Condition Lookup
Speciality:
Gastrointestinal
Number of Conditions: 91
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
heartburn; regurgitation of food or sour liquid; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; chronic cough; hoarseness; sensation of a lump in the throat
Root Cause:
The backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus due to a weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, endoscopy, pH monitoring, esophageal manometry, or barium swallow studies.
Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., weight loss, dietary changes), medications, and surgery in severe cases (e.g., fundoplication).
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or esomeprazole to reduce stomach acid; H2-receptor antagonists like ranitidine or famotidine for acid suppression; antacids for quick relief; prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide to improve esophageal motility.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 20% of adults in the Western world.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, smoking, alcohol consumption, and dietary factors such as high-fat or spicy foods.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; chronic GERD may lead to complications if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures, and an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain or cramping; bloating; gas; diarrhea; constipation; alternating diarrhea and constipation; mucus in stool
Root Cause:
Disruption in the normal function of the gut-brain axis leading to hypersensitivity of the intestines and abnormal motility patterns.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and symptom-based criteria (e.g., Rome IV criteria), exclusion of other conditions through blood tests, stool tests, and sometimes colonoscopy.
Treatment:
Dietary changes (e.g., low-FODMAP diet), stress management, physical activity, and symptom-specific therapies.
Medications:
Antispasmodics (e.g., dicyclomine ), fiber supplements, laxatives for constipation, loperamide for diarrhea, and antidepressants (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) for managing pain and hypersensitivity.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-15% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in women and young to middle-aged adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, stress, anxiety, depression, history of gastrointestinal infections, and food intolerances.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with varying severity; manageable with lifestyle modifications and treatment, but symptoms may persist intermittently.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Impacts quality of life, increased risk of depression and anxiety, and potential overlap with other functional disorders such as fibromyalgia.
Pyloric Stenosis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Structural and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
forceful projectile vomiting (non-bilious); palpable olive-shaped mass in the abdomen; dehydration; weight loss; persistent hunger
Root Cause:
Thickening of the pyloric sphincter muscle, causing narrowing of the passage between the stomach and duodenum, leading to obstruction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound is the gold standard for diagnosis, showing thickened pyloric muscle. Additional tests may include an upper GI series (contrast study) for confirmation.
Treatment:
Surgery (pyloromyotomy) to cut the thickened muscle and relieve obstruction. Preoperative treatment involves correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Medications:
No long-term medications; immediate care involves IV fluids for dehydration and electrolyte replenishment. Antiemetics like ondansetron may be used temporarily.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 2-3 per 1,000 live births, more common in male infants.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex, firstborn status, family history of pyloric stenosis, and macrolide antibiotic use during early infancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely surgical intervention; most infants recover fully without long-term complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis), and failure to thrive if left untreated.
Crohn’s Disease
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; persistent diarrhea; fatigue; weight loss; fever; mouth sores; blood in stool; reduced appetite
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation affecting any part of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the ileum and colon, caused by an abnormal immune response to intestinal microbiota.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, colonoscopy with biopsy, capsule endoscopy, CT or MRI enterography, blood tests (e.g., CRP, anemia, hypoalbuminemia), and stool tests.
Treatment:
Treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications, immune modulators, biologic therapies, dietary management, and, in some cases, surgical resection of affected bowel segments.
Medications:
Aminosalicylates (e.g., sulfasalazine , mesalamine ) for mild disease; corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide , prednisone ) for acute flares; immunomodulators (e.g., methotrexate , azathioprine ); biologics (e.g., adalimumab , ustekinumab ) targeting TNF or interleukins; antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole , ciprofloxacin ) for secondary infections or complications.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 780,000 people in the United States; incidence is rising globally, especially in developed nations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking, urban lifestyle, Western diet, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and younger age (typically diagnosed between 15-30 years).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with variable severity; periods of remission and exacerbation; not curable but manageable; surgery is often needed in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel obstruction, fistulas, abscesses, malnutrition, increased risk of colorectal cancer, osteoporosis, and extraintestinal manifestations like skin disorders and joint inflammation.
Ulcerative Colitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)
Symptoms:
persistent diarrhea; abdominal pain; rectal bleeding; urgency to defecate; fatigue; weight loss; fever
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation and ulceration of the mucosal lining of the colon and rectum, likely due to an autoimmune response triggered by environmental and genetic factors.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, colonoscopy with biopsy, stool tests, blood tests (e.g., CRP, ESR), and imaging studies like CT or MRI enterography.
Treatment:
Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery (proctocolectomy with ileostomy or ileal pouch-anal anastomosis).
Medications:
Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine , sulfasalazine ) to reduce inflammation; corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for acute flares; immunomodulators (e.g., azathioprine ) to suppress the immune response; biologics (e.g., infliximab , adalimumab ) targeting specific inflammatory pathways.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2 million people in the United States, with incidence rates rising in many developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, Caucasian or Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity, living in urban or industrialized areas, younger age (usually diagnosed before age 30).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with periods of remission and flare-ups; manageable with treatment; surgery can be curative but has associated risks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of colon cancer, toxic megacolon, perforation, severe bleeding, malnutrition, and extraintestinal manifestations like arthritis and uveitis.
Appendicitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Abdominal Pain and Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden pain in the lower right abdomen; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; fever; constipation or diarrhea
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the appendix, often due to obstruction of the appendiceal lumen by fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia, or other blockages.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms, imaging (ultrasound or CT scan), and blood tests showing elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers.
Treatment:
Surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy) is the standard treatment, sometimes preceded by antibiotics in uncomplicated cases.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or metronidazole are prescribed preoperatively and postoperatively in some cases to manage or prevent infection.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 7% of the population, most commonly in individuals aged 10-30 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, high-fat/low-fiber diets, and gastrointestinal infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely diagnosis and treatment; recovery is typically quick following surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation of the appendix, peritonitis, abscess formation, and sepsis in untreated or delayed cases.
Intestinal Obstruction
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; bloating; nausea and vomiting; inability to pass stool or gas; abdominal distension
Root Cause:
Partial or complete blockage of the intestinal lumen, caused by adhesions, tumors, hernias, or impacted stool.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, abdominal X-rays, CT scan, ultrasound, and blood tests to check for dehydration or infection.
Treatment:
Non-surgical management includes IV fluids, nasogastric tube decompression, and bowel rest; surgery is required for complete obstructions, strangulation, or ischemia.
Medications:
Pain management with opioids (e.g., morphine ), antiemetics for nausea (e.g., ondansetron ), and antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole , ceftriaxone ) if infection or peritonitis is suspected.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 20% of emergency hospital admissions for acute abdominal pain.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prior abdominal or pelvic surgery, intestinal adhesions, hernias, tumors, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment, but delayed management can result in bowel ischemia, perforation, and sepsis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel ischemia, perforation, sepsis, and death if left untreated.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Liver Disorders
Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; unexplained liver dysfunction; dyspnea; recurrent respiratory infections; unintentional weight loss
Root Cause:
Mutation in the SERPINA1 gene leading to misfolded alpha-1 antitrypsin protein that accumulates in the liver and reduces its protective effect in the lungs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to measure alpha-1 antitrypsin levels, genetic testing, liver biopsy, and pulmonary function tests.
Treatment:
Management of liver and lung symptoms; augmentation therapy for lung protection, and in severe cases, liver or lung transplantation.
Medications:
Alpha-1 proteinase inhibitors (e.g., Prolastin , Zemaira , Glassia ) for lung protection. There are no direct medications for the liver dysfunction, though supportive therapies are used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 individuals of European descent.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking (worsens lung symptoms), exposure to lung irritants.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; lung and liver disease can progress if untreated. Augmentation therapy and avoiding lung irritants can improve outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and respiratory failure.
Esophageal Stricture
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing (dysphagia); painful swallowing (odynophagia); regurgitation of food; unexplained weight loss; chest pain
Root Cause:
Narrowing of the esophagus due to scar tissue formation, inflammation, or external compression, often caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), radiation therapy, or ingestion of caustic substances.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using endoscopy, barium swallow X-ray, or esophageal manometry.
Treatment:
Endoscopic dilation using a balloon or bougie, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid suppression, and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., GERD treatment). In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole , lansoprazole ) to reduce acid and prevent further damage. Corticosteroids may be used in certain inflammatory strictures.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among adults with GERD; prevalence increases with age and in patients with a history of esophageal trauma or surgery.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic GERD, radiation therapy to the chest, esophageal surgery, ingestion of corrosive substances, certain infections (e.g., fungal or viral esophagitis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early, but recurrence is possible. Long-term acid suppression therapy is often needed to prevent recurrence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent dysphagia, food impaction, malnutrition, and an increased risk of esophageal perforation during dilation.
Esophageal Rings and Webs
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing (intermittent dysphagia); sensation of food sticking in the throat; regurgitation; chest discomfort after eating large meals
Root Cause:
Thin, membrane-like constrictions in the esophagus caused by structural abnormalities, congenital defects, or chronic acid exposure. Schatzki rings are typically located at the gastroesophageal junction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Barium swallow X-ray or upper endoscopy.
Treatment:
Endoscopic dilation, lifestyle modifications (e.g., eating smaller bites, thorough chewing), and acid suppression therapy using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole , esomeprazole ) to reduce acid reflux and prevent progression.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively common; Schatzki rings are found in up to 6-14% of the population, often asymptomatic.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
GERD, chronic acid reflux, genetic predisposition, age (more common in adults over 40).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment, but recurrence of symptoms may occur if GERD is not managed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent dysphagia, esophageal perforation during treatment, risk of aspiration if untreated.
Esophageal Diverticula (e.g., Zenker’s Diverticulum)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; regurgitation of undigested food; chronic bad breath (halitosis); coughing or choking while eating; unexplained weight loss
Root Cause:
Outpouching of the esophageal wall, typically caused by increased pressure within the esophagus due to motility disorders or muscle weakness.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Barium swallow X-ray or upper endoscopy.
Treatment:
Surgical correction (e.g., endoscopic diverticulotomy, myotomy), dietary modifications, and treatment of underlying motility issues.
Medications:
No specific medications directly treat diverticula; acid suppression (PPIs) may be prescribed to manage associated GERD.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, more common in older adults, especially over the age of 60.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, esophageal motility disorders, chronic GERD.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with surgical treatment; untreated cases may lead to progressive symptoms and complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, perforation, or esophageal obstruction.
Achalasia
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; regurgitation of undigested food; chest pain; heartburn-like symptoms; unintentional weight loss
Root Cause:
Failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax due to nerve degeneration, causing impaired esophageal motility and food stasis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via esophageal manometry (gold standard), barium swallow X-ray, and endoscopy to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
Pneumatic dilation, surgical myotomy (Heller myotomy), or peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM); medications such as nitrates or calcium channel blockers may be used in mild cases.
Medications:
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine ) and nitrates (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate ) to relax the LES; botulinum toxin injections can provide temporary relief.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 people annually; more common in middle-aged and older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
No definitive risk factors, though genetic predisposition and autoimmune mechanisms are suspected.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate intervention, but symptoms may recur. Long-term follow-up is often required.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of aspiration, esophageal perforation during dilation, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (long-term complication).
Esophagitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
pain or difficulty swallowing; chest pain; heartburn; regurgitation; nausea; vomiting; sore throat
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the esophageal lining caused by acid reflux, infections, medications, or allergies.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy, barium swallow studies, and laboratory tests for infectious causes.
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, acid suppression therapy, treating infections with appropriate medications, and dietary modifications.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like pantoprazole for acid suppression; antifungals like fluconazole for fungal infections; antivirals like acyclovir for herpes esophagitis; corticosteroids for eosinophilic esophagitis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; varies depending on the underlying cause (e.g., GERD-related esophagitis affects millions).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
GERD, immunosuppression, prolonged medication use, food allergies, and certain infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate treatment; untreated cases can lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Strictures, ulcers, bleeding, and perforation in severe cases.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; food impaction; chest pain; heartburn; upper abdominal pain; vomiting in children
Root Cause:
Chronic allergic inflammatory condition caused by eosinophil infiltration into the esophageal lining.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy revealing eosinophilic infiltration (>15 eosinophils per high-power field); allergy testing.
Treatment:
Elimination diets, acid suppression therapy, and corticosteroids (topical or systemic).
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids like fluticasone or budesonide (swallowed); proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole for acid suppression.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 2,000 people, more common in males and individuals with atopic conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or atopic dermatitis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but it often requires long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophageal strictures, food impactions, and reduced quality of life.
Infectious Esophagitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
painful swallowing; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; fever in some cases; nausea
Root Cause:
Infections of the esophagus, commonly caused by Candida species, herpes simplex virus (HSV), or cytomegalovirus (CMV) in immunocompromised individuals.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy and culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for viral pathogens.
Treatment:
Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy, depending on the causative agent.
Medications:
Antifungals like fluconazole for Candida ; antivirals such as acyclovir for HSV and ganciclovir for CMV.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplants.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, prolonged corticosteroid use, and uncontrolled diabetes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; delayed therapy can lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation, strictures, and dissemination of the infection.
Barrett’s Esophagus
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; chronic heartburn; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; regurgitation
Root Cause:
Replacement of normal esophageal squamous epithelium with metaplastic columnar epithelium due to chronic acid exposure from GERD.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy confirming intestinal metaplasia.
Treatment:
Regular surveillance with endoscopy, acid suppression with PPIs, and endoscopic interventions for dysplasia or early cancer.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like esomeprazole or lansoprazole to control acid reflux.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1-2% of the population, more common in males and individuals over 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic GERD, obesity, smoking, and a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Stable for most; requires monitoring due to the risk of progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dysplasia and increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Diffuse Esophageal Spasm
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
chest pain (often mistaken for angina); difficulty swallowing (dysphagia); regurgitation; sensation of food stuck in the chest; pain that may radiate to the back or arms
Root Cause:
Uncoordinated or simultaneous esophageal muscle contractions that disrupt normal swallowing. The cause is often idiopathic but may involve nerve dysfunction or muscle hyperresponsiveness.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically includes barium swallow X-rays, esophageal manometry (measuring esophageal muscle contractions), and endoscopy to rule out structural abnormalities.
Treatment:
Treatment involves dietary modifications, medications to relax the esophagus, and, in severe cases, endoscopic or surgical interventions.
Medications:
Medications include calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem or nifedipine ) to reduce muscle contractions, nitrates (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate ) to relax esophageal muscles, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) if reflux symptoms coexist.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, exact prevalence unknown, but it is estimated to affect less than 1% of the population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, stress, anxiety, and other motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often manageable with medications and lifestyle changes. Severe cases may require advanced therapies, but the condition does not usually lead to life-threatening complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of malnutrition, weight loss, or aspiration pneumonia due to chronic dysphagia; potential progression to esophageal spasm with impaired quality of life.
Nutcracker Esophagus
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
chest pain; painful swallowing (odynophagia); difficulty swallowing; heartburn-like symptoms; spasms triggered by hot or cold foods or drinks
Root Cause:
Excessive pressure during esophageal muscle contractions, though the contractions remain coordinated. It may result from heightened nerve sensitivity or hypercontractile response.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via high-resolution esophageal manometry, which measures pressure and coordination of esophageal contractions.
Treatment:
Treatment includes muscle relaxants, pain management, and dietary adjustments. Behavioral therapy may be helpful for managing stress-related triggers.
Medications:
Medications include calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine ), nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ) to reduce muscle pressure, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., sertraline ) to modulate pain perception.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for about 4-6% of esophageal motility disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, anxiety, and other functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate management; symptoms can be alleviated, but chronic cases may require ongoing treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential weight loss or esophageal mucosal damage if the condition is associated with significant reflux.
Ineffective Esophageal Motility
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Esophageal Disorders
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing (especially liquids); food regurgitation; heartburn; chest discomfort after eating; cough due to aspiration
Root Cause:
Weak or absent esophageal muscle contractions, leading to impaired transit of food and liquids to the stomach. Often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
High-resolution esophageal manometry is used to identify weak peristalsis or failed esophageal contractions. Endoscopy may be used to rule out structural abnormalities.
Treatment:
Treatment includes addressing underlying GERD, dietary changes, and, in some cases, medications to improve motility.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole ) to treat associated reflux, prokinetic agents (e.g., metoclopramide ) to enhance esophageal motility, and H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine) for mild reflux symptoms.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Commonly found in patients with GERD, with prevalence estimated between 30-40% in this group.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
GERD, obesity, connective tissue disorders (e.g., scleroderma), and advanced age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are often manageable with treatment; severe cases may require long-term management strategies.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic dysphagia, aspiration pneumonia, and esophageal strictures if GERD is not effectively managed.
Adenocarcinoma
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Colorectal Cancer
Symptoms:
blood in stool; unintended weight loss; persistent abdominal pain; changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation); fatigue; anemia
Root Cause:
Adenocarcinoma arises from glandular cells lining the colon or rectum, often due to mutations in the APC gene or other tumor-suppressor genes, environmental factors, and lifestyle-related risks.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Colonoscopy with biopsy for histopathological analysis; imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, and PET scans for staging; blood tests including CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) levels.
Treatment:
Treatment involves surgical resection of the tumor, often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy based on the stage. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies may also be used.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and oxaliplatin (alkylating agent); targeted therapies like bevacizumab (VEGF inhibitor) and cetuximab (EGFR inhibitor); immunotherapies including nivolumab and pembrolizumab (PD-1 inhibitors).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The most common type of colorectal cancer, with an incidence of approximately 1.9 million new cases annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age over 50, family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), smoking, high-fat diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, alcohol consumption.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Survival depends on the stage at diagnosis. The 5-year survival rate is over 90% for localized disease but drops significantly for metastatic cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal obstruction, perforation, metastasis to liver or lungs, cachexia, and recurrence.
Gastritis (Acute and Chronic)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; bloating; belching; indigestion; dark stools (if bleeding occurs)
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the stomach lining caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, excessive alcohol consumption, NSAID use, or autoimmune disorders.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Through patient history, physical examination, endoscopy with biopsy, and testing for H. pylori (urea breath test, stool antigen test, or blood antibody test).
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause (e.g., H. pylori eradication, reducing NSAID use), lifestyle modifications, and symptomatic relief.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or lansoprazole to reduce stomach acid. H2-receptor antagonists such as ranitidine or famotidine to reduce acid production. Antibiotics (if H. pylori is present) like amoxicillin , clarithromycin , and metronidazole for bacterial eradication. Antacids for temporary relief of symptoms.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide; chronic gastritis is prevalent in up to 50% of the global population, with higher rates in developing countries due to H. pylori.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic H. pylori infection, long-term NSAID use, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, stress, autoimmune conditions, older age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; acute cases often resolve quickly, while chronic cases require ongoing management to prevent complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peptic ulcers, gastric bleeding, anemia, increased risk of gastric cancer (especially in chronic cases linked to H. pylori).
Helicobacter pylori Infection
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Bacterial Infections
Symptoms:
upper abdominal pain; nausea; bloating; loss of appetite; frequent burping; unintentional weight loss; dark stools (if ulcers or bleeding occur)
Root Cause:
Infection of the stomach lining with H. pylori bacteria, which disrupts the protective mucosal barrier and induces inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urea breath test, stool antigen test, blood antibody test, or endoscopy with biopsy for histology, urease testing, or PCR.
Treatment:
Eradication therapy with a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin , clarithromycin , and metronidazole or levofloxacin (used in combination for eradication therapy). Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or esomeprazole to reduce stomach acid and enhance antibiotic effectiveness. Bismuth-containing compounds (e.g., bismuth subsalicylate ) in quadruple therapy regimens.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 50% of the global population, with higher prevalence in developing countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor sanitation, contaminated food or water, close contact with infected individuals, living in crowded or resource-limited settings.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent if treated promptly; eradication significantly reduces the risk of gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, increased risk of gastric cancer.
Gastroparesis (Delayed Gastric Emptying)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Structural and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; bloating; early satiety; abdominal pain; unintentional weight loss; heartburn
Root Cause:
Impaired motility of the stomach muscles prevents proper emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine, often associated with vagus nerve damage or autonomic dysfunction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through gastric emptying studies (scintigraphy), upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy to rule out obstruction, and breath tests (e.g., carbon-labeled meal breath test).
Treatment:
Dietary changes (small, low-fat meals), medications to improve gastric motility, and in severe cases, gastric electrical stimulation or feeding tubes.
Medications:
Metoclopramide (dopamine antagonist) is often prescribed to improve stomach contractions. Domperidone (dopamine antagonist) is another option available in some regions. Erythromycin (macrolide antibiotic) can enhance gastric motility as a side effect. Antiemetics such as ondansetron or promethazine may be used to manage nausea.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.2% of the general population; higher prevalence among individuals with diabetes or post-surgical complications.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes mellitus, prior gastric surgery, systemic diseases like scleroderma, infections, and certain medications (e.g., opioids, anticholinergics).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; many cases improve with dietary changes and medications, but severe cases may lead to malnutrition and require surgical interventions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malnutrition, dehydration, bezoars (hardened masses of undigested food), and severe weight loss.
Gastric Outlet Obstruction
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Structural and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting (often projectile); abdominal bloating; early satiety; unintentional weight loss; upper abdominal pain
Root Cause:
Blockage at the pylorus or first part of the duodenum due to peptic ulcers, tumors, scarring, or inflammation, leading to impaired gastric emptying.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using upper GI endoscopy, contrast-enhanced X-rays (barium swallow), or abdominal CT scans to identify the cause of obstruction.
Treatment:
Endoscopic dilation of the obstruction, medications to reduce inflammation (e.g., proton pump inhibitors for ulcer-related obstructions), and surgical interventions (e.g., gastrojejunostomy).
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or pantoprazole are used for ulcer healing. Antiemetics such as ondansetron may address nausea. Antibiotics might be necessary if Helicobacter pylori infection is involved.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Uncommon in the general population but seen in individuals with untreated peptic ulcers or gastric tumors.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic NSAID use, untreated H. pylori infection, gastric tumors, and prior gastric surgeries.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable if the underlying cause is identified and treated; untreated obstructions can lead to severe dehydration and malnutrition.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malnutrition, severe dehydration, metabolic alkalosis from repeated vomiting, and gastric perforation if untreated.
Gastric Ulcers
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Peptic Ulcer Disease
Symptoms:
burning or gnawing pain in the stomach; bloating; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; unexplained weight loss; dark or black stools (indicating bleeding); vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like material
Root Cause:
Gastric ulcers are sores that develop on the stomach lining due to the breakdown of the protective mucosal layer, often caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or the prolonged use of NSAIDs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), biopsy during endoscopy to check for H. pylori, urea breath test, stool antigen test, and blood tests for anemia.
Treatment:
Eradication of H. pylori infection if present, reduction of stomach acid production, lifestyle modifications (dietary changes, smoking cessation), and avoidance of NSAIDs.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole , pantoprazole , or esomeprazole reduce stomach acid production. H2 receptor blockers such as ranitidine or famotidine are used for acid reduction. Antibiotics like clarithromycin , amoxicillin , and metronidazole for H. pylori eradication. Antacids and cytoprotective agents like sucralfate or bismuth subsalicylate to protect the stomach lining.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Gastric ulcers affect approximately 5-10% of the global population during their lifetime, with higher rates in individuals over 60 years of age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, chronic NSAID use, smoking, alcohol consumption, high-stress levels, and a family history of peptic ulcers.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most gastric ulcers heal within 6-8 weeks. Eradicating H. pylori significantly reduces the recurrence rate.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bleeding, perforation of the stomach wall, penetration into adjacent organs, gastric outlet obstruction, and increased risk of stomach cancer.
Duodenal Ulcers
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Peptic Ulcer Disease
Symptoms:
burning stomach pain that improves with eating or drinking; bloating; belching; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; unexplained weight loss; dark or tarry stools; vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds
Root Cause:
Duodenal ulcers are sores in the lining of the first part of the small intestine, commonly caused by H. pylori infection or chronic NSAID use, leading to acid-related damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy, urea breath test, stool antigen test, and biopsy for H. pylori detection; blood tests may also identify anemia associated with bleeding ulcers.
Treatment:
Treatment involves acid suppression, eradication of H. pylori, lifestyle changes, and avoiding irritants like NSAIDs.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or lansoprazole reduce acid secretion. Antibiotics like clarithromycin , amoxicillin , and metronidazole are used to treat H. pylori infection. H2 receptor blockers such as ranitidine or famotidine provide acid reduction. Cytoprotective agents like sucralfate and bismuth subsalicylate enhance mucosal protection.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers, with a lifetime prevalence of approximately 10-15%, particularly among younger adults and males.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, NSAID use, smoking, high-stress levels, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of peptic ulcers.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most duodenal ulcers heal within 4-6 weeks with appropriate treatment. H. pylori eradication substantially reduces recurrence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bleeding, perforation, penetration into adjacent organs, duodenal obstruction, and rarely an increased risk of cancer in the duodenum.
Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Stomach Cancer
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; unexplained weight loss; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; early satiety; blood in stool; fatigue
Root Cause:
Malignant transformation of the gastric mucosal cells, often associated with chronic inflammation, H. pylori infection, genetic predisposition, or dietary carcinogens.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies (CT scan, MRI, PET), blood tests for tumor markers (e.g., CEA, CA 19-9), and staging procedures.
Treatment:
Surgical resection (gastrectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy (e.g., HER2 inhibitors for HER2-positive tumors).
Medications:
Treatment may include chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (antimetabolite), cisplatin (platinum-based alkylating agent), and trastuzumab (HER2-targeted monoclonal antibody) for HER2-positive cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
One of the most common types of stomach cancer, with higher rates in East Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, smoking, high salt intake, diet low in fruits and vegetables, chronic gastritis, family history of gastric cancer, genetic syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis; early detection improves survival rates significantly, but advanced cases have poorer outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to other organs (liver, lungs, peritoneum), gastrointestinal bleeding, obstruction, and malnutrition.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Stomach Tumors
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; gastrointestinal bleeding; early satiety; nausea; vomiting; unexplained weight loss
Root Cause:
Tumors arising from the interstitial cells of Cajal in the gastrointestinal tract, often due to mutations in the KIT or PDGFRA genes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy, biopsy with immunohistochemistry (testing for KIT/CD117 positivity), CT scan, MRI, and PET scan for staging.
Treatment:
Surgical resection for localized tumors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) like imatinib for advanced or metastatic cases.
Medications:
Imatinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor) is the first-line treatment for advanced or metastatic GISTs. Other options include sunitinib and regorafenib for imatinib-resistant cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, accounting for less than 1% of gastrointestinal cancers, with a higher incidence in adults over 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of GISTs, genetic mutations, age over 50, and association with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent prognosis for localized GISTs treated surgically; variable outcomes for advanced cases depending on response to TKI therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor rupture, peritoneal spread, liver metastases, and gastrointestinal obstruction or perforation.
Lymphoma of the Stomach
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Stomach Disorders
Sub-category: Stomach Lymphomas
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; bloating; weight loss; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; fever; night sweats; loss of appetite
Root Cause:
Malignant proliferation of lymphoid tissue in the stomach, often linked to chronic H. pylori infection or immune suppression.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, imaging (CT, PET scan), and bone marrow biopsy for staging.
Treatment:
Eradication of H. pylori with antibiotics if associated, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy (e.g., rituximab), or a combination depending on the lymphoma type.
Medications:
Antibiotics (for H. pylori-associated cases, e.g., amoxicillin and clarithromycin ), rituximab (CD20 monoclonal antibody), and chemotherapy agents like cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , and prednisone (CHOP regimen).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Represents less than 5% of all stomach cancers, with a higher prevalence in individuals with chronic H. pylori infection.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, autoimmune disorders, immunosuppression, and family history of lymphoma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by type and stage; early-stage cases have a good prognosis, particularly with H. pylori eradication, while advanced cases depend on response to chemotherapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gastrointestinal bleeding, obstruction, perforation, and spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (Gastrinoma)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Other Stomach Conditions
Sub-category: Stomach Cancer
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; heartburn; gastric ulcers; gastrointestinal bleeding
Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of gastrin due to a gastrin-secreting tumor (gastrinoma), leading to increased stomach acid production.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to measure gastrin levels, secretin stimulation test, imaging studies (CT, MRI, or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy) to locate gastrinoma, and endoscopic examination.
Treatment:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production, surgical removal of the gastrinoma, and chemotherapy or targeted therapy for metastatic disease.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole or esomeprazole ) to reduce gastric acid secretion; somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ) to inhibit gastrin release; chemotherapeutic agents (e.g., streptozocin and doxorubicin ) for advanced cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in approximately 1–3 individuals per million annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), family history of endocrine tumors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; curable if localized gastrinoma is surgically removed, but prognosis worsens with metastatic disease.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peptic ulcers, perforation of the stomach or intestines, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe diarrhea, and malnutrition.
Menetrier’s Disease (Hypertrophic Gastropathy)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Other Stomach Conditions
Sub-category: Stomach Cancer
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; epigastric pain; diarrhea; anorexia; weight loss; edema due to protein loss
Root Cause:
Overgrowth of the stomach’s mucosal lining, leading to large gastric folds, protein loss, and reduced acid production.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy of stomach tissue, barium swallow test, serum albumin levels to assess protein loss, and imaging to identify gastric wall thickening.
Treatment:
Symptomatic management, nutritional support, proton pump inhibitors, and sometimes total gastrectomy in severe cases.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., pantoprazole or lansoprazole ) to reduce gastric secretion; cetuximab , a monoclonal antibody targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), has shown promise in some cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; incidence is not well-documented.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unknown, though some cases are linked to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in children or H. pylori infection in adults.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; some cases resolve spontaneously, while others progress and require surgical intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe protein loss leading to hypoalbuminemia, gastric adenocarcinoma, malnutrition, and fluid retention (edema).
Lactose Intolerance
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Malabsorption Syndromes
Symptoms:
diarrhea; bloating; gas; abdominal pain; nausea after consuming dairy products
Root Cause:
Insufficient production of lactase enzyme in the small intestine, leading to inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, stool acidity test for infants and children.
Treatment:
Dietary management by avoiding lactose-containing foods or using lactase enzyme supplements.
Medications:
Lactase enzyme supplements (e.g., Lactaid) can help digest lactose.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 65% of the global population, with higher prevalence in Asian, African, and Native American populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, age-related decline in lactase production, gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn's disease) affecting the small intestine.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate dietary adjustments; symptoms resolve when lactose is avoided or enzymatically digested.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) if dairy products are not replaced with alternative sources.
Short Bowel Syndrome
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Malabsorption Syndromes
Symptoms:
diarrhea; steatorrhea; weight loss; fatigue; nutritional deficiencies; dehydration
Root Cause:
Reduced absorptive capacity of the small intestine due to surgical removal or congenital defect, leading to malabsorption of nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history of intestinal surgery or congenital abnormality, imaging studies (e.g., CT scan, MRI), and tests to evaluate nutrient levels.
Treatment:
Nutritional support (parenteral nutrition, enteral feeding), dietary modifications (high-calorie, low-fat diet), and medications to slow intestinal transit or enhance absorption.
Medications:
GLP-2 analogs (e.g., teduglutide ) to improve intestinal absorption, antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide ), and proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ) to reduce gastric acid.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 3 per million people per year.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Intestinal surgery (e.g., for Crohn's disease, cancer, trauma), congenital defects (e.g., gastroschisis), or ischemic bowel disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on the remaining length and function of the intestine. With appropriate management, many patients can achieve nutritional independence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, dependence on parenteral nutrition, liver dysfunction, and bacterial overgrowth.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Digestive Disorders
Symptoms:
bloating; diarrhea; abdominal pain; flatulence; unintended weight loss; malnutrition symptoms like fatigue and anemia
Root Cause:
Excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine, disrupting normal digestion and nutrient absorption. Often linked to motility disorders, structural abnormalities, or changes in gut flora.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using breath tests (e.g., hydrogen/methane levels) or small bowel aspirate cultures.
Treatment:
Treated with dietary changes, probiotics, and antibiotics such as rifaximin or metronidazole.
Medications:
Antibiotics like rifaximin or metronidazole are commonly prescribed to reduce bacterial overgrowth. Prokinetics (e.g., erythromycin or prucalopride ) may be used to improve motility, and nutritional supplements are given for deficiencies.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence is unknown but more common in individuals with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, or previous gastrointestinal surgery.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Conditions that impair small intestinal motility (e.g., scleroderma, diabetes), anatomical abnormalities (e.g., diverticula), or previous surgery (e.g., gastric bypass).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; relapses are common if the underlying condition isn’t addressed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic malnutrition, fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, K), osteoporosis, and small intestine damage if left untreated.
Intussusception
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden severe abdominal pain; vomiting; red jelly-like stools; lethargy; abdominal swelling
Root Cause:
Telescoping of one part of the intestine into another, leading to obstruction and compromised blood supply.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound showing a “target” or “doughnut” sign, abdominal X-ray, or CT scan; confirmed during surgery if imaging is inconclusive.
Treatment:
Air or barium enema reduction is often diagnostic and therapeutic; surgery is indicated if enema reduction fails or if complications are suspected.
Medications:
Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen , and antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin , cefotaxime ) postoperatively to prevent infection.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children under 3 years, with an incidence of 1–4 cases per 1,000 live births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex, viral infections, Meckel’s diverticulum, intestinal polyps, or lymphoid hyperplasia.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt diagnosis and treatment; recurrence occurs in 5–10% of cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel necrosis, perforation, peritonitis, and sepsis.
Meckel’s Diverticulum
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
painless rectal bleeding; abdominal pain; intestinal obstruction; signs of anemia in chronic cases
Root Cause:
Congenital remnant of the omphalomesenteric duct, forming a small pouch in the small intestine that may harbor ectopic tissue (e.g., gastric or pancreatic).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Meckel’s scan using technetium-99m, abdominal CT, MRI, or exploratory surgery.
Treatment:
Surgical resection (diverticulectomy or segmental bowel resection) if symptomatic.
Medications:
Post-surgical antibiotics (e.g., cefazolin , metronidazole ) to prevent infection, and pain management with acetaminophen or NSAIDs.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Present in 2% of the population; symptomatic cases are rare, occurring in approximately 4–6% of affected individuals.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex, younger age (most symptomatic cases occur in children under 10), and ectopic tissue presence.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent after surgical treatment; asymptomatic cases may remain undetected for life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal obstruction, volvulus, perforation, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Tropical Sprue
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Malabsorptive Disorders
Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; steatorrhea (fatty stools); abdominal cramps; bloating; weight loss; fatigue; nutritional deficiencies (e.g., b12 and folate deficiency)
Root Cause:
A poorly understood condition affecting the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients, likely caused by environmental or infectious factors in tropical regions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, blood tests showing nutritional deficiencies, stool tests to exclude other infections, and small bowel biopsy showing villous atrophy.
Treatment:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics like tetracycline combined with folate and vitamin B12 supplementation for malabsorption correction.
Medications:
Tetracycline (an antibiotic effective against intestinal infections) and folic acid or vitamin B12 supplements for nutritional support.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Limited to tropical and subtropical regions; prevalence is higher in residents and long-term visitors to these areas.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term residence in or travel to tropical regions, exposure to contaminated food or water, and poor sanitation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but relapses can occur if untreated or if the individual returns to the same environment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malnutrition, anemia, and prolonged nutritional deficiencies if untreated.
Whipple’s Disease
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; abdominal pain; weight loss; arthritis; fever; lymphadenopathy; neurological symptoms (e.g., cognitive changes)
Root Cause:
Caused by Tropheryma whipplei, a Gram-positive bacterium that affects the small intestine and other organs, leading to systemic inflammation and malabsorption.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Small bowel biopsy showing periodic acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive macrophages, PCR testing for Tropheryma whipplei, and blood or cerebrospinal fluid tests if systemic involvement is suspected.
Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic therapy, starting with intravenous ceftriaxone or penicillin, followed by oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for 1–2 years.
Medications:
Ceftriaxone or penicillin (initial intravenous treatment) followed by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide combination for extended therapy).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1–3 cases per million people annually, typically seen in middle-aged Caucasian males.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unknown; may include genetic predisposition or environmental exposure.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; without treatment, the disease is usually fatal. Relapses are possible and require monitoring.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic involvement affecting the heart (endocarditis), central nervous system, and joints, potentially leading to life-threatening outcomes if untreated.
Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Tumors
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; unexplained weight loss; intestinal obstruction; anemia; blood in stool
Root Cause:
Uncontrolled growth of malignant epithelial cells originating in the small intestine, often due to genetic mutations or chronic inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (CT scans, MRI, PET scans), endoscopy, biopsy, blood tests (including tumor markers like CEA or CA19-9).
Treatment:
Surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, and in some cases, targeted therapy.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (antimetabolite), oxaliplatin (platinum-based agent), or capecitabine (oral antimetabolite). Targeted therapies like pembrolizumab (immune checkpoint inhibitor) may also be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for approximately 3-5% of gastrointestinal cancers and less than 1% of all cancers.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of gastrointestinal cancers, genetic syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis), chronic inflammation (e.g., Crohn’s disease), and diet high in red or processed meat.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by stage; localized tumors have a better prognosis (5-year survival rate ~65%), while advanced/metastatic disease has a poor prognosis (~10-20% 5-year survival).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal obstruction, perforation, metastasis to the liver or lymph nodes, and paraneoplastic syndromes.
Lymphoma of the Small Intestine
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Small Intestine Disorders
Sub-category: Tumors
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; weight loss; diarrhea; intestinal obstruction; fever; night sweats
Root Cause:
Malignant proliferation of lymphocytes in the small intestine, often associated with immune dysregulation or infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopic biopsy, imaging (CT scans, PET scans), blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and immunophenotyping.
Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy; surgery may be required in some cases of localized disease.
Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ), and monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab (anti-CD20 agent).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for 1-4% of gastrointestinal malignancies and 30-40% of primary gastrointestinal lymphomas.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunodeficiency (e.g., HIV/AIDS, post-transplant), chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., celiac disease), and infections (e.g., Helicobacter pylori, Epstein-Barr virus).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on subtype and stage; indolent types have a good prognosis (5-year survival rate ~80%), while aggressive types have lower survival rates (~30-50%).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal perforation, obstruction, bleeding, malabsorption, and systemic spread to other lymphoid or non-lymphoid tissues.
Chronic Constipation
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week); hard or lumpy stools; difficulty passing stools; straining during bowel movements; feeling of incomplete evacuation; abdominal discomfort
Root Cause:
Slowed colonic transit or dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles leading to difficulty in stool passage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, stool tests, colonoscopy (to rule out structural causes), and specialized tests like anorectal manometry or colonic transit studies.
Treatment:
Increased dietary fiber intake, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and behavioral therapy (biofeedback for pelvic floor dysfunction).
Medications:
Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium), stool softeners (e.g., docusate), osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol), stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl ), and prokinetic agents (e.g., prucalopride for severe cases).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 15-20% of the population, with higher prevalence in older adults and women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Low dietary fiber intake, sedentary lifestyle, dehydration, pregnancy, aging, and use of certain medications (e.g., opioids, anticholinergics).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with lifestyle and medical interventions; chronic cases may require ongoing management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal impaction, and rectal prolapse.
Clostridium difficile Infection
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain or cramping; fever; nausea; loss of appetite; weight loss; fatigue; blood or pus in stool in severe cases
Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria in the colon, often after disruption of normal gut flora due to antibiotic use. This leads to toxin production and colonic inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool tests for C. difficile toxins (toxin A and B), PCR assays for toxin genes, and enzyme immunoassays; sometimes colonoscopy or imaging studies if complications are suspected.
Treatment:
Discontinuation of the offending antibiotic, initiating specific antibiotic therapy targeting C. difficile, fluid replacement for dehydration, probiotics, and in severe cases, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
Medications:
Vancomycin (oral) or fidaxomicin are the primary treatments; metronidazole may be used in mild cases. Vancomycin and fidaxomicin are antibiotics specifically targeting C. difficile. Bezlotoxumab , a monoclonal antibody, may be used to reduce recurrence in high-risk patients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea; approximately 500,000 cases annually in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent antibiotic use, hospitalization, advanced age, weakened immune system, gastrointestinal surgery, or a history of C. difficile infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most recover fully; however, recurrent infections occur in about 20% of patients. Severe cases can lead to complications, such as toxic megacolon or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, dehydration, toxic megacolon, bowel perforation, sepsis, and death in severe cases.
Infectious Colitis (e.g., Viral, Bacterial, Parasitic)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
diarrhea (often with blood or mucus); abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; dehydration; weight loss
Root Cause:
Infection of the colon by pathogens such as bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Campylobacter), viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus), or parasites (e.g., Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia). This leads to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool tests for pathogens (culture, PCR, or antigen detection), blood tests for inflammatory markers, and colonoscopy in chronic or severe cases to assess mucosal damage.
Treatment:
Supportive care (hydration, electrolyte replacement) and pathogen-specific treatment. Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiparasitic medications for parasitic infections, and sometimes antiviral therapy for severe viral infections.
Medications:
Antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin for bacterial infections; metronidazole or tinidazole for parasitic infections like Giardia or Entamoeba; oral rehydration salts for dehydration. Antibiotics are categorized as antimicrobials, while antiparasitic drugs target protozoa.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Infectious colitis is a common cause of diarrhea worldwide, with bacterial pathogens accounting for 85% of foodborne outbreaks in developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated food or water, international travel, poor hygiene, immunosuppression, and exposure to infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve within days to weeks with appropriate treatment, but severe infections can lead to prolonged illness or death, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS, associated with E. coli O157:H7), chronic post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome, and intestinal perforation.
Diverticulosis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; may include mild abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
Root Cause:
Formation of small pouches (diverticula) in the walls of the colon due to increased pressure, often associated with a low-fiber diet.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through colonoscopy, CT scan, or barium enema; often discovered incidentally during routine screening.
Treatment:
Focus on dietary modifications, particularly a high-fiber diet; adequate hydration and physical activity are also recommended.
Medications:
Fiber supplements like psyllium or methylcellulose; in some cases, mild stool softeners may be prescribed. Antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin , metronidazole ) are used only if diverticulitis occurs.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in adults over 50, with prevalence increasing with age; affects approximately 35–50% of people in Western countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, low-fiber diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and family history of diverticulosis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally benign; most people remain asymptomatic, though a small percentage may develop diverticulitis or bleeding.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Diverticulitis, perforation, abscess, fistula formation, and colonic bleeding.
Colonic Polyps
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Neoplastic Disorders
Symptoms:
typically asymptomatic; may include rectal bleeding, mucus in stool, or changes in bowel habits if polyps are large.
Root Cause:
Abnormal growths of tissue in the colon lining; can be benign (hyperplastic) or precancerous (adenomatous or serrated).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Colonoscopy with biopsy, CT colonography, or sigmoidoscopy.
Treatment:
Removal during colonoscopy (polypectomy); regular surveillance based on pathology results.
Medications:
No direct medications; aspirin or NSAIDs may reduce polyp formation risk in high-risk individuals.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 15–20% of adults in developed countries; prevalence increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, family history, high-fat diet, low-fiber diet, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with removal; however, adenomatous or serrated polyps carry a risk of progression to colorectal cancer if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential for bleeding, bowel obstruction, and colorectal cancer if polyps are not removed.
Volvulus
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden onset of abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and signs of bowel obstruction.
Root Cause:
Twisting of a segment of the intestine (commonly sigmoid or cecal), leading to obstruction and potential ischemia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via abdominal X-ray, CT scan, or contrast enema, showing a "whirl" or "coffee bean" sign.
Treatment:
Emergency treatment with endoscopic detorsion or surgical intervention (e.g., resection with or without anastomosis).
Medications:
No direct medications; supportive care may include intravenous fluids and antibiotics (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam or ceftriaxone with metronidazole ) to manage infection risk.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in elderly patients, individuals with chronic constipation, or congenital intestinal malrotation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic constipation, previous abdominal surgery, adhesions, Hirschsprung disease, and elongated sigmoid colon.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; untreated cases can lead to bowel ischemia, necrosis, and death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel ischemia, necrosis, perforation, peritonitis, and sepsis.
Hernias (e.g., Inguinal, Femoral, Umbilical)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Abdominal Wall Disorders
Sub-category: Structural Disorders
Symptoms:
visible or palpable bulge, discomfort or pain (especially with straining), and, in severe cases, bowel obstruction symptoms.
Root Cause:
Weakness or defect in the abdominal wall allows internal organs or tissue to protrude.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through physical examination; imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) is used for unclear cases or complications.
Treatment:
Surgical repair (e.g., open or laparoscopic herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty); conservative management with watchful waiting in asymptomatic cases.
Medications:
No specific medications; analgesics may be used for pain management post-surgery.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Inguinal hernias occur in 27% of men and 3% of women; other hernia types are less common.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex (inguinal hernias), chronic cough, obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, and family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with surgical repair; untreated hernias can lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Incarceration, strangulation, bowel obstruction, and ischemia.
Lynch Syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders
Sub-category: Colorectal Cancer
Symptoms:
early onset colorectal cancer; blood in stool; abdominal discomfort; frequent urination (if urologic cancers develop); unexplained fatigue
Root Cause:
Caused by inherited mutations in mismatch repair (MMR) genes such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, or PMS2, leading to DNA replication errors and a predisposition to cancers.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing for MMR gene mutations; MSI (microsatellite instability) testing on tumor samples; family history assessment. Colonoscopy is often performed for screening.
Treatment:
Early-stage colorectal cancers are treated with surgery; advanced cases may involve chemotherapy. Prophylactic surgeries and regular surveillance are crucial for risk management.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and capecitabine (antimetabolites); immunotherapy options like pembrolizumab and nivolumab (PD-1 inhibitors) for MSI-high tumors.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 2-4% of all colorectal cancers. Estimated prevalence of 1 in 300 individuals globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Positive family history of Lynch syndrome, history of endometrial or other Lynch-associated cancers, and genetic predisposition through MMR gene mutations.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early detection and proactive surveillance significantly improve outcomes. The overall prognosis is good for those who follow rigorous screening protocols.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of additional Lynch-associated cancers (e.g., endometrial, ovarian, gastric), bowel obstruction, or metastasis in untreated cases.
Proctitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
rectal pain; bleeding during bowel movements; frequent urge to defecate; mucus in stools; diarrhea; tenesmus (feeling of incomplete evacuation)
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the rectal lining, often caused by infections, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), radiation therapy, or sexually transmitted infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history, physical examination, rectal examination, sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy, stool tests, and infection screening.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or lifestyle modifications.
Medications:
Antibiotics like metronidazole or ciprofloxacin for infections, corticosteroid enemas for inflammation, aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine ) for IBD-related proctitis, or antiviral therapy if caused by herpes simplex virus.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or those exposed to rectal infections or radiation therapy.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of IBD (e.g., Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), radiation therapy to the pelvic area, unprotected anal intercourse, infections (e.g., STIs like gonorrhea or chlamydia).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, most cases resolve, but recurrence depends on the underlying cause (e.g., chronic in IBD).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic rectal bleeding, abscess formation, fistulas, or progression to more severe IBD complications in related cases.
Anal Fissures
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
sharp pain during bowel movements; bright red blood on stool or toilet paper; itching or irritation around the anus; spasms of the anal sphincter
Root Cause:
A tear in the lining of the anal canal, often caused by trauma from hard stools, chronic diarrhea, or inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history, physical examination, and anoscopy if necessary.
Treatment:
Increasing dietary fiber and fluids, stool softeners, warm sitz baths, and topical medications. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.
Medications:
Topical nitroglycerin or calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine or diltiazem ) to relax the sphincter, corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation, or lidocaine for pain relief.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, particularly in infants, young adults, and middle-aged adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Constipation, chronic diarrhea, anal trauma, childbirth, and underlying inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most acute fissures heal within a few weeks with conservative measures; chronic fissures may require surgery for resolution.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, recurrent fissures, and potential development of an anal fistula or abscess.
Rectal Prolapse
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Inflammatory and Functional Disorders
Symptoms:
protrusion of rectal tissue through the anus; fecal incontinence; difficulty with bowel movements; rectal bleeding or mucus discharge; feeling of a mass in the anus
Root Cause:
Weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the rectum, leading to its displacement outside the anus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, defecography, colonoscopy, and pelvic MRI if needed to assess the pelvic floor.
Treatment:
Treatment options include lifestyle changes (e.g., dietary fiber to avoid straining), pelvic floor exercises, or surgical correction such as rectopexy.
Medications:
Stool softeners or laxatives to reduce straining during bowel movements; no direct medications to reverse prolapse.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, but more common in older adults, women, and those with chronic constipation or pelvic floor disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, previous pelvic surgeries, advanced age, and conditions like cystic fibrosis or COPD.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment, though recurrence is possible in severe cases or without surgical intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Ulceration of the prolapsed tissue, bowel obstruction, incontinence, or strangulation of the rectal tissue requiring emergency surgery.
Perianal Abscess
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious Disorders
Symptoms:
pain near the anus; swelling around the anus; redness; warmth; fever; pus drainage from the area
Root Cause:
Caused by infection in the anal glands, leading to pus accumulation in the tissues near the anus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is usually clinical based on physical examination, with imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) used in unclear cases.
Treatment:
Drainage of the abscess through incision and, in some cases, antibiotics to address infection.
Medications:
Antibiotics may be prescribed, including broad-spectrum agents like amoxicillin-clavulanate or metronidazole , particularly if cellulitis or systemic infection is present.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 people annually, more frequent in males.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Crohn's disease, diabetes, immunosuppression, and poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely drainage; recurrence can occur if an underlying fistula develops.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, formation of an anal fistula, systemic infection (sepsis), or chronic pain.
Fistula-in-Ano (Anal Fistula)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Chronic Disorders
Symptoms:
persistent discharge from a small opening near the anus; pain during bowel movements; swelling or redness around the anus; recurrent abscess formation; fever in some cases
Root Cause:
A tunnel forms between the inside of the anal canal and the skin near the anus, often as a result of untreated or poorly healed perianal abscesses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, anoscopy, and imaging studies like MRI or endoanal ultrasound to determine the extent.
Treatment:
Surgical interventions, such as fistulotomy, seton placement, or advanced procedures like LIFT (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract).
Medications:
Postoperative pain management with NSAIDs, and antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin and metronidazole ) if there is associated infection or abscess.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 5,000 people annually; more common in males and those with Crohn's disease.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Crohn's disease, prior perianal abscess, trauma, or infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate surgical management, though recurrence is possible in complex cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, incontinence, abscess formation, and systemic infection in severe cases.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Anal Warts
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Viral Infections
Symptoms:
flesh-colored or gray growths around or inside the anus; itching or discomfort in the anal area; bleeding during bowel movements; feeling of a lump near the anus
Root Cause:
Caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly strains 6 and 11, leading to benign growths. High-risk HPV strains may increase the risk of anal cancer.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual inspection, anoscopy, and biopsy if malignancy is suspected. HPV DNA testing can confirm the viral type.
Treatment:
Topical treatments (e.g., imiquimod or podophyllotoxin), cryotherapy, electrocautery, or surgical excision. Prevention includes HPV vaccination.
Medications:
Imiquimod (immune modulator), podophyllotoxin (antimitotic), and trichloroacetic acid (caustic agent for wart removal).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; approximately 1% of sexually active adults have visible genital or anal warts at any time.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, immunosuppression, and history of HPV infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for benign warts with treatment; high-risk HPV types require monitoring for potential progression to anal cancer.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence of warts, psychological distress, and progression to anal dysplasia or cancer in high-risk HPV infections.
Internal Hemorrhoids
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Hemorrhoids
Symptoms:
painless rectal bleeding; bright red blood in stool or on toilet paper; prolapse of hemorrhoid tissue during bowel movements; mucus discharge; anal itching
Root Cause:
Swollen and inflamed veins inside the rectum caused by increased pressure on the anal and rectal veins, commonly due to straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, or chronic constipation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy to rule out other causes of rectal bleeding.
Treatment:
Conservative measures (dietary fiber, hydration, sitz baths), minimally invasive procedures (rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation), and surgery (hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy for severe cases).
Medications:
Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or suppositories for inflammation (topical corticosteroid), stool softeners to prevent straining (laxative), and flavonoid supplements to reduce inflammation (vasoactive medications like diosmin or hesperidin).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common condition; affects approximately 4.4% of the global population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic constipation or diarrhea, low-fiber diet, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, heavy lifting, and family history of hemorrhoids.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often manageable with conservative treatments; minimally invasive procedures or surgery provide long-term relief in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent bleeding, anemia, prolapse requiring manual reduction, and thrombosis of hemorrhoids.
External Hemorrhoids
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Hemorrhoids
Symptoms:
painful swelling or lump near the anus; itching or irritation around the anal area; bleeding during bowel movements; thrombosis leading to severe pain and bluish discoloration
Root Cause:
Swollen and inflamed veins located under the skin around the anus, caused by increased pressure in the anal veins due to straining, prolonged sitting, or other factors.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual inspection and physical examination; no additional diagnostic tools are typically required unless symptoms suggest other conditions.
Treatment:
Conservative measures (fiber-rich diet, hydration, sitz baths), excision of thrombosed hemorrhoids, and symptomatic relief with medications.
Medications:
Topical analgesics (lidocaine cream for pain relief), anti-inflammatory agents (hydrocortisone creams or suppositories ), and oral pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for severe discomfort.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects a similar percentage of the population as internal hemorrhoids, with varying presentations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic constipation, low-fiber diet, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, and heavy lifting.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves with conservative treatments; surgical interventions may be needed for thrombosed external hemorrhoids.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe pain and discomfort, thrombosis of hemorrhoids, ulceration, and infection.
Adenocarcinoma of the Rectum
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Rectal Cancer
Symptoms:
rectal bleeding; persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation); abdominal discomfort or pain; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; narrow stools
Root Cause:
Malignant tumor arising from the glandular cells lining the rectum, often caused by genetic mutations and environmental factors leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Colonoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies such as CT, MRI, or PET scans, blood tests (e.g., CEA tumor marker), and staging via TNM classification.
Treatment:
Treatment may include a combination of surgery (total mesorectal excision), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy depending on the stage and individual patient factors.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as fluorouracil (5-FU), capecitabine (oral prodrug of 5-FU), or oxaliplatin (platinum-based chemotherapy agent). Targeted therapies like bevacizumab (anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody) or cetuximab (anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody) may also be used in specific cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, with adenocarcinoma comprising over 95% of cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), smoking, obesity, high consumption of red and processed meats, and physical inactivity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis; early-stage disease has a high cure rate, while advanced stages carry a poorer outlook. Five-year survival rates range from over 90% (localized disease) to less than 15% (distant metastases).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include bowel obstruction, perforation, metastasis to other organs (commonly the liver and lungs), and treatment-related side effects like neuropathy and bowel dysfunction.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Rectum and Anus Disorders
Sub-category: Anal Cancer
Symptoms:
anal pain or discomfort; rectal bleeding; a lump or mass near the anus; itching or discharge from the anus; changes in bowel habits; unexplained weight loss
Root Cause:
Malignant tumor originating from squamous cells lining the anal canal, often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (digital rectal exam), anoscopy or proctoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies (e.g., CT, MRI, or PET scans), and staging using TNM classification.
Treatment:
Chemoradiation therapy (combination of fluorouracil and mitomycin with external beam radiation) is the standard of care for localized disease. Surgery (abdominoperineal resection) is reserved for persistent or recurrent cases.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs include mitomycin (antitumor antibiotic) and fluorouracil (antimetabolite chemotherapy). In metastatic or recurrent disease, paclitaxel (taxane class) or cisplatin (platinum-based agent) may be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Anal cancer is relatively rare, accounting for less than 2% of gastrointestinal cancers, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common type.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Persistent HPV infection, receptive anal intercourse, a history of sexually transmitted infections, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS), smoking, and older age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early-stage anal cancer has a favorable prognosis with a five-year survival rate exceeding 80%. Advanced stages have a poorer prognosis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Treatment-related complications such as radiation proctitis, fecal incontinence, strictures, and fistula formation; metastatic disease can involve the liver or lungs.
Viral Hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Hepatitis
Symptoms:
jaundice; fatigue; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; dark urine; pale stools
Root Cause:
Infection of the liver caused by hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, or E), leading to liver inflammation and, in some cases, chronic liver disease.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to identify viral markers (e.g., HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HAV), liver function tests, imaging studies like ultrasound, and sometimes liver biopsy.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis. Includes antiviral medications, supportive care (hydration, rest), and, in severe cases, liver transplantation.
Medications:
Hepatitis B - Tenofovir (antiviral, nucleotide analog), Entecavir (antiviral, nucleoside analog). Hepatitis C - Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir (direct-acting antiviral agents). Hepatitis A & E - No specific antiviral treatment; supportive care. Hepatitis D - Pegylated interferon-alpha (antiviral, immune modulator).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally; Hepatitis B and C are the most common chronic forms, with over 250 million and 70 million people affected worldwide, respectively.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sex, intravenous drug use, sharing needles, blood transfusions, close contact with infected individuals, and poor sanitation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute hepatitis often resolves with supportive care, but chronic hepatitis (especially B and C) can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatocellular carcinoma if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.
Autoimmune Hepatitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Hepatitis
Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; abdominal discomfort; joint pain; skin rashes; spider angiomas; loss of appetite
Root Cause:
The immune system attacks healthy liver cells, leading to inflammation and progressive liver damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (autoantibodies like ANA, ASMA, LKM-1), liver function tests, imaging studies, and liver biopsy.
Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapy and monitoring of liver function.
Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid to reduce inflammation). Azathioprine (immunosuppressant to maintain remission). Mycophenolate mofetil or tacrolimus (alternative immunosuppressants for refractory cases).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 10–20 per 100,000 people worldwide; more common in females.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, female gender, environmental triggers like infections or certain medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; untreated cases can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cirrhosis, liver failure, and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Symptoms:
fatigue; mild abdominal discomfort; enlarged liver (hepatomegaly); jaundice (in advanced cases); asymptomatic in early stages
Root Cause:
Fat accumulation in the liver causing inflammation and damage, not related to alcohol use.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Liver function tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and liver biopsy.
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (weight loss, healthy diet, exercise), management of comorbidities (diabetes, dyslipidemia).
Medications:
Vitamin E (antioxidant for non-diabetic patients). Pioglitazone (insulin sensitizer, for patients with type 2 diabetes). Obeticholic acid (under study for reducing liver inflammation and fibrosis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 3–5% of the global population; more common in individuals with obesity or diabetes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, sedentary lifestyle.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; can remain stable with lifestyle modifications or progress to cirrhosis and liver failure if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cirrhosis, liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma, cardiovascular disease.
Alcoholic Cirrhosis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Liver Cirrhosis
Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes); abdominal swelling (ascites); loss of appetite; nausea; easy bruising or bleeding; spider angiomas (small, spider-like blood vessels visible under the skin); confusion or drowsiness (hepatic encephalopathy); dark urine; pale stools
Root Cause:
Chronic alcohol abuse damages liver cells, leading to scarring (fibrosis) and loss of liver function.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves medical history review (alcohol consumption), physical examination, blood tests (liver function tests, INR, bilirubin), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and possibly a liver biopsy to confirm.
Treatment:
Treatment focuses on abstinence from alcohol, nutritional support, managing complications (e.g., ascites, hepatic encephalopathy), and, in severe cases, liver transplantation.
Medications:
Medications include diuretics (e.g., spironolactone or furosemide ) to manage fluid retention, lactulose or rifaximin to treat hepatic encephalopathy, and vitamin supplementation (thiamine , folate, vitamin D) to address deficiencies.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Alcoholic cirrhosis affects approximately 10–15% of heavy drinkers and accounts for around 50% of cirrhosis cases globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic heavy alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, malnutrition, co-existing liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis C).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on alcohol abstinence and severity at diagnosis. Without abstinence, survival is often less than 5 years. Early abstinence improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Portal hypertension, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, liver failure, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
Cryptogenic Cirrhosis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Liver Cirrhosis
Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; abdominal swelling; unexplained weight loss; loss of appetite; easy bruising; spider angiomas; itching (pruritus); dark urine
Root Cause:
Cirrhosis without an identifiable cause, often associated with undiagnosed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), insulin resistance, or autoimmune conditions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exclusion of known causes of liver disease (e.g., alcohol, hepatitis viruses, autoimmune markers); imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI); liver biopsy to assess fibrosis and exclude other pathologies.
Treatment:
Addressing underlying factors (e.g., managing metabolic syndrome, weight loss, controlling diabetes), supportive care, and managing complications like ascites and portal hypertension.
Medications:
Diuretics (spironolactone or furosemide ) for ascites, lactulose or rifaximin for hepatic encephalopathy, and vitamin supplementation. No specific medications target cryptogenic cirrhosis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 5–30% of cirrhosis cases worldwide, often diagnosed in advanced stages.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, genetic predisposition, undiagnosed or untreated fatty liver disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on stage at diagnosis and response to treatment. Early management of risk factors improves outcomes. Advanced cases may require liver transplantation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Portal hypertension, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma.
Cirrhosis from Hepatitis or Fatty Liver Disease
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Liver Cirrhosis
Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; abdominal swelling; loss of appetite; nausea; easy bruising or bleeding; confusion or drowsiness; dark urine; pale stools
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation from hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) leads to progressive fibrosis and cirrhosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for liver function, viral hepatitis markers, imaging (ultrasound, transient elastography), and sometimes a liver biopsy for fibrosis grading.
Treatment:
Antiviral medications for hepatitis (e.g., entecavir or tenofovir for HBV; direct-acting antivirals for HCV), weight loss and diabetes management for NAFLD, and supportive care for complications.
Medications:
Antivirals (e.g., sofosbuvir , velpatasvir ), diuretics for fluid retention, lactulose or rifaximin for hepatic encephalopathy, and nutritional supplements as needed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cirrhosis from hepatitis or fatty liver disease is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity worldwide, with NAFLD prevalence rising due to obesity epidemics.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic hepatitis B or C infection, obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heavy alcohol consumption, genetic factors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the underlying cause and stage at diagnosis. With treatment of the underlying condition (e.g., hepatitis antivirals or weight management), progression can be slowed. Advanced cases may require liver transplantation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Portal hypertension, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma.
Liver Metastases
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Liver Tumors
Symptoms:
jaundice; right upper quadrant pain; unintended weight loss; fatigue; loss of appetite; fever
Root Cause:
Secondary liver tumors arising from the spread of primary cancers, commonly from the colon, rectum, breast, pancreas, or lung.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scans), liver function tests, biopsy to confirm metastatic origin.
Treatment:
Systemic chemotherapy targeting the primary cancer, localized treatments such as radiofrequency ablation or TACE, surgical resection when feasible.
Medications:
Chemotherapeutic agents like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), oxaliplatin , and irinotecan ; targeted therapies such as bevacizumab or cetuximab , depending on the primary cancer. These are classified as cytotoxic agents and monoclonal antibodies.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Liver metastases are more common than primary liver cancers; about 50% of patients with colorectal cancer develop liver metastases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Primary cancer in organs with venous drainage to the liver, late-stage cancers, lack of primary cancer treatment.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the primary cancer and extent of liver involvement; potentially curative with localized therapies in selected cases, but overall poor prognosis for widespread disease.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver failure, biliary obstruction, infection, severe cachexia.
Benign Liver Tumors (e.g., Hemangioma, Focal Nodular Hyperplasia)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Liver Tumors
Symptoms:
asymptomatic; right upper quadrant discomfort; bloating; nausea; rarely, a palpable mass
Root Cause:
Non-cancerous growths in the liver; hemangiomas are vascular malformations, and focal nodular hyperplasia is a hyperplastic response to vascular abnormalities.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Often incidental on imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), confirmed with characteristic imaging patterns; rarely requires biopsy.
Treatment:
Usually no treatment necessary; symptomatic lesions may require surgical resection or embolization.
Medications:
None typically required; treatment focuses on monitoring or surgical intervention if needed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemangiomas are the most common benign liver tumors, affecting up to 5% of the population. Focal nodular hyperplasia is less common, occurring in 0.3%-3% of adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, use of oral contraceptives (for hepatic adenomas), underlying vascular abnormalities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; benign tumors do not progress to malignancy, and most remain asymptomatic.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare; large hemangiomas may rupture, causing bleeding, or compress nearby structures.
Hemochromatosis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Liver Disorders
Symptoms:
fatigue; joint pain; abdominal pain; bronze or gray skin discoloration; weakness; diabetes; irregular heartbeat; liver dysfunction
Root Cause:
Excessive iron absorption and accumulation in tissues due to a genetic mutation, typically in the HFE gene.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (serum ferritin, transferrin saturation), genetic testing, liver biopsy, MRI for iron quantification.
Treatment:
Regular therapeutic phlebotomy to remove excess iron, iron chelation therapy in cases where phlebotomy is not possible.
Medications:
Iron chelators such as deferoxamine , deferiprone , and deferasirox ; these are used to bind excess iron and promote its excretion in severe cases or when phlebotomy is not feasible.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 200-500 individuals of Northern European descent; more common in men than women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, genetic mutations (e.g., HFE C282Y and H63D mutations), being male (symptoms often manifest earlier in men).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early diagnosis and management; untreated, it can lead to serious complications like liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, arthritis, hypothyroidism, and chronic fatigue.
Portal Hypertension
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Other Liver Conditions
Symptoms:
abdominal swelling (ascites); enlarged spleen (splenomegaly); vomiting blood (hematemesis) due to variceal bleeding; dark, tarry stools (melena); confusion or altered mental state in severe cases (hepatic encephalopathy); fatigue
Root Cause:
Increased blood pressure within the portal venous system, often due to cirrhosis, fibrosis, or a blockage in the portal vein.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies (e.g., Doppler ultrasound, CT scan, MRI), endoscopy to assess varices, and measurement of hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG).
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, managing complications like varices, ascites, and encephalopathy. Treatments include beta-blockers, endoscopic variceal banding, TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt), and in severe cases, liver transplantation.
Medications:
Nonselective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol , nadolol ) to reduce portal pressure; vasoactive agents (e.g., octreotide ) to control variceal bleeding; diuretics (e.g., spironolactone , furosemide ) for ascites; antibiotics (e.g., norfloxacin ) to prevent infections in patients with varices.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among patients with advanced liver disease; prevalence depends on the underlying cause (e.g., cirrhosis affects approximately 2-3 per 1,000 adults annually).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and thrombosis in the portal vein.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on the underlying cause and effectiveness of treatment. With proper management, complications can be controlled, though severe cases may require liver transplantation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Variceal bleeding, ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and increased mortality risk in advanced cases.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Neurological Manifestations of Liver Disease
Symptoms:
confusion; difficulty concentrating; personality changes; disorientation; sleep disturbances; tremors (asterixis); slurred speech; lethargy; in severe cases, coma
Root Cause:
Build-up of toxins like ammonia in the bloodstream due to the liver's inability to properly detoxify them, often secondary to liver dysfunction or portal-systemic shunting.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, blood tests (elevated ammonia levels), liver function tests, and imaging studies to rule out other causes of altered mental status.
Treatment:
Reducing ammonia production and absorption using dietary protein restriction, lactulose (to acidify the colon and reduce ammonia absorption), and antibiotics like rifaximin (to reduce ammonia-producing gut bacteria).
Medications:
Lactulose (a non-absorbable sugar that traps ammonia in the colon), rifaximin (a gut-specific antibiotic), and sometimes neomycin or metronidazole (alternative antibiotics for reducing ammonia production).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals with advanced liver disease, with approximately 30-45% of cirrhotic patients developing some form of hepatic encephalopathy.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced liver disease, cirrhosis, portal hypertension, gastrointestinal bleeding, infections, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and high-protein diets.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Reversible with treatment in early stages, but recurrent episodes are common unless the underlying liver dysfunction is addressed. Severe or untreated cases may lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent episodes, progressive cognitive impairment, reduced quality of life, coma, and increased mortality.
Budd-Chiari Syndrome
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Liver Disorders
Sub-category: Vascular Liver Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant; ascites; enlarged liver (hepatomegaly); jaundice; nausea; vomiting; swelling in the legs; fatigue
Root Cause:
Obstruction of the hepatic veins, often caused by thrombosis or compression, leading to impaired blood flow out of the liver and subsequent congestion and damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Doppler ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, liver biopsy (in some cases), and blood tests to identify hypercoagulable states.
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause (e.g., anticoagulation for thrombosis, thrombolysis), managing complications like ascites, and restoring venous outflow via angioplasty, TIPS, or surgical shunting. Liver transplantation may be needed in severe cases.
Medications:
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , heparin ) to prevent further clot formation; diuretics (e.g., spironolactone , furosemide ) for managing ascites; thrombolytic agents (e.g., tissue plasminogen activator) in selected cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000; more common in patients with underlying hypercoagulable conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypercoagulable states (e.g., protein C or S deficiency, antiphospholipid syndrome), polycythemia vera, myeloproliferative disorders, oral contraceptive use, pregnancy, and liver tumors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable, depending on the extent of liver damage and the success of treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, but severe or untreated cases may lead to liver failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver failure, portal hypertension, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and death in advanced or untreated cases.
Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Gallbladder Diseases
Symptoms:
right upper abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; jaundice; pain after fatty meals
Root Cause:
Formation of solid particles (gallstones) in the gallbladder due to an imbalance in bile components, including cholesterol, bile salts, and bilirubin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Abdominal ultrasound, blood tests for liver function, and imaging like CT or MRI when complications are suspected.
Treatment:
Watchful waiting for asymptomatic cases, cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder) for symptomatic cases, or non-surgical options like oral bile acid therapy or extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy.
Medications:
Ursodeoxycholic acid (ursodiol ) can be prescribed; it is a bile acid therapy that helps dissolve cholesterol gallstones over time.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–15% of the adult population in developed countries; more common in women and older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, obesity, rapid weight loss, high-fat diet, pregnancy, and family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; asymptomatic gallstones may never cause issues, while symptomatic cases resolve after gallbladder removal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, bile duct obstruction, and gallbladder cancer in rare cases.
Cholecystitis (Inflammation of the Gallbladder)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Gallbladder Diseases
Symptoms:
severe upper abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; tenderness in the right upper abdomen
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile stasis and bacterial infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, abdominal ultrasound, blood tests indicating inflammation (e.g., elevated WBC, CRP), and imaging like HIDA scan.
Treatment:
Intravenous fluids, antibiotics for infection, pain management, and cholecystectomy (urgent or delayed based on severity).
Medications:
Antibiotics like ceftriaxone (a cephalosporin) combined with metronidazole (an anaerobic antibiotic) to treat infection. Pain management may include NSAIDs or opioids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals with gallstones; prevalence increases with age and in women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Gallstones, obesity, older age, female gender, and prior episodes of biliary colic.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with treatment; untreated cases can lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gallbladder rupture, sepsis, emphysematous cholecystitis, and biliary peritonitis.
Acalculous Cholecystitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Gallbladder Diseases
Symptoms:
right upper abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; jaundice
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the gallbladder without gallstones, often caused by critical illness, ischemia, or infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound showing gallbladder wall thickening, pericholecystic fluid, or positive HIDA scan; lab findings may show elevated liver enzymes and WBCs.
Treatment:
Supportive care with IV fluids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and cholecystectomy or percutaneous cholecystostomy if the condition does not resolve.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics like piperacillin-tazobactam (a beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor) to cover potential infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 5–10% of all cholecystitis cases; more common in critically ill patients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Major surgery, trauma, burns, prolonged fasting, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and sepsis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; outcomes depend on underlying conditions and timely intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gallbladder gangrene, perforation, abscess formation, and systemic sepsis.
Choledocholithiasis (Bile Duct Stones)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Biliary Tract Disorders
Symptoms:
right upper quadrant abdominal pain; jaundice; dark urine; pale stools; nausea; vomiting; fever (if cholangitis develops)
Root Cause:
Obstruction of the bile duct by gallstones, leading to impaired bile flow.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (elevated bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and liver enzymes); imaging studies like ultrasound, MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), or ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography).
Treatment:
ERCP to remove stones; in some cases, surgery or lithotripsy may be needed.
Medications:
Pain relievers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen or opioids like morphine ), antibiotics if infection is present (e.g., ciprofloxacin or metronidazole ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 10-20% of individuals with gallstones develop bile duct stones.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of gallstones, older age, obesity, rapid weight loss, female sex, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; recurrence may occur without addressing risk factors.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cholangitis, pancreatitis, bile duct strictures, liver abscesses.
Cholangitis (Infection of the Bile Ducts)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Biliary Tract Disorders
Symptoms:
fever; chills; right upper quadrant abdominal pain; jaundice; dark urine; nausea; vomiting; hypotension (in severe cases)
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection due to bile duct obstruction, typically caused by stones, strictures, or tumors.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical signs (Charcot's triad), elevated liver function tests, imaging like ultrasound or MRCP, and sometimes blood cultures to confirm infection.
Treatment:
ERCP to relieve obstruction; broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam, ceftriaxone, metronidazole).
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics, typically from the penicillin or cephalosporin family, combined with anti-anaerobic agents (e.g., metronidazole ); antipyretics like acetaminophen .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in individuals with a history of gallstones; incidence is 0.3-1.6 per 1,000 hospital admissions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Gallstones, bile duct strictures, history of bile duct surgery, endoscopic procedures, malignancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early intervention; mortality is high in untreated cases or septic shock.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, liver abscesses, recurrent infections, secondary biliary cirrhosis.
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Autoimmune Liver Diseases
Symptoms:
fatigue; itching (pruritus); dry mouth and eyes; right upper quadrant discomfort; jaundice (in advanced stages); dark urine; pale stools
Root Cause:
Autoimmune destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts, leading to cholestasis and eventual liver damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated alkaline phosphatase and antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA); liver biopsy or imaging if necessary.
Treatment:
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to slow disease progression; obeticholic acid for those intolerant to or unresponsive to UDCA.
Medications:
Ursodeoxycholic acid (bile acid analog), obeticholic acid (FXR agonist), cholestyramine (for itching).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 40 cases per 100,000; more common in women (9:1 ratio).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex, family history, smoking, environmental triggers.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; good with early treatment, but untreated cases may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cirrhosis, portal hypertension, osteoporosis, vitamin deficiencies, hepatocellular carcinoma.
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Autoimmune Liver Diseases
Symptoms:
fatigue; itching (pruritus); right upper quadrant pain; fever (in acute infections); jaundice; dark urine; pale stools
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation and scarring of bile ducts, leading to cholestasis and liver damage; often associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Elevated liver enzymes (ALP, GGT); MRCP or ERCP showing bile duct strictures; liver biopsy in uncertain cases.
Treatment:
No definitive cure; management focuses on symptom relief and slowing progression. ERCP for bile duct strictures; liver transplant for advanced disease.
Medications:
Ursodeoxycholic acid (limited efficacy), cholestyramine for itching, antibiotics for cholangitis episodes.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an incidence of 0.5-1 per 100,000; more common in men and those with IBD.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex, inflammatory bowel disease (particularly ulcerative colitis), genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; median survival without transplant is 10-20 years.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cirrhosis, portal hypertension, bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma), recurrent infections, liver failure.
Gallstone Pancreatitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis
Symptoms:
severe upper abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; jaundice; pain radiating to the back
Root Cause:
Gallstones block the bile duct or pancreatic duct, causing inflammation of the pancreas.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (elevated lipase and amylase levels), abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography).
Treatment:
Hospitalization, fasting (to rest the pancreas), IV fluids, pain management, antibiotics (if infection is present), and ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to remove gallstones. Surgery (cholecystectomy) is performed later to prevent recurrence.
Medications:
Pain relievers (opioids like morphine or hydromorphone ), antispasmodics, and antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam or ceftriaxone with metronidazole if infection is suspected.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common in adults with gallstones, accounting for 35–40% of acute pancreatitis cases in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Gallstones, obesity, female sex, older age, rapid weight loss, high-fat diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; recurrence is prevented with gallstone removal. Mortality risk increases with severe or untreated cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pancreatic necrosis, infection, pseudocysts, organ failure, or systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
Alcohol-Induced Pancreatitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis
Symptoms:
severe abdominal pain; pain radiating to the back; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; diarrhea; steatorrhea (fatty stools)
Root Cause:
Chronic alcohol consumption leads to inflammation, scarring, and dysfunction of the pancreas.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of alcohol use, blood tests (elevated lipase and amylase levels), imaging (CT, MRI, or ultrasound), and stool tests for fat malabsorption.
Treatment:
Abstinence from alcohol, supportive care with IV fluids, pain management, enzyme replacement therapy, nutritional support, and addressing complications.
Medications:
Pancreatic enzyme supplements (e.g., pancrelipase ), pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or opioids for severe cases), proton pump inhibitors (to reduce gastric acid).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Alcohol is the second most common cause of acute pancreatitis and a leading cause of chronic pancreatitis, often affecting males aged 30–50 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic alcohol use, genetic predisposition, smoking, high-fat diet, concurrent gallstone disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; improved with alcohol cessation. Chronic cases can lead to irreversible damage, diabetes, and complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, pseudocysts, diabetes mellitus, malnutrition, pancreatic cancer, or organ failure.
Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Pancreatic Tumors
Symptoms:
abdominal pain radiating to the back; unexplained weight loss; jaundice; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; new-onset diabetes; fatigue
Root Cause:
Malignant tumor originating from the exocrine cells of the pancreas, often associated with mutations in KRAS, p53, or SMAD4 genes. It often causes obstruction of the bile ducts or invasion of nearby tissues.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies like CT or MRI scans; endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with biopsy; CA 19-9 tumor marker blood test; fine-needle aspiration biopsy
Treatment:
Surgical resection (e.g., Whipple procedure); chemotherapy (e.g., FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine-based regimens); radiotherapy for localized tumors; palliative care for symptom management in advanced cases
Medications:
Chemotherapeutic agents such as gemcitabine (antimetabolite), nab-paclitaxel (microtubule inhibitor), or FOLFIRINOX (combination regimen including oxaliplatin , irinotecan , fluorouracil , and leucovorin ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 90% of pancreatic cancers; globally, it is the 7th leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking; chronic pancreatitis; family history of pancreatic cancer; obesity; type 2 diabetes; genetic syndromes such as BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor prognosis; the 5-year survival rate is approximately 10%, with earlier detection improving outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Obstruction of the bile duct or intestines; diabetes; malnutrition; metastasis to the liver or peritoneum; pain requiring intensive palliative care
Neuroendocrine Tumors (e.g., Insulinoma, Glucagonoma)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Pancreatic Tumors
Symptoms:
hypoglycemia symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, confusion, seizures (in insulinoma); hyperglycemia, weight loss, necrolytic migratory erythema (in glucagonoma); diarrhea; abdominal pain; flushing (in other nets)
Root Cause:
Tumors arising from the endocrine cells of the pancreas, often secreting hormones like insulin or glucagon in excess, leading to systemic metabolic effects.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Hormone level measurement in blood (e.g., insulin, glucagon, gastrin); imaging such as CT, MRI, or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS); EUS-guided biopsy; functional imaging like DOTATATE PET scan
Treatment:
Surgical resection is the primary treatment for localized tumors; somatostatin analogs like octreotide or lanreotide for hormone control; targeted therapies (e.g., everolimus or sunitinib); peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for metastatic disease
Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide and lanreotide ) to control hormone secretion and tumor growth; everolimus (mTOR inhibitor) or sunitinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) for advanced or metastatic disease.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for about 7% of all pancreatic cancers; incidence is approximately 1-5 per 100,000 population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1); family history of NETs; chronic pancreatitis
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on tumor type, size, and stage. Insulinomas typically have an excellent prognosis if surgically removed, while metastatic NETs have a median survival of 5-10 years with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hormonal crises (e.g., severe hypoglycemia in insulinoma); metastasis to the liver or bone; nutritional deficiencies; intestinal obstruction or ischemia in advanced cases
Pancreatic Cysts
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders
Sub-category: Other Pancreatic Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; jaundice (if the cyst compresses the bile duct); unintended weight loss; palpable mass in the abdomen
Root Cause:
Fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas caused by a variety of conditions, such as pancreatitis, trauma, or neoplasms.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies like CT scan, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), combined with fine-needle aspiration for cyst fluid analysis.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the type of cyst. Observation for benign or asymptomatic cysts, drainage, or surgical removal for symptomatic, infected, or potentially malignant cysts.
Medications:
Antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or metronidazole for infected cysts; proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce pancreatic inflammation in associated conditions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Seen in approximately 10-20% of patients undergoing imaging for unrelated reasons; prevalence increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Acute or chronic pancreatitis, alcohol use, gallstones, abdominal trauma, family history of pancreatic cysts.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good for benign cysts; malignant potential depends on the type (e.g., intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, or IPMN, has a higher risk).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of rupture, infection, hemorrhage, or transformation into pancreatic cancer.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Pancreatic Disorders
Sub-category: Digestive Enzyme Deficiencies
Symptoms:
steatorrhea (fatty stools); diarrhea; weight loss; abdominal pain; bloating; malnutrition; vitamin deficiencies (a, d, e, k)
Root Cause:
Insufficient production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas, leading to impaired digestion and nutrient absorption.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fecal elastase-1 test, direct pancreatic function tests, imaging studies (CT or MRI) to identify underlying pancreatic pathology.
Treatment:
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), dietary modifications (low-fat diet, supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins).
Medications:
Pancreatic enzyme supplements like pancrelipase (Creon, Zenpep, Pancrease); these contain lipase, protease, and amylase to aid digestion.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated prevalence varies; more common in individuals with chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic surgery.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, pancreatic surgery, alcoholism.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with proper enzyme replacement and dietary management; untreated EPI can lead to severe malnutrition and quality-of-life impairment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malnutrition, osteoporosis, chronic diarrhea, increased risk of infections due to vitamin deficiencies.
Hereditary Pancreatitis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: Pancreatic Disorders
Sub-category: Genetic Pancreatic Disorders
Symptoms:
recurrent episodes of abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; jaundice; steatorrhea; chronic fatigue; weight loss
Root Cause:
Genetic mutations (e.g., PRSS1, SPINK1, CFTR) leading to abnormal pancreatic enzyme activity and recurrent inflammation of the pancreas.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing, family history, imaging studies (CT or MRI), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).
Treatment:
Pain management, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), dietary modifications, and in severe cases, total pancreatectomy with islet cell autotransplantation.
Medications:
Analgesics (acetaminophen , NSAIDs, or opioids for severe pain), pancreatic enzyme supplements, antioxidants to reduce inflammation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare condition, accounting for less than 1% of chronic pancreatitis cases; higher prevalence in families with known mutations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Positive family history, specific genetic mutations (e.g., PRSS1 mutation).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on frequency and severity of episodes. Higher risk of developing diabetes and pancreatic cancer over time.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, pancreatic cancer.
Upper GI Bleeding (e.g., Varices, Peptic Ulcers)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Symptoms:
hematemesis (vomiting blood); melena (black, tarry stools); weakness; dizziness; abdominal pain; shortness of breath; fatigue
Root Cause:
Bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, commonly caused by peptic ulcers, gastric or esophageal varices, Mallory-Weiss tears, or erosive gastritis/esophagitis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), stool guaiac test, complete blood count (CBC) to check hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and imaging if required.
Treatment:
Stabilization with intravenous fluids and blood transfusions if necessary, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), endoscopic interventions (e.g., banding or sclerotherapy for varices, cauterization for ulcers), and in severe cases, surgery or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS).
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole , pantoprazole ) to reduce acid production, octreotide (a somatostatin analog) to control variceal bleeding, and antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone ) to prevent infections in variceal cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 50-150 per 100,000 people annually; variceal bleeding is common in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic use of NSAIDs, Helicobacter pylori infection, liver cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, coagulopathies, and high blood pressure in the portal vein.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most cases are manageable; however, recurrent bleeding and mortality are significant concerns, especially in variceal cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypovolemic shock, recurrent bleeding, organ failure, and in variceal cases, high mortality if untreated.
Lower GI Bleeding (e.g., Diverticular Bleeding, Angiodysplasia)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Symptoms:
hematochezia (bright red or maroon-colored stools); anemia; dizziness; fatigue; abdominal cramps; weakness
Root Cause:
Bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, commonly due to diverticular disease, angiodysplasia, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or ischemic colitis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Colonoscopy, angiography, nuclear medicine scans (e.g., tagged red blood cell scan), and lab tests like CBC to detect anemia.
Treatment:
Resuscitation with intravenous fluids and blood products, colonoscopic interventions (e.g., clipping or cauterization), angiographic embolization, and in severe cases, surgery. Treat underlying causes such as diverticulitis or colitis.
Medications:
Medications are less commonly used for primary treatment but may include vasopressin for active bleeding during angiography, iron supplements for anemia, and mesalamine for inflammatory bowel disease if applicable.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence ranges from 20-30 per 100,000 people annually, increasing with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, diverticular disease, vascular malformations, anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, and a history of inflammatory bowel disease or radiation therapy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve spontaneously, especially diverticular bleeding. Severe or recurrent bleeding may require intervention, and prognosis depends on the underlying cause.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, shock, recurrent bleeding, and in rare cases, bowel ischemia or perforation during treatment.
Gastroparesis
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; early satiety; bloating; abdominal pain; weight loss; poor appetite
Root Cause:
Impaired gastric motility due to delayed emptying of the stomach without mechanical obstruction; often associated with nerve or muscle dysfunction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Gastric emptying studies (e.g., scintigraphy, breath tests), upper endoscopy to rule out obstruction, and imaging such as CT or MRI to assess anatomy.
Treatment:
Dietary modifications (small, low-fat, low-fiber meals), prokinetic medications, antiemetics, and in severe cases, interventions like gastric electrical stimulation or jejunal feeding tubes.
Medications:
Prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide (a dopamine antagonist) and erythromycin (a macrolide antibiotic) are prescribed to enhance gastric motility. Antiemetics, such as ondansetron (a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist) or promethazine (a phenothiazine derivative ), are used to control nausea and vomiting.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects an estimated 4% of the U.S. population, with higher prevalence in individuals with diabetes or post-surgical complications.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2), prior abdominal surgery, systemic disorders affecting nerves or muscles (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, scleroderma), and certain medications (e.g., opioids, anticholinergics).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by severity; manageable with lifestyle changes and medications, but symptoms can persist and significantly affect quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malnutrition, dehydration, bezoar formation, fluctuating blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, and impaired medication absorption.
Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Motility Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; bloating; nausea; vomiting; constipation; diarrhea; malnutrition; failure to thrive in children
Root Cause:
Abnormal motility of the intestines due to dysfunction of the smooth muscle or nerves; mimics a mechanical obstruction but without a physical blockage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Abdominal X-rays, CT scans, manometry to evaluate intestinal contractions, and full-thickness biopsies to examine underlying neuromuscular abnormalities.
Treatment:
Management focuses on treating symptoms with dietary adjustments (low-residue or elemental diets), enteral or parenteral nutrition, prokinetic agents, and in some cases, surgical decompression.
Medications:
Prokinetic agents such as neostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) and metoclopramide (a dopamine antagonist) are used to enhance motility. Antispasmodics, such as hyoscine (an anticholinergic agent), may be used to manage painful cramping. Antibiotics, like rifaximin (a gut-specific antibiotic), may be prescribed for bacterial overgrowth.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of fewer than 1 in 100,000 individuals; can occur as a primary (idiopathic) condition or secondary to systemic diseases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predispositions, underlying conditions like scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, neurological disorders, or prior abdominal surgery.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and often progressive; prognosis depends on the underlying cause and response to treatment. Early intervention with nutritional support can improve outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malnutrition, intestinal perforation, bacterial overgrowth, sepsis, and dependency on parenteral nutrition in advanced cases.
Peritonitis (Spontaneous Bacterial or Secondary)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Peritoneal Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; bloating; loss of appetite; rebound tenderness; altered mental status (in severe cases)
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the peritoneum caused by bacterial infection, either spontaneous (usually due to liver disease and ascites) or secondary to conditions like a perforated appendix or bowel injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (CT scan or ultrasound), and diagnostic paracentesis (analysis of peritoneal fluid for white blood cell count, Gram stain, and culture).
Treatment:
Immediate treatment includes antibiotics to target causative bacteria, supportive care (IV fluids, pain management), and surgery (in secondary peritonitis) to repair the underlying source of infection.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as cefotaxime or piperacillin-tazobactam (antibacterial). In cases of fungal involvement, antifungals like fluconazole may be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis occurs in 10-30% of patients with cirrhosis and ascites. Secondary peritonitis prevalence depends on underlying conditions like appendicitis or bowel perforation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic liver disease with ascites, peritoneal dialysis, abdominal surgery, gastrointestinal perforations, trauma, and immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; spontaneous bacterial peritonitis has a 20-40% mortality rate, which improves with prompt treatment. Secondary peritonitis requires surgical intervention and can lead to serious complications without timely management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, multi-organ failure, abscess formation, and recurrent infections.
Ascites (Abdominal Fluid Accumulation)
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Peritoneal Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal distension; weight gain; shortness of breath; abdominal discomfort; nausea; early satiety
Root Cause:
Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, commonly caused by liver cirrhosis, but also associated with cancers, heart failure, or infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam (shifting dullness, fluid wave test), ultrasound for fluid detection, and paracentesis to analyze the ascitic fluid (e.g., albumin gradient, cell count, cultures).
Treatment:
Management of the underlying cause (e.g., liver disease), sodium restriction, diuretics (e.g., spironolactone and furosemide), therapeutic paracentesis for symptomatic relief, and in severe cases, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or liver transplant.
Medications:
Diuretics such as spironolactone (potassium-sparing) and furosemide (loop diuretic) to reduce fluid accumulation. Albumin infusions post-paracentesis to prevent complications like hypovolemia.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 50% of patients with cirrhosis develop ascites within 10 years of diagnosis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic liver disease, excessive alcohol use, hepatitis infection, malignancies (e.g., ovarian cancer), and heart or kidney failure.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the cause; ascites related to cirrhosis indicates advanced liver disease and carries a 50% mortality rate over two years without transplant.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, and impaired quality of life due to recurrent fluid accumulation.
Functional Dyspepsia
Specialty: Gastrointestinal
Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions
Sub-category: Abdominal Pain and Disorders
Symptoms:
upper abdominal pain or discomfort; bloating; nausea; early satiety; belching
Root Cause:
Functional dyspepsia is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with no detectable structural abnormalities, often linked to hypersensitivity of the stomach lining, delayed gastric emptying, or altered gut-brain interaction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on Rome IV criteria, and involves ruling out structural causes with endoscopy, imaging, or lab tests to exclude Helicobacter pylori infection or other conditions.
Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., smaller meals, avoiding triggers like caffeine and fatty foods), stress management, and medications.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ), H2 receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine), prokinetics (e.g., metoclopramide ), or low-dose tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline ) to manage symptoms.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-20% of the global population, with higher rates in women and younger adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Psychological stress, anxiety, depression, Helicobacter pylori infection, and dietary triggers.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be managed with treatment, but some patients may experience chronic symptoms or episodic recurrences.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
While not life-threatening, untreated symptoms can significantly reduce quality of life and lead to anxiety or depression.