Dhypochondre

Dhypochondre is not a standard term in medical nomenclature. It most likely refers to the hypochondrium (English) or hypochondre (French), the upper lateral part of the abdomen beneath the lower ribs. In anatomical usage, the term can denote either the right hypochondriac region or the left, depending on the side being described.

Anatomy: In the common nine-region scheme of the abdomen, the body is divided by two vertical and two horizontal planes, producing left and right hypochondriac regions in the upper row, flanking the epigastric region. The right hypochondrium contains portions of the liver and the gallbladder; the left hypochondrium contains the stomach, spleen, and part of the pancreas, along with portions of the colon and the diaphragmatic surface.

Clinical significance: Pain, tenderness, or abnormal findings in a hypochondriac region warrant evaluation for liver disease, gallbladder disease (such as cholecystitis or biliary colic), splenic disorders, peptic disease, or pancreatitis. Examination relies on inspection, palpation with the patient breathing shallowly or deeply as needed, and percussion of the upper abdomen. Imaging (ultrasound or CT) and laboratory tests are commonly used to confirm causes.

Etymology and terminology: The term derives from Greek hypo- meaning under and np chondros cartilage. In French, hypochondre corresponds to the English hypochondrium. Note that hypochondriac in English also denotes a person with excessive worry about illness; this psychological meaning is unrelated to the anatomical region.