Overview of ectopic pancreas

World J Gastrointest Surg. 2024 Feb 27;16(2):284-288. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v16.i2.284.

Abstract

This editorial discusses the article written by Zheng et al that was published in the latest edition of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. Our primary focus is on the causes, location, diagnosis, histological classification, and therapy of ectopic pancreas. Ectopic pancreas refers to the presence of pancreatic tissue that is situated in a location outside its usual anatomical placement, and is not connected to the normal pancreas in terms of blood supply or anatomical structure. Currently, the embryological origin of ectopic pancreas remains uncertain. The most prevalent form of ectopic pancreatic is gastric ectopic pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasonography examination can visualize the morphological characteristics of the ectopic pancreatic lesion and pinpoint its anatomical location. The histological categorization of ectopic pancreas evolves. Endoscopic treatment has been widely advocated in ectopic pancreas.

Keywords: Anatomy; Diagnosis; Gastric ectopic pancreas; Pancreas; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Editorial