Annular pancreas (patient information)
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What is Annular pancreas?
An annular pancreas is a ring of pancreatic tissue that encircles the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine, just below the stomach).
What are the symptoms of Annular pancreas?
Symptoms of Annular pancreas include:
What are the causes of Annular pancreas?
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.
Who is at risk for Annular pancreas?
How to know you have Annular pancreas (Diagnosis)?
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:
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Abdominal x-ray
- CT scan
- Upper GI and small bowel series
When to seek urgent medical care
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you or your child have any symptoms of annular pancreas.
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for Annular pancreas
Directions to Hospitals Treating Annular pancreas