Gastrointestinal System and Related Disorders Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards focused on the gastrointestinal system and related disorders as discussed in the lecture notes.

Gastrointestinal System

A 23-26 foot long pathway that includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus.

Esophagus

A tube approximately 25 cm in length that connects the mouth to the stomach.

Stomach

A distensible pouch with a capacity of approximately 1500mL, where food is ingested and gastric enzymes begin digestion.

Small Intestine

The longest segment of the gastrointestinal tract, consisting of three parts: duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, where nutrient absorption occurs.

Large Intestine

The portion of the GI tract where waste material passes after nutrient absorption, consisting of several parts including ascending, transverse, and descending colon.

Digestion

The process in which digestive enzymes break down food into smaller molecules.

Absorption

The process where small molecules, vitamins, and minerals pass through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream.

Elimination

The process of evacuating waste products from the body after digestion and absorption has occurred.

Gastric Function

The secretion of hydrochloric acid and enzymes like pepsin, which play crucial roles in food digestion.

Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD)

A procedure for direct visualization of the esophagus, gastric, and duodenal mucosa using an endoscope.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

A condition characterized by excessive back-flow of gastric contents into the esophagus due to an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter.

Barrett's Esophagus

A condition where the lining of the esophagus is altered due to chronic reflux, with changes that can lead to esophageal cancer.

Hiatal Hernia

An enlargement of the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes, allowing part of the stomach to move into the thoracic cavity.

Diverticulosis

The presence of multiple diverticula in the bowel without inflammation.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation occurring in diverticula when food and bacteria become trapped, leading to infection.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

The formation of an excavation in the mucosal wall of the stomach or duodenum, commonly caused by H. pylori infection.

Cholecystitis

Acute or chronic inflammation of the gallbladder due to obstruction of the cystic duct, often presenting with biliary colic.

Acute Pancreatitis

Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own enzymes, often caused by gallstones or alcohol consumption.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Progressive inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by long-term alcohol abuse, leading to permanent structural damage.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

A neurologic syndrome developing as a complication of liver disease, characterized by increased serum ammonia levels.

Hemorrhoids

Dilated portions of veins in the anal canal, can be internal or external, often resulting in bleeding and discomfort.