pancreatic divisum
Pronunciation: div-EYE-zum
A congenital anatomical variant where the pancreatic ducts fail to fuse during development.
Full Definition
Pancreatic divisum is the most common congenital anatomical variant of pancreatic ductal anatomy, occurring when the dorsal and ventral pancreatic ducts fail to fuse during embryological development. This results in the majority of pancreatic drainage occurring through the smaller accessory papilla via the duct of Santorini, rather than through the main papilla. While many individuals with pancreatic divisum remain asymptomatic, some may develop recurrent pancreatitis, particularly children and adolescents. The condition is thought to predispose to pancreatitis due to relative outflow obstruction through the smaller accessory papilla. Diagnosis is typically made through MRCP or ERCP, and treatment may involve endoscopic or surgical drainage procedures in symptomatic patients.
Usage
Usage note: Note the Latin plural 'divisum' rather than 'divisums'; specify if symptomatic.
In Context
- "MRCP demonstrated pancreatic divisum as the likely cause of recurrent pancreatitis." — Radiology report
- "Endoscopic therapy of the accessory papilla was performed for symptomatic pancreatic divisum." — Procedure report