Upper gastrointestinal disease Flashcards
What is chronic gastritis?
Ongoing inflammation of the stomach mucosa.
Symptoms of chronic gastritis
Upper abdo pain Indigestion or bloating Nausea and vomiting Belching Loss of appetite or weight loss Can be asymptomatic
Causes of chronic gastritis
H Pylori Alcohol Tobacco Psychological stress Caffiene Autoimmune
What is H Pylori?
Gram negative bacteria found in the stomach. Most likely acquired via faecal-oral route.
What can H Pylori cause
Peptic ulcers, non-ulcer disease, gastric adenocarcinoma, gastric maltoma & gastritis
Where does peptic ulcer disease usually occur
Stomach, D1 (duodenum) or antrum
Common causes of peptic ulcers
H pylori and NSAIDs
Symptoms of peptic ulcers
Pain (gnawing, burning, aching) that is worse at night and after meals
Complications of peptic ulcers
Iron deficiency anaemia from bleeding, hematemesis and perforation leading to peritonitis
What happens to the lining of the oesophagus in Barrett’s oesophagus?
Stratified squamous epithelium replaced by columnar epithelium with goblet cells.
Barrett’s oesophagus is strongly associated with which type of carcinoma?
Oesophageal adenocarcinoma
How can GI cancers spread?
Directly into surrounding tissues. Via lymphatic system to Para oesophageal, paratracheal and cervical node groups. Via haematogenous (blood) to liver or lung.
What are the risk factors for small intestine cancer?
Chron’s, coeliac disease, radiation and hereditary.
What is coeliac disease?
Extensive mucosal disease related to sensitivity to gluten.
Symptoms of coeliac disease
Pain, chronic constipation/diarrhoea, failure to thrive in babies, anaemia and fatigue
