Body of stomach

The body of stomach is the largest central part of the stomach, extending from the fundus superiorly to the pyloric antrum inferiorly. More specifically, the body extends:

• Superiorly: from the level of the cardiac notch (the junction between the fundus and the oesophagus) and the lower limit of the fundus.

• Inferiorly: to a vertical plane passing downwards from the angular incisure on the lesser curvature, divides the stomach into a left portion or body of stomach and a right or pyloric part.

Gastric (oxyntic) glands

The body of stomach contains numerous fundic (oxyntic) glands, which are rich in parietal cells that secrete hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, and chief cells that secrete pepsinogen. These secretions play a crucial role in the digestion of proteins and the absorption of vitamin B12.

The mucosa of the body is thrown into folds known as gastric rugae, which allow the stomach to expand after meals.