slinivka

Slinivka is the term used in several Slavic languages for the pancreas, an organ that plays a central role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. In humans and most vertebrates, the pancreas lies in the upper abdomen behind the stomach, usually extending from the duodenum to the spleen. It is a mixed gland with both exocrine and endocrine functions, and it typically weighs around 70–100 grams in adults. The pancreas consists of a head, neck, body, and tail; the head lies within the curve of the duodenum, while the tail extends toward the spleen.

Exocrine function is carried out by acinar cells that produce digestive enzymes, including amylase, lipase, and proteases, which are released as pancreatic juice through the pancreatic duct into the small intestine. Bicarbonate ions in the juice help neutralize stomach acid, creating favorable conditions for digestion. The endocrine portion forms the islets of Langerhans, which secrete hormones such as insulin (beta cells), glucagon (alpha cells), somatostatin (delta cells), and pancreatic polypeptide (PP cells). These hormones regulate blood glucose level and other metabolic processes.

Developmentally, the pancreas arises from dorsal and ventral pancreatic buds that originate from the foregut endoderm and fuse during embryogenesis. Disruptions in development or function can lead to conditions such as pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, or pancreatic cancer.

Clinically, assessment of the slinivka includes blood tests for amylase and lipase, imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), and procedures like endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) when needed. Treatment depends on the condition and may involve enzyme replacement, medications, or surgical approaches.