I'm posting this difficult question for a colleague (with patron's 
permission).  Any suggestions are appreciated!

A patron working with a research team would like to know what the FLUID 
VOLUME OF THE DUODENUM at the fasting state or baseline value (with no 
drugs such as hormones or stimulants).  This could take the form of a 
range or an average.  She is willing to accept the fluid volume of the 
entire small intestine if necessary.

The reason that this is difficult to find is that the significant value 
for the duodenum as it pertains to volume is the fluid *absorbed* during a 
24 hour period or similar time period and that is usually what you will 
find if you search a physiology, human nutrition or GI reference. 
Standing fluid volume does not seem to be considered all that important, 
especially since there is continuous absorption.  Length is a commonly 
available measurement.

Looking at a "fasting volume flow of gastric juice" table we are finding 
that there is no such thing as a standing fluid volume of the duodenum. 
Between absorption and flow, to have an exact fluid volume, you just might 
have to be dead!

We've searched several references but to no avail and are putting out a
call....

**************************
Theresa Arndt, MLS
Taubman Medical Library, University of Michigan
1135 East Catherine St 0726, Ann Arbor, MI  48109-2038
voice: 734-936-1397    fax:   734-763-1473
email: [log in to unmask]