Abstract
The anomalous pancreaticobiliary union has been attracted gastroenterologists' attention for its participation with congenital dilatation of the biliary tract or congenital biliary cyst. Recently, the anomalous pancreaticobiliary union was also reported in those without dilatation of the biliary tree. Such anomalous union was discoverd in seven cases among 122 patients whose pancreaticobiliary unions were well visualized on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The diameter of the common bile duct in these seven patients varies from five to 32mm, and the mean being 13.4 mm in diameter. Three cases had a dilated common bile duct more than 15mm in diameter. However, no case had association with congenital biliary cyst, except for a case of choledochal diverticulum. The length of the pancreaticobiliary common channel varies from five to 35mm, and the mean being 18.1mm in length. Three cases had a long common channel more than 20mm in length. It should be emphasized that three carcinomata of the gall bladder and a carcinoma of the choledochus were included in these seven patients. It is also impressive that pancreatograms of the five cases out of those seven were abnormal, being suggested the existance of chronic pancreatitis. Furthermore, one case with normal pancreatogram had an episode of acute pancreatitis. When the anomalous pancreaticobiliary union was encounterd, pancreatic disease as well as biliary disorder, especially malignancy, should be considered as probable complications.
