Test 1 Flashcards
What is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract?
The GI tract extends from the mouth to the anus and is composed of several organs with distinct functions.
What role do sphincters play in the GI tract?
Sphincters assist in gut compartmentalization.
What are the main layers of the gut wall?
The gut wall is organized into well-defined layers that contribute to functional activities.
What is the primary function of the mucosa in the GI tract?
The mucosa acts as a barrier to luminal contents or a site for transfer of fluids or nutrients.
How does propulsion occur in the GI tract?
Gut smooth muscle, in association with the enteric nervous system, mediates propulsion from one region to the next.
What are pancreaticobiliary conduits?
Pancreaticobiliary conduits deliver bile and enzymes into the duodenum.
What is the primary function of the GI tract?
The GI tract serves two main functions: assimilating nutrients and eliminating waste.
What happens to food in the mouth?
Food is processed, mixed with salivary amylase, and delivered to the gut lumen.
What is the role of the lower esophageal sphincter?
The lower esophageal sphincter prevents oral reflux of gastric contents.
What is the main function of the stomach?
The stomach triturates and mixes the bolus with pepsin and acid.
What is intrinsic factor, and why is it important?
Intrinsic factor is secreted by the stomach for vitamin B12 absorption.
What is the primary function of the small intestine?
The small intestine serves most of the nutrient absorptive function of the gut.
What is the role of bile in digestion?
Bile is essential for intestinal lipid digestion.
Fill in the blank: The proximal intestine is optimized for rapid absorption of _______.
nutrient breakdown products and most minerals.
What is the function of the colon?
The colon prepares the waste material for controlled evacuation.
What is the typical volume of stool expelled from the rectum?
100–200 mL.
What role do lymphatic channels play in the GI tract?
Lymphatic channels assist in gut immune activities.
True or False: The gut is in continuity with the outside environment.
True.
What are common causes of impaired digestion and absorption?
- Lactase deficiency
- Celiac disease
- Bacterial overgrowth
- Crohn’s ileitis
What disorders are associated with altered secretion in the GI tract?
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- Atrophic gastritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
What is achalasia?
Achalasia is characterized by impaired esophageal body peristalsis and incomplete lower esophageal sphincter relaxation.
What is the most common cause of abdominal pain?
Irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia.
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning substernal sensation, often resulting from gastroesophageal reflux of acid.
What are the symptoms of altered bowel habits?
- Constipation
- Diarrhea