Causes and Risk Factors for Pancreatic Divisum

Overview

Pancreatic divisum is a congenital condition (a condition present from birth) that happens during fetal development. Normally, the pancreas starts as two separate parts, each with its own duct (a tube that carries digestive juices). As the embryo grows, these two parts usually join to form one duct. However, in pancreas divisum, this joining does not happen, and the pancreas keeps two separate ducts. This can affect how digestive juices flow from the pancreas to the small intestine.

Risk Factors

There are no known risk factors for pancreatic divisum. Age, sex assigned at birth, genetics, and race or ethnicity are not considered risk factors for this condition. Pancreatic divisum is typically present from birth and is not influenced by these factors.