Distal GI tract pathology Flashcards
Define Diarrhoea
Loose or watery stools 3 times a day
What is secretory diarrhoea?
Too much secretions of ions into the lumen increasing water or too little absorption of sodium
What is osmotic diarrhoea?
The lumen contains too much osmotic material from malabsorption. (will settle if stop consuming the offending substance)
Define constipation
Hard stools, difficult to pass or inability to pass
Name 2 treatments for constipation
Increased fluid intake, increased activity and increased dietary fibre
Name the 3 types of appendicitis
Acute, gangrenous and perforated
What causes an appendicitis?
Blockage of the appendiceal lumen or a bacterial or viral infection
What is McBurneys point?
2/3rds of the way from umbilicus to ASIS where rebound tenderness can be felt
What is diverticulosis?
asymptomatic outpouchings of mucosa ans submuscosa
What is acute diverticulitis?
Where the diverticula become inflamed or perforate
What is the treatment for acute diverticulitis?
Antibiotics, fluid resuscitation and possible surgery
How long is the rectum?
12-15cm long
What is the blood supply to the rectum?
Superior, middle and inferior rectal arteries
What is the start of the anal canal?
The proximal border of the anal sphincter complex
What does the puborectalis muscle do?
Connects to the pubic bone and is a sling around the rectum changing its direction so the anal canal points posteriorly
What is the nerve supply to the external anal sphincter?
Pudendal nerve
What are anal cushions?
3 Complex venous plexus in the anus to aid in continence
What are haemorrhoids?
Symptomatic anal cushions
What is an external haemorrhoid?
One below the dentate line that is very painful
What is an anal fissure?
A tear in the andoderm usually due to high internal anal sphincter tone
What is Haematochezia?
Bright red blood in the stool caused by a problem in the distal GI tract
