Digestive System All Flashcards
-rrhea
flow, discharge
-stenosis
narrowing, tightening
.ase
enzyme
.centesis
puncture to remove fluid
.chezia
defecation, elimination of wastes
.ectomy
removal; excision; resection
.emesis
vomiting
.emia
blood condition
.genesis
producing; forming
.graphy
process of recording
.iasis
abnormal condition
.megaly
enlargement
.orexia
appetite
.pepsia
digestion
.phagia
eating, swallowing
.plasty
surgical repair
.prandial
meal
.ptosis
falling; drooping; prolapse
.ptysis
spitting
.rrhaphy
suture
.rrhea
flow; discharge
.scopy
visual examination
.spasm
involuntary contraction of muscles
.stasis
stopping, controlling
.stenosis
tightening; stricture
.stomy
new opening (to form a mouth)
.tomy
process of cutting
.tresia
opening
abdomin/o
abdomen
Sound waves beamed into the abdomen produce an image of abdominal viscera. Ultrasonography is especially useful for examination of fluid-filled structures such as the gallbladder.
abdominal ultrasonography
This is commonly referred to as a “tummy tuck.” Other surgical repairs are rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty.
abdominoplasty
Passage of materials through the walls of the small intestine into the bloodstream.
absorption
Failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle to relax. Achalasia (-chalasia = relaxation) results from the loss of peristalsis so that food cannot pass easily through the esophagus. Both failure of the LES to relax and the loss of peristalsis cause dilatation (widening) of the esophagus above the constriction. Physicians recommend a bland diet low in bulk and mechanical stretching of the LES to relieve symptoms.
achalasia
Absence of gastric juice is associated with gastric carcinoma.
achlorhydria
Small building blocks of proteins, released when proteins are digested.
amino acids
amyl/o
starch
Enzyme (-ase) secreted by the pancreas and salivary glands to digest starch (amyl/o).
amylase
an/o
anus
Abnormal tube-like passageway near the anus.The ____ often results from a break or fissure in the wall of the anus or rectum, or from an abscess (infected area) there (Figure 5-23A).
anal fistula
Surgical procedure that creates a new opening between two previously unconnected tubular structures in the body.
anastomosis
Lack of appetite. Anorexia (-orexia = appetite) often is a sign of malignancy or liver disease. Anorexia nervosa is loss of appetite associated with emotional problems such as anger, anxiety, and irrational fear of weight gain. It is an eating disorder and is discussed along with a similar eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, in Chapter 22.
anorexia
Terminal end or opening of the digestive tract to the outside of the body.
anus
Inflammation of the mouth with small, painful ulcers. The ulcers associated with this condition are commonly called canker (KANK-er) sores; the cause is unknown (Figure 5-20B).
aphthous stomatitis
append/o, appendic/o
appendix
Removal or excision of the appendix.
appendectomy
Inflammation of the appendix.
appendicitis
Blind pouch hanging from the cecum (in the right lower quadrant [RLQ]). It literally means hanging (pend/o) onto (ap-, which is a form of ad-).
appendix
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (Figure 5-18A and B). This condition occurs when fluid passes from the bloodstream and collects in the peritoneal cavity. It can be a sign of tumor (neoplasm) or inflammatory disorders in the abdomen, portal hypertension (increased pressure) caused by liver disease (cirrhosis), or heart failure. Treatment for ascites includes administration of drugs to promote urination (diuretics) and paracentesis to remove abdominal fluid.
ascites
Absence of a normal opening.
atresia
Procedures used to achieve weight loss in people with severe obesity. One type of bariatric surgery is bariatric (bar/o = weight, iatr/o = treatment) sleeve gastrectomy, removal of a large portion of the stomach (Figure 6-7A). Another bariatric procedure is gastric bypass. This surgery reduces the size of the stomach to a volume of 2 tablespoons and bypasses much of the small intestine (Figure 6-7B).
bariatric surgery
bil/i
gall, bile
Digestive juice made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It breaks up (emulsifies) large fat globules. Bile originally was called gall (Latin bilis, meaning gall or anger), probably because it has a bitter taste. It is composed of bile pigments (colored materials), cholesterol, and bile salts.
bile
The ____ tract includes the organs (liver and gallbladder) and ducts (hepatic, cystic, and common bile ducts) that secrete, store, and empty bile into the duodenum.
biliary
Congenital hypoplasia or nonformation of bile ducts causes neonatal cholestasis and jaundice.
Hint B A
biliary atresia
Pigment released by the liver in bile.
bilirubin
bilirubin/o
bilirubin (bile pigment)
Rumbling or gurgling noises produced by the movement of gas, fluid, or both in the gastrointestinal tract. Signs of hyperactive intestinal peristalsis, borborygmi (bowel sounds) often are present in cases of gastroenteritis and diarrhea.
borborygmi (singular: borborygmus)
Intestine.
bowel
A chief characteristic of bronchitis and asthma.
bronchospasm
bucc/o
cheek
Pertaining to the cheek.
buccal
A mucosa is a mucous membrane lining cavities or canals that open to the outside of the body.
buccal mucosa
Pointed, dog-like teeth (canine means pertaining to dog) next to the incisors. Also called cuspids or eyeteeth.
canine teeth
cec/o
cecum
Pertaining to the cecum, which is the first part of the large intestine (colon).
cecal
Abnormal twisting of the cecum (first part of the colon).
cecal volvulus
First part of the large intestine.
cecum
celi/o
belly, abdomen
Abdomin/o and lapar/o also mean abdomen. Celiac disease is damage to the lining of the small intestine, occurring as a reaction to eating gluten.
celiac
Damage to the lining of the small intestine occurring as a reaction to eating gluten (protein found in wheat, barley, and rye). Malabsorption and malnutrition result. Treatment consists of a lifelong gluten-free diet. It also is called celiac sprue.
celiac disease
cervic/o
neck; cervix (neck of uterus)
cheil/o
lip
Abnormal condition of the lip.
cheilosis
chlorhydr/o
hydrochloric acid
chol/e
gall, bile
cholangi/o
bile vessel
Malignant tumor of bile vessels (bile ducts).
cholangiocarcinoma
X-ray examination of the biliary system performed after injection of contrast into the bile ducts. In endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (Figure 6-4A), contrast medium is administered through an oral catheter (tube) and then passes through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and into bile ducts. This procedure helps diagnose problems involving the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a type of MRI scan. As special contrast dye is introduced intravenously during an MRI scan, detailed pictures of the pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts are taken (see Figure 6-4B.)
cholangiography
In this term, one i is dropped. The most common cause of this condition is bacterial infection in the colon
cholangitis
cholecyst/o
gallbladder
Removal (excision, resection) of the gallbladder.
cholecystectomy
Formation of a new opening between the gallbladder and the jejunum (second part of the small intestine); an anastomosis.
cholecystojejunostomy
Abnormal condition of stones in the gallbladder.
cholecystolithiasis
choledoch/o
common bile duct
Pertaining to the common bile duct.
choledochal
Gallstones in the gallbladder. Calculi (stones) can prevent bile from leaving the gallbladder and bile ducts (Figure 5-27). Gallstones are diagnosed using ultrasound. See Figure 5-28A showing a large gallstone causing no symptoms and not recommended for removal. Many patients remain asymptomatic and do not require treatment; symptoms related to gallbladder stones are either biliary colic (pain from blocked ducts) or cholecystitis (inflammation and infection of the gallbladder), both of which require treatment. Currently, laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic cholecystectomy) can be performed to remove the gallbladder and stones (Figure 5-28B and C). Lith/o means stone or calculus; -iasis means abnormal condition.
cholelithiasis
Flow of bile from the liver to the duodenum is interrupted.
cholestasis
cib/o
meal
cirrh/o
orange-yellow
Chronic, degenerative disease of the liver.
cirrhosis
col/o, colon/o
colon
Surgeons perform a LAP (laparoscopic) colectomy as an alternative to open colectomy to remove nonmetastatic colorectal carcinomas.
colectomy
Portion of the large intestine consisting of the ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid segments.
colon
Pertaining to the colon.
colonic
Polyps (benign growths) protrude from the mucous membrane of the colon. Figure 5-23A illustrates two types of polyps: pedunculated (attached to the membrane by a stalk) and sessile (sitting directly on the mucous membrane). Figure 5-23B shows multiple polyps of the colon. Many polyps are premalignant (adenomatous polyps); these growths often are removed (polypectomy) as a preventative measure and for further examination (biopsy).
colonic polyps
Visual (endoscopic) examination of the colon.
colonoscopy
Adenocarcinoma of the colon or rectum, or both. Colorectal cancer (Figure 5-24) can arise from polyps in the colon or rectal region. Diagnosis is determined by detecting blood in stool and by colonoscopy. Prognosis depends on the stage (extent of spread) of the tumor, including depth of invasion, and involvement of lymph nodes. Surgical treatment may require excision of a major section of colon with rejoining of the cut ends (anastomosis). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are administered as needed.
colorectal cancer
The suffix -stomy, when used with a combining form for an organ, means an opening to the outside of the body. A stoma is an opening between an organ and the surface of the body (Figure 5-15A and B).
colostomy
Carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum.
common bile duct
A series of x-ray images is taken in multiple views (especially cross section). A CT scan uses a circular array of x-ray beams to produce the cross-sectional image based on differences in tissue densities. Use of contrast material allows visualization of organs and blood vessels and highlights differences in blood flow between normal and diseased tissues (Figure 6-5A and B). Tomography (tom/o means cutting) produces a series of x-ray pictures showing multiple views of an organ. An earlier name for a CT scan is “CAT scan” (computerized axial tomography scan).
computed tomography (CT)
Difficulty in passing stools (feces).
constipation
Chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract. Crohn’s can occur anywhere from mouth to anus but most commonly in the ileum (ileitis) and colon. Signs and symptoms include diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, fever, anorexia, weakness, and weight loss. Both Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Treatment is with drugs that control inflammation and other symptoms or by surgical removal of diseased portions of the intestine, with anastomosis of remaining parts. Read the In Person: Living with Crohn’s story on page 162.
Crohn disease (“Crohn’s”)
Elimination of feces from the digestive tract through the anus.
defecation
Swallowing. HINT: Pronunciation is de-glu-TISH-un.
deglutition
dent/i
tooth
Tooth decay. Dental plaque results from the accumulation of foods, proteins from saliva, and necrotic debris on the tooth enamel. Bacteria grow in the plaque and cause production of acid that dissolves the tooth enamel, resulting in a cavity (area of decay) (Figure 5-20C). If the bacterial infection reaches the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary.
dental caries
Pain in a tooth.
dentalgia
Odont/o also means tooth.
dentibuccal
Primary material found in teeth. It is covered by the enamel in the crown and a protective layer of cementum in the root.
dentin
Frequent passage of loose, watery stools. Abrupt onset of diarrhea immediately after eating suggests acute infection or a toxin in the gastrointestinal tract. Untreated severe diarrhea may lead to dehydration. Antidiarrheal drugs can be helpful. The embedded root rrh means flow or discharge.
diarrhea
Breakdown of complex foods to simpler forms.
digestion
Abnormal outpouchings (diverticula) in the intestinal wall of the colon. See Figure 5-25A. Diverticulitis is a complication of diverticulosis. When fecal matter becomes trapped in diverticula, diverticulitis can occur. Pain and rectal bleeding are symptoms. Figure 5-25B and C shows diverticulitis in a section through the sigmoid colon. Initial treatment for an attack of diverticulitis includes a liquid diet and oral antibiotics. In severe cases, the patient may need hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and surgery to remove the affected area of the colon with anastomosis of the cut ends.
diverticulosis
duoden/o
duodenum
Pertaining to the duodenum.
duodenal
First part of the small intestine. Duo = 2, den = 10; the duodenum measures 12 inches long.
duodenum
Painful inflammation of the intestines commonly caused by bacterial infection. Often occurring in the colon, dysentery results from ingestion of food or water containing bacteria (salmonellae or shigellae), amebae (one-celled organisms), or viruses. Symptoms are bloody stools, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.
dysentery
Painful digestion; indigestion.
dyspepsia
Difficulty in swallowing. This sensation feels like a “lump in the throat” when a swallowed bolus fails to progress, either because of a physical obstruction (obstructive dysphagia) or because of a motor disorder in which esophageal peristalsis is not coordinated (motor dysphagia).
dysphagia
Removal of materials from the body; in the digestive system, the removal of indigestible materials as feces.
elimination
vomiting. An emesis basin is a kidney-shaped container positioned beside a hospital bed to collect vomit. If a child swallows poison, the physician may prescribe a drug to induce emesis. An emetic is a strong solution such as ipecac syrup administered to induce vomiting after a patient swallows poison.
emesis (emetic)
Breaking up large fat globules into smaller globules. This increases the surface area that enzymes can use to digest the fat.
emulsification
Hard, outermost layer of a tooth.
enamel
Performs root canal therapy.
endodontist
Use of an endoscope combined with ultrasound to examine the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. An endoscope is inserted through the mouth or rectum, and ultrasound images are obtained. This test is often used in assessing esophageal, pancreatic, and rectal cancer.
endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)
enter/o
intestines, usually small intestine
HINT:When two combining forms for gastrointestinal organs are in a term, the one for the organ closer to the mouth appears first.
enterocolitis
New opening between two previously unconnected parts of the small intestine. This is an anastomosis, which is any surgical connection between two parts, such as vessels, ducts, or bowel segments (ana = up, stom = opening, -sis = state of) (Figure 5-16).
enteroenterostomy
Chemical that speeds up a reaction between substances. Digestive enzymes break down complex foods to simpler substances. Enzymes are given names that end in -ase.
enzyme
Gas expelled from the stomach through the mouth. Eructation produces a characteristic sound and also is called belching (burping).
eructation
esophag/o
esophagus
HINT: Changing the suffix from -al to -eal softens the final g (eh-sof-ah-JE-al).
esophageal
A congenital anomaly in which the esophagus does not connect with the stomach. A tracheoesophageal fistula often accompanies this abnormality (Figure 6-1).
esophageal atresia
Malignant tumor of the esophagus. The most common symptom of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Smoking and chronic alcohol use are major risk factors. Long-term irritation of the esophagus caused by gastric reflux is a premalignant condition called Barrett esophagus. Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are treatment options.
esophageal cancer
Swollen varicose veins at the lower end of the esophagus (Figure 5-21). Liver disease (such as cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis) causes increased pressure in veins near and around the liver (portal hypertension). This leads to enlarged, tortuous esophageal veins with danger of hemorrhage (bleeding). Treatment may include banding (tying off the swollen esophageal veins) or sclerotherapy (injecting veins with a solution that closes them). Drug therapy to lower portal hypertension can be used to decrease the risk of variceal bleeding.
esophageal varices
Tube connecting the throat to the stomach. Eso- means inward; phag/o means swallowing.
esophagus
eti/o
cause
faci/o
face
Pertaining to the face.
facial
Substances produced when fats are digested.
fatty acids
Transfer of stool from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a recipient. Extensive antibiotic use can wipe out normal colonic bacteria and can lead to infection with C. difficile (harmful bacteria that cause diarrhea and colitis). A fecal transplant restores normal stool bacteria via colonoscopy.
fecal transplant
Solid wastes; stool. The term fecal means pertaining to feces.
feces
Gas expelled through the anus. Flatulence is the presence of excessive gas in the stomach and the intestines. One sign of a bowel obstruction is the inability to pass flatus.
flatus
Small sac under the liver; stores bile. HINT: Gallbladder is one word!
gallbladder
gastr/o
stomach
Malignant tumor of the stomach. Smoking, alcohol use, and chronic gastritis associated with bacterial infection are major risk factors for gastric carcinoma. Gastric endoscopy and biopsy diagnose the condition. Treatment includes chemotherapy and sometimes radiation. Cure depends on early detection and surgical removal.
gastric cancer
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
gastroenteritis
Solids and fluids return to the mouth from the stomach. Heartburn is a burning sensation caused by regurgitation of hydrochloric acid from the stomach to the esophagus. Chronic exposure of esophageal mucosa to gastric acid and pepsin (an enzyme that digests protein) leads to reflux esophagitis. Drug treatment for GERD includes antacid (acid-suppressive) agents and medication to increase the tone of the LES.
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract using an endoscope. A physician places a flexible fiberoptic tube through the mouth or the anus to view parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Examples are esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) (Figure 6-8), colonoscopy (Figures 6-9 and 6-10), sigmoidoscopy, proctoscopy, and anoscopy.
gastrointestinal endoscopy
This is part of a gastric bypass procedure. SeeFigure 6-7B, page 187.
gastrojejunostomy
Hemorrhage of blood (excessive bleeding) from the stomach.
gastrorrhagia
A gastrostomy is also called a G tube or “button.” One type is a PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy) tube, which is inserted (laparoscopically) through the abdomen into the stomach to deliver food and liquids when swallowing is impossible.
gastrostomy
gingiv/o
gums
Removal of gum disease.
gingivectomy
Inflammation of gums.
gingivitis
gloss/o
tongue
Removal of the tongue.
glossectomy
gluc/o, glyc/o
sugar
Liver cells make new sugar from fats and proteins.
gluconeogenesis
Simple sugar.
glucose
glyc/o
sugar
Starch (glucose): A form of sugar stored in the liver. Liver cells change glycogen back to glucose when blood sugar levels drop.
glycogen
glycogen/o
glycogen, animal starch
Breakdown of glycogen to release sugar.
glycogenolysis
hem/o, hemat/o
blood
Bright red blood is vomited, often associated with esophageal varices or peptic ulcer.
hematemesis
(he-mat-o-KE-ze-ah) Bright red blood is found in the feces. Passage of fresh, bright red blood from the rectum. The cause of hematochezia is usually hemorrhoids, but can also be colitis, ulcers, polyps, or cancer.
hematochezia
(he-MOP-tih-sis) Spitting up blood from the respiratory tract and lungs.
hemoptysis
Loss of a large amount of blood in a short period.
hemorrhage
Swollen, twisted varicose veins in the rectal region. Varicose veins can be internal (within the rectum) or external (outside the anal sphincter). Pregnancy and chronic constipation, which put pressure on anal veins, often cause hemorrhoids.
hemorrhoids
hepat/o
liver
Liver cancer. Cancer that starts in the liver is primary liver cancer (as opposed to secondary liver cancer, which starts in another organ and metastasizes to the liver). HCC is commonly associated with hepatitis B and C virus infections and cirrhosis due to chronic alcohol use. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is fatty infiltration of the liver, which may progress to cirrhosis and HCC. Surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy (drugs that help the immune system fight cancer) are therapeutic options. Hepatocellular carcinomas produce alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a tumor marker that is often elevated in the blood in patients with this cancer. AFP is used as a screen for HCC in patients with cirrhosis. Liver cancers that begin in the bile ducts are called cholangiocarcinomas. Bile duct cancers also can arise from the gallbladder.
hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Also called hepatocellular carcinoma.
hepatoma
Enlargement of the liver.
hepatomegaly
herni/o
hernia
Protrusion of an organ or part through the tissues and muscles normally containing it. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach protrudes upward through the diaphragm (Figure 5-22A). This condition can lead to GERD. An inguinal hernia occurs when a small loop of bowel protrudes through a weak lower abdominal wall tissue (fascia) surrounding muscles (Figure 5-22B). Surgical repair of inguinal hernias is known as herniorrhaphy (-rrhaphy means suture).
hernia
(her-ne-OR-ah-fe) Repair (as in stitching or suturing) of a hernia. Hernioplasty is a synonym.
herniorrhaphy
Inflammation of the mouth caused by infection with the herpesvirus. Painful fluid-filled blisters on the lips, palate, gums, and tongue, commonly called fever blisters or cold sores (Figure 5-20D). It is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1). Herpes genitalis (due to HSV2) involves the reproductive organs. Both conditions are highly contagious.
herpetic stomatitis
Radioactive imaging procedure that tracks the **production and flow of bile **from the liver and gallbladder to the intestine. HIDA stands for hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid. Cholescintigraphy is another name for this test, which determines whether the gallbladder is functioning properly.
HIDA scan
Substance (strong acid) produced in the stomach; aids digestion.
hydrochloric acid
High levels of bilirubin (yellow/orange pigment) in the bloodstream; jaundice.
hyperbilirubinemia
High levels of sugar in the bloodstream; associated with diabetes mellitus.
hyperglycemia
Pertaining to under the tongue.
hypoglossal
idi/o
unknown; individual; distinct
ile/o
ileum
Inflammation of the ileum (third part of the small intestine).
ileitis
Also called the ileocecal valve.
ileocecal sphincter
New opening of the ileum to the outside of the body.
ileostomy
Third part of the small intestine from the Greek eilos, meaning twisted. When the abdomen was viewed at autopsy, the intestine appeared twisted, and the ileum often was an area of obstruction.
ileum
Loss of peristalsis with resulting obstruction of the intestines. Surgery, trauma, or bacterial injury to the peritoneum can lead to a paralytic ileus (acute, transient loss of peristalsis).
ileus
Any one of four front teeth in the dental arch.
incisor
Inflammation of the colon and small intestine. See Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis.
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Hormone produced by the endocrine cells of the pancreas. It helps transport sugar into body cells.
insulin
Telescoping of the intestines. In this condition, one segment of the bowel collapses into the opening of another segment (Figure 5-26). It often occurs in children and at the ileocecal region. Intestinal obstruction with pain and vomiting can occur. A barium enema can diagnose and may successfully reduce the intussusception. Otherwise, surgery to remove the affected segment of bowel (followed by anastomosis) may be necessary.
intussusception
Group of GI symptoms (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation) without structural abnormalities in the intestines. IBS may be associated with stress or occur after infection. Treatment includes a diet high in bran and fiber and laxatives plus antidiarrheals to establish regular bowel movements. Other names for IBS are irritable colon and spastic colon. IBS is a type of functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID). These are disorders of how the gastrointestinal tract functions, but without structural or biochemical abnormalities. A diet low in FODMAPs (an acronym for carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed by the intestine) has been helpful in improving symptoms for many with IBS.
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Yellow-orange coloration of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood (hyperbilirubinemia). Jaundice can occur when (1) excessive destruction of erythrocytes, as in hemolysis, causes excess bilirubin in the blood; (2) malfunction of liver cells (hepatocytes) due to liver disease prevents the liver from excreting bilirubin with bile; or (3) obstruction of bile flow, such as from choledocholithiasis or tumor, prevents bilirubin in bile from being excreted into the duodenum.
jaundice (icterus)
jejun/o
jejunum
Second part of the small intestine. The Latin jejunus means empty; this part of the intestine was always empty when a body was examined after death. HINT: Pronunciation is jeh-JU-num.
jejunum
labi/o
lip
Pertaining to the lip.
labial
Pertaining to lips and teeth.
labiodental
lapar/o
abdomen
Visual (endoscopic) examination of the abdomen with a laparoscope inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (see Figure 5-28, page 160) and laparoscopic appendectomy are performed by gastrointestinal and general surgeons. See the In Person: Cholecystectomy story of a woman who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (see page 191). A form of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Examples are laparoscopic cholecystectomy (Figure 5-28, page 160) and laparoscopic appendectomy.
laparoscopy
lingu/o
tongue
lip/o
fat, lipid
Pancreatic enzyme necessary to digest fats. Enzymes speed up chemical reactions. Lipase aids in the digestion of fats. In all types of liver disease, liver enzyme levels may be elevated, indicating damage to liver cells. Signs and symptoms include malaise, anorexia, hepatomegaly, jaundice, and abdominal pain.
lipase
Test for the level of lipase (enzyme to digest fat) in the blood. Increased level is associated with pancreatitis.
lipase test
Benign tumor of fatty tissue.
lipoma
lith/o
stone
Formation of stones (calculi).
lithogenesis
Large organ located in the right upper quadrant (RUQ) of the abdomen. The liver secretes bile; stores sugar, iron, and vitamins; produces blood proteins; destroys worn-out red blood cells; and filters out toxins. The normal adult liver weighs about 2½ to 3 pounds.
liver
Removal of liver tissue for microscopic examination. A physician inserts a needle through the skin to remove a small piece of tissue for microscopic examination. The average sample is less than 1 inch long. The procedure helps doctors diagnose cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and tumors of the liver.
liver biopsy
Liver cells change glycogen back to glucose when blood sugar levels drop.
glycogenolysis
Tests for the presence of enzymes and bilirubin in blood. LFTs are performed on blood serum (clear fluid that remains after blood has clotted). Examples of LFTs are tests for ALT (alanine transaminase) and AST (aspartate transaminase). ALT and AST are enzymes present in many tissues. Levels are elevated in the serum of patients with liver disease. High ALT and AST levels indicate damage to liver cells (as in hepatitis). Alkaline phosphatase (alk phos) is another enzyme that may be elevated in patients with liver, bone, and other diseases. Serum bilirubin levels are elevated in patients with liver disease and jaundice. A direct bilirubin test measures conjugated bilirubin. High levels indicate liver disease or biliary obstruction. An indirect bilirubin test measures unconjugated bilirubin. Increased levels suggest excessive hemolysis, as may occur in a newborn.
liver function tests (LFTs)
Ring of muscles between the esophagus and the stomach. Also called cardiac sphincter.
lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
X-ray images of the colon and rectum obtained after injection of barium into the rectum. Radiologists inject barium (a contrast medium) by enema into the rectum. Figure 6-3A shows a barium enema study of a colon with diverticulosis. Radiologists inject barium (a contrast medium) by enema into the rectum. Figure 6-3A shows a barium enema study of a colon with diverticulosis.
lower gastrointestinal series (barium enema)
Magnetic waves produce images of organs and tissues in all three planes of the body. This technique does not use x-rays. It detects subtle differences in tissue composition, water content, and blood vessel density and can show sites of trauma, infection, or cancer. See Figure 6-6, which shows an MRI study of a patient with rectosigmoid carcinoma and polyps in the rectum. CT scanning would not have shown these lesions as clearly.
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
mandibul/o
lower jaw, mandible
Chewing.
mastication
Black, tarry stools; feces containing digested blood. This clinical sign usually reflects a condition in which blood has had time to be digested (acted on by intestinal juices) and results from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract (duodenal ulcer). A positive result on stool guaiac testing (see page 183) indicates blood in the stool.
melena
Part of the double fold of peritoneum that stretches around the organs in the abdomen, the mesentery holds the organs in place. Literally, it lies in the middle (mes-) of the intestines, a membrane attaching the intestines to the muscle wall at the back of the abdomen (Figure 5-17).
mesentery
Three large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth, on either side of the dental arch. Premolar teeth are two teeth, before the molars.
molar teeth
Insertion of a tube through the nose into the stomach. Physicians use a nasogastric (NG) tube to remove fluid from the stomach and intestines postoperatively (NG decompression). See Figure 6-11.
nasogastric intubation
Unpleasant sensation in the stomach with a tendency to vomit. Common causes are motion sickness, early pregnancy, and viral gastroenteritis. Nausea and vomiting may be symptomatic of a perforation (hole in the wall) of an abdominal organ; obstruction of a bile duct, stomach, or intestine; or exposure to poisons.
nausea
odont/o
tooth
or/o
mouth
Pertaining to the mouth.
oral
White plaques or patches on the mucosa of the mouth. This precancerous lesion (Figure 5-20E) can result from chronic tobacco use (pipe smoking or chewing tobacco). Malignant potential is assessed by microscopic study of biopsied tissue. This precancerous lesion (Figure 5-20E) can result from chronic tobacco use (pipe smoking or chewing tobacco). Malignant potential is assessed by microscopic study of biopsied tissue.
oral leukoplakia
The tonsils are located in the oropharynx.
oropharynx
Orth/o means straight.
orthodontist
palat/o
palate
Roof of the mouth. The hard palate lies anterior to the soft palate and is supported by the upper jawbone (maxilla). The soft palate is the posterior, fleshy part between the mouth and the throat.
palate
Used to treat cases of snoring or sleep apnea caused by obstructions in the throat or nose.
palatopharyngoplasty
Also called palatorrhaphy; this procedure corrects cleft (split) palate, a congenital anomaly. Procedure to repair cleft palate and cleft lip; repair of a cleft palate.
palatoplasty
Organ behind the stomach; produces insulin (for transport of sugar into cells) and enzymes (for digestion of foods).
pancreas
pancreat/o
pancreas
Pertaining to the pancreas.
pancreatic
Malignant tumor of the pancreas. It often occurs in the head of the pancreas (closer to the duodenum), where it can block ducts. Although the cause is unknown, pancreatic cancer is more common in smokers and people with new-onset diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. Symptoms and signs are abdominal or back pain, fatigue, jaundice, anorexia, diarrhea, and weight loss. The standard surgical treatment, if the tumor can be resected, is a pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure). Radiation and chemotherapy may also be used.
pancreatic cancer
Inflammation of the pancreas. Digestive enzymes attack pancreatic tissue and damage the gland. Other etiologic factors include chronic alcoholism, drug toxicity, gallstone obstruction of the common bile duct, and viral infections. Treatment includes medications to relieve epigastric pain, intravenous fluids, bowel rest, and subtotal pancreatectomy if necessary.
pancreatitis
Sometimes called a pancreaticoduodenectomy. This is a Whipple procedure, a surgical treatment for pancreatic cancer. Seepage 192.
pancreatoduodenectomy
Small projections on the tongue. Taste buds (taste receptor cells) are located within the papillae (pap-IL-e).
papillae
Puncture to remove fluid from the abdomen. This procedure is necessary to drain fluid (accumulated in ascites) from the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.
paracentesis (abdominocentesis)
Par (from para-) means apart from in this term. An intravenous line brings parenteral nutrition directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the intestinal tract (enteral nutrition). Parenteral injections may be subcutaneous or intramuscular as well.
parenteral
Salivary gland within the cheek, just anterior to the ear. Note the literal meaning of parotid (par- = near; ot/o = ear).
parotid gland
Open sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. A bacterium, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), is responsible for many cases of peptic ulcer disease. The combination of bacteria, hyperacidity, and gastric juice damages epithelial linings. Drug treatment includes antibiotics, antacids, and agents to protect the lining of the stomach and intestine.
peptic ulcer
Pertaining to surrounding the anus.
perianal
Inflammation and degeneration of gums, teeth, and surrounding bone. Gingivitis (Figure 5-20F) occurs as a result of accumulation of dental plaque and dental calculus or tartar (a yellow-brown calcified deposit on teeth). In gingivectomy, the periodontist uses a metal instrument to scrape away plaque and tartar from teeth; any pockets of pus (pyorrhea) are then drained and removed to allow new tissue to form. Localized infections are treated with systemic antibiotics.
periodontal disease
Membrane that surrounds the tooth in the tooth socket.
periodontal membrane
Dentist specializing in treating the gums.
periodontist
an advanced stage of periodontal disease (gingivitis).
Periodontitis
Rhythmic contractions of the tubular organs. In the gastrointestinal tract, peristalsis moves the contents through at different rates: stomach, 0.5 to 2 hours; small intestine, 2 to 6 hours; and colon, 6 to 72 hours. Peri- means surrounding; -stalsis is constriction. HINT: Pronunciation is peh-rih-STAL-sis.
peristalsis
peritone/o
peritoneum
The e of the root has been dropped in this term.
peritonitis
pharyng/o
throat
Pertaining to the pharynx (throat).
pharyngeal
Throat, the common passageway for food from the mouth and for air from the nose.
pharynx
Excessive appetite and uncontrolled eating.
polyphagia
Large vein bringing blood to the liver from the intestines.
portal vein
seen on written prescriptions, also means after meals.
Post cibum (p.c.)
After meals.
postprandial
proct/o
anus and rectum
Specialist in the study of the anus and the rectum.
proctologist
Visual (endoscopic) examination of the anus, rectum, and sigmoid colon.
proctosigmoidoscopy
prote/o
protein
Enzyme that digests protein.
protease
Soft tissue within a tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels.
pulp
py/o
pus
pyloric sphincter
pylor/o
Ring of muscle at the end of the stomach, near the duodenum. From the Greek pyloros, meaning gatekeeper. It is normally closed, but opens when a wave of peristalsis passes over it.
pyloric sphincter
This is a congenital defect in newborns blocking the flow of food into the small intestine.
pyloric stenosis
Surgical repair of the pyloric sphincter.
pyloroplasty
Involuntary contraction of muscles at the pyloric sphincter.
pylorospasm
Distal region of the stomach, opening to the duodenum.
pylorus
Discharge of pus from the gums.
pyorrhea
rect/o
rectum
Cancer of the rectum.
rectal carcinoma
Hernia of the rectum.
rectocele
Last section of the large intestine, connecting the end of the colon and the anus.
rectum
Ridges on the hard palate and the wall of the stomach. HINT: Pronunciation is RU-guy.
rugae
Digestive juice produced by salivary glands. Saliva contains the enzyme amylase, which begins the digestion of starch to sugar.
saliva
Parotid, sublingual, and submandibular glands.
salivary glands
sial/o
saliva, salivary
salivary gland
sialaden/o
Removal (excision) of a salivary gland.
sialadenectomy
Inflammation of a salivary gland.
sialadenitis
Salivary gland stone; lodged in a salivary gland or duct.
sialolith
Lower, S-shaped segment of the colon, just before the rectum; empties into the rectum.
sigmoid colon
sigmoid/o
sigmoid colon
Visual endoscopic examination of the sigmoid colon.
sigmoidoscopy
Eating spicy foods can lead to spasm of gastric sphincters.
spasm
Circular ring of muscle that constricts a passage or closes a natural opening.
sphincter
splen/o
spleen
The downward bend in the transverse colon near the spleen. The hepatic flexure is the bend in the transverse colon near the liver.
splenic flexure
Overgrowth of bacteria within the small intestine can cause stasis of the intestinal contents.
stasis
steat/o
fat
Fat in the feces. Steatorrhea is production of frothy, foul-smelling fecal matter that often floats in the toilet. Improper digestion or absorption of fat causes fat to remain in the intestine. This may occur with disease of the pancreas such as pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, when pancreatic enzymes are not excreted. It also is a sign of intestinal disease that involves malabsorption of fat.
steatorrhea
Improperly digested (malabsorbed) fats will appear in the feces.
steatorrhea
Projectile vomiting in an infant during feeding is a clinical sign of pyloric stenosis.
stenosis
Muscular organ that receives food from the esophagus. The parts of the stomach are the fundus (proximal section), body (middle section), and antrum (distal section).
stomach
stomat/o
mouth
Inflammation of the mouth.
stomatitis
Test for microorganisms present in feces. Feces are placed in a growth medium and examined microscopically. See Figure 6-2A.
stool culture
Test to detect occult (hidden) blood in feces. This is an important screening test for colon cancer. Guaiac (GWI-ak) is a chemical from the wood of trees. When added to a stool sample, it reacts with any blood present in the feces. See Figure 6-2B.
stool guaiac test or Hemoccult test
Pertaining to under the tongue.
sublingual
Pertaining to under the lower jaw (mandible).
submandibular
tonsill/o
tonsil
Intravenous solutions contain sugar, amino acids, electrolytes, and vitamins.
total parenteral nutrition
Fat molecules composed of three parts fatty acids and one part glycerol. Triglycerides (fats) are a subgroup of lipids. Another type of lipid is cholesterol.
triglycerides
Chronic inflammation of the colon with presence of ulcers. This idiopathic, chronic, recurrent diarrheal disease (an inflammatory bowel disease) manifests with rectal bleeding and pain. Often beginning in the colon, the inflammation spreads proximally, involving the entire colon. Drug treatment and careful attention to diet are recommended. Resection of diseased bowel with ileostomy may be necessary. In some cases it is cured by total colectomy. Patients with ulcerative colitis are at a higher risk for developing colon cancer.
ulcerative colitis
X-ray images of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine obtained after administering barium by mouth. Often performed immediately after an upper gastrointestinal series, a small bowel follow-through study shows sequential x-ray pictures of the small intestine as barium passes through (Figure 6-3B). A barium swallow is a study of the esophagus.
upper gastrointestinal series
?
Upper Gastrointestinal Tract
uvul/o
uvula
Soft tissue hanging from the middle of the soft palate. The Latin uva means bunch of grapes.
uvula
Removal (excision) of the uvula.
uvulectomy
Microscopic projections in the wall of the small intestine that absorb nutrients into the bloodstream.
villi (singular: villus)
Inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. Hepatitis A is viral hepatitis caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is a disorder spread by contaminated food or water and characterized by slow onset of symptoms. Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is transmitted by sexual contact, blood transfusions, or the use of contaminated needles or may be acquired by maternal to fetal transmission. Severe infection can cause destruction of liver cells, cirrhosis, or death. A vaccine that provides immunity is available and recommended for persons at risk for exposure. Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and is transmitted by blood transfusions or needle inoculation (such as among intravenous drug users sharing needles). The acute illness may progress to chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Two drugs approved by the FDA for hepatitis C are Mavyret and Vosevi. In all types, liver enzyme levels may be elevated, indicating damage to liver cells. Signs and symptoms include malaise, anorexia, hepatomegaly, jaundice, and abdominal pain.
viral hepatitis
combines CT scanning and computer technology to enable physicians to examine the entire length of the colon by x-ray imaging in just minutes. Patients with abnormal findings require conventional colonoscopy afterward for further assessment or treatment, such as with biopsy or polypectomy.
Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography)
Twisting of the intestine on itself. Volvulus causes intestinal obstruction. Severe pain, nausea and vomiting, and absence of bowel sounds are clinical features. Surgical correction is necessary to prevent necrosis of the affected segment of the bowel (see Figure 5-26).
volvulus
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? AFP
alpha-fetoprotein—tumor marker for liver cancer
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? alk phos
alkaline phosphatase
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? ALT, AST
alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase—enzymes measured in blood to evaluate liver function
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? BE
barium enema
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? BM
bowel movement
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? BRBPR
bright red blood per rectum—hematochezia
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? CD
celiac disease
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? CIC
chronic idiopathic constipation
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? CT
computed tomography
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? EGD
esophagogastroduodenoscopy
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? EPI
exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? ERCP
endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? ESLD
end-stage liver disease
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? EUS
endoscopic ultrasonography
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? FOBT
fecal occult blood test
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? G tube
gastrostomy tube—feeding tube
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? GB
gallbladder
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? GERD
gastroesophageal reflux disease
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? GI
gastrointestinal
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? HBV
hepatitis B virus
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? HCC
hepatocellular carcinoma
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? IBD
inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis)
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? IBS
irritable bowel syndrome
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? J-tube
jejunostomy tube—feeding tube
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? LAC
laparoscopic-assisted colectomy
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? LAP
laparoscopic
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? LFTs
liver function tests—alk phos, bilirubin, AST, ALT
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? MRCP
Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? MRI
magnetic resonance imaging
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? NASH
nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (fatty liver)
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? NG tube
nasogastric tube
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? NPO
nothing by mouth (Latin nil per os)
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? PEG tube
percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube—feeding tube
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? PEJ tube
percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy tube—feeding tube
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? PTC
percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? PUD
peptic ulcer disease
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? SIBO
small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? T-tube
special tube (shaped like the letter T) placed in the bile duct for drainage into a small pouch (bile bag) on the outside of the body
What does the abbrevaition ___ mean? TPN
Total Parenteral Nutrition
What does the suffix ____ mean? -rrhage, -rrhagia
bursting forth (of blood)
