Ampullary adenoma is a benign (noncancerous) growth at the ampulla of Vater-the spot where the bile duct and pancreatic duct join the small intestine. Although these adenomas grow slowly, they can progress to cancer if not detected and treated early.
Early stages may be symptom-free. As the lesion enlarges or blocks ducts, you might notice:
While the exact trigger is often unclear, several factors raise risk:
If you're experiencing symptoms of ampullary adenoma or have concerns about your digestive health, don't wait to get expert care. At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our board-certified gastroenterologists offer on-site endoscopy, advanced imaging, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Call us today or book your appointment online to take the first step toward a clear diagnosis and effective treatment.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
It's a noncancerous tumor found where the bile and pancreatic ducts meet the small intestine.
Not directly, but liver cysts and ampullary adenomas can occur together and both may require follow-up evaluation.
Yes. Long-term inflammation in the digestive tract can increase the risk of developing an ampullary adenoma.
If left untreated, it can block bile or pancreatic ducts, leading to jaundice or pancreatitis, and may eventually turn cancerous.
Diagnosis typically involves endoscopy with biopsy, along with imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans to assess size and location.
After endoscopic removal, most patients recover in 1-2 weeks. Surgical procedures like ampullectomy or Whipple surgery require a longer recovery period.
Schedule an evaluation if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or changes in stool or urine color.
Yes. Studies suggest that up to 30% of untreated ampullary adenomas may progress to cancer over time.
Your physician will provide detailed instructions, which may include fasting before the procedure and adjusting certain medications.
Call GastroDoxs in Cypress to book an appointment or ask your primary care provider for a referral to one of our board-certified gastroenterologists.
