Pathophysiology of GI Diseases and Disorders

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Questions and Answers

What percentage of circulating blood volume is held by the liver?

10%

20%

15% (correct)

25%

What is the primary function of the portal vein in the Hepatic Portal Vein System?

Carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the liver

Carries deoxygenated blood from the liver to the heart

Carries nutrients from food broken down back to the liver (correct)

Carries waste products from the liver to the kidneys

What is the byproduct of RBC breakdown or hemolysis that causes Jaundice?

Ammonia

Urea

Bilirubin (correct)

Bile

What process is used to metabolize substances like alcohol and Tylenol in the liver?

Conjugation Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the liver in regulating blood glucose levels?

Balancing glucose levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the stomach in the digestive process?

Chemical breakdown of food in an acid-rich environment Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is responsible for propelling food from the esophagus into the stomach?

Gastroesophageal sphincter Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the reflex that occurs when the body tries to expel stomach contents?

Vomiting reflex Signup and view all the answers

What is the medical term for difficulty swallowing?

Dysphagia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a part of the upper GI tract?

Appendix Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment regimen for a patient suffering from a food bolus obstruction?

Glucagon and NTG SL Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of inflammation of tissue at the lower end of the esophagus in reflux esophagitis?

Backflow of stomach acids through the cardiac sphincter Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common symptom of hiatal hernia?

Heartburn Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus?

Gastroesophageal reflux Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of esophageal varices?

High pressure in veins of the esophagus Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for esophageal varices?

Portal vein bypass and BP meds Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the inflammation of the tonsils?

Tonsillitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for liver failure when both alcohol and Tylenol are present in the body?

The liver breaks down alcohol first and leaves Tylenol behind Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following pancreatic enzymes is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates?

Amylase Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the hormone somatostatin?

Regulating growth hormone release Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of octreotide in the treatment of upper GI bleeds?

To reduce portal venous pressures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the gallbladder in digestion?

To store and release bile into the duodenum Signup and view all the answers

What triggers dumping syndrome?

Eating a meal rich in sucrose or fructose Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of rapid gastric emptying?

Nausea and vomiting Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a space within the abdominal cavity?

Thoracic Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of peritonitis?

Any abdominal and GI problems Signup and view all the answers

What is the laboratory finding that may indicate peritonitis?

Increased WBC count Signup and view all the answers

What is the complication of untreated peritonitis?

Abscess formation Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of sugar moving from the stomach into the small bowel too quickly?

Abdominal cramping and feeling bloated Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following organs is NOT located in the peritoneal space?

Kidneys Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of inflammation of the peritoneum?

Any of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the laboratory finding that may indicate peritonitis?

Increased lactate levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential complication of untreated peritonitis?

Abscess formation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the pancreas in the digestive process?

To release digestive enzymes into the gut Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of octreotide on the body?

It reduces portal venous pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is the composition of bile?

Acids, salts, phospholipids, cholesterol, and water Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of newborn jaundice?

High levels of bilirubin in the blood Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of the liver not being able to break down both alcohol and Tylenol?

Liver failure Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the dumping syndrome?

Fast-moving food into the duodenum Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of inflammation of tissue at the lower end of the esophagus in reflux esophagitis?

Backflow of stomach acids through the cardiac sphincter Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the inflammation of the tonsils?

Tonsillitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Heartburn Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the enlargement of veins in the esophagus due to high pressure?

Esophageal varices Signup and view all the answers

What is the common symptom of hiatal hernia?

Heartburn Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for esophageal varices?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the liver in regulating blood glucose levels?

Balancing glucose levels in the body Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of bilirubin production in the liver?

Byproduct of RBC breakdown or hemolysis Signup and view all the answers

What is the process used by the liver to metabolize substances like alcohol and Tylenol?

Conjugation Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of circulating blood volume is held by the liver?

15% Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the liver in relation to ammonia?

Conversion of ammonia into urea Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the gastrointestinal system is responsible for the breakdown of food in an acid-rich environment?

Stomach Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the gastroesophageal sphincter?

To regulate the flow of food into the stomach Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the muscular contractions that propel food through the esophagus and into the stomach?

Peristalsis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is NOT part of the upper GI tract?

Small Intestines Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the hormone glucagon in the treatment of food bolus obstruction?

To relieve constriction of the esophagus Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the condition characterized by difficulty swallowing?

Dysphagia Signup and view all the answers

What is the main complication of an inguinal hernia?

Strangulation of the intestine Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely cause of ulcerative colitis?

Genetic or autoimmune factors Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of gastroenteritis?

Diarrhea and abdominal cramping Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the inflammation of the vermiform appendix?

Appendicitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the twisting of the colon?

Volvulus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary risk associated with ulcerative colitis?

Developing colon cancer Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of stools in lower GI bleeding?

Dark black due to the iron in the blood Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of hepatitis?

Jaundice Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the enlargement of the liver in hepatitis?

Hepatomegaly Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for hemorrhoids?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of upper GI bleeding?

Coffee ground emesis Signup and view all the answers

What is the emergency condition that may be associated with GI bleeding?

Hemorrhagic shock Signup and view all the answers

What is the complication of cirrhosis that results in a decreased platelet production?

Thrombocytopenia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is associated with an elevated risk of bleeding and hemorrhaging?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, a complication of cirrhosis?

Ascites Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of an enlarged spleen on platelet production in cirrhosis?

Decreased platelet production Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the condition characterized by the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cancers is associated with thrombocytopenia?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hepatitis is spread through fecal-oral route and does not lead to chronic hepatitis?

Hepatitis A Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of abnormal scar tissue altering blood flow through the liver in cirrhosis?

Portal hypertension Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hepatitis requires the presence of Hep B to replicate?

Hepatitis D Signup and view all the answers

What is the common cause of inflammation of the liver in cirrhosis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hepatitis is more likely to become chronic hepatitis than Hep B?

Hepatitis C Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of blood backing up in the hepatic portal vein in cirrhosis?

Portal hypertension Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of dysentery?

Consuming contaminated food or water Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of irritable bowel syndrome?

Functional disorder of motility Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary complication of untreated diverticulitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease?

Presence of inflammation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary treatment for diverticulitis?

Antibiotics and bowel resection Signup and view all the answers

What is the common symptom of diverticulitis?

Abdominal pain and cramping Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of peptic ulcer formation?

Helicobacter bacteria Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary complication of inguinal hernia?

Strangulation of the intestine Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of stools in peptic ulcer disease?

Black and tarry Signup and view all the answers

What is the probable cause of ulcerative colitis?

Genetic or autoimmune factors Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary complication of pyloric stenosis in infants?

Dehydration Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the small intestine in digestion?

Absorption of nutrients Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the absence of peristalsis in the intestine?

Ileus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary risk associated with ulcerative colitis?

Developing colon cancer Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of Crohn's disease?

Painful abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for peptic ulcer disease?

Proton pump inhibitors Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the inflammation of the vermiform appendix?

Appendicitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary treatment for gastroenteritis?

Medications and fluids Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of dysentery?

Massive diarrhea with blood, pus, and mucus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a risk factor for diverticulitis?

Poor dietary habits and lack of physical activity Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary treatment for irritable bowel syndrome?

Diet limitations and stress reduction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary complication of untreated diverticulitis?

Hemorrhage, perforation, or narrowing of the lumen Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can trigger symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

Spicy foods, caffeine, and stress Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of inflammation of the liver in hepatitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of stools in lower GI bleeding?

Dark stools Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between irritable bowel syndrome and dysentery?

One is a functional disorder, while the other is an inflammatory disorder Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for hemorrhoids?

All of the above, plus surgical intervention if necessary Signup and view all the answers

What is the emergency condition associated with GI bleeding?

Hemorrhagic shock Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of upper GI bleeding?

Bright red vomit Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of liver failure in hepatitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mode of transmission of Hepatitis A?

Fecal oral route Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of the liver tissue in cirrhosis?

Replacement of normal liver cells with non-functioning fibrous scar tissue Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following hepatitis types is more likely to become chronic hepatitis?

Hepatitis C Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of blood backing up in the hepatic portal vein in cirrhosis?

Portal hypertension Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary complication of cirrhosis?

Portal hypertension Signup and view all the answers

What is the unique characteristic of Hepatitis D?

Requires the presence of Hep B to replicate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a PEJ tube?

To bypass the stomach and deliver nutrients directly to the small intestine Signup and view all the answers

Which type of colostomy is performed on the right side of the abdomen?

Ascending colostomy Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of a nasogastric tube over a PEJ tube?

NG tubes are easier to insert and remove Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the opening created in the abdomen during a colostomy procedure?

Stoma Signup and view all the answers

In which part of the intestine is a PEJ tube typically placed?

Jejunum Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of the discharge from a colostomy stoma?

It depends on the type of colostomy performed Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of severe abdominal pain that often radiates to the back in pancreatitis?

Autodigestion of the pancreas by its own enzymes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following organs is classified as a solid organ and has a rich blood supply?

Pancreas Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts?

Cholelithiasis Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of the five F’s that are associated with an increased risk of developing cholelithiasis?

Fair complexion, fat, fertile or has had children, forty year of age or older Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for pancreatitis?

NPO, pain management, and fluids Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between solid and hollow organs?

Solid organs have a rich blood supply, while hollow organs have a thin wall and a lumen Signup and view all the answers

Where is a transverse colostomy typically performed?

In the transverse section of the colon Signup and view all the answers

What is the consistency of stool in a sigmoid colostomy?

Normal, formed Signup and view all the answers

In which type of colostomy is the stool usually liquid to semiformed in consistency?

Transverse colostomy Signup and view all the answers

Where is a descending colostomy typically performed?

On the left side of the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for the difference in stool consistency between the different types of colostomy?

The amount of water absorbed in the colon Signup and view all the answers

What type of pain is caused by a disease process located in one area but perceived in another area?

Referred pain Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the bright red blood in feces?

Hematochezia Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the procedure of placing a long G-tube through the abdominal wall?

PEG Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes?

Jaundice Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the inflammation of the peritoneum, often caused by perforation of the stomach or intestines?

Peritonitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the urge to defecate and having a bowel movement?

Defecate Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Nasogastric (NG) Tube Feeding

A nasogastric (NG) tube enters through the nose and ends in the stomach
Not suitable for patients with swallowing problems or needing long-term tube feeding

Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy (PEJ) Tube

Feeding tube inserted into the small intestine (jejunum) instead of the stomach
Used for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Colostomy

Creation of an opening in the abdomen (ostomy) and pulling a portion of the large intestine (colon) through the opening
Stool passes directly out of the body, bypassing the diseased or damaged section of the colon
Four main types: ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid

Diseases of the Gallbladder

Cholecystitis: inflammation of the gallbladder, caused by gallstones
- Seen often in pregnant females
- Pain after eating greasy or fatty meals
Cholelithiasis: presence of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts
- Five F's: fair complexion, fat, fertile or has had children, forty years of age or older

Diseases of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas
- Can cause autodigestion of the pancreas and surrounding organs
- Severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, and tachycardia
- High blood amylase levels indicative of pancreatitis
- Treatment: NPO, pain management, and fluids

Solid vs. Hollow Organs

Solid organs: liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys
- Have a rich blood supply, can hemorrhage when lacerated
Hollow organs: digestive tract, urinary bladder, female reproductive organs
- Have a thin wall and a lumen, can generally withstand blunt trauma

Feeding Tubes

PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy): long G-tube placed by endoscopy
Term PEG often used to describe all G-tubes

Hepatic Portal Vein System

Includes stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and intestines
Portal vein carries nutrients from food broken down back to the liver
Liver: holds 15% of circulating blood volume, balances glucose levels, and aids in blood clotting and bile production

Diseases of the Throat and Esophagus

Pharyngitis: viral or bacterial infection of the throat
Reflux Esophagitis: inflammation of tissue at the lower end of the esophagus
Hiatal Hernia: sliding of part of the stomach into the chest cavity
Esophageal Varices: high pressure in veins of the esophagus, can rupture and cause a life-threatening event

Abdominal Cavity

Divided into three spaces: peritoneal, retroperitoneal, and pelvic
Peritonitis: acute or chronic inflammation of the peritoneum
- Causes: abdominal and GI problems, surgery, and trauma
- Symptoms: tender abdomen, pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and increased WBC and lactate levels### Liver and Pancreas Diseases
Portal Vein: carries venous blood from the spleen and digestive organs to the liver
Cirrhosis: chronic, irreversible, degenerative disease of the liver
- Replacement of normal liver cells with non-functioning fibrous scar tissue (hobnail liver)
- Causes: alcoholism, idiopathic, chronic hepatitis, and congestive heart failure
- Complications: blood backs up in the hepatic portal vein, leading to portal hypertension
- Symptoms: pain, blood in stools, anemia, diarrhea, and ascites (fluid in abdominal cavity)

Hepatitis

Hepatitis A: most benign, spread through fecal-oral route, does not lead to chronic hepatitis
Hepatitis B: serious form, spread through saliva, urine, feces, and semen, can spread transplacental, vaccine available
Hepatitis C: blood or sexual contact, more likely to become chronic hepatitis than Hep B
Hepatitis D: Delta virus, requires presence of Hep B to replicate
Hepatitis E: similar to Hep A, spread through fecal-oral route, commonly caused by water contamination

Intestinal Diseases

Inguinal Hernia: out-pouching of the small intestine and peritoneum into the groin area, more common in males
Intussusception: telescoping of the intestine, can lead to intestinal obstruction
Volvulus: twisting of the colon, can lead to intestinal obstruction
Crohn's Disease: chronic inflammatory disease affecting the small intestine and local lymph nodes
- Symptoms: painful, anorexia, flatulence, abdominal pain, colicky pain, diarrhea, and constipation
- Treatment: supportive, low residue diet, medications to control diarrhea, inflammation, and infection
Ulcerative Colitis: chronic inflammation of the colon, cause unknown, but possibly hereditary or autoimmune
- Symptoms: abdominal pain, blood in stools, anemia, and diarrhea
- Treatment: diet limitations, stress reduction, anti-inflammatory medications
Dysentery: acute inflammation of the colon or colitis, caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic invasion
- Symptoms: abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea
- Treatment: medications, fluids, prevention through good hand washing, refrigeration of food, and avoidance of contaminated water
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: functional disorder of motility, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation
- Triggers: spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and stress
Diverticulitis: condition of having little out-pouches in the colon (sigmoid), increases with age and associated with poor dietary habits
- Symptoms: abdominal pain, cramping, and fever
- Treatment: antibiotics, bowel resection if necessary

Other Diseases

Gastritis: inflammation of the stomach, caused by aspirin, alcohol, coffee, tobacco, or bacterial-laden foods
- Symptoms: abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
- Treatment: antibiotics, diet modifications
Peptic Ulcer: area of tissue erosion, leaving a crater-like appearance, found in the stomach and duodenum
- Complications: major bleeding, perforation, and obstruction
- Causes: severe stress, heavy intake of drugs, smoking, and presence of Helicobacter bacteria
- Treatment: medications reducing gastric acidity (Tagamet, Pepcid, Zantac)
Gastroenteritis: inflammation of the stomach and intestines, caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic invasion
- Symptoms: abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and vomiting
- Treatment: medications, fluids, prevention through good hand washing, refrigeration of food, and avoidance of contaminated water

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Description

Test your knowledge of the gastrointestinal system, including its functions, organs, and pathologies. This quiz covers the upper and lower GI tracts, including the stomach, liver, pancreas, and intestines. Learn about the acid-rich environment of the stomach and the breakdown of food in the duodenum.