Duodenal web and pancreas divisum causing pancreatitis in an adult

J Kollias1, J Toouli

  • 1Gastrointestinal Surgical Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia.

Insights

Congenital duodenal webs are rare in adults but can cause obstructive symptoms. This case highlights a duodenal web linked to pancreas divisum presenting as recurrent acute pancreatitis in an adult.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Duodenal malformations are a common cause of intestinal obstruction in infants.
  • Congenital duodenal webs are rare, with fewer than 70 adult cases reported.
  • Adult presentation of duodenal malformations, including webs, is uncommon.

Observation:

  • A rare case of congenital duodenal web presenting in adulthood.
  • The patient exhibited clinical characteristics of recurrent acute pancreatitis.
  • The duodenal web was associated with pancreas divisum.

Findings:

  • Congenital duodenal webs can manifest in adulthood.
  • Association between duodenal webs and pancreas divisum can lead to pancreatitis.
  • This case expands the understanding of rare duodenal obstructive lesions.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering rare duodenal anomalies in adult pancreatitis.
  • Suggests a potential link between duodenal webs, pancreas divisum, and recurrent pancreatitis.
  • Underscores the need for thorough investigation of duodenal pathology in unexplained pancreatitis.

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