Fundic

Fundic refers to the fundus, which is the upper part of the stomach. The fundus is one of the four main regions of the stomach, the others being the cardia, body, and pylorus. The fundus is located above the level of the esophageal opening and is distinguished by its dome-shaped appearance.

Anatomy

The fundus is situated superior to the cardia and is adjacent to the diaphragm. It is the part of the stomach that lies above the imaginary horizontal line drawn from the esophageal opening. The fundus is often filled with gas, which can be seen on radiographic images.

Function

The primary function of the fundus is to store undigested food and gases released during the process of chemical digestion. The fundus also plays a role in the secretion of digestive enzymes and gastric acid, which are essential for the breakdown of food.

Histology

The fundic region of the stomach contains specialized cells, including:

• Parietal cells - responsible for the secretion of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor.
• Chief cells - responsible for the secretion of pepsinogen, which is converted to pepsin in the acidic environment of the stomach.
• Mucous cells - responsible for the secretion of mucus, which protects the stomach lining from the acidic environment.

Clinical Significance

Conditions that can affect the fundus include:

• Gastritis - inflammation of the stomach lining, which can involve the fundus.
• Gastric ulcer - a sore that develops on the stomach lining, potentially affecting the fundus.
• Gastric cancer - a malignant tumor that can develop in any part of the stomach, including the fundus.

Related Pages

• Stomach
• Cardia (stomach)
• Body (stomach)
• Pylorus
• Parietal cell
• Chief cell
• Mucous cell
• Gastritis
• Gastric ulcer
• Gastric cancer