Gastro-Intestinal Tract Disorders: Esophageal Diseases

Flashcards covering the overview of the GIT tract, GERD, Achalasia, and Esophageal Cancer including definitions, etiology, clinical features, and management.

What are the components of the digestive system according to the overview?

It consists of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus) and the biliary system.

Which organs make up the biliary system?

The liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bile ducts.

What is the name of the muscular contractions that move food through the esophagus?

Peristalsis.

How is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) defined?

A condition in which acid-containing contents from the stomach persistently leak back up into the esophagus.

What is the primary etiology of GERD?

A poorly functioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES) due to general weakening or frequent inappropriate relaxations.

List four common clinical features of GERD mentioned in the transcript.

Heartburn, regurgitation of gastric contents into the mouth, cough, and hoarseness.

What is the function of Baclofen in GERD management?

It is a prescription drug used to reduce the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid backwash.

What is the 'Stretta procedure' for treating severe GERD?

A procedure where a doctor uses low-radiofrequency heat via a tube in the esophagus to reshape the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

How does LINX surgery address reflux?

It wraps a band of magnetic titanium beads around the junction of the stomach and esophagus; the magnets keep the junction loose enough for food but tight enough to stop reflux.

Name the three types of fundoplication surgeries mentioned based on the extent of the wrap.

Nissen fundoplication (full wrap), Dor fundoplication (front partial wrap), and Toupet fundoplication (back partial wrap).

What is Achalasia?

A neurogenic esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired esophageal peristalsis and a lack of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation during swallowing.

What is the pathophysiology behind Achalasia?

Degeneration of ganglion cells in the myenteric plexus of the esophagus, leading to denervation of esophageal muscle and an imbalance of neurotransmission.

What diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for Achalasia?

Esophageal manometry.

What are common complications of Achalasia related to the respiratory system?

Pneumonia and lung (pulmonary) infections caused by food aspiration into the trachea.

What are the two principal histologic types of esophageal cancer?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma.

Which histologic type of esophageal cancer is specifically associated with GERD?

Adenocarcinoma.

What are the stages of cancer development from GERD to Adenocarcinoma?

Gastroesophageal Reflux $\rightarrow$ Metaplasia $\rightarrow$ Low Grade Dysplasia $\rightarrow$ High Grade Dysplasia $\rightarrow$ Adenocarcinoma.

What is the most common clinical feature of esophageal cancer?

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), initially for solids and eventually for liquids.

Compare the detection purpose of Esophageal Manometry versus a Barium Swallow.

Esophageal Manometry detects motility disorders (muscle activity), while a Barium Swallow detects structural issues (strictures, tumors, or abnormal anatomy).

What is the function of Prokinetics in GIT disorder management?

They help the stomach empty faster so there is less acid left behind.