Question

Briefly describe the structure of the pancreas.

Answer 1

Pancreas:

1. Pancreas is a heterocrine gland that comprises both exocrine and endocrine parts.
2. Exocrine part of the pancreas produces pancreatic juice, whereas, the endocrine part secrets pancreatic hormones (insulin and glucagon).

Structure of the pancreas:

1. Pancreas is divided into four regions- head, neck, body, and tail.
2. The head of the pancreas is situated on the right side of the abdomen. It is connected to the duodenum via the pancreatic duct.
3. The neck of the pancreas is quite short and extends from the head region.
4. The body is the longest part of the pancreas. The superior mesenteric artery and vein run behind the body of the pancreas.
5. The tail of the pancreas extends to the left side of the abdomen and lies adjacent to the spleen.

Figure: Structure of pancreas