LLQ (left lower quadrant [abdomen])
The LLQ, or left lower quadrant, refers to a specific area of the abdomen. Imagine dividing your abdomen into four sections or quadrants using a vertical and horizontal line. The LLQ is the bottom left part of this grid, located below the navel and to the left of the midline. This area of the body contains various important structures, including parts of the small and large intestines, the left ureter, and for women, aspects of the reproductive organs like the left ovary and fallopian tube.
Pain or discomfort in the LLQ can indicate a range of medical issues. Some possible causes include diverticulitis, an infection or inflammation of small pouches in the bowel, or other gastrointestinal problems. In women, LLQ pain might relate to conditions like ovarian cysts or endometriosis. If you experience persistent or severe pain in this area, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Understanding the concept of the LLQ can help in describing and diagnosing medical conditions and is part of basic anatomical knowledge used by healthcare providers.
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