Glossary

Duodenum 

The upper part of the small intestine that connects the lower part of the stomach with the jejunum.

Degranulation 

Release of the contents (granules) of the cell. This happens to eosinophils when they are involved, in an immune response in allergic reactions.

Descending Colon 

The part of the large intestine located on the left side of the abdomen that connects the transverse colon at the splenic flexure with the sigmoid colon at the sigmoid flexure.

Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA Scan)

A special type of X-ray that measures the density of bones. The test is painless, just like getting an X-Ray. The typical areas scanned during the test include the hip bone, lumbar spine, and/or the wrist or forearm.

Diaphragm

A muscular and connective tissue structure separating the chest and abdominal cavities. The diaphragm contracts and expands in correlation with the lungs during breathing.

Digestive System 

All of the muscular organs involved in eating, digesting foods and eliminating solid food wastes. This includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

Double-blind Placebo-controlled (DBPC) Study 

This is a research study in which both the patient and the healthcare provider are unaware of whether the subject is being given an active substance (including food) or a placebo (sugar pill) in order to avoid bias in interpretation of the results.

Duodenitis 

Inflammation of the duodenum.

Dysmotility (Abnormal motility). In reference to the GI tract, food moves more slowly or quickly than normal through the esophagus, stomach and/or intestines.

Dysmotility (Abnormal motility). In reference to the GI tract, food moves more slowly or quickly than normal through the esophagus, stomach and/or intestines.

Dyspepsia 

Discomfort in the stomach marked by symptoms of nausea, loss of appetite, bloating, belching and/or flatulence, change in bowel habits, heartburn, reflux, and/or a gnawing or burning sensation in the stomach area. Causes may include insufficient digestive enzymes or hydrochloric acid (HCl), ulcer, esophageal spasms, intestinal obstruction or other motility problem, IBS, gallstones, lactose intolerance, heart problems, or other causes.

Dysphagia 

Difficulty swallowing liquid or solid food.

EC

See Eosinophilic Colitis.

Eczema 

Inflammatory condition of the skin with redness, scaling and often itching. May be related to allergies, infection, diabetes or environmental changes.

Edema

Swelling or water retention.

EE 

Acronym commonly used for Erosive Esophagitis

EoE 

See Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

EG 

See Eosinophilic Gastritis.

EGE

See Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis.

Elemental Formula

Nutritionally complete formulas whose protein component is provided as amino acids to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction. Formulas are used for tube feedings and to decrease the symptoms of food allergy, EGIDs, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other diseases.

Elimination Diet

A diet in which specific food antigens have been eliminated in order to decrease the chance of having an allergic reaction.

Endoscope 

A tube with a light and a camera on the end of it that is used to view the esophagus, stomach, part of the duodenum, part of the terminal ileum and the entire large intestine. Endoscopes usually also contain a biopsy port for collection of tissue samples during endoscopic procedures.

Endoscopic Reference Score (EREFS)

Endoscopic Reference Score

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

A diagnostic test that uses an endoscope to look at the tubes that drain the liver, gallbladder and pancreas. This is done to look at the health of the tubes and to fix any problems such as a stone blocking the tube or duct.

Endoscopic Severity Score (ESS)

Endoscopic Severity Score

Endoscopy (EGD or esophagogastroduodenoscopy) 

A procedure in which an endoscope is passed through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and part of the duodenum. Biopsies may be taken of the mucosal layers during this procedure. The only preparation is avoiding all food and liquids for a number of hours before the procedure.

Enema 

Administration of medication through the rectum for the purpose of clearing out the bowel.

Enteral Nutrition 

Nutrition feedings through a tube that either goes through the mouth, nose, stomach or small intestine. The feedings are made of a special liquid that may contain all the nutrients a person needs. Nutrition obtained through the digestive system, either eaten through the mouth or through a feeding tube. See also GJ, GT, JT, ND, NG, and Tube Feeding.

Enzyme 

Enzymes are a type of catalyst, which means they speed up chemical reactions. In the case of digestive enzymes, they speed up the digestion or breaking down of food into nutritional components such as fatty acids, amino acids, sugars, vitamins and minerals. When the organs that produce digestive enzymes are not producing sufficient quantities, a supplemental form of digestive enzymes may be needed for proper digestion to occur. Some metabolic disorders involve the lack of a certain enzyme needed for processing or metabolizing specific food components.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

A type of test in which subclasses of immunoglobulins may be detected; the test is helpful in diagnosing some autoimmune diseases such as Celiac Disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, viral illness and many others.

Eosinophil 

A type of white blood cell. They are produced in the bone marrow and migrate throughout the body. Elevated levels of eosinophils may be found in the blood and/or in tissue, often as the result of an allergic response. Abnormally high levels of eosinophils are common in certain parasitic infections, as well as diseases such as asthma, EGID, leukemia and drug allergies.

Eosinophilic Colitis (EC) A disease involving patchy infiltration of one or more layers of the large intestine with eosinophils.

Eosinophilic Colitis (EC) A disease involving patchy infiltration of one or more layers of the large intestine with eosinophils.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) 

A chronic, immune/antigen mediated, esophageal disease characterized clinically by symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction and histologically by eosinophil-predominant inflammation.

Eosinophilic Gastritis (EG) 

A disease involving patchy infiltration of one or more layers of the stomach with eosinophils.

Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis (EGE) 

A disease involving patchy infiltration of more than one segment of the gastrointestinal tract.

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease(s) (EGID) 

The umbrella phrase used to describe one or more of the following: Eosinophilic Colitis, Eosinophilic Enteritis, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, and/or Eosinophilic Gastritis.

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) 

Also referred to as Churg-Strauss Syndrome (CSS). A disease characterized by blood vessel inflammation, which in turn can constrict blood flow to organs and tissues causing damage. Eosinophils are part of the inflammatory process in this disease. This eosinophilic reaction and asthma are the hallmarks of the disease. People may also suffer from sinus problems, neuropathy, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.

Erythrocyte

A red blood cell.

Esophageal Ring 

An abnormality of the esophagus that results from inflammation or that one is born with.

Esophageal Dilatation

A procedure that dilates, or stretches, a narrowed part the esophagus (esophageal stricture). This can be done with dilators called bougie dilators or with a balloon.

Esophageal Stricture

An area of narrowing of the esophageal lumen. See also Stricture.

Esophageal Web 

A membrane that appears in the esophagus, causing dysphagia. The web may be broken via an endoscopic procedure.

Esophagitis 

Inflammation of the esophagus.

Esophagoscopy

A procedure in which an endoscope is inserted into the esophagus through the mouth for diagnostic purposes, or to dilate rings or strictures, or obtain biopsies.

Esophagus 

The muscular tube that connects the back of the mouth to the top of the stomach that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The upper third of the esophagus is usually referred to as the proximal esophagus, or cervical esophagus. The middle third of the esophagus may be referred to as the thoracic esophagus. The lower third of the esophagus is usually referenced as the distal esophagus.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

Also called “Sed Rate,” the rate at which red blood cells in a measured sample settle in a specific amount of time. The higher the ESR, the faster the red blood cells settled. An elevated ESR usually indicates inflammation. The ESR is a general measure of inflammation, therefore it does not say anything about the location of the inflammation.

Etiology 

The cause or triggering factor for development of a specific disease. When a specific etiology is not obvious, the condition is said to be idiopathic.

Exudate

A fluid that emits through pores or a wound. During an endoscopic procedure, white plaque exudate may sometimes be viewed in the esophagus of an individual with eosinophilic esophagitis.

Failure to Thrive (FTT) 

A general term used for insufficient growth (by standard growth charts) or inadequate weight gain caused by a variety of medical and psychosocial conditions.

Fat 

A dietary substance that is broken down in the body to fatty acids. See also EFA.

Fecal Impaction

When feces, or stool, obstructs colon or rectum, and does not allow waste to pass. It is most commonly seen in people with long-term constipation, and can cause bloating and abdominal pain. This condition usually requires a stool softener or manual disimpaction to alleviate the problem.

Fibrosis

The formation of excess fibrous tissue, usually in response to damage or injury.

Fistula 

An abnormal tract formed between loops of bowel, the bowel and other organs or the bowel and the skin surface. Fistulas are normally associated with severe Crohn’s Disease, but might also occur with other inflammatory conditions. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are typically required for treatment, and placement of a drain or surgical treatment may also be necessary.

Flare 

A time during which active disease is present.

Flatulence 

Passing gas through the anus. May be accompanied by bloating, indigestion and/or other symptoms.

Flexible Sigmoidoscope

 See Sigmoidoscope.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy 

See Sigmoidoscopy.

Flexure

A normal bend in a tubular body structure such as the large intestines.

Food Challenge

Exposure to a food with the aim of determining whether it will elicit an immunological or clinical response.

Food Trial Relative to EGID

The introduction/reintroduction of a food, typically for a specified period of time and subsequently evaluated via endoscopy, with the aim of determining whether it is considered to be a “food trigger,” resulting in clinical symptoms and/or histological abnormalities (i.e., eosinophil-predominant inflammation).

Furrowing

Longitudinal linear creases in the esophagus.

Gallbladder

A saclike organ located just underneath the liver, the gallbladder serves as a storage location for bile that the liver produces.

Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) 

A disease in which acid reflux and heartburn occur frequently over an extended period of time.

Gastroparesis 

Abnormally slow emptying of the contents of the stomach.

GERD

See Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

Gastrointestinal Tract (GI Tract)

Also called the digestive system.

Gastrojejunostomy Tub e (GJ or GJ-Tube)

A tube that is surgically inserted through the skin into the stomach and runs to the small intestine. This is done so that liquid food may be pumped directly into the small intestine, bypassing the esophagus and stomach.

Glucocorticoid 

A hormone molecule with anti-inflammatory effects.

Gluten

A type of protein found in wheat, rye, barley and possibly oats. People with gluten sensitivity, gluten intolerance, and Celiac Disease have an adverse reaction when they eat foods that contain gluten.

Gluten Intolerance

A physical reaction due to ingesting gluten. This condition differs from Celiac Disease in the fact that the individual does not have an identifiable immune reaction to gluten, nor do they have a true autoimmune disease. Gluten-intolerant individuals do not have the same long-term risks (such as cancers, anemia and osteoporosis) with exposure to gluten that individuals with Celiac Disease do.

Gastric Tube (GT or G-Tube)

A tube that has been surgically inserted through the skin into the stomach so that liquid food may be pumped directly into the stomach bypassing the esophagus.

H. pylori (helicobacter pylori) 

A bacteria that can cause ulcers in the stomach and duodenum. People with H. pylori infection may not have symptoms, or they may experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or frequent burping.

Hydrochloric acid (HCL)

A component of gastric acid that is produced by cells in the lining of the stomach. This acid helps digest food in the stomach.

Heartburn 

A symptom gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Hepatic

Referring to the liver.

Hepatic Flexure 

The bend in the large intestine that is located on the right side of the abdomen just under the liver and connects the ascending colon with the transverse colon.

Hiatal Hernia 

A condition in which a small part of the upper stomach pushes through the diaphragm. A sliding hiatal hernia is usually asymptomatic or only causes occasional minor heartburn. A non-sliding hiatal hernia may easily become strangulated, thus requiring surgical correction to prevent potentially serious complications.

Hiccough 

A spasm of the diaphragm. Also spelled hiccup.

High Power Field (hpf) 

A term used to describe the area examined under a microscope.

Histamine

A chemical your body produces in response to an allergic reaction. It also mediates several other biological activities in the body. There are 4 histamine receptors (H1-4) that are found on cells. Antihistamines, like Benadryl®, block some of the histamine receptors, and relieve symptoms of the allergic reaction.

Hives (See also Urticaria) 

A raised and red skin reaction caused by a local or systemic exposure to a substance that is typically triggered by local mast cell activation.

Hyperplasia 

An increase in the number of cells in an organ that leads to increased thickness or size of the organ.

Hypoallergenic 

Low potential to cause allergic reactions.

IBD 

see Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

ICS

Topical Corticosteroids

Idiopathic 

No obvious cause.

Immunoglobulin Antibodies (See also Antibody)

Produced by the body’s immune system, and attach to foreign substances so the immune system can destroy them. They may attach to bacteria, viruses, fungi, cancer cells, and animal dander. There are 5 major types of antibodies. IgA Antibodies are found on mucosal surfaces such as the GI tract, airway, nose, mouth and in body fluids such as tears and saliva. IgE is the allergy antibody. IgG, IgM, and IgD are the other immunoglobulin types.

IgD Antibodies 

The first surface antibody produced by B cells

IgE Antibodies 

Involved in allergic reactions.

IgG Antibodies

Found in all body fluids and are important for fighting bacterial and viral infections.

IgM Antibodies 

The largest sized antibodies and are found in blood and lymph fluid. They are the first to fight infection.

Ileo-Cecal Valve

A muscle valve at the connection point between the large and small intestines.

Ileostomy

A surgically created hole in the abdomen in which a part of the small intestine is brought through to the skin surface. A bag must be worn over the hole to collect bowel movements. A temporary ileostomy may be needed to allow some bowel tissue to heal after chronic inflammation has been treated.

Ileum 

The last part of the small intestine, it connects the jejunum with the large intestine.

Ileus

A temporary lack of sufficient peristalsis in the intestines. Surgery, intestinal obstruction, infections, and other problems may be the cause. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, lack of bowel movements and no passing gas.

Immunologist

A professional specialist on the study of the immune system physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases involving the immune system. Some Immunologists are also called Environmental Medicine.

Immunomodulator 

A type of therapy that modifies the immune system to achieve disease control. Such medications are typically used in treating autoimmune diseases, cancer and organ transplant rejection.

Indigestion 

An uncomfortable feeling that occurs during or after eating.

Inflammation 

Swelling of a tissue. It is part of the body’s response to tissue injury, irritation or damage. It is the body’s attempt at self-protection, and this response leads to repair of the damaged tissue.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 

A chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive system. Two major types of IBD are identified: Crohn’s Disease, which can involve the entire gastrointestinal tract, and Ulcerative Colitis, which involves only the colon.

Intolerance (Dietary)

A non-allergic reaction in response to the ingestion of dietary substances.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Also called “spastic colon.” A disorder in which constipation and/or diarrhea or alternating between the two seems to occur frequently. Inflammation is not part of IBS. It is unknown what causes IBS, but it may be triggered by stress, infection and possibly immune responses to food. There is no known cure.

Intramucosal 

Situated or occurring within a mucous membrane.

Intussusception 

Telescoping The protrusion or folding of one segment of the intestine into another segment of the intestine.

J-Tube 

A tube surgically inserted through the skin and into the small intestines to enable liquid feeding (or elemental formula) directly into the small intestine bypassing the esophagus and stomach.

Jejunum 

The middle part of the small intestine.

JT

See J-Tube.

Lactose Intolerance 

Individuals who are deficient in the intestinal enzyme lactase do not digest or absorb lactose properly. Malabsorbed lactose reaches the large intestine and is fermented by bacteria. Byproducts of the fermentation process cause symptoms, including gas, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps and bloating.

Lamina propria 

Part of the lining of mucous membrane that lines various tubes in the body.

Large Bowel

See Large Intestine

Large Intestine

A long muscular tube that connects the small intestine with the anus. It is responsible for absorption of water from indigestible food.

Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) 

The valve that is located at the bottom of the esophagus where it is connected to the stomach. Improper function of the LES can cause acid reflux.

Leukotriene

A proinflammatory lipid immune system modulator that is released during and after allergic reactions and is also believed to be partly responsible for prolonging other types of inflammation. Leukotrienes are involved in asthma and other inflammatory diseases.

Leukotriene Inhibitor

A medication that prevents the release of leukotrienes or prevents their proinflammatory action in the body. Several different subtypes of leukotrienes have been identified in association with various inflammatory diseases, hence the development of various different types of leukotriene inhibitor medications.

Lipase 

The digestive enzyme needed to properly digest lipids, or fats. This enzyme is produced by the pancreas; bile is also needed to digest fats.

Liver

The liver is a large solid organ in the right upper corner of the abdomen, and is protected by the rib cage. The liver functions to detoxify chemicals, metabolize drugs, filter blood, and make proteins that are important for blood clotting and other functions. It also produces bile, which is important for digestion, and stores carbohydrates to be used as “fuel” for the body between meals.

Lower GI Series

See Water Soluble Contrast Enema (Contrast Enema)

Lumen 

The hollow portion of a tubular body structure, such as the inside of a blood vessel, the intestines, and the esophagus.

Lymphocyte 

A type of white blood cell that functions as part of the immune system. Types of lymphocytes include: T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells.

Malabsorption 

Difficulty absorbing nutrients from food or liquids.

Mast Cell 

A cellular component of the immune system that resides in tissue. When attached to an IgE-Antibody combination, releases mediators (degranulates) in allergic reactions, including leukotrienes, histamine and other chemicals.

Mast Cell Stabilizer

A type of medication that helps prevent mast cells from releasing allergic reaction mediators.

Metabolic Disorder

A medical condition in which the body has difficulty converting food to energy. Metabolism is complex set of chemical reactions that lead to energy production or storage. People with metabolic disorders have an abnormal chemical reaction that disrupts metabolism.

Motility 

The coordinated neuromuscular activity of the wall of the GI tract that moves intestinal contents

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) 

A computer-assisted imaging technique that is free of radiation (unlike CT Scans). Sometimes, an MRI may be done using a contrast dye in order to enhance specific body structures. Images are produced in cross-sectional pictures of the part of the body being scanned. MRI Scans are used to view soft tissue and bone, including a wide variety of problems; for example, fractures, tumors, abdominal problems, and some nerve problems can all be examined via MRI.

Mucosa

The innermost layer of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines. This layer is visible on endoscopic or colonoscopic examination. The submucosa is just underneath the mucosa. The mucosa and submucosa can be biopsied via colonoscopic or endoscopic procedure.

Muscularis 

The middle layer of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines.

Naso-Duodenal Tube (ND or ND-Tube)

A tube that is inserted through one nostril of the nose and runs down the esophagus, through the stomach and into the duodenum. Liquid food (or formula) is pumped through the tube directly into the duodenum, bypassing the esophagus and stomach.

Naso-Gastric Tube (NG or NG-Tube) 

A tube that has been inserted into one nostril that runs down the esophagus into the stomach. Liquid food (formula) is pumped through the tube directly into the stomach bypassing the esophagus.

NPO

No food by mouth.

Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) 

Also known as pollen-food syndrome. Produces localized reaction caused by cross-reacting allergens found in both pollen and certain raw fruits, vegetables, or some tree nuts.

Osteopenia 

A condition in which bone mineral density is lower than normal, but not low enough to be called osteoporosis. Bone mineral density is a measurement of the level of minerals in the bone, and tells how strong and dense the bones are.

Osteoporosis

A loss of bone mineral density, leading to weak bones that easily fracture. Some causes include a drop in testosterone or estrogen levels, certain medications, improper nutrition, malabsorption, certain diseases (e.g., IBD, Addison’s Disease, Hypothyroid or Hyperparathyroid), and possibly other causes. Protein deficiency can lead to loss of bone density, as can calcium and other mineral deficiencies. A Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) is required for diagnosis. Special Osteoporosis medication may be needed to slow the progression of bone density loss.

Ostomy

Any type of surgical procedure that creates a hole to connect the gastrointestinal tract to the abdominal wall. Examples include ileostomy and colostomy.

Pancreas

A gland in the body located behind the stomach and extending towards the liver, the pancreas is responsible for producing and secreting some digestive enzymes and also insulin. Diabetes is a disease of the pancreas.

Pancreatic Enzymes

Enzymes produced and secreted by the pancreas that are needed for proper digestion.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, sometimes caused by certain medications or alcoholism.

Parasite 

An organism that has invaded the body that normally does not live in the human body or human digestive system. Some parasites can cause eosinophilic infiltration of the digestive system.

Parenteral Nutrition 

Nutrition obtained through a vein.

Peristalsis 

Contraction of the muscles in the digestive system in a wavelike fashion, such that foodstuff is moved down from the mouth and through the stomach and intestinal tract for elimination through the rectum. Motility disorders typically cause abnormalities with peristalsis.

Peritoneum 

A tissue that lines the abdominal wall and covers most of the organs in the abdomen. Peritoneal fluid lines the tissue as a lubricant.

Pernicious Anemia (PA) 

Classically, PA is only used to describe an autoimmune disease in which the part of the stomach where intrinsic factor is secreted has been attacked by the body’s immune system, rendering Vitamin B12 unabsorbable in the terminal ileum and thus causing anemia. However, some physicians also use PA to describe general Vitamin B12 deficiency regardless of the cause.

Polyp 

A growth or portion of abnormal tissue that extends from the digestive system wall into the hollow portion of the digestive system. Some are cancerous or pre-cancerous. Some are due to inflammation. Polypectomy may be performed during an endoscopy or colonoscopy procedure.

Polypectomy 

Removal of a polyp in the digestive system, usually during a colonoscopy or endoscopy procedure. A wire loop is placed over the polyp and then a very low electrical current is passed through the wire as the wire is moved such that the polyp is removed by the movement of the wire through the base of the polyp. The electrical current in the wire helps to cauterize the polyp removal location to reduce bleeding and prevent infection.

Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) 

A medication that blocks the acid producing pumps in the stomach.

Probiotic Bacteria 

Help maintain the natural balance of the intestine. These bacteria help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria. These bacteria can be given as a supplemental form of lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus bifidus, some soil-based organisms and/or other bacteria that are known to inhabit healthy small and/or large intestines.

Protease 

A class of enzyme whose function is to digest other proteins.

Protein Amino acid 

Amino acid containing molecules encoded by genes. A nutritional component required by the body to sustain life. Protein is made up of amino acids that have been connected together in a variety of configurations depending on the type of protein. Whole food proteins are believed to play a role in Eosinophilic Enteritis. See also Amino Acid.

Protein Intolerance Symptoms 

Symptoms that develop after an immunologic reaction to one or more dietary proteins.

Protein-Losing Enteropathy 

An abnormal loss of protein through the digestive tract, resulting in low serum protein (protein in blood). This may lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, edema and weight loss.

Pruritus

Itching

PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome (PHTS) 

An autosomal dominant disease characterized by soft tissue growths; has been associated with EGID.

Pyloric Stenosis 

Fixed narrowing of the muscle that controls the outlet of the stomach (pylorus) to the small intestine. When the pylorus of the stomach is narrowed, it becomes difficult for food to pass from the stomach to the small intestine. This commonly leads to vomiting.

Pylorus 

The muscle that surrounds and controls the outlet of the stomach (between the stomach and the duodenum).

Rectum 

The last part of the large intestine that connects to the anus.

Remission 

Period of time when no disease activity is present.

Resection 

Surgical removal of tissue.

Rotation Diet

A way of eating in which related foods are eaten on a rotating schedule. Typically, 3 days are given between eating each item from the same food “family.”

Schatzki’s Ring 

A buildup of tissue at the lower end of the esophagus that interferes with passage of food.

Sed Rate Also ESR

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate; a blood marker of systemic inflammation.

Sedation 

Use of medication for a calming effect.

Serosa 

A thin membrane that lines body cavities. The serosa of the GI tract is the outermost layer of the intestine. The subserosa is the layer just under the serosa. Both serosa and subserosa cannot be biopsied through an endoscopic or colonoscopic procedure.

Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) 

Short Bowel Syndrome refers to the state in which an intestine is too short to normally perform all of its functions, such as nutrient absorption. This results from surgical resection or a birth defect in intestinal development.

Short Gut Syndrome 

See Short Bowel Syndrome.

Sigmoid Colon 

A curved part of the large intestine that extends from the rectum to the descending colon on the left side of the abdomen and which includes the sigmoid flexure.

Sigmoidoscope 

A short, flexible or rigid endoscope designed only to examine the rectum and sigmoid portion of the large intestine.

Sigmoidoscopy

A procedure in which a flexible or rigid sigmoidoscope is inserted into the rectum and through the entire length of the sigmoid portion of the large intestine for examination and possible biopsy. Preparation includes an enema and mild laxative to clear waste from the sigmoid and rectal areas.

Skin Prick Test (SPT) 

A method of allergy testing in which a small amount of an allergen is placed into the skin by making a small “prick” on the surface of the skin and assessing the skin reaction. The test indicates the presence of IgE-bound and mast cells.

Small Bowel 

See Small Intestine.

Small Bowel Follow-Through (SBFT)

A series of X-rays taken after one drinks a large glass of liquid barium.

Small Intestine

A long muscular tube that connects the bottom of the stomach with the large intestine (large bowel).

Splenic Flexure

The bend in the large intestine located in the left side of the abdomen (just under the stomach and spleen) where the ascending colon and transverse colon are connected.

Steatorrhea

Excess fat in the stool. This may be caused from problems with absorbing fat, which can occur from diseases such as IBD, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and pancreatic insufficiency.

Stenosis 

Any type of narrowing of a tubular or hollow structure in the body, such as the intestinal tract or spinal column.

Steroid

A type of medication that is a synthetic version of cortisol or other hormones. When based on cortisol, this type of medication suppresses the immune system and is therefore used to treat allergies, asthma, EGID, autoimmune diseases, some forms of cancer, organ transplant rejection and other diseases, and to provide adrenal gland support in cases of adrenal insufficiency.

Stoma 

A hole created surgically to connect the gastrointestinal tract to the abdominal wall.

Stomach

A muscular pouch attached to the bottom of the esophagus where food is stored while it is being prepared for digestion and nutrient extraction in the small intestine.

Stricture

An abnormal area of narrowing in the digestive system. This may occur in areas such as the esophagus or colon.

Tenesmus 

A feeling of needing to pass stool, even when the bowels are empty. With tenesmus there is a spasm of the muscles in the rectum and/or anus that is usually very painful. People with IBD and IBS may experience tenesmus as one symptom of their disease.

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) 

Complete nutrition (including fat, carbohydrate, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and water) given as an intravenous infusion.

Trachealization 

Having the appearance of the trachea; relative to EoE, the presence of fixed esophageal rings

Transverse Colon

The part of the large intestine that connects the hepatic flexure with the splenic flexure and which lies across the abdomen from right to the left.

Tube Feeding

Any form of feeding of liquid meals through a tube, including GT, GJ, JT, ND and NG Tubes.

Ulcer 

An area of variable size and depth in which the lining of the GI tract has eroded away.

Ulcerative Colitis 

A form of IBD in which inflammation occurs in a contiguous pattern in the inner layers of the large intestine.

Upper GI Series 

See Upper GI X-Ray.

Upper GI X-Ray 

A series of X-rays taken of the esophagus and stomach after one drinks a large glass of liquid barium. If X-rays of the small bowel are also included, it is called an Upper GI X-Ray with Small Bowel Follow-Through.

Urticaria 

A raised rash characterized by its itchiness, and often the result of an allergic response to food or medicine. See Hives.

Villi 

The tiny fingerlike projections on the inside of the small intestine wall that are responsible for nutrition absorption from the foods we eat. In some diseases, such as Celiac/Sprue and Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis, the villi can appear flattened/blunted on endoscopic and/or biopsy evaluation.

Water Soluble Contrast Enema (Contrast Enema)

A series of X-rays taken of the large intestine after a liquid solution of barium has been put into the large intestine via enema.

Wheal 

A raised bump on the skin. When associated with skin prick testing (SPT), wheals are often measured to assess the response to a specified allergen.

White Blood Cell (WBC) 

A type of blood cell that is involved in the immune system response to invading organisms (bacteria, virus or parasite). The different types of white blood cells include basophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils and monocytes.

White Blood Cell Count with Differential (WBC with Diff)

A type of blood test in which the total number of white blood cells in a measured amount of blood are counted, and then each of the different types of white blood cells are counted and listed separately in the test results. This is more routinely referred to as a CBC with Diff, and includes RBC/HGB/HCT/Platelets.