Health Encyclopedia

Annular pancreas

Definition

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, incidence, and risk factors

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

Feeding intolerance in newborns
Fullness after eating
Nausea and vomiting

Signs and tests

Signs that may indicate annular pancreas include:

Down syndrome
Other congenital (something you are born with) gastrointestinal problems
Pancreatitis
Excessive amniotic fluid during pregnancy (polyhydramnios)

Tests include:

Treatment

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

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome is usually good with surgery.

Complications

Obstructive jaundice
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Peptic ulcer
Perforation (tearing) of the intestine due to obstruction
Peritonitis

Calling your health care provider

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

References

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.

Review Date:11/17/2008
Reviewed 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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