Small Intenstine MCQ

1. The most common site of adenocarcinoma of the small intestine is the:

A. Duodenum.
B. Jejunum.
C. Ileum.
Answer: A

2. The most common benign tumor of the small intestine is:

A. Adenoma.
B. Hemangioma.
C. Leiomyoma.
Answer: C

3. Vigorous bleeding from a small bowel lesion is most likely caused by:
A. Adenocarcinoma.
B. Arteriovenous malformation.
C. Leiomyoma.
Answer: C

4. The lamina propria between the intestinal epithelium and the muscularis mucosae contains:
A. Blood and lymph vessels.
B. Undifferentiated epithelial cells.
C. Nerve fibers.
D. Enterochromaffin cells.
E. Macrophages.
F. Connective tissue.
Answer: ACEF

DISCUSSION: The mucosa of the small intestine encompasses the epithelium, the lamina propria, and the
muscularis mucosae. The lamina propria between the epithelium and the muscularis mucosae contains
blood and lymph vessels, nerve fibers, smooth muscle fibers, fibroblasts, macrophages, plasma cells,
lymphocytes, eosinophils, and mast cells, as well as connective tissue elements.

5. The intestinal epithelial cells, 22 to 26 mm. tall, exhibit a striated luminal border (brush border). The
brush border microvilli:
A. Produce the brush border appearance.
B. Contain amylase.
C. Contain dissacharidases.
D. Increase absorptive area.
E. Play an important role in digestion.
F. Contain trypsinogen.
Answer: ACDE

DISCUSSION: The columnar epithelial cells are responsible for absorption. These cells exhibit a striated
luminal border or brush border. The microvilli account for the appearance of the brush border. The
microvilli greatly increase the absorption surface of the epithelial cell. The brush border contains
disaccharidase in high concentrations. In addition to increasing surface area the microvilli perform an
important digestive function.

6. Which of the following statements about carbohydrate digestion are true?

A. Amylopectin has 1-4 straight chains and 1-6 side chains.
B. Amylase has 1-4 straight chains and 1-6 side chains.
C. Amylase breaks 1-4 glucose linkages.
D. Amylase breaks 1-6 side chains.
E. An adult may ingest about 350 gm. of carbohydrate daily.
F. Dietary starch contains two glucose polymers, amylopectin and amylase.
Answer: ACEF

DISCUSSION: Amylopectin, the most abundant constituent of starch, is a 1-4–linked straight chain of
glucose molecules. In addition, amylopectin possesses a 1-6 branching side chain at approximately every
25 glucose units along the straight chain. Amylase has only 1-4 linkages of glucose molecules. Pancreatic
and salivary amylase break the interior 1-4 glucose linkages.

7. Which of these statements about the digestion of fat are true?

A. Micellar solution provides an optimal environment for the action of pancreatic lipase.
B. Decreasing the pH below 5.5 increases the effectiveness of pancreatic lipase in hydrolyzing fat.
C. Co-lipase blocks triglyceride hydrolysis.
D. Lipase catalyzes the hydrolysis of dietary triglyceride into 2-monoglyceride and fatty acids.
E. Fatty acids and 2-monoglyceride are held in micellar solutions.
F. Fatty acid and 2-monoglyceride enter the intestinal cell by active transport.
Answer: ADE

DISCUSSION: Micellar solution provides an optimal environment for the action of pancreatic lipase. Pro-
co-lipase is converted to co-lipase by trypsin. Co-lipase binds to triglyceride, then lipase complexes with
co-lipase, and triglyceride hydrolysis access. Pancreatic lipase hydrolyzes triglyceride into 2-
monoglyceride and fatty acids. The 2-monoglyceride and fatty acid enter the micellae. An alkaline pH
allows lipase to function optimally. Micellar fatty acids and 2-monoglyceride pass into the epithelial cell
by diffusion.

8. Complete mechanical small bowel obstruction can cause dehydration by:

A. Interfering with oral intake of water.
B. Inducing vomiting.
C. Decreasing intestinal absorption of water.
D. Causing secretion of water into the intestinal lumen.
E. Causing edema of the intestinal wall.
Answer: ABCDE

DISCUSSION: One of the most important events during simple mechanical small bowel obstruction, loss of
water and electrolytes from the body, is caused mainly by intestinal distention. Distention may produce
reflex vomiting. Distention causes intestinal secretion. Distention causes decreased absorption.

9. History and physical examination permit the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction in most cases. Which of
the following are important for the clinical diagnosis of small bowel obstruction?
A. Crampy abdominal pain.
B. Fever.
C. Vomiting.
D. Abdominal distention.
E. Leukocyte count above 12,000.
F. Abdominal tenderness.
Answer: ABCDF

DISCUSSION: History and physical examination permit the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. Any patient
having crampy abdominal pain, vomiting, obstipation, abdominal distention, abdominal tenderness, and
peristaltic rushes should be managed for intestinal obstruction until the diagnosis can confidently be
excluded.

10. Patients with established, complete, simple, distal small bowel obstruction usually have the
following findings on plain and upright abdominal radiographs:
A. Distended small bowel identifiable by the valvulae conniventes.
B. Multiple air-fluid levels.
C. Modest amount of gas in the pelvis.
D. Peripheral, rather than central, distribution of gas.
E. Prominent haustral markings.
F. Free air.
Answer: AB

DISCUSSION: Abdominal x-ray examination of patients with intestinal obstruction usually reveals
abnormally large quantities of gas in the bowel. One can usually identify distended small intestine or
colon. Gas in the small bowel outlines the valvulae conniventes, which usually occupy the entire
transverse diameter of the bowel image. Colonic haustral markings occupy only a portion of the
transverse diameter of the bowel.
Typically, the small bowel pattern occupies the more central portion of the abdomen, whereas the colon
shadow is on the periphery of the abdominal files or in the pelvis. Patients with mechanical small
intestinal obstruction usually have minimal colonic gas, if any.

11. All of the following statements about the embryology of Meckel's diverticulum are true except:
A. Meckel's diverticulum usually arises from the ileum within 90 cm. of the ileocecal valve.
B. Meckel's diverticulum results from the failure of the vitelline duct to obliterate.
C. The incidence of Meckel's diverticulum in the general population is 5%.
D. Meckel's diverticulum is a true diverticulum possessing all layers of the intestinal wall.
E. Gastric mucosa is the most common ectopic tissue found within a Meckel's diverticulum.
Answer: C

DISCUSSION: Meckel's diverticulum is a true diverticulum containing all layers of the intestinal wall,
usually arising from the antimesenteric border of the ileum 45–90 cm. proximal to the ileocecal valve. It
is a vestige of the omphalomesenteric or vitelline duct, which usually undergoes complete obliteration
during the seventh week of gestation. Autopsy studies have estimated the incidence of Meckel's
diverticulum to be 1% to 2% with men being more commonly affected than women by a ratio of 2:1.
Gastric mucosa is present in 50% of all Meckel's diverticula, but in over 75% of symptomatic individuals.

12. Meckel's diverticulum most commonly presents as:

A. Gastrointestinal bleeding.
B. Obstruction.
C. Diverticulitis.
D. Intermittent abdominal pain.
Answer: A

DISCUSSION: It is estimated that only 4% of patients who possess a Meckel's diverticulum will become
symptomatic during their lifetimes. The most common clinical presentation is incidental identification
during abdominal exploration. Symptomatic presentations are secondary to hemorrhage, small bowel
obstruction, diverticulitis, perforation, associated umbilical abnormalities, and tumors. Over half of
patients presenting with symptoms are under the age of 2. The most common clinical problem associated
with Meckel's diverticulum is gastrointestinal bleeding presenting as bright red blood per rectum. The
usual source of the bleeding is a chronic acid-induced ileal ulcer in the ileum adjacent to a Meckel's
diverticulum that contains gastric mucosa. Another common symptom associated with a Meckel's
diverticulum is intestinal obstruction. The cause of this obstruction may be volvulus of the small bowel
around a diverticulum associated with a fibrotic band attached to the abdominal wall, intussusception,
or rarely, incarceration of the diverticulum in an inguinal hernia (Littre's hernia). Volvulus is usually an
acute event and if allowed to progress, may result in strangulation of the involved bowel. In
intussusception, a broad-based diverticulum invaginates and then is carried forward by peristalsis.

13. Which of the following statements about the surgical treatment of carcinoid tumors are true?
A. Carcinoid tumors should be treated by resection, regardless of the presence of metastases.
B. Appendiceal tumors larger than 1.5 cm. should be treated by ileocolectomy.
C. Local excision with margins is adequate for a rectal carcinoid of any size.
D. Carcinoid tumors are associated with a large percentage of other synchronous or metachronous
neoplasms.
Answer: ABD

DISCUSSION: Carcinoid tumors should be treated by resection, regardless of the presence of metastases,
because growth of the primary neoplasm is slow and local complications, such as obstruction and
intussusception, are frequent. At clinical discovery a large percentage (as many as 70%) of small-
intestinal carcinoids are metastatic to lymph nodes and/or liver. All tumors should be managed by wide
en bloc resection, regardless of the size of the primary lesion or the presence of distant metastases.
Lesions in the distal ileum require ileocolectomy. Appendiceal tumors larger than 1.5 cm. should be
treated by ileocolectomy. The incidence of metastases depends on the size and location of the primary
tumor. Appendiceal carcinoid tumors smaller than 1.5 cm. are rarely malignant and may be treated
safely by routine appendectomy. This is not true of larger tumors. Like carcinoid tumors elsewhere in
the gastrointestinal tract, the malignancy potential of rectal carcinoid tumors is directly proportional to
their size. Tumors smaller than 1 cm. have little or no malignant potential and may be treated by
endoscopic excision. Tumors measuring 1 to 2 cm. should be excised operatively with margins, but when
they are larger than 2 cm. rectal carcinoid tumors may require anterior resection. In patients with ileal
carcinoid tumors, the evidence of a second tumor has been reported as high as 40%. Thus, the search for
synchronous metachronous and metastatic neoplasms should be undertaken.

14. Which of the following statements about carcinoid syndrome are true?
A. Carcinoid syndrome occurs only when hepatic metastases are present.
B. Serotonin is thought to be responsible for the diarrhea, cardiac lesions, and flushing in patients with
carcinoid syndrome.
C. Foregut carcinoid tumors cause atypical carcinoid syndrome; hindgut tumors are rarely, if ever,
associated with the syndrome.
D. The long-acting somatostatin analog provides the best symptomatic treatment for carcinoid
syndrome.
Answer: CD

DISCUSSION: Carcinoid syndrome occurs when venous drainage from the tumor gains access to the
systemic circulation, escaping hepatic degradation. Although hepatic metastases are most often
responsible, retroperitoneal metastases and bronchial, ovarian, and testicular carcinoid tumors can also
cause the carcinoid syndrome. Serotonin is thought to be largely responsible for both the diarrhea and
the fibrosing cardiac lesions associated with the carcinoid syndrome. The vasomotor changes, however,
are mediated by kinins and such vasoactive peptides as substance P, neuropeptide K, neurokinin A, and
neurotensin. Other substances, such as histamine, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and
prostaglandins, may also contribute to systemic manifestations in the carcinoid syndrome. Foregut
carcinoid tumors, of which stomach and bronchial tumors are the most common, can cause atypical
carcinoid syndrome. It is thought that these tumors are deficient in the enzyme dopa-decarboxylase and
have impaired conversion of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) into 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), leading to
secretion of 5-HTP into the vascular compartment. Some of the 5-HTP is converted into 5-HT and 5-
hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in extrarenal sites, and some is decarboxylated in the kidney and
excreted into the urine as 5-HT; but some of the 5-HTP is excreted directly into the urine. Thus, in
patients with foregut tumors, the urine contains relatively little 5-HIAA (but more than normal) but large
amounts of 5-HTP and 5-HT, in contrast to patients with midgut carcinoid tumors in which large amounts
of 5-HIAA are secreted into the urine but relatively little 5-HTP. Carcinoid tumors of the hindgut contain
no argentaffin or argyrophil cells, they have no secretory products, and therefore they are not
associated with the carcinoid syndrome. The long-acting somatostatin analog provides the best
symptomatic therapy, because somatostatin inhibits both release and action of humoral mediators of the
carcinoid syndrome. By contrast, serotonin antagonists are of little value and the efficacy of interferon
therapy has yet to be established.

15. Simple screening tests for malabsorption include:

A. Microscopic examination.
B. D-xylose absorption.
C. A 72-hour stool collection for fats.
D. Small bowel x-ray series.
Answer: ABD

DISCUSSION: The 72-hour stool collection is quite sensitive and detects even mild malabsorption. As it
requires careful stool collection timed by carmen red markers and documented dietary fat intake, it is
not useful for screening. Microscopic examination of the stool can detect muscle fibers if protein
malabsorption is present and with Sudan II staining can estimate fat content. D-Xylose absorption from
oral ingestion of 5 gm., detected by a blood sample after 1 hour, is a simple and quite accurate test to
identify carbohydrate malabsorption. Small bowel x-ray series, using barium contrast, can give very
useful information on mucosal abnormalities, enteric fistulas, mechanical obstructions, and very
importantly, intestinal motility and transit time.

16. Extensive resection of the small bowel, leaving only 2 or 3 feet beyond the ligament of Treitz
anastomosed to the transverse colon, can lead to the following metabolic complications:
A. Gastric hyperacidity and hypersecretion.
B. Hyperoxaluria.
C. Hypermetabolic response.
D. Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency.
Answer: ABD

DISCUSSION: Once the stress of the surgical procedure is over, there is no further hypermetabolic
response, nor does there appear to be any reduced energy expenditure from loss of the metabolically
active small bowel. Energy needs are unaltered. Gastric secretion and hyperacidity are directly related
to the extent of small bowel resection and is due in part to increased concentrations of gastrin in the
serum. H 2 blockers are effective in reducing acidity and volume of gastric secretions. Hyperoxaluria
develops owing to binding of calcium to fat in the diet with steatorrhea, leaving less to bind with dietary
oxalate. The soluble oxalate is absorbed by the colon and excreted in the urine. If oxalate is excessive,
oxalate kidney stones can form. With fat malabsorption due to bile salt depletion and rapid intestinal
transit, absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, E, K, and D is reduced. Even with oral supplementation,
deficiencies can develop.

17. Which of the following physical factors of irradiation is/are related to the potential for radiation
injury?
A. The dimension of the radiation portals.
B. The number of portals.
C. The number of fractions.
D. The total amount of irradiation.
E. All of the above.
Answer: E

DISCUSSION: These physical factors are interactive. Less energy is delivered through a small portal than
through a large one. Multiple portals permit concentration of the radiation in the area to be treated and
spare skin and viscera from damage. There is less risk of injury from irradiation of a given intensity if
more fractions are applied.

18. For which of the following consequences of radiation injury of the intestine is urgent laparotomy
required?
A. Small bowel obstruction.
B. Colonic perforation.
C. Rectovaginal fistula.
D. Malabsorption and diarrhea.
E. Rectal stenosis.
Answer: B

DISCUSSION: Patients who have symptoms of vascular compromise or evidence of perforation require
urgent laparotomy. Patients with small bowel obstruction may require a laparotomy if a complete
obstruction persists, but gastrointestinal decompression and hydration are first steps. Patients with
radiation-induced rectovaginal fistula may require temporary or even permanent colostomy, but the first
steps are evaluation and control of sepsis. Malabsorption and diarrhea can generally be controlled
pharmacologically. Rectal stenosis can usually be managed without laparotomy.

19. In addition to its absorptive and digestive roles, the small bowel also plays a significant role in the
body’s immune system. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) represents a major division of the
immune system. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning the immunologic functions
of the small intestine?

a. The B lymphocytes of the small intestine do not produce immunoglobulin A (IgA)

b. Peyer’s patches, an example of an aggregated cellular portion of the gut-associated lymphoid system
tissue, are large collections of lymphoid follicles found on the antimesenteric border of the ileum
c. The major immunoglobulin of the intestinal immune system is IgM
d. IgA produced by the intestinal immune system produces the classic Fc-mediated inflammatory
reactions to antigen stimulus
Answer: b

Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) represent a major division of the immune system and is made up
of aggregated (Peyer’s patches, lymphoid follicles, mesenteric lymph nodes) and nonaggregated cellular
components. The lamina propria of the small intestine contains a wide array of nonaggregated lymphoid
tissue including B cells, T cells, macrophages, eosinophils, and mast cells. Some 80% to 99% of B cells are
active producers of immunoglobulin A (IgA). In comparison, only 2% to 5% of B cells found in other
lymphoid tissues of the body secrete IgA. IgA is the major immunoglobulin of the intestinal immune
system. The functional characteristics of IgA are unlike those of other antibodies. Unlike IgG or IgM,
secretory IgA does not induce Fc-mediated inflammatory reactions. Antigen-IgA complexes do not
activate the classic or alternate complement systems, nor does IgA promote the phagocytosis of bacteria
by opsonization. Most of the protective effect of IgA derives from its ability to bind the threatening
antigen efficiently, while resisting enzymatic degradation by gut enzymes.

20. During the fasting state, a well-defined pattern of small bowel electrical activity occurs which is
known as the interdigestive myoelectric complex or the migrating motor complex (MMC). Which of the
following statement(s) is/are true concerning the MMC?

a. This complex consists of a cyclic pattern of spike bursts and muscular contractions that migrate from
the duodenum to the terminal ileum and can be divided into four phases
b. The major activity during the MMC occurs during phase I
c. In humans the MMC usually lasts less than one hour
d. Blood levels of the GI peptide, motilin, correlate closely with MMC activity and exogenous motilin can
induce the MMC front
Answer: a, d

The migrating motor complex (MMC) is a cyclic pattern of spike bursts and muscular contractions that
migrate from the duodenum to the terminal ileum. The MMC is divided into four phases: phase I-the
period of quiescence with no activity; phase II-accelerating irregular spike activity; phase III-the activity
front with a series of high-amplitude, rapid spikes corresponding to strong, rhythmic gut contractions;
and phase IV-subsiding activity. In humans the cycle lasts about 90 to 120 minutes. Each phase passes in
sequence along the bowel, and when the terminal ileum is reached, the process resumes in the proximal
gut. This interdigestive cycle is interrupted and replaced by rapid spiking activity (similar to phase II)
when the gut receives a food bolus. The duration of the interruption depends on the volume and nature
of the food stuffs with fats causing the largest duration of rapid spiking. Blood levels of the GI hormone,
motilin, correlate closely with MMC activity and exogenous motilin can induce the MMC front. Other
hormones whose serum levels parallel MMC activity are pancreatic polypeptide and somatostatin. Drugs
that can initiate the MMC front include histamine, metoclopramide, and morphine.

21. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning the anatomy of the small intestine?

a. The second (descending), third (transverse) and fourth (ascending) portions of the duodenum lie in
the retroperitoneum and are mobilized for surgical procedures via the Kocher maneuver
b. The identification of the superior mesenteric vein and artery can be facilitated by an extensive
Kocher maneuver mobilizing the transverse portion of the duodenum and exposing the vessels as they
course over the duodenum and under the neck of the pancreas
c. In only the minority of patients can the accessory pancreatic duct (the duct of Santorini) be seen on
endoscopic exam entering the duodenum
d. The ileum is the widest portion of the small intestine, with the diameter of the small bowel
progressively increasing as the ileocecal valve is approached
Answer: a, b

The duodenum is divided into four parts-the bulb, followed by the second (descending), third
(transverse), and fourth (ascending) portion. The duodenal bulb begins at the pylorus and extends for
the next 5 cm as the duodenum assumes a retroperitoneal position for the second, third, and fourth
portion. The third and fourth portion of the duodenum complete the duodenal sweep. Mobilization of
the duodenum from the retroperitoneum for a multitude of abdominal procedures can be facilitated by
the Kocher maneuver where the retroperitoneal attachment is divided and the duodenum and head of
the pancreas can be brought out of its retroperitoneal position. Endoscopically, the major papilla of the
duodenum can be seen entering at the mid-point of the second portion of the duodenum. The papilla
(ampulla of Vater) appears anatomically as a hooded fold, marking the confluence of the common bile
duct and the main pancreatic duct (duct of Wirsung) and is surrounded by the muscular sphincter of
Oddi. In some 50% to 60% of patients, an accessory pancreatic duct (the duct of Santorini) can be seen
entering the duodenum proximal to the ampulla of Vater. Endoscopically, this lesser, or minor, papilla
appears as a one-to-three mm sessile polyp. The jejunum is the portion of the small bowel that courses
from the ligament of Treitz to an arbitrary point approximately two-fifths of the distance to the
ileocecal valve. The length of the jejunum has been estimated at 100 cm although this distance can vary
dramatically depending on the status of the small intestine. The jejunum is the widest portion of the
small intestine, and the diameter progressively decreases as the ileocecal valve is approached. The
ileum makes up the distal three-fifths of the combined jejunal/ileal length.

22. Historically, the small intestine was presumed to have only digestive and absorptive function.
However, in the last decade the small intestine has become recognized as the body’s largest endocrine
organ, producing a number of hormones, neurotransmitters, and paracrine substances. Which of the
following statement(s) is/are true concerning small bowel hormones?

a. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is produced from cells in the mucosa of the duodenum and jejunum and is
released in response to luminal fats and proteins
b. Secretin is released in response to rising intraduodenal pH, resulting in inhibition of pancreatic
secretion
c. Motilin is a 22-amino acid peptide released during the fasting state with increased levels
corresponding with the onset of the migrating motor complex (MMC)
d. Neurotensin is produced primarily in the duodenal mucosa and its release is stimulated primarily by
carbohydrates and proteins
Answer: a, c

The endocrine functions of the small intestine are diverse with an ever increasing number of hormones,
peptides, neurotransmitters, and paracrine substances identified. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is produced by
cells located primarily in the mucosa of the duodenum and jejunum and released in response to luminal
fats and proteins. After CCK release from the duodenum and jejunum, the gallbladder contracts and the
sphincter of Oddi relaxes, emptying bile into the duodenum. Secretin is found in the S cells of the
duodenum and jejunum. Secretin, a true hormone, is released in response to acid in the duodenum when
luminal pH falls below 4.5. Intraduodenal secretion of pancreatic bicarbonate neutralizes duodenal pH
and results in diminished release of secretin. CCK acts in a synergistic fashion with secretin to stimulate
pancreatic exocrine function. Motilin is a 22-amino acid peptide localized in the enterochromaffin cells
of the mucosa of the upper small intestine. Motilin likely has a physiologic role in the regulation of the
migrating motor complex (MMC). Motilin is released during the fasting state, and increased levels
correspond with the onset of the MMC. Neurotensin is a 13-amino acid neurotransmitter found in the
central nervous system and in the gut. Specific endocrine cells that contain neurotensin are found in the
ileal mucosa with smaller quantities found in the jejunum, stomach, duodenum, and colonic mucosa.
Neurotensin is released by a mixed meal and fats, with carbohydrates and protein releasing much
smaller increments. It has been proposed that neurotensin has a physiologic role in fat-initiated changes
in gastric acid secretion, gastric emptying, pancreatic secretion, and intestinal motility.

23. The enterohepatic circulation refers to the circular flow of bile through the small intestine and liver.
Which of the following statement(s) concerning the absorption of bile salts is/are correct?

a. The enterohepatic circulation is highly efficient with 80% to 90% of secreted bile salts reabsorbed and
returned to the liver through the portal circulation
b. The reabsorption of bile is entirely an active process
c. The small amount of bile escaping in the colon is deconjugated by bacteria, promoting lipid solubility
and passive colonic absorption
d. Ileal resection results in presenting high concentrations of bile salts to the colon which promotes
diarrhea by bacterial overgrowth
Answer: a, c

Some 80% to 90% of bile salts secreted into the small intestine as micelles are reabsorbed and returned
to the liver through the portal circulation. This circular flow of bile is termed the enterohepatic
circulation. In the liver, bile salts are resecreted and stored in the gallbladder in preparation for the
next meal. The reabsorption process of bile is both passive and active. Passive absorption occurs along
the entire length of the small bowel and depends on the lipid solubility of the bile salt. Glycine bile
conjugates are more soluble than taurine conjugates. As much as 50% of bile is passively reabsorbed.
Active absorption of bile occurs only in the terminal ileum. A small amount of bile escapes into the
colon, where it is deconjugated by bacteria, promoting lipid solubility and further passive absorption.
High colonic concentration of bile salts promote diarrhea by inhibiting sodium and water absorption. This
commonly occurs in patients with ileal resection and can be treated with the bile-binding resin,
cholestyramine.

24. The most obvious function of the GI tract is digestion and absorption of food for continued growth
and survival of the organism. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning small bowel
absorption?

a. The jejunum is the site of maximum absorption for most ingested materials with almost all jejunal
absorption performed via active transfer mechanisms
b. Eighty percent of water presented to the gastrointestinal system is reabsorbed by the small bowel
c. The absorption of carbohydrates requires digestion of large starch molecules by salivary and
pancreatic amylase, therefore presenting smaller oligosaccharides to the brush border of the jejunum to
complete the digestion and absorptive process
d. Dietary fiber represents poorly digestible carbohydrates which can absorb organic materials such as
bile salts and lipids
Answer: b, c, d

The jejunum is the site of maximum absorption of all ingested materials expect for vitamin B12.
Although its mucosa contains numerous specific transport processes, the presence of large intercellular
pores produces a permeable membrane and allows for rapid passive transfer or solutes and water. The
ileum is less permeable and makes greater use of active-transport mechanisms. Normally about 1 to 1.5
liters of water is ingested each day with another 5 to 10 liters secreted by the GI tract in some form.
About 80% of this fluid is absorbed by the small bowel. Because of this large bidirectional movement of
water, a small alteration in bowel permeability or transport can rapidly result in net secretion and
diarrheal disease states. A major source of caloric nutrition comes in the form of carbohydrate. In the
Western diet, this is made up primarily of starch (about 60%), sucrose (30%), and lactose (10%). The
digestive process for starch begins with digestion of the polysaccharide first by salivary amylase and
continues with pancreatic amylase yielding smaller oligosaccharides which along with sucrose and
lactose are then presented to the brush border of the jejunum to complete the digestion and absorptive
processes. Dietary fiber consists of nondigestible carbohydrate, such as cellulose. Fiber is found
commonly in all-bran cereals, beans, partially cooked vegetables, and raw pulpy fruits. High fiber diets
retain water within the bowel lumen and significantly shorten bowel transit time. Dietary fiber can
absorb organic materials such as bile salts and lipids and inorganic materials such as zinc, calcium,
magnesium and iron.

25. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning the pathophysiology of small bowel
obstruction?

a. Most of gas seen on plane abdominal radiographs is produced by gas forming microorganisms
b. Elevation of luminal pressure contributes to fluid accumulation in the small bowel in closed loop but
not open loop small bowel obstructions
c. Intestinal blood flow initially increases to the bowel wall in early bowel obstruction
d. In the face of obstruction, myoelectrical activity of the bowel is consistently increased
Answer: b, c

When a loop of bowel is obstructed, intestinal gas and fluid accumulate. Approximately 80% of the gas
seen on plane abdominal radiographs is attributable to swallowed air. In the setting of acute pain and
anxiety, patients with intestinal obstruction may swallow excessive amounts of air. Fluid accumulates
intraluminally with open-or closed-loop small intestinal obstruction due to a number of factors.
Experimental studies and clinical investigations demonstrate that elevation of luminal pressures above
20 cm H2O inhibits absorption and stimulates secretion of salt and water into the lumen proximal to an
obstruction. In closed-loop obstruction, luminal pressures may exceed 50 cm H2O and may account for a
substantial proportion of a luminal fluid accumulation. In simple, open-loop obstruction, distention of
the lumen by gas rarely leads to a luminal pressure higher than 8–12 cm H2O. Thus, in open-loop
obstruction, the contributions of high luminal pressures to hypersecretion may not be important. In
response to heightened luminal pressure, total blood flow to the bowel may initially increase.
Subsequently, however, blood flow to the bowel is compromised as luminal pressures increase, bacteria
invade, and inflammation leads to edema within the bowel wall. Accumulation of gas and fluid in the
obstructed lumen also leads to changes in myoelectrical function in the gut, proximal and distal to the
obstructed segment. In response to distension, the obstructed segment itself may dilate, a process
known as “receptive relaxation.” At sites proximal and distal to the obstruction, changes in
myoelectrical activity are time-dependent. Initially, there may be intense periods of activity and
peristalsis. Subsequently, myoelectrical activity is diminished and interdigestive migrating myoelectrical
complex (MMC) is replaced by ineffectual and seemingly disorganized clusters of contractions.

26. A 45-year-old man with a history of previous right hemicolectomy for colon cancer presents with
colicky abdominal pain which has become constant over the last few hours. He has marked abdominal
distension and has had only minimal vomiting of a feculent material. His abdomen is diffusely tender.
Abdominal x-ray shows multiple air fluid levels with dilatation of some loops to greater than 3 cm in
diameter. The most likely diagnosis is:

a. Proximal small bowel obstruction

b. Distal small bowel obstruction
c. Acute appendicitis
d. Closed-loop small bowel obstruction
Answer: b

Distinguishing the various types of bowel obstruction can be difficult based on history, physical findings,
and radiographic studies. The patient described has intermittent to constant pain with low volume
feculent vomiting. Distension is marked and progressive, and tenderness is diffuse. This scenario most
likely fits with an open-loop distal small bowel obstruction. The feculent vomiting suggests a more distal
rather than proximal obstruction. The lack of severe pain and signs of peritoneal irritation suggests that
a closed-loop obstruction is unlikely. A colon obstruction with an incompetent ileocecal valve would be
another alternative to consider if gas in the colon had been seen on x-ray.

27. In the patient described above, the following statement(s) is/are true concerning the possible
etiology of bowel obstruction.

a. Simple obstruction secondary to an adhesion is most likely to resolve nonoperatively

b. It is most likely that the patient’s obstruction is secondary to recurrent malignancy
c. A history of colon cancer makes carcinomatosis the most likely diagnosis
d. Lower abdominal procedures are more likely to result in obstructive adhesions than are upper
abdominal procedures
Answer: a, d

Peritoneal adhesions account for more than half of small bowel obstruction cases. Lower abdominal
procedures such as appendectomy, hysterectomy, and abdominal perineal resection are common
precursor operations to account for obstruction although adhesions may follow any abdominal procedure
including cholecystectomy, gastrectomy, and abdominal vascular procedures. Simple adhesive
obstruction is distinguished from other forms of obstruction by the capacity to resolve without surgical
intervention. In recent surveys, as many as 80% of episodes of small bowel obstruction due to adhesions
may resolve nonoperatively. The likelihood that an obstruction is due to recurrent malignancy relates to
several factors including the origin of the primary malignancy, the stage of the primary malignancy, and
the designation of original surgery as curative or palliative. Gastric and pancreatic cancers often present
with, or are subsequently complicated by peritoneal carcinomatosis and subsequent obstruction. With
respect to colon and rectal carcinomas, as many as 50% of cases presenting with obstruction after
resection of the primary may be due to adhesions and not recurrent malignancy.

28. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning laboratory tests which might be obtained
in the patient discussed above?

a. The presence of a white blood cell count > 15,000 would be highly suggestive of a closed-loop
obstruction
b. Metabolic acidosis mandates emergency exploration
c. An elevation of BUN would suggest underlying renal dysfunction
d. There is no rapidly available test to distinguish tissue necrosis from simple bowel obstruction
Answer: d

There have been multiple attempts to use common clinical laboratory test criteria to identify the
likelihood that obstruction is associated with strangulation. In most cases of simple obstruction,
laboratory studies do not play a direct role in diagnosis but are helpful in understanding the extent of
complications such as dehydration and fluid and electrolyte abnormalities. An elevation of the white
blood cell count along with fever, tachycardia, and localized abdominal tenderness is one of the
“cardinal signs” for risk for strangulation. However, such an elevation is nonspecific. Similarly,
metabolic acidosis may be associated with intestinal ischemia as well as evidence of dehydration and
fluid loss. Elevation of BUN and other electrolyte abnormalities also represent fluid loss and dehydration.
Therefore, at present there is no non-invasive rapid laboratory tests that can provide information to
suggest that tissue necrosis is eminent.

29. The patient discussed above was admitted to the hospital and after 24 hours remained distended
with no evidence of resolution. Which of the following radiographic studies would be considered
appropriate at this time?

a. Contrast enema
b. Enteroclysis study with dilute barium
c. CT scan with dilute barium oral contrast
d. None of the above
Answer: a, b, c, d

Contrast studies such as those listed above may provide specific localization at the point of obstruction
and the nature of the underlying lesion. When obstruction of the small intestine is not progressively
resolving, a small bowel follow-through is indicated to confirm the presence and location of the
obstruction. The history of a previous right hemicolectomy in this patient may also allow reflux through
the colon to define the ileocolonic anastomosis and be able to define the site of obstruction in a
retrograde fashion. The potential benefits for a CT scan include not only defining the obstruction and
perhaps the nature of the lesion, but also in defining any other evidence of abdominal pathology such as
metastases, ascites, or parenchymal liver abnormalities which might be present in a patient with a
previous neoplasm. Although none of these tests would be contraindicated, failure of this patient to
improve will likely mandate an operation and make contrast studies unnecessary. There would appear to
be no evidence of strangulation or perforation therefore there are no contraindications to these studies.

30. A 75-year-old woman is hospitalized after a fall in which she has experienced a hip fracture. Several
days after her surgical procedure, progressive painless abdominal distension is noted. Which of the
following statement(s) is/are true concerning her diagnosis and management?

a. Colon distension with a cecal diameter in excess of 12 cm should indicate the need for urgent
operation
b. Endoscopic decompression may be attempted but seldom is successful
c. After successful colonoscopic decompression, recurrence is unlikely
d. A rectal tube as the primary treatment is generally not successful
Answer: d

Acute pseudo-obstruction of the colon, known as Ogilvie’s syndrome, is a paralytic ileus of the large
bowel characterized by rapidly progressive abdominal distension often without associated pain. Plane
radiographs of the abdomen may reveal air in the small bowel and distension of discrete segments of the
colon (cecum or transverse colon) or the entire abdominal colon. Distension can become impressive,
oftentimes in chronic cases distension in excess of 15 cm can be observed without evidence of colon
perforation or wall ischemia. Major risk factors for the development of Ogilvie’s syndrome include severe
blunt trauma, orthopedic trauma or procedures, acute cardiac events or coronary bypass surgery, acute
neurologic events or neurosurgical procedures, and acute metabolic derangements. Initial management
includes resuscitation and correction of the underlying metabolic and electrolyte abnormalities. A
nasogastric tube is indicated if the patient is vomiting and will prevent swallowed air from passing
distally. If distension is painless and the patient shows no signs of toxicity or bowel ischemia, expectant
management can be successful in about 50% of cases. If distension worsens so that the cecal diameter
increases beyond 10–12 cm or if it persists for more than 48 hours, colonoscopy is recommended.
Endoscopic decompression is successful in 60–90% of cases, but colonic distension may recur in up to 40%
of cases. Rectal tubes are ineffective in managing distension of the proximal colon, however, such tubes
may be useful after colonoscopy.

31. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning the etiology of intestinal obstruction?

a. In the United States, peritoneal adhesions account for over half of the cases of small bowel
obstruction
b. A leading cause of bowel obstruction is early postoperative adhesions
c. Bowel obstruction cannot occur with a Richter’s hernia
d. Ninety percent of adult cases of intussusception are associated with a pathologic process, most
commonly a tumor
Answer: a, d

Peritoneal adhesions account for more than half of the cases of small bowel obstruction in the United
States. Obstruction in the immediate postoperative period following abdominal surgery, however, is
uncommon, occurring in only 1% of patients in the four weeks following laparotomy. Hernias of all types
are second only to adhesions as the most frequent cause of obstruction. External hernias such as inguinal
or femoral hernias may present with symptoms of obstruction. Femoral hernias are particularly prone to
incarceration and bowel necrosis, due to the small size of the hernia inlet. One important consideration
is the Richter’s hernia. In this variant, only a portion of the bowel wall is incarcerated. These most
frequently occur in association with femoral or inguinal hernias. Complete obstruction can occur if more
than half to two-thirds of the bowel circumference is incarcerated. About 5% of intussusception cases
occur as adults. Intussusception occurs when one segment of bowel telescopes into an adjacent
segment, resulting in obstruction and ischemic injury to the intussuscepting segment. Ninety percent of
adult cases are associated with pathological processes. Tumors, benign and malignant, can act as a lead
point against the sussesception in over 65% of adult cases.

32. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning postoperative ileus?

a. The use of intravenous patient-controlled analgesia has no effect on return of small bowel motor
activity
b. The presence of peritonitis at the time of the original operation delays the return of normal bowel
function
c. The routine use of metoclopramide will hasten the return of small intestinal motor activity
d. Contrast radiographic studies have no role in distinguishing early postoperative bowel obstruction
from normal ileus
Answer: b

The term ileus reflects the underlying alterations in motility of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to
functional obstruction. From a practical standpoint, ileus represents the interval between abdominal
exploration and the reappearance of flatus and bowel movements. Distinguishing a normal postoperative
ileus and the prolonged course of a “paralytic” ileus is based primarily on the time since operation and
the clinical circumstances. Besides the location of the previous operation (upper abdominal, lower
abdominal, pelvic., the nature of the previous operation and the findings may also contribute. Peritonitis
or spillage of noxious material leads to an increase in the delay of return of normal bowel function.
Distinguishing a paralytic ileus from mechanical obstruction can oftentimes be difficult. Abdominal x-
rays in a postoperative ileus should reveal gas in segments of both the small and large bowel. Upper GI
contrast or CT scan may also be helpful. Early postoperative obstruction is uncommon and is particularly
rare for upper abdominal surgery, with most cases occurring after surgery of the colon, particularly
abdominal perineal resection. There has been little success in the use of prokinetic agents to shorten
recovery times after lower abdominal procedures. The use of intravenous patient controlled analgesia
may delay the recovery of postoperative ileus when compared to the IM route of narcotic administration.

33. The initial management of this patient should consist of:

a. Fluid resuscitation with D5 half normal saline with 40 mEq of potassium chloride/liter
b. Placement of an indwelling urinary catheter
c. Nasogastric decompression with a nasogastric tube
d. Immediate surgery
e. The patient should be begun on broad spectrum antibiotics at the time of admission
Answer: b, c

The principles of management of a patient with small bowel obstruction include initial fluid resuscitation
and restricting oral intake. The optimal fluid for resuscitation in this patient with a distal small bowel
obstruction would likely be Ringer’s lactate or normal saline. Since gastric secretion is a small
component of the fluid loss, potassium replacement is likely not particularly important. An indwelling
urinary catheter should be placed to monitor the urine output to reflect the fluid status. Invasive
hemodynamic monitoring with a central line is likely unnecessary unless concerns are raised about
cardiac status. Nasogastric decompression is indicated in all but mild cases. The nasogastric tube serves
to prevent distal passage of swallowed air and minimizes discomfort of reflux of intestinal contents and
eliminates vomiting. There appears to be no clinical evidence suggesting the need for urgent operation
and therefore resuscitation prior to surgery is of optimal importance in this patient.
It has been well established that perioperatively-administered antibiotics reduce wound infection and
abdominal sepsis rates in patients undergoing operation to relieve intestinal obstruction, simple or
strangulated. Once the decision has been made to proceed with surgery, broad spectrum antibiotics,
covering gram-negative aerobes and anaerobes should be given. The use of antibiotics in patients who
have not been committed to operation has not been evaluated systematically. Giving antibiotics to
patients who are being observed can obscure the underlying process and, in the end, delay optimal
therapy.

34. An 82-year-old female nursing home resident is admitted with massive abdominal distension and
constant abdominal pain with diffuse tenderness. Abdominal x-ray shows a massively distended loop of
colon with a characteristic “bent inner tube” appearance. The management of this patient should
include:

a. Urgent laparotomy because of the massive colon distension

b. An attempt at endoscopic decompression with a flexible sigmoidoscope
c. Elective laparotomy and sigmoid resection should follow if endoscopic decompression is successful
d. If at urgent laparotomy resected bowel is present, colon resection with primary anastomosis is in
order
Answer: b, c

The most common site of volvulus is the sigmoid colon, accounting for 65% of cases. The preferred
method and management involves endoscopic decompression. This conservative approach resolves the
volvulus in 85% to 90% of cases, and elective resection of the redundant segment can then be planned.
Following endoscopic decompression, recurrence of the volvulus is higher than 60% if sigmoid resection is
not performed. If the patient presents with peritoneal findings, sepsis, and shock, rapid resuscitation
followed by urgent resection and colostomy is warranted.

35. A common manifestation of Crohn’s disease is perianal disease, including anal fistulas with extension
to adjacent organs and soft tissue regions, fissures, and perirectal abscesses. Which of the following
statement(s) is/are true concerning perianal disease with Crohn’s disease?

a. Perianal disease is the initial mode of presentation in the majority of patients

b. The prevalence of perianal disease is increased in patients with either ileocolitis or isolated colonic
involvement
c. Metronidazole has been shown to be effective in the treatment of perianal disease secondary to
Crohn’s
d. An aggressive surgical approach is appropriate in most cases due to the frequent rapid progression of
perianal disease
Answer: b, c

A common manifestation of Crohn’s disease is perianal disease, including anal fistulas with extension
into the adjacent organs and soft tissue regions, fissures, and perirectal abscesses. The prevalence of
perianal disease approaches 25% for patients with ileitis, 50% for ileocolitis, and 40% for those with
isolated colonic involvement. Perianal disease is one of the initial signs of presentation in one-third of
patients. Although broad spectrum antibiotics are clearly indicated for septic complications of Crohn’s
disease, their use as a primary treatment has generally been met without success. Metronidazole has
been used effectively in the treatment of perianal disease. In general, a conservative surgical approach
to perianal disease is usually prudent. Many patients who have indolent anal fistulas can live comfortably
with their disease for years. Although the development of an abscess requires conventional drainage
depending on the state of Crohn’s involvement of the rectum, standard surgical procedures can be
applied to most forms of perirectal and perianal disease. Proctectomy may be indicated for patients with
advanced perianal disease in direct continuity with active rectal involvement.

36. Nongastrointestinal complications of Crohn’s disease include:

a. Renal calculi
b. Cholelithiasis
c. Arthritis
d. Anemia
Answer: a, b, c, d

Although Crohn’s disease is primarily a disease involving the alimentary tract, involvement of
extraintestinal tissues (joints, skin, and eyes) is common and indicates that Crohn’s disease is a systemic
disorder rather than a localized intestinal disease. In addition to specific processes, secondary
consequences of impaired intestinal absorption and resulting malnutrition include anemia due to specific
deficits in vitamins, trace elements, and bile acids and electrolytes. Growth retardation and delayed
bone maturation are present in 10–40% of children and adolescents with this disease. Patients with
terminal ileal disease are also prone to develop renal urate or oxalate stones. Furthermore, as the result
of altered bile salt metabolism and the development of lithogenic bile,
patients with ileal disease and ileal resections are also at risk for cholelithiasis.

37. Which of the following points is/are true concerning the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease?

a. Recurrent disease on contrast radiographs frequently lags behind the development of clinical signs
and symptoms
b. In 10% of cases, Crohn’s disease cannot be distinguished from chronic ulcerative colitis based on
clinical, radiologic, and pathologic criteria
c. Although no specific laboratory tests exist for Crohn’s disease, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate has
evolved as a useful measure of disease activity
d. Specific endoscopic features encountered in Crohn’s disease which allow differentiation from
ulcerative colitis include aphthous ulcers, cobblestoning, and skip areas

Answer: b, c, d

A number of laboratory and radiographic studies as well as the role of endoscopy and biopsy are useful in
the diagnosis and assessment of Crohn’s disease. Although no specific laboratory test exists for Crohn’s
disease, acute-phase protein levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rate have evolved as measures of
disease activity and severity. Endoscopic examination of the colon and rectum is often performed early
in the diagnostic workup. In the presence of colorectal involvement, specific endoscopic features
encountered which allow differentiation from ulcerative colitis include: aphthous ulcers, linear ulcers,
cobblestoning, and asymmetric and discontinuous involvement. The radiologic examination is essential
for differential diagnosis in delineating the extent or the severity of the disease primarily involving the
small bowel. Barium contrast studies will disclose a number of specific features in patients with Crohn’s
disease. A correlation, however, between the extent of the disease seen radiographically and clinical
symptoms does not exist. Recurrent disease after surgical resection is often apparent radiologically
before the development of clinical signs and symptoms.
The most important differential diagnosis is between Crohn’s disease and chronic ulcerative colitis,
especially when the information is limited to the colon and rectum. Despite extensive clinical,
radiologic, and pathologic evaluation, 5% to 10% of patients will be defined as having indeterminant
colitis without clear-cut evidence of either condition.

38. The following statement(s) is/are true concerning the surgical management of Crohn’s disease.

a. Strictureplasty, although offering short-term benefits, is associated with a higher rate of recurrence
when compared to resection
b. Frozen section examination of the margin of resection is essential to prevent both recurrent disease
and early anastomotic complications
c. Conservative margins of resection are appropriate, resecting only grossly involved segments of bowel
d. Patients with Crohn’s disease confined to the colon may be treated with total proctocolectomy with
construction of an ileal-anal pouch anastomosis
Answer: c

Surgical therapy for Crohn’s disease is curative not palliative, therefore is reserved for complications of
the disease or failure of or debilitation, secondary to medical therapy. The lines of bowel resection
should be chosen conservatively with only a few centimeters proximally and distally to the site of visible
changes of Crohn’s disease. Microscopic evidence of Crohn’s disease at the resection margins does not
compromise safe anastomosis and therefore frozen section examination of resection margins is not
necessary. In patients with multiple strictures of the small bowel, resection may involve excessive
resection of bowel. Therefore, strictureplasty is an appropriate surgical therapy. Long-term results using
this approach indicate that recurrence rates are not substantially increased with strictureplasty, even
though inflamed intestinal tissue is left in situ. In patients with diffuse disease of the colon or rectum,
proctocolectomy with ileostomy is the treatment of choice. Both the risk of ileal involvement and
transmural involvement of the rectum precludes the technique of ileal pouch-anal reconstruction in
patients with Crohn’s disease.

39. The etiology of Crohn’s disease is unknown, although two major hypotheses have evolved: an
infectious and an immunologic theory. The following statement(s) is/are true concerning the possible
etiology of Crohn’s disease.

a. The leading infectious agent thus far suggested is infection with a Mycobacterium species
b. Strong evidence linking viral pathogens to Crohn’s disease has been developed
c. Although many alterations in cellular and immune functions in patients with Crohn’s disease have
been observed, no primary defect in the immune system has yet been identified
d. The identification of antibodies to enterocytes provides strong support for the theory that Crohn’s
disease is an autoimmune process
Answer: a, c

Investigations for the last 60 years have tried to determine the etiology of Crohn’s disease. Although a
number of theories have evolved and evidence is available supporting numerous theories, there is no
conclusive evidence to support any etiologic theory for its development. Given the characteristic
histologic findings of granuloma formation, early investigations focused on bacterial causes of Crohn’s
disease, most notably infection with Mycobacterium species. Several reports have isolated Mycobacteria
from mesenteric lymph nodes and intestine involved in Crohn’s disease but have not proven the
Mycobacterial cause. Similarly, research in viral causes has been inconclusive, and although viral
pathogens have been isolated from tissue extractions with Crohn’s disease, linkage to induction and
persistence of the disease has not been convincing. Similar difficulties exist in theories concerning
immunogenetic causes of Crohn’s disease, and although many alterations in cellular and immune
functions associated with Crohn’s disease have been observed, no primary defect, either systemic or
mucosal, humoral or cellular has been identified. A number of reports have described antibodies and
lymphocyte reactivity to enterocytes, however the presence of antibody cannot be correlated with
disease activity and furthermore antibodies have been found in patients with other diseases and in
healthy volunteers.

40. Crohn’s disease is an incurable disease, therefore recurrence after surgical resection is likely. Which
of the following statement(s) regarding the recurrence of Crohn’s disease is/are accurate?

a. Endoscopic evidence of recurrence is present in less than 50% of patients at five years
b. Radiographic or endoscopic evidence of recurrence is frequently not accompanied by symptoms
c. Clinical recurrence of Crohn’s disease is seen in 20% of patients at two years, and 40–50% at four years
after surgery
d. Reoperation for Crohn’s disease is necessary in the majority of patients by five years
e. No solid evidence demonstrating prolongation of remission can be seen with corticosteroids,
sulfasalazine, or antibiotics
Answer: b, c, e

The majority of patients with Crohn’s disease will recur. If recurrence is defined as alterations detected
endoscopically, then 70% will recur within one year of surgery, and 85% within three years. However, in
most of these patients clinical symptoms will not accompany the endoscopic or radiographic evidence of
disease. A clinical recurrence (return of symptoms) confirmed as Crohn’s disease radiologically,
endoscopically, or surgically, affects 20% of patients at two years, and 40–50% at four years after
surgery. Reoperation becomes necessary in about 30% of the patients by five years. These statistics give
impetus to maintain remission and prevent recurrence. Although it is common practice to stem
recurrence with sulfsalazine, 5-ASA preparations, antibiotics, and possibly azathioprine, none of these
(possibly excepting azathioprine) have definitely been proven effective.

41. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true concerning drug therapy for Crohn’s disease?
a. Corticosteroids have been demonstrated to effectively treat acute exacerbations and to prolong
remission in patients with Crohn’s disease
b. Sulfasalazine is indicated primarily for the treatment of patients with acute exacerbations of Crohn’s
disease involving the small bowel
c. Azathioprine, an immunosuppressant, has been shown to be effective in maintaining remission of
Crohn’s disease
d. Low dose cyclosporine has significant therapeutic benefit for patients with both low and high disease
activity
Answer: c

Systemic corticosteroids have been used to treat Crohn’s disease since the 1940s. Although the exact
mechanism of action is not clear, nonspecific immunosuppression is the likely effect. Several well
designed trials have demonstrated that Prednisone (or its equivalent) is effective in the treatment of
acute exacerbations. Patients with quiescent disease, or patients who have received remission through
medical or surgical therapy, however, do not benefit from long-term continued corticosteroids.
Sulfasalazine consisting of a sulfonamide linked to an aspirin analogue (5-ASA) is more effective than
placebo in the treatment of acute disease. This agent, however, is most effective in patients with
predominantly colonic disease and is less effective than corticosteroids in treating patients with small
bowel disease. Asymptomatic patients do not appear to benefit from prophylactic treatment. The
immunosuppressive agent azathioprine, which acts to inhibit nucleic acid metabolism, has been
demonstrated to be highly effective in long-term use. The use of azathioprine has a steroid-sparing
effect with reduction of steroid dose or discontinuation of therapy. In chronic treatment, azathioprine is
effective in decreasing disease activity, steroid requirements, and complications leading to surgery,
therefore, in contrast to corticosteroids and sulfasalazine, azathioprine appears effective in maintaining
remission. Side-effects, however, can be significant including bone marrow suppression and acute
pancreatitis. Finally, cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant, has undergone extensive review with the
conclusion that low-dose oral cyclosporine treatment confers no therapeutic benefit for patients with
low or high disease activity and in no reduction in the need for other forms of therapy.

42. Which of the following are predominant histologic features of Crohn’s disease?

a. The presence of granulomas involving the bowel wall and mesenteric lymph nodes
b. Transmural inflammation
c. Fissures and ulceration extending into the muscularis propria
d. Chronic fibrotic changes
Answer: a, b, c, d

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract with the most common site being the
ileocecal region. The acute, active phase is marked by aphthous mucosal ulcerations, lymphoid
aggregates, and granulomas present in both the bowel wall, adjacent lymph nodes, and in other organs.
Transmural inflammation is present with characteristic fissures and ulcers extending deep into the
muscularis propria. The acquiescent or healing phase of Crohn’s disease is marked by fibrosis with late
stricture formation and chronic ulceration.

43. The following statement(s) is/are true concerning the epidemiology of Crohn’s disease.

a. Crohn’s disease has an age distribution with peaks between the ages of 15 and 30 years and 65 and 75
years
b. There is a definite female predilection for Crohn’s disease
c. The disease is equally prevalent in industrialized versus underdeveloped countries
d. First and second generation relatives with Crohn’s disease have an increased prevalence when
compared to the general population
Answer: d

Crohn’s disease arises most commonly between the ages of 15 and 30 years, with a second peak at 55 to
60 years. Men and women are equally affected. The disease is seen more commonly in urban residents
than rural dwellers and is associated with higher levels of education. The disease is almost exclusively
encountered in industrialized nations like Western Europe and the United States which suggests that
environmental factors are important in the pathogenesis. Aggregation in families can occur with first-and
second-generation relatives of patients with Crohn’s disease found to have a 10-and 3-fold increase,
respectively, in the prevalence of Crohn’s disease when compared to other non-related individuals.
44. The management of adenocarcinoma of the small intestine depends primarily on tumor location.
Which of the following statements concerning surgical management are true?

a. Radical pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple resection) is necessary for resection of most duodenal

adenocarcinomas
b. Adenocarcinomas of the jejunum or ileum are managed by limited segmental resection including
resection of the mesentery down to the first vascular arcade
c. Distal ileal carcinomas are best managed by right hemi-colectomy to include lymph node chains along
the ileo-cecal blood supply
d. Small invasive adenocarcinomas of the ampulla and peri-ampullary duodenum can frequently be
managed by local excision
Answer: a, c

Optimal surgical treatment of adenocarcinoma of the small intestine requires wide, segmental resection,
including the draining nodal system. For most duodenal adenocarcinomas, a radical
pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) is necessary to incorporate pertinent training lymph
nodes. Although local excision of villous adenomas of the periampullary area has been reported, the
presence of invasive carcinoma warrants wider resection as a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Jejunal and
ileal carcinomas are removed with segmental resections with adequate margins on the bowel and wide
resection of the mesentery with associated lymph nodes down to the superior mesenteric artery. Distal
ileal carcinomas are drained by lymph nodes along the ileocolic artery and are best managed by right
hemicolectomy.

45. The management of carcinoid tumors must be individualized based on the findings at surgery. Which
of the following is/are components of optimal care?

a. Limited segmental resection without lymphadenectomy

b. Careful exploration of the remaining small bowel and colon
c. Non-anatomic resection of small multiple liver metastases
d. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for all carcinoid tumors regardless of size or level of invasion
Answer: b, c

Operative management of a primary small bowel carcinoid tumor involves principals similar to those of
small bowel carcinomas. Wide en bloc excision should include as many lymphatic drainage pathways as
possible because of their frequent metastatic involvement. Because of the increased incidence of both
multicentricity and a second unrelated malignancy, a diligent search for other primary carcinoids of the
small bowel and for other synchronous malignancies of other organs is imperative. When localized
hepatic metastasis are amenable to resection, hepatic resection should be considered to minimize the
potential development of Carcinoid Syndrome. Adjuvant postoperative chemotherapy for patients with
metastatic carcinoid tumor is of modest benefit with response rates in the 20–30% range with median
duration response short-lived. At present, adjuvant therapy is confined only to those patients with
Carcinoid Syndrome.

46. An increased evidence of adenocarcinoma of the small intestine has been established with which of
the following conditions?

a. Peutz-Jegher Syndrome
b. Crohn’s disease
c. Simple tubular adenomas of the small intestine
d. Colon carcinoma
Answer: b

The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the small bowel is surprisingly low when compared to that of colon
carcinoma when considering the vast length and surface area of the small intestine. The relative
infrequency of these tumors has limited our knowledge of pathogenic factors. It appears, however, that
the polyp-to-cancer sequence is not well established for simple tubular adenomas of the small intestine.
Peutz-Jegher Syndrome is an inherited syndrome which is associated with multiple small intestinal
polyps. These polyps are hamartomas with progression of dysplasia to carcinoma felt not to be a major
concern. The chronic inflammatory changes of Crohn’s disease appears to predispose to the development
of adenocarcinoma, thereby increasing the risk to 100 times that of the general population. There is no
known association of carcinoma of the colon and small intestine.

47. A 60-year-old male presents with nonspecific symptoms of fatigue, malaise, weight loss and
abdominal pain. Barium small bowel series shows a limited segment of small intestine with thickened
mucosal folds and partial obstruction. CT scan confirms small intestinal wall thickening and suggests the
presence of bulky mesenteric lymph nodes. Which of the following is/are components of optimal care?

a. Attempts at percutaneous biopsy of the mesenteric mass

b. Surgical exploration with aggressive resection of the localized disease including wide, en bloc
lymphadenectomy
c. Liver biopsy and sampling of periaortic and mesenteric lymph nodes outside the field of resection
d. Splenectomy
Answer: b, c

Most patients suspected of having small intestinal lymphoma require operation with the goals of
treatment including diagnosis, staging, relief of obstruction and perforation, and resection or debulking.
Because intraoperative staging affects postoperative management, liver biopsy and sampling of
periaortic and mesenteric lymph nodes outside the field of resection are important aspects of the
operative management. In contrast there is no role for splenectomy for primary small bowel lymphoma.
For localized disease, aggressive resection with wide, en bloc lymphadenectomy is important.
Percutaneous biopsy has no role in such cases both because the preoperative diagnosis will not eliminate
the need for surgical intervention, and percutaneous biopsy is frequently inadequate to determine
necessary information for the treatment of lymphoma.

48. Malignant neoplasms of the small bowel tend to have a characteristic anatomic distribution. Which of
the following statements are true?

a. Adenocarcinomas of the small intestine show a distinct polarity with decreasing frequency from
duodenum to ileum
b. Adenocarcinoma of the small intestine associated with Crohn’s disease occurs primarily in the ileum
c. Lymphomas of the small intestine arise primarily in the jejunum
d. The vast majority of carcinoid tumors of the small intestine occur in the ileum
Answer: a, b, d

Anatomically, adenocarcinomas of the small intestine show a distinct polarity with a decreasing
frequency from duodenum to ileum. Given the difference in length between the duodenum, jejunum and
ileum, the duodenal epithelium shows a substantially greater propensity towards malignant
transformation. Even within the duodenum, two-thirds of the carcinomas occur in the periampullary
region suggesting that the periampullary mucosa or luminal content (ingested potential carcinogens)
interacts with pancreaticobiliary secretions to induce local neoplastic changes. Crohn’s disease primarily
is a disease involving the terminal ileum and therefore it is not surprising that most adenocarcinomas
developing in association with Crohn’s disease occur also at this site. Small intestinal lymphomas arise
from lymphoid tissue within the wall of the bowel. Therefore lymphomas predominate in the ileum,
where the greatest concentration of gut lymphoid tissue occurs. Next to the appendix, which harbors
85% of all carcinoid tumors, the small intestine is by far the next most common site of origin.
Approximately ninety percent of small intestinal carcinoids are located in the ileum with 40% found
within two feet of the ileocecal junction. Multiple primary tumors may be present in 30% of patients.

49. Small intestinal carcinoids may present in a multitude of fashions. Which of the following may be
seen as a presentation of carcinoid tumors of the small intestine?

a. Intestinal obstruction
b. Gastrointestinal bleeding
c. Small intestinal infarction
d. Asymptomatic
Answer: a, b, d

Many small intestinal carcinoids are small and asymptomatic and are found only incidentally or at
autopsy. Clinical symptoms can arise either from the primary tumor, from sequelae of metastatic
disease, or from the Carcinoid Syndrome. Obstructive symptoms can occur either from intussusception or
more commonly as a submucosal tumor infiltrates the bowel wall and beyond, the bowel mesentery may
become shortened, thickened and fixed by an intense desmoplastic reaction characteristic of carcinoid
tumors. This leads to kinking and angulation of intestinal loops and may eventually result in mechanical
obstruction. Intestinal ischemia or even infarction can occur secondary to an unusual type of mesenteric
angiopathy characterized by vascular thickening and sclerosis that accompanies the desmoplastic
mesenteric reaction. Although mucosal ulceration and bleeding can occur, such symptoms are unusual.

50. With regard to benign neoplasms of the small intestine, which of the following are true statements?

a. Many are asymptomatic and only found as incidental findings

b. Leiomyomas are the most common symptomatic benign neoplasm and may present with
gastrointestinal bleeding
c. Villous adenomas carry a distinct malignant potential and occur most commonly in the periampullary
duodenum
d. Peutz-Jegher Syndrome is associated with multiple adenomatous polyps throughout the small intestine
Answer: a, b, c

The most common benign small intestinal neoplasms are adenomas, leiomyomas, and lipomas.
Hamartomas, fibromas, angiomas, and neurofibromas may also occur at a lesser frequency. Three types
of adenomas occur, simple tubular adenomas, villous adenomas, and Brunner gland adenomas. Tubular
adenomas have a very low malignant potential whereas villous adenomas carry a distinct malignant
potential similar to that of colonic villous adenomas. These adenomas occur most commonly in the
duodenum and especially in the periampullary region. Brunner gland adenomas represent hyperplasia of
the exocrine glands within the proximal duodenal mucosa and have little risk of malignant change. The
smooth muscle tumor, leiomyoma, are the most common symptomatic benign neoplasms. Most
leiomyomas enlarge with an extraluminal orientation and, may reach considerable size. The tumors
eventually may outgrow their blood supply leading to central necrosis, ulceration and intraluminal
bleeding. Rupture of the tumor may also occur with intraperitoneal bleeding. Differentiation of larger
leiomyomas from their malignant counterpart, leiomyosarcoma, may be difficult on pathologic review.
Peutz-Jegher Syndrome is an inherited syndrome associated with multiple gastrointestinal polyps
throughout the jejunum and ileum. Histologically these polyps are hamartomas and not adenomas and
therefore offer little risk of malignant transformation.

51. Primary gastrointestinal lymphomas involving the small bowel are uncommon accounting for less than
5% of all lymphomas. Conditions associated with small intestinal lymphomas include which of the
following?

a. Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)

b. Celiac disease
c. Crohn’s disease
d. Rheumatoid arthritis
Answer: a, b, c, d

Although rare, small intestinal lymphomas are associated with several conditions. The chronic
malabsorptive condition, celiac disease, is recognized to be associated with small intestinal lymphoma.
Clinical deterioration in a patient with previously controlled celiac disease should immediately suggest
the diagnosis of lymphoma. There is also an increased incidence of lymphoma in Crohn’s disease.
Disorders of immunologic function have an increased incidence of extranodal gastrointestinal lymphoma.
These disorders include autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Wegener granulomatosis,
systemic lupus erythematous, and congenital immunodeficiencies. Immunosuppressed patients after
organ transplantation and patients with prolonged, high-dose chemotherapy are also at increased risk.
AIDS has been associated with the development of aggressive, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma presenting with
primary gastrointestinal involvement. Although this is usually a diffuse systemic disease, extranodal
lymphoma of the small bowel has been frequently recognized.