pancreaticobiliary maljunction
Pronunciation: pan-kree-AT-ih-koh-BIL-ee-air-ee mal-JUNK-shun
A congenital anomaly where the pancreatic and bile ducts join outside the duodenal wall, predisposing to malignancy.
Full Definition
Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM) is a congenital anatomical variant characterized by abnormal union of the pancreatic and bile ducts outside the duodenal wall, beyond the influence of the sphincter of Oddi. This anomaly allows bidirectional flow of pancreatic juice and bile, leading to chronic inflammation and increased risk of biliary tract malignancies, including cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer. The condition is more common in Asian populations and often presents with choledochal cysts or biliary symptoms in childhood or adulthood.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PBM; associated with increased malignancy risk.
In Context
- "MRCP demonstrated pancreaticobiliary maljunction with an associated type I choledochal cyst." — Radiology report
- "The patient's history of pancreaticobiliary maljunction warranted close surveillance for cholangiocarcinoma." — Hepatobiliary consultation