Pathophysiology of the Gastrointestinal System

The gastrointestinal system is susceptible to a wide range of pathologies that can affect its structure and function. Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) involve the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus, leading to mucosal damage and inflammation. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, result from an abnormal immune response targeting the gastrointestinal tract. Chronic gastritis, characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, can lead to the development of gastric ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection. Malabsorption syndromes, such as celiac disease, involve the inability to absorb nutrients properly due to immune reactions against gluten. Disorders of motility, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), affect the normal movement of food through the intestines, leading to abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Understanding the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal diseases is essential for the diagnosis and management of patients presenting with digestive symptoms, requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, pathologists, and surgeons.