oxyntiska

Oxyntiska is an adjective used to describe the oxyntic region of the stomach, including the glands that line the fundus and body. In English-language anatomy, the corresponding term is oxyntic, and the glands are commonly called the fundic or oxyntic glands. The terms oxyntic and parietal are often used to refer to the acid-secreting components of the stomach lining.

Anatomy and histology: The mucosa of the oxyntic region contains oxyntic glands. These glands include parietal (oxyntic) cells, chief cells, and mucous neck cells. Parietal cells produce hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, while chief cells secrete pepsinogen. Mucous neck cells contribute to the protective mucus layer.

Function: The primary role of the oxyntic mucosa is acid secretion, which creates the low pH environment of the stomach necessary for protein denaturation and pepsin activation. Intrinsic factor produced by parietal cells is essential for vitamin B12 absorption in the small intestine. The acidic environment also helps neutralize pathogens and aids digestion.

Regulation and clinical relevance: Acid secretion is regulated by gastrin, histamine, and acetylcholine, and can be inhibited by proton pump inhibitors or H2 receptor antagonists. Pathologies affecting the oxyntic mucosa include autoimmune gastritis with loss of parietal cells, leading to pernicious anemia, and broader atrophic changes associated with chronic gastritis. Long-standing damage can be linked to metaplasia and altered cancer risk.

Etymology: The term derives from Greek oxy, meaning sharp or acid, and gystis, stomach; the English form is oxyntic, with oxyntiska reflecting inflected forms in some languages.