Chapter 11
GI Case Study 1 Answers
1. Symptoms of gallbladder disease often resemble those of other GI diseases. Which group of symptoms suggests cholecystitis?
Pain in the right upper quadrant that radiates to the right shoulder or back, positive Murphy’s sign, and low-grade fever would suggest cholecystitis.
2. What diagnostic tests can be used to confirm a diagnosis of cholecystitis?
Diagnostic tests for cholecystitis include ultrasound, which can reveal gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder, and a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan, which evaluates gallbladder function. Blood tests such as liver function tests and a complete blood count (CBC) may also be performed to assess for inflammation and infection.
3. Why are G.B.’s symptoms triggered by eating and/or eating fatty foods?
Symptoms are triggered by eating fatty foods because fatty foods stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), which causes the gallbladder to contract and release bile. In individuals with gallbladder disease, such as cholecystitis, the bile duct may become obstructed by gallstones, leading to inflammation and pain.
4. Which best describes the role of the gallbladder?
The gallbladder stores, concentrates, and secretes bile.
5. True or False: Family history is the ONLY risk factor for cholecystitis seen in G.B.’s case. If other risk factors are present, please list them.
False. Other risk factors for cholecystitis in G.B.’s case include obesity, previous gestational diabetes, and her symptoms worsening after consuming fatty foods.
6. What are some potential treatment options for G.B.?
Treatment options for cholecystitis may include pain management, antibiotics to treat infection, and dietary modifications. In severe cases or recurrent episodes, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) may be necessary.
7. The physician decides that the best course of action for G.B. is a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. What does this procedure entail? What kind of postoperative instructions will you give to G.B.?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. It involves making small incisions in the abdomen and inserting a camera and specialized surgical instruments to visualize and remove the gallbladder. Postoperative instructions may include pain management, activity restrictions, dietary modifications (low-fat diet initially), and monitoring for signs of complications such as infection or bile duct injury.
GI Case Study 2 Answers
1. What are the signs and symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?
Signs and symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include abdominal pain, often described as burning or gnawing in nature, typically occurring between meals or during the night. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting (sometimes with blood), bloating, feeling full after small meals, and unintentional weight loss.
2. What risk factors does Samara present with?
Samara presents with risk factors for peptic ulcer disease