GI Disorders II: Inflammatory, Lower GI & Symptom Syndromes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to inflammatory bowel diseases, lower GI disorders, and associated pharmacotherapy as discussed in the lecture notes.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Crohn’s Disease

A type of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by transmural granulomatous inflammation and skip lesions.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

Inflammatory bowel disease involving mucosal and submucosal inflammation with continuous spread from the rectum.

5-ASA Drugs

5-amino salicylic acid drugs used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases, with sulfasalazine as the prototype.

Biologics

Medications derived from living organisms used to treat IBD; examples include TNF inhibitors like Adalimumab.

Intestinal Obstruction

A blockage of the intestines that prevents food or fluid from passing through the gastrointestinal tract.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation and infection of diverticula in the colon, often presenting with lower left quadrant pain and fever.

Antiemetic

Drugs used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting; examples include ondansetron and prochlorperazine.

Constipation

A condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools, often due to low fiber intake or certain medications.

Laxatives

Medications used to relieve constipation, including bulk-forming agents like psyllium and stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl.