18th-century Japanese woodcut print entitled "Diet for Health" illustrating the functions of the digestive system. (From the National Library of Medicine.)

Gastrointestinal Pathophysiology explores the pathophysiology of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders from gastroesophageal reflux disease to cirrhosis. The course emphasizes fundamental topics in gastrointestinal pathophysiology, with a focus on correlation to clinical issues including treatment options for various common gastrointestinal disorders, each of which are covered in detail.  Topics are presented in the syllabus, in didactic lectures, and in small group sessions.  The materials presented in this course are a foundation for further learning in Gastroenterology.

This course reviews the pathophysiology of common gastrointestinal conditions and assumes a general understanding of gastrointestinal physiology.  The course follows an organ based structure to include disorders of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, small intestines, pancreas, biliary system, and liver.  The material is presented in the syllabus, lecture slides, and small group sessions. Self-assessment questions are provided at the end of each lecture and examinations are provided for review and self-testing.

• Diarrhea and Malabsorption
• Liver Failure: Cirrhosis
• Portal Hypertension
• Urease Breath Test for H. pylori
• Hepatitis B: Clinical Outcomes of Acute HBV Infections