Annular pancreas

Definition:

A ring or collar of pancreatic tissue that forms around the duodenum (part of small intestine that connects to stomach).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Annular pancreas is thought to be caused from a malformation in the embryonic phase of fetal development. The condition results in a narrowing of the duodenum. Complete obstruction of the duodenum is often seen in newborns with this condition. However, half of the cases occur in adults. There are probably many cases that go undetected due to mild symptoms. There is an increased incidence of peptic ulcer associated with this condition. The incidence is approximately 1 out of 7000 people.