A congenital defect of the pancreas that causes parts of the pancreas to fail to fuse together.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
In this condition, the ducts of the pancreas are affected. In many cases this defect goes undetected. The cause of the defect is unknown. However, if the pancreatic ducts become obstructed, symptoms similar to pancreatitis may develop. The incidence is about 5% of the general population.
Signs and tests
an ERCP ( endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography )
Treatment
If a person has symptoms with this condition or has had recurrent pancreatitis , surgical bypass or reconstruction of the malformed pancreatic ducts is indicated to relieve obstruction.
Expectations (prognosis)
The probable outcome is good with treatment
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent this disorder; it is present at birth.