Ileitis

An overview of ileitis, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Ileitis

Inflammation of the ileum as seen in ileitis

Ileitis refers to the inflammation of the ileum, which is the final and longest segment of the small intestine. This condition can result from various causes and can lead to a range of symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

Causes

Ileitis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Crohn's disease: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract but often involves the ileum.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can lead to inflammation of the ileum.
• Ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the ileum can cause inflammation and damage.
• Radiation enteritis: Inflammation resulting from radiation therapy, particularly in the treatment of abdominal or pelvic cancers.
• Drug-induced: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause ileitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ileitis can vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include:

• Abdominal pain, particularly in the lower right quadrant
• Diarrhea, which may be bloody
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis

Diagnosing ileitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests, including:

• Endoscopy: Allows direct visualization of the ileum and the ability to take biopsies.
• Imaging studies: Such as CT scan or MRI to assess inflammation and rule out other conditions.
• Blood tests: To check for signs of inflammation, infection, or anemia.
• Stool tests: To detect infections or blood in the stool.

Treatment

The treatment of ileitis depends on the underlying cause:

• For Crohn's disease, treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and biologics.
• Infections may require antibiotics or antiparasitic medications.
• Ischemic ileitis may need surgical intervention if there is significant damage.
• Symptomatic treatment includes pain management, dietary modifications, and hydration.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ileitis varies based on the cause and severity of the condition. Chronic conditions like Crohn's disease require long-term management, while infectious ileitis may resolve with appropriate treatment.

Related pages

• Crohn's disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Small intestine
• Gastroenterology