Case 1

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the body’s entry point for nutrients, including fluids and electrolytes needed to sustain life. Disorders of the GI tract are often grouped into the following categories: alteration of digestive function, absorptive function, immunologic function, and neuroendocrine function.

What are the stimuli to the multiple substances that control gastric acid secretion? What risks result from having strong acidity in the stomach?

What is the pathophysiology of Helicobacter pylori?

Case 2

The liver is a complex organ with many contributions to homeostasis that are often not appreciated until liver function declines. The liver has the capacity to rebound and regenerate after a variety of acute chemically or virally induced insults, but it is vulnerable to chronic chemical or infectious damage.

What blood tests are appropriate for a patient with a suspected acute liver injury?

Explain the rationale for ordering these tests, and patterns of results that you might see in a patient with acute HAV infection.