Gastrointestinal Disorders: Pathophysiology and Etiology
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Questions and Answers

A patient presents with dysphagia following a stroke. Which cranial nerve is MOST likely affected, impacting their ability to form a food bolus?

  • CN XI - Accessory
  • CN IX - Glossopharyngeal
  • CN V - Trigeminal (correct)
  • CN VII - Facial

A patient is diagnosed with achalasia. Which of the following BEST describes the underlying pathophysiology contributing to their dysphagia?

  • Development of scar tissue constricting the esophageal lumen.
  • Formation of a pouch in the esophageal lining trapping food.
  • External compression of the esophagus by a tumor mass.
  • Loss of muscle contraction in the lower esophagus. (correct)

Which of the following is the primary difference between a sliding and rolling hiatal hernia?

  • Sliding hernias involve the sphincter sliding upwards, while rolling hernias involve the upper part of the stomach herniating through the diaphragm alongside a normally positioned sphincter. (correct)
  • Rolling hernias are more common than sliding hernias.
  • Only rolling hernias present with heartburn.
  • Sliding hernias require surgical intervention, while rolling hernias are managed medically.

A pregnant woman reports experiencing frequent heartburn. An upper endoscopy reveals a hiatal hernia. Which type of hiatal hernia is MOST likely contributing to her symptoms?

<p>Sliding hernia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of gastritis?

<p>Alcohol or medications (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a peptic ulcer is being evaluated for the underlying cause. Which infectious agent is MOST commonly associated with the development of peptic ulcers?

<p>Helicobacter pylori (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A 50-year-old male presents with pyrosis and is diagnosed with a hiatal hernia. Which of the following is the MOST likely underlying mechanism contributing to his pyrosis?

<p>Decreased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential long-term complication associated with chronic, recurring heartburn related to a hiatal hernia?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which Helicobacter pylori survives in the acidic environment of the stomach?

<p>By secreting ammonia to neutralize the stomach acid. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a gastric disorder. Which diagnostic test would provide specific and non-invasive confirmation of H. pylori infection?

<p>Urea breath test. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with an H. pylori infection and prescribed triple therapy. What does this therapeutic approach typically involve?

<p>Two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely cause of pyloric stenosis in adults?

<p>Unresolved peptic ulcers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In immunocompromised patients with H. pylori infection who are difficult to treat, what additional medication is often added to the standard triple therapy, forming a quadruple therapy?

<p>Bismuth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common route of transmission for H. pylori?

<p>Stomach-to-oral route. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Dumping syndrome is a condition that can occur post-gastric bypass. What is the primary purpose of a gastric bypass surgery?

<p>To shrink the stomach and promote weight loss. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of Pantoprazole?

<p>Reducing uric acid in the stomach. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient post-gastric bypass is experiencing dumping syndrome. Which dietary modification is MOST appropriate to minimize their symptoms?

<p>Ingest frequent, small meals and avoid concentrated sweets. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with dumping syndrome is at risk for vitamin deficiencies due to:

<p>Bypassing a portion of the jejunum, which reduces nutrient absorption. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A female patient reports abdominal pain primarily relieved after a bowel movement, along with alternating constipation and diarrhea. This presentation MOST strongly suggests:

<p>Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient diagnosed with IBS is experiencing increased symptoms during periods of high stress. Which of the following BEST explains this relationship?

<p>Stress interferes with the brain-gut axis via sympathetic activation, disrupting vagal nerve function. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with IBS is considering dietary changes to manage their symptoms. Which dietary addition is MOST likely to improve their condition based on its effect on serotonin levels?

<p>Regular consumption of kiwi fruit. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with severe abdominal pain, distension, and vomiting. Imaging reveals a complete twisting of the intestine, compromising blood supply. Which condition is MOST likely causing these symptoms?

<p>Volvulus. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A male patient reports groin pain and a noticeable bulge in the inguinal region, especially when lifting heavy objects. This presentation is MOST consistent with:

<p>Inguinal hernia. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports discomfort and bloating in the abdomen, particularly after meals. Imaging reveals a sharp bend in the colon near the spleen, trapping intestinal contents. This is MOST indicative of:

<p>Splenic flexure syndrome. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, can arise from developmental defects or neurological damage.

Cranial Nerves V & X Role in Swallowing

Damage to these nerves may impair chewing or the unconscious movements needed for swallowing.

Diverticulum

A pouch that forms in the GI tract, trapping food.

Hiatal Hernia

Occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm.

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Sliding Hiatal Hernia

The sphincter slides upwards, no longer aligned with the diaphragm.

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Rolling Hiatal Hernia

The upper part of the stomach is ABOVE the sphincter (sphincter is in the right place).

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Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by irritants.

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Peptic Ulcer

An open sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.

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Gastric Bypass

Bypassing part of the jejunum, leading to reduced nutrient absorption.

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Accelerated Gastric Emptying

Rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine.

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Dumping Syndrome

Extreme diarrhea, dehydration, and vitamin deficiencies after gastric bypass.

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A non-inflammatory condition marked by abnormal intestinal contractions and altered bowel habits.

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IBS Predisposing Factors

Stress affecting the brain-gut axis, microbiome imbalances, and serotonin (5-HT) imbalance.

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Splenic Flexure Syndrome

Trapping of material due to an intestinal kink causing discomfort.

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Volvulus

A twist in the intestine leading to ischemia or necrosis.

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Inguinal Hernia

A protrusion of the intestine through the abdominal wall, often due to heavy lifting.

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Pyloric Stenosis

Narrowing of the opening between the stomach and duodenum due to a thickened pyloric sphincter.

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H. pylori's Urease Role

Urease neutralizes stomach acid, allowing it to survive in the stomach.

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H. pylori Associated Risks

Stomach cancer or lymphoma, linked to H. pylori.

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H. pylori Diagnosis

Urea breath test and stool sample analysis.

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H. pylori Triple Therapy

Two antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, amoxicillin) and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

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H. pylori Quadruple Therapy

Adds bismuth to the triple therapy to further disrupt the bacteria if patient is immunocompromised

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Study Notes

  • Exam covers 25% of the final grade

Dysphagia

  • Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing
  • It is caused by a developmental defect, where there is connection between the esophagus and trachea via fistula
  • Dysphagia can happen anywhere along the swallowing tract

Contributions to Dysphagia

  • Neurological damage to cranial nerves contributes to swallowing difficulty
  • Damage to the Trigeminal nerve (CN V, chewing nerve) causes issues with chewing and bolus formation, leading to swallowing difficulties
  • Damage to the Vagus nerve (CN X, swallowing nerve) affects unconscious throat movements required for smooth food passage
  • Tumors can pressurize the GI tract, leading to obstruction
  • Achalasia: Loss of muscle contraction in the lower esophagus leads to food getting stuck
  • Diverticulum: A pouch within the inner layers of the GI tract that traps food
  • Fibrosis: Scar tissue can contract and constrict the airway

Hiatal Hernia

  • This is a hernia in the upper GI tract
  • Sliding hernia (95%): The sphincter slides upwards, misaligning with the diaphragm, causing part of the stomach to poke through
  • Treatment for sliding hernia involves surgery to suture it in place
  • Rolling hernia (5%): There is loss of rigidity and increased mobility, causing the upper part of the stomach to be ABOVE the sphincter's opening
  • Treatment for rolling hernia involves surgical removal of any small, necrotic pieces
  • Risk factors for hiatal hernia include pregnancy
  • Manifestations include pyrosis (heartburn) and the possibility of cancerous changes from recurring heartburn or herniation, due to the inability to release air

Gastric Disorders

  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, caused by alcohol or medications, appears red and inflamed during endoscopy
  • Peptic Ulcer: Can occur in the stomach or duodenum, caused by H. pylori or overuse of NSAID drugs affecting the stomach lining
  • Pyloric Stenosis: Narrow opening between the stomach and duodenum due to thickened pyloric sphincter. Can cause projectile vomiting especially in babies or adults with unresolved peptic ulcers

Pathogenesis of H. Pylori

  • Transmitted via stomach-to-oral route
  • Urease bacterium produces urease enzyme to remain dormant in the environment
  • It converts urea into NH3, creating an alkaline environment in the stomach by neutralizing stomach acid

Additional Info on Gastric Disorders

  • Gastric disorders are associated with cancer of the stomach lining or lymphoma, or prolonged prescription drug use
  • Diagnosed using fast, specific, and noninvasive tests, such as urea breath test or stool sample
  • Medication for gastric disorders: Triple therapy with 2 antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor. Commonly using Clarithromycin, amoxicillin and pantoprazole
  • Immunocompromised patients receive quadruple therapy with bismuth

Dumping Syndrome

  • This syndrome can occur after a gastric bypass, to reduce the absorption of nutrients
  • Accelerated gastric emptying causes food to leave the stomach too quickly
  • Extreme diarrhea
  • Rapid absorption pulls water and electrolytes out of cells, causing dehydration
  • Vitamin deficiencies due to bypassing the jejunum
  • Management involves avoiding sugar on an empty stomach, or eating more frequent, smaller meals

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS)

  • IBS is a non-inflammatory condition affecting 15% of humans
  • Manifestations: Abnormal contractions of the large intestinal wall, changes in bowel habits, pain or discomfort in the left quadrant of the abdomen
  • Male = Diarrhea
  • Female = Constipation
  • Pain relief after a bowel movement rules out rectal cancer
  • Stress interference with the brain-gut axis is a predisposing factor
  • Gut microbiome imbalances caused by broad-spectrum antibiotic use or food allergies
  • 5-HT (serotonin) imbalance: 5-HT is a promoter for bowel movement

Intestinal Obstructions

  • Inguinal hernia: A twist, more common in males due to heavy lifting
  • Volvulus: Any twist leading to ischemia or necrosis due to lack of perforation. Can cause sepsis

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

  • Autoimmune
  • White blood cells from the gut triggered by bacterium, B cell focused
  • No prevalence between male or females

Crohn's Disease

  • Colposcopy reveals inflammation patches throughout the GI tract
  • Fissures (deep cracks/lesions) lead to stool malabsorption.
  • Complications: Fissures may cause a fistula combining the small & large intestine

Ulcerative Colitis

  • Inflamed continuous lesions (innermost lining only) cause bloody stool & anemia
  • Complications include toxic megacolon requiring surgical removal, which can lead to sepsis
  • Rectovaginal fistula (rectum & vagina) = fecal matter coming through the vagina
  • Enterovesicle fistula (between bladder & intestine resulting in fecal matter & potential blockage

Celiac Disease

  • Autoimmune with sensitivity to wheat, rye, barley (gluten = protein)
  • Gluten is broken down in the small intestine into gliadin, then binds to tissue transglutaminase
  • Creates antibodies for celiac

Acute Appendicitis

  • (inflamed appendix) reservoir of bacteria becomes inflamed if circulation is prohibited through obstruction
  • Infections
  • Neoplasm
  • Manifestations: pain in RLQ & belly button, firm upon palpation (eventual distention

Cholelithiasis

  • More common in fair-skinned females and Indigenous populations
  • Birth control (estrogen & progesterone) slows downs the gallbladder, causing stone formation
  • Calcium birubinate & cholesterol micro crystals & mucin can cause delayed gallbladder emptying (cholesterol buildup)
  • Larger calculi has a larger impact
  • Cholecystitis is infection of the biliary system

Manifestations

  • Cholelithiasis

Treatment Strategies

  • Describe the goal of using an NG tube with intermittent suctioning
  • Describe: lithotripsy
  • Describe: cholecystectomy

Cholestasis

  • Gallstones in the gallbladder/cystic duct can cause obstructions
  • Stones in the common bile duct prevent bile from reaching the duodenum, backing up into the liver
  • Clay coloured stool because of blockage prevents proper excretion

Acute Pancreatitis

  • Digestive enzymes get trapped, then can't absorb nutrients properly
  • Creates pancreatic inflammation then necrosis
  • Pancreas becomes irritated
  • Gallstones is the is the #1 trigger for Acute Pancreatitis
  • Alcohol use is #2
  • Cause inflammatory response (plasma leaves vessels leading to hypovolemic shock/neurogenic shock) YOU CANNOT VASOCONSTRICT NOW
  • DIC, ARDS

Chronic Pancreatitis

  • Inflamed pancreas can lead to fibrosis
  • Etiology includes alcohol abuse, smoking, gallstones
  • Manifestations: Abdominal pain with nausea/vomiting
  • Complications: Steatorrhea (fatty stool) can result in secondary diabetes mellitus due to fibrosis

Cirrhosis

  • Infections from hepatitis
  • Infections: Hepatitis B, C, D causes bleeding
  • AIH (autoimmune hepatitis) autoimmune
  • PBC (primary biliary cholangitis) autoimmune destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts
  • PSC (primary sclerosis cholangitis) no antibodies involved
  • NAFLD (non alcoholic fatty liver disease) resistance to blood flow through a scarred liver
  • Genetic, hereditary hemochromatosis
  • Wilsons disease (copper overload in the liver)
  • A1AT (alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency) liver dysfunction
  • Cirrhosis causes resistance to blood flow through the liver, leading to portal hypertension causes hemorrhoids
  • Bulging esophageal varices (bulging into the lumen of the esophagus) can lead to GI bleed through vomiting

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Description

Explore the underlying causes and mechanisms of gastrointestinal disorders, answering key questions about dysphagia, achalasia, hiatal hernias, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Understand the role of cranial nerves, infectious agents, and long-term complications in GI health.

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