be used to visualize the pancreatic ducts and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for pancreas divisum often involves managing the symptoms and complications. This can include pain management, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery to drain the pancreatic ducts.

See also

• Pancreas
• Pancreatitis
• Ducts (anatomy)
• Duodenum (anatomy)
• Ampulla of Vater

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