Enteropathy

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Gastroenterology
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Malabsorption

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