Gastrointestinal System Review

A comprehensive review of terminology and concepts related to the gastrointestinal system, including organ functions, diseases, and diagnostic procedures.

Alimentary Canal

The digestive tract, approximately 30 feet long, including the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, small intestine, large intestine, and anus.

Peristalsis

A series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Accessory Digestive Organs

Organs that assist in digestion, including the teeth, tongue, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and salivary glands.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A chronic condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus due to the lower esophageal sphincter failing to close properly.

Dyspepsia

A medical term for indigestion or discomfort in the upper abdomen, often associated with GERD.

H2 Antagonists

Medications that decrease stomach acid production, used for treating GERD and peptic ulcers (e.g., Ranitidine, Cimetidine).

Peptic Ulcer

A sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to damage by stomach acid.

Cirrhosis

A chronic liver disease characterized by scarring (fibrosis) of the liver and poor liver function.

Jaundice

A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones obstructing the bile ducts.

Diverticulosis

A condition where small pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the colon.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain and digestive issues.

Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be acute or chronic.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

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

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, which often causes pain in the lower right abdomen and may require surgical removal.

Fistula

An abnormal connection between two body parts, such as organs or blood vessels, often caused by disease.

Ulcerative Colitis

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

Biliary Colic

Pain caused by the blockage of bile flow, often due to gallstones.

Intestinal Obstruction

A blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the intestines.

Candidiasis (Thrush)

A fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, commonly in the mouth, GI tract, and vagina.

Barrett’s Esophagus

A condition in which the esophagus is damaged by acid reflux, increasing the risk of cancer.

Nystatin

An antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections like candidiasis.

Barium Swallow

A diagnostic test to visualize the upper GI tract using a barium contrast agent.

Colonoscopy

A procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum for diagnosis and treatment.