| Gastric folds | |
|---|---|
 Stomach | |
| Details | |
| System | Digestive |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | plicae gastricae |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The gastric folds (or gastric rugae) are coiled sections of tissue that exist in the mucosal and submucosal layers of the stomach.[1] They provide elasticity by allowing the stomach to expand when food enters it; these folds stretch outward through the action of mechanoreceptors which respond to the increase in pressure.[2]This allows the stomach to expand, therefore increasing the volume of the stomach without increasing pressure.[2] The gastric folds also provide the stomach with increased surface area for nutrient absorption during digestion. [2] Gastric folds may be seen during esophagogastroduodenoscopy or in radiological studies.[3][4]
Layers of the Gastric fold
- Mucosa
This layer releases stomach acid. It is the innermost layer of the stomach[5] Affected by the hormone histamine which signals it to release HCl.
- Sub-mucosa
This layer consists of different vessels and nerves, ganglion neurons, and adipose tissue. It is the second layer of the stomach and supports the mucosa.[6]
Gastric fold thickening
Thickening of the gastric folds may be observed by endoscopy or radiography and may aid in the differential diagnosis of many disease processes including:[3]
The folds become very thick due to inflammation.[7]
Ulcers cause breaks in the mucosa and cause erosion of the submucosa.
Gastrin levels increase due to tumors, which cause an increase in the gastric fold size.[7]
The mucosa pits are in excess causing thickening of the folds.[7]
- Carcinoma
- Helicobacter pylori infection
Causes inflammation of the folds.
- Gastric Syphilis [8]
- Cytomegalovirus
Mucosa change shape causing rugae enlargement. [9]
- Sarcoidosis
Causes thickening of the folds.
Additional images
Drawing of the interior of the stomach.
