Embryology, Anatomy, and Histology

Abstract

The pancreas is located deeply in the retroperitoneum, in close association with several vital structures, which complicates access to the organ for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Equally complex is the histology of the pancreas, which is characterized by the unusual combination of exocrine and endocrine tissue within the same organ. This chapter focuses on the description of anatomical, histological, and embryological features that are of diagnostic relevance for lesions and diseases of both the exocrine and endocrine pancreas. Where appropriate, reference will be made to the various book chapters in which a particular anatomical or histological feature is part of diagnostic considerations.