Epigastric

Epigastric refers to the region of the abdomen located just below the rib cage, directly in the middle of the body. It is one of the nine regions of the abdomen, which are used by healthcare professionals to localize pain, masses, and other symptoms. The epigastric region is often associated with conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and gallstones.

Anatomy

The epigastric region is located between the costal margins (lower edges of the rib cage) and the subcostal plane (a horizontal line drawn across the highest point of the 10th costal cartilage on each side). It is bordered on either side by the right hypochondrium and left hypochondrium.

Clinical significance

Pain in the epigastric region can be a symptom of various medical conditions. These include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing discomfort or pain in the epigastric region.

• Peptic ulcer disease: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest, which can occur either when the stomach is empty or a few hours after eating.

• Gallstones: Gallstones are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause sudden pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen (epigastric pain).

See also

• Abdominal pain
• Abdomen
• Gastroenterology

References

Epigastric Resources
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