Gastrointestinal System Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to the gastrointestinal system as outlined in the lecture notes.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and potential damage.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, which can result from various medical conditions.

Endoscopy (EGD)

A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus and stomach.

Barium Swallow

A radiologic examination where a patient swallows barium, allowing visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum on X-ray.

NPO

Nothing by mouth; a medical instruction for patients to avoid eating or drinking before a procedure.

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

A blood marker that can indicate malignancy in the abdominal area when elevated.

Colonoscopy

A procedure that involves the insertion of a camera through the anus to inspect the colon.

Antiemetics

Medications used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting.

Sucralfate

A medication that coats the stomach lining to protect it from acid, often used to treat ulcers.

Antacids

Medications that neutralize stomach acid to relieve heartburn and indigestion.

Histamine H2 antagonists

A class of drugs that block histamine receptors in the stomach to reduce acid production.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Medications that reduce stomach acid production by blocking the proton pump in gastric cells.

Stool Culture

A test to identify the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

C-DIFF

Clostridium difficile, a bacteria that causes inflammation of the colon, often following antibiotic use.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation of diverticula in the colon, which can lead to infection and complications.

Steatorrhea

The presence of excess fat in the stool, often associated with malabsorption issues.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A common disorder affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disorder where ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.

Ulcerative Colitis

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract.

Crohn’s Disease

A type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

Hematemesis

Vomiting of blood, which can indicate a severe gastrointestinal issue.

Melena

Black, tarry stools indicative of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Hematochezia

Bright red blood in stool that usually indicates lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Peritonitis

Inflammation of the peritoneum, often due to infection or rupture of an organ.

Fecal Occult Blood Test

A test to check for hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be an indicator of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Dietary Fiber

Non-digestible carbohydrates that promote bowel health and can help prevent constipation.

Malabsorption Syndrome

A group of disorders in which nutrients from food are not properly absorbed.