Jejunitis

Jejunitis

Diagram of the small intestine, highlighting the jejunum.

Jejunitis is an inflammation of the jejunum, which is the middle section of the small intestine. This condition can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms and may be associated with other inflammatory conditions of the digestive tract.

Anatomy of the Jejunum

The jejunum is the second part of the small intestine, situated between the duodenum and the ileum. It is approximately 2.5 meters long and is responsible for the absorption of nutrients from digested food. The inner surface of the jejunum is lined with villi, which increase the surface area for absorption.

Causes of Jejunitis

Jejunitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can lead to inflammation of the jejunum.
• Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as Crohn's disease can cause chronic inflammation of the jejunum.
• Ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the jejunum can result in inflammation and damage.
• Radiation therapy: Exposure to radiation in the abdominal area can lead to jejunitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of jejunitis can vary depending on the underlying cause but often include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Malabsorption of nutrients

Diagnosis

Diagnosing jejunitis typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Endoscopy: A procedure to visually examine the jejunum using a camera.
• Biopsy: Taking a small tissue sample from the jejunum for analysis.
• Imaging studies: Such as CT scan or MRI to assess inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for jejunitis depends on the underlying cause:

• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
• Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in autoimmune conditions.
• Dietary modifications: To manage symptoms and ensure adequate nutrition.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove damaged sections of the jejunum.

Related Pages

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