Small intestine

Intestinum tenue

A coiled tube approximately 6 meters long consisting of three parts: duodenum (25 cm, C-shaped), jejunum (2.5 m, wider with thicker walls), and ileum (3 m, narrower with more Peyer's patches). The plicae circulares, villi, and microvilli progressively increase surface area.

Type Organ
Système corporel Digestive
Région corporelle Abdomen
Nom latin Intestinum tenue
FMA ID 7200

Fonction

The primary site of chemical digestion and nutrient absorption. Its enormous surface area (approximately 32 square meters) is achieved through circular folds, villi, and microvilli, enabling efficient absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Signification clinique

Celiac disease causes villous atrophy in response to gluten. Crohn's disease commonly affects the terminal ileum. Small bowel obstruction is a surgical emergency. Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers.

Questions fréquentes

What is the Small intestine?
A coiled tube approximately 6 meters long consisting of three parts: duodenum (25 cm, C-shaped), jejunum (2.5 m, wider with thicker walls), and ileum (3 m, narrower with more Peyer's patches). The plicae circulares, villi, and microvilli progressively increase surface area.
What is the function of the Small intestine?
The primary site of chemical digestion and nutrient absorption. Its enormous surface area (approximately 32 square meters) is achieved through circular folds, villi, and microvilli, enabling efficient absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
What body system is the Small intestine part of?
The Small intestine is part of the Digestive.
What conditions affect the Small intestine?
Celiac disease causes villous atrophy in response to gluten. Crohn's disease commonly affects the terminal ileum. Small bowel obstruction is a surgical emergency. Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers.
Where is the Small intestine located?
The Small intestine is located in the Abdomen region of the body.

Structures associées

Avertissement médical

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