Lecture 09B: Abdominal Viscera

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering abdominal viscera, focusing on anatomy, physiology, pathology, and histology related to the stomach and small intestine.

What are the main cell types found in the gastric mucosa and their contributions to digestion?

Parietal cells secrete HCl and intrinsic factor; Chief cells secrete pepsinogen and gastric lipase; G-cells secrete gastrin; D-cells secrete somatostatin.

What is the function of the pyloric sphincter?

Regulates gastric emptying and prevents duodenal reflux.

Where are the gastric lymph nodes located and what do they drain?

Gastric lymph nodes are grouped into four zones and they drain various parts of the stomach.

What is the role of enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells in the gastric lining?

ECL cells secrete histamine that stimulates parietal cells to secrete HCl.

What is the significance of the alkaline tide?

A temporary rise in blood pH due to bicarbonate secretion during HCl formation.

What are the primary functions of the small intestine?

Chemical digestion, nutrient absorption, and expelling unnecessary components.

What is pyloric stenosis and its symptoms?

Narrowing of the valve between the stomach and small intestine, causing projectile vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss.

What is the function of haustra in the large intestine?

Haustra are pouches formed by the contraction of taeniae coli that slow down stool movement for greater water absorption.

How do jejunal arteries differ from ileal arteries in their supply?

Jejunal arteries have less prominent anterior arcades and longer vasa recta compared to ileal arteries.

What is the rule of 2's in relation to Meckel's Diverticulum?

2% of the population have it, it is usually found within 2 feet of the ileocecal valve, and 1/2 of symptomatic cases present by age 2.

What is intussusception and its potential complications?

A telescoping of the bowel that can cause obstruction, ischemia/necorosis, and sepsis.

What are the primary components of the enteric nervous system?

The myenteric plexus and the submucosal plexus, which control peristalsis, secretion, and local blood flow in the GI tract.

What does the term ‘gastroesophageal junction’ refer to?

The area where the esophagus meets the stomach, transitioning from squamous to gastric mucosa.

How does the absorption process differ between the jejunum and ileum?

The jejunum absorbs most nutrients, while the ileum specializes in vitamin B12 and bile salts absorption.

What are the complications associated with peptic ulcers?

Bleeding, perforation, and potential malignant transformation.

What is the anatomical location of the celiac trunk, and what does it supply?

The celiac trunk branches off the abdominal aorta and supplies the stomach, liver, pancreas, and duodenum.

What do Brunner's glands secrete and why is it important?

Brunner’s glands secrete alkaline mucus to neutralize gastric acid in the duodenum.

What anatomical structures mark the three parts of the duodenum?

Pyloric orifice, duodenal papilla (ampulla), and jejunoileal flexure.