Endocrine Pancreas

The islets of Langerhans appear as distinct islands in a sea of pancreatic acinar cells, and constitute just a small percentage (~2%) of pancreatic tissue. Regardless of the stain used, the islets can be identified because of their distinct geometric cord pattern and high vascularity when compared to the acini. Within the islet are alpha, beta, and D-cells. Several blood vessels are also visible near the islets.