Epigastric Region in Anterior View

Description

Centered in the upper anterior abdomen, the epigastric region lies inferior to the xiphoid process and costal margins and superior to the umbilical region, spanning the midline between the right and left hypochondriac regions. Surface landmarks include the infrasternal (subcostal) angle formed by the right and left costal cartilages, with the linea alba running vertically in the midline over the rectus abdominis bellies. A focal marker over the lower sternum region functions as a reference point for orientation to the xiphoid and the superior limit of the epigastrium. Palms face anteriorly, reinforcing standard anatomical position. Clinically, the epigastrium is the key surface window for foregut pain patterns and upper abdominal triage. Epigastric tenderness and burning pain are classic for gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, while deep, persistent epigastric pain radiating to the back raises concern for pancreatitis; a pulsatile epigastric mass shifts attention to abdominal aortic aneurysm assessment. This anterior view helps correlate patient-reported pain location with underlying structures such as the stomach, proximal duodenum, pancreas, and left lobe of the liver, even when those organs are not directly visualized. Use this asset for teaching regional anatomy in gross anatomy and physical diagnosis courses, for patient-facing diagrams in gastroenterology and emergency medicine materials, and as a locator image in publications discussing epigastric hernia, dyspepsia workups, or laparoscopic port planning near the subcostal angle. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.