Inflammation Key Terms Flashcards
A chronic condition where stomach acid or contents flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. It may lead to complications like esophageal damage or Barrett’s esophagus if untreated.
gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD)
A condition in which the normal squamous cells lining the esophagus are replaced with columnar cells, often due to chronic irritation from acid reflux (GERD). This change increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma.
Barrett epithelium
the kidney enlarges as urine collects in the renal pelvis and kidney tissue
hydronephrosis
The collection of free fluid in the peritoneal cavity caused by increased hydrostatic pressure from portal hypertension.
ascites
Painful urination.
dysuria
A complication of cirrhosis caused by excessive ascitic volume and manifested by dyspnea as a result of intraabdominal pressure, which limits thoracic expansion and diaphragmatic excursion.
hepatopulmonary syndrome
Fatty stools.
steatorrhea
An invasive procedure performed to remove abdominal fluid in patients who have massive ascites.
paracentesis
A major complication of cirrhosis resulting in persistent increase in pressure within the portal vein from 3 mm Hg to at least 10 mm Hg.
portal
hypertension
when GI mucosal defenses become impaired and no longer protect the epithelium from the effects of acid and pepsin.
Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
an acute inflammation of the vermiform appendix that peaks in individuals between the ages of 15 and 19 but can occur in those who are younger or older.
Appendicitis
the widespread inflammation and infection of liver cells.
Hepatitis
A highly contagious virus that causes acute liver infection. It is typically transmitted through fecal-oral contact, often via contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Vaccination can help prevent infection.
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV)
A virus that causes acute or chronic liver infection, transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Chronic infection can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer. Vaccination is available for prevention.
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
A virus that causes chronic liver infection, primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, often via shared needles or unsafe medical practices. Many people with HCV are asymptomatic initially, but it can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer over time.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV)
A defective virus that can only infect individuals already infected with Hepatitis B virus (HBV), as it requires HBV for replication. It causes severe liver disease, potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. It is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids.
Hepatitis D virus (HDV)
A virus that causes acute liver inflammation, typically transmitted through fecal-oral contamination, often due to contaminated water. It is common in regions with poor sanitation. Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Hepatitis E virus (HEV)
A disease characterized by widespread fibrotic (scarred) bands of connective tissue that change the liver’s anatomy and physiology.
Cirrhosis
A general term for conditions affecting the gallbladder, often due to gallstones (solid particles that form in the gallbladder) or inflammation (cholecystitis). Symptoms may include right upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. If severe, it can lead to complications like gallbladder rupture or pancreatitis. Treatment may include medication or surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy).
Gallbladder Disease
