Adenocarcinoma of the First Part of the Duodenum: Causes, Pathophysiology, Imaging Features, and Treatment
Introduction Adenocarcinoma of the first part of the duodenum is a rare but clinically significant gastrointestinal malignancy that often presents with vague symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis. Despite being an uncommon tumor, its clinical implications are profound due to the anatomical complexity of the duodenum and its proximity to critical structures such as the pancreas, bile duct, and stomach. In this column, I will explore the etiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical features, imaging findings, treatment strategies, and prognosis of this condition, referencing a real-world clinical case of a 39-year-old male with chronic abdominal pain diagnosed with duodenal adenocarcinoma. Case Background A 39-year-old man presented with chronic abdominal pain and acute epigastric discomfort. He had a past medical history of Crohn’s disease and anal stricture . Imaging studies, including CT, MRI, and fluoroscopy, revealed a suspicious mass in the firs...