Hypochondrium

Hypochondrium refers to the upper part of the abdomen on both sides of the body beneath the lower ribs. It is a region of the body that is often associated with discomfort or pain, particularly in conditions such as gallstones and kidney stones. The term is derived from the Greek words 'hypo' meaning 'under' and 'chondros' meaning 'cartilage (of the sternum)'.

Anatomy

The hypochondrium is divided into the left and right hypochondrium. The right hypochondrium is mainly occupied by the liver and gallbladder, while the left hypochondrium houses the stomach and the spleen. The kidneys and adrenal glands are also located near this region.

Clinical significance

Pain or discomfort in the hypochondrium can be a symptom of various medical conditions. These include:

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, which is located in the right hypochondrium. They can cause severe pain known as biliary colic.

• Kidney stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. Pain from kidney stones can radiate to the hypochondrium.

• Hepatitis: This is an inflammation of the liver. The liver is located in the right hypochondrium, so hepatitis can cause pain in this area.

• Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is located near the hypochondrium, so pancreatitis can cause pain in this area.

• Splenic infarction: This is a condition in which blood flow to the spleen is blocked, causing it to die. The spleen is located in the left hypochondrium, so a splenic infarction can cause pain in this area.

See also

• Abdominal pain
• Upper quadrant
• Abdomen

References

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