Etymed
stricture
Definition
An abnormal narrowing of a tubular passage, duct, or hollow organ, usually caused by scarring, chronic inflammation, or an encroaching mass; a localized stenosis. Strictures occur across multiple systems - e.g. esophageal and biliary (GI), urethral and ureteral (urinary).
Clinical context
Chronic GERD produces a distal esophageal peptic stricture presenting as progressive dysphagia to solids. A urethral stricture after trauma or infection causes a weak urinary stream, straining, and incomplete bladder emptying.
Mnemonic
STRICT = drawn tight - a stricture strictly tightens and narrows the lumen.