Anatomy of the Abdomen Review

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the anatomy of the abdomen, common conditions, and their symptoms to help prepare for the upcoming exam.

Quadrants of the abdomen

There are four quadrants: right upper quadrant, right lower quadrant, left upper quadrant, left lower quadrant.

Auscultate

To listen to body sounds, typically with a stethoscope.

Percuss

To tap on the body to assess underlying structures.

Palpate

To push on the body to feel for underlying structures or abnormalities.

Borborygmi

Gurgling sounds made by the movement of fluid and gas in the intestines.

Leukocytosis

An increase in white blood cells, often indicating inflammation or infection.

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, often presenting with right lower quadrant pain.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often associated with gallstones.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation of diverticula in the colon, commonly causing left lower quadrant pain.

Cirrhosis

Scarring of the liver due to long-term liver damage.

Hemoccult

A test for hidden (occult) blood in the stool.

Ascites

Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Fever, nausea, vomiting

Common symptoms associated with inflammation in abdominal conditions.

Peristalsis

The involuntary constriction and relaxation of muscles in the intestines, creating wave-like movements that push contents forward.

Dehydration

A condition resulting from excessive loss of bodily fluids, leading to low volume output and dark, concentrated urine.

Asterixis

A tremor of the hand when the wrist is extended, often associated with liver failure and increased ammonia.