Enteropathy

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Enteropathy is a disease of the intestine, especially the small intestine. It is a broad term that encompasses several types of conditions, including Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and Irritable bowel syndrome.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Enteropathy refers to any disease of the intestines. The term is derived from the Greek words "enteron" (intestine) and "pathos" (suffering). It is a broad term that can refer to a variety of conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases, malabsorption disorders, and infections.

Types of Enteropathy[edit | edit source]

There are several types of enteropathy, including:

  • Celiac disease: This is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.
  • Crohn's disease: This is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of enteropathy can vary greatly depending on the specific type of disease. However, common symptoms can include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Bloating and gas

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of enteropathy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests can include blood tests, stool tests, and imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI. In some cases, a biopsy of the intestine may be necessary.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for enteropathy depends on the specific type of disease. For example, celiac disease is treated by following a strict gluten-free diet, while treatment for Crohn's disease may involve medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Enteropathy Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD