Duodenum
About the Duodenum
The duodenum is the first and shortest part of the small intestine, forming a C shaped curve around the head of the pancreas between the stomach and the jejunum. It is traditionally divided into four parts. Acidic partially digested food from the stomach enters through the pyloric sphincter, and in the second part the common bile duct and pancreatic duct open at the major duodenal papilla, delivering bile and pancreatic enzymes that neutralize acid and break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Brunner glands in its wall secrete alkaline mucus that protects the lining from acid. The duodenum also releases hormones such as secretin and cholecystokinin, which stimulate the pancreas and gallbladder. It is an important site for absorbing iron and calcium. Duodenal ulcers are commonly associated with Helicobacter pylori infection and the use of nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, and biopsies of the duodenum are used to diagnose celiac disease.
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