LUQ (left upper quadrant [abdomen])
The Left Upper Quadrant (LUQ) is one of the four sections into which the abdomen is divided. Imagine your abdomen as a square divided into four parts; the LUQ is the top left part. This area is home to several important organs. These include the stomach, spleen, part of the pancreas, and sections of both the small and large intestines.
Pain or discomfort in this area can be due to various reasons, ranging from minor issues like indigestion to more severe conditions such as pancreatitis or a kidney infection. Understanding the location and function of the LUQ can help in identifying and communicating about health problems that may arise in this area.
Medical professionals use the term LUQ to narrow down the location of symptoms during examinations. This helps in diagnosing possible conditions and planning further medical investigations or treatments if necessary.
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