Duodenal (Brunner) glands are coiled mucous glands in the submucosa of the first part of the duodenum, a feature unique to this part of the gut. They pour out alkaline mucus rich in bicarbonate that protects the duodenal lining from acidic stomach contents.
| Location | Submucosa of the proximal duodenum, most abundant in the duodenal bulb and thinning out near the major duodenal papilla |
|---|---|
| Secretes |
|
| Nerve Supply | Vagus nerve (parasympathetic) |
| Blood Supply | Superior pancreaticoduodenal arteries; Gastroduodenal artery branches |
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Neutralize acid entering from the stomach and coat the duodenal mucosa with protective mucus, creating a suitable pH for pancreatic enzymes.
Overgrowth of these glands can form a Brunner gland hyperplasia or hamartoma, a usually benign polyp that may bleed or rarely obstruct. Increased acid load, as in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, causes the glands to enlarge. Their presence helps pathologists identify duodenal tissue in biopsies.
Benign enlargement of the glands forming nodules or polyps in the duodenal bulb, occasionally causing bleeding or obstruction.
Mucosal ulceration in the first part of the duodenum when acid overwhelms protective mucus and bicarbonate, often linked to H. pylori or NSAIDs.
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