Chapter 11 Digestive System Key Terms

Jaundice

a yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera due to increased bile pigments in the blood

Ascites

an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (peritoneal cavity) resulting from liver failure and portal hypertension

Melena

dark tarry stool due to blood in the feces

Septicemia

a systemic disease caused by the spread of microorganisms in the blood; also called blood poisoning

Peritonitis

an inflammation of the peritoneum

Perforation

an abnormal opening in an organ or tissue

Volvulus

the bowel twisted on itself

Peristalsis

the contraction of muscles along the gastrointestinal tract to move food and fluid

Occult Blood

hidden blood; invisible except under microscopic examination

Intussusception

the telescoping of one part of the intestine over the adjoining section

Malaise

general ill feeling

Polyp

an inward projection of the mucosal lining of the colon

Hematemesis

vomiting blood

Hematochezia

bright red blood in the feces

Exacerbation

a time when symptoms flare up or become worse

Gingivitis

inflammation of the gums