Pankreasta

Pankreasta, known in English as the pancreas, is a glandular organ of the digestive system. Located in the upper abdomen behind the stomach, its head lies in the concavity of the duodenum while the body and tail extend toward the spleen. It performs both endocrine and exocrine functions that are essential for digestion and metabolism.

Anatomy and structure: The pancreas is divided into head, neck, body, and tail. The main pancreatic duct runs through the organ and typically joins the common bile duct to drain into the major duodenal papilla; an accessory duct may provide an alternative drainage route. The organ is supplied by arteries from the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric system, with venous drainage to the portal system.

Functions: Endocrine activity is carried out by the islets of Langerhans, which secrete insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide to regulate blood glucose and other metabolic processes. Exocrine activity involves acinar cells producing digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, and proteases) and ductal cells secreting bicarbonate-rich fluid to neutralize gastric acid in the small intestine.

Development and clinical notes: The pancreas develops from foregut endoderm during embryogenesis. Congenital variations include pancreatic divisum and, less commonly, an annular pancreas. Clinically, pancreatic disorders include acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer (often ductal adenocarcinoma), and conditions causing pancreatic exocrine insufficiency or diabetes due to islet cell dysfunction.

Diagnostics and management: Evaluation relies on serum enzymes such as amylase and lipase, imaging studies (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging), and specialized procedures like endoscopic ultrasound or ERCP when indicated. Treatment varies by condition and may involve supportive care, enzyme replacement therapy, insulin therapy, or surgical intervention in selected cases.