LESSER PANCREAS Meaning and
Definition
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The lesser pancreas, also known as the accessory pancreas or anomalous pancreas, is a term used to describe an abnormality characterized by the presence of pancreatic tissue in an atypical location within the body. The pancreas is a glandular organ situated behind the stomach and plays a vital role in the production of digestive enzymes and hormones, such as insulin.
The presence of a lesser pancreas refers to the occurrence of pancreatic tissue in a location other than its usual position. This abnormality is rare and often found incidentally during medical examinations or surgeries for unrelated conditions. The misplaced pancreatic tissue can be found in various regions of the body, including the stomach, duodenum, spleen, or even within the liver.
While a lesser pancreas may not cause noticeable symptoms, in some cases, it can lead to gastrointestinal complications. The ectopic pancreatic tissue can undergo the same conditions that affect the typical pancreatic tissue, such as inflammation (pancreatitis), cyst formation, or even the development of tumors.
Diagnosis of a lesser pancreas is typically made through imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound. If symptoms or complications arise, treatment may involve surgical removal of the ectopic pancreatic tissue or addressing any associated conditions that may be affecting the function of the pancreas.
Overall, the lesser pancreas refers to the presence of pancreatic tissue in abnormal locations within the body, which can be associated with potential complications and may require medical intervention depending on the individual case.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LESSER PANCREAS
- lesser pancreis
- lesser pancrees
- lesser pancrecs
- lesser pancrea3
- lesser pancreac
- lesser pancreaq
- lesser pancrear
- lessorpancreas
- l esser pancreas
- le sser pancreas
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Etymology of LESSER PANCREAS
The term "lesser pancreas" is not a commonly used term in anatomy or medical terminology. However, it might be an interpretation of the Latin term "pancreas minor".
The word "pancreas" originates from the Ancient Greek word "pankreas", which literally means "sweetbread" or "all-flesh". The etymology of this word is often attributed to the fact that the pancreas has a fleshy appearance.
The term "pancreas minor" might refer to the pancreatic tail, which is the smaller, narrower end of the pancreas. The Latin word "minor" means "lesser" or "smaller". It could also potentially describe a less common anatomical variation or a different term used in a specific medical context.
