Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction associated with choledochal cyst

The pathophysiology of choledochal cysts remains unclear, although an association with anomalous pancreato-biliary junction and the reflux of pancreatic enzymes into the biliary tree is known. Sphincter of Oddi (SO) manometry was performed in three patients with choledochal cysts. All patients exhibited an elevated basal pressure diagnostic of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction. Two patients exhibited anomalous pancreato-biliary junction. This report suggests an association between the choledochal cyst and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, and may suggest that SO dysfunction plays a role in choledochal cyst formation.