What is the definition of Annular Pancreas?

An annular pancreas is a ring of pancreatic tissue that encircles the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The normal position of the pancreas is next to, but not surrounding the duodenum.

What are the causes for Annular Pancreas?

Annular pancreas is problem present at birth (congenital defect). Symptoms occur when the ring of pancreas squeezes and narrows the small intestine so that food cannot pass easily or at all.

Newborns may have symptoms of complete blockage of the intestine. However, up to one half of people with this condition do not have symptoms until adulthood. There are also cases that are not detected because the symptoms are mild.

Conditions that may be associated with annular pancreas include:

• Down syndrome
• Excess amniotic fluid during pregnancy (polyhydramnios)
• Other congenital gastrointestinal problems
• Pancreatitis

What are the symptoms for Annular Pancreas?

Newborns may not feed well. They may spit up more than normal, not drink enough breast milk or formula, and cry.

Adult symptoms may include:

• Fullness after eating
• Nausea or vomiting

What are the current treatments for Annular Pancreas?

Treatment most often involves surgery to bypass the blocked part of the duodenum.

What is the outlook (prognosis) for Annular Pancreas?

The outcome is most often good with surgery. Adults with an annular pancreas are at increased risk for pancreatic or biliary tract cancer.

What are the possible complications for Annular Pancreas?

Complications may include:

• Obstructive jaundice
• Pancreatic cancer
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Peptic ulcer
• Perforation (tearing a hole) of the intestine due to obstruction
• Peritonitis

When should I contact a medical professional for Annular Pancreas?

Call your health care provider if you or your child has any symptoms of annular pancreas.

REFERENCES

Barth BA, Husain SZ. Anatomy, histology, embryology and developmental anomalies of the pancreas. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology/Diagnosis/Management. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 55.

Maqbool A, Bales C, Liacouras CA. Intestinal atresia, stenosis, and malrotation. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 356.

Semrin MG, Russo MA. Anatomy, histology, and developmental anomalies of the stomach and duodenum. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology/Diagnosis/Management. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 48.