Enteropathy refers to any pathology of the intestine. Although enteritis specifically refers to an inflammation of the intestine, and is thus a more specific term than "enteropathy", the two phrases are sometimes used interchangeably.
Specific types of enteropathy include:
Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphomaEnvironmental enteropathyAn incompletely defined syndrome of
inflammation related to the quality of the environment. Signs and symptoms include reduced absorptive capacity and reduced
intestinal barrier function of the
small intestine. It is widespread among children and adults in low- and middle-income countries.
Eosinophilic enteropathyA condition in which
eosinophils (a type of
white blood cell) accumulate in the
gastrointestinal tract and in the blood. Eosinophil build up in the gastrointestinal tract can result in
polyp formation, tissue break down, inflammation, and ulcers.
Gluten-sensitive enteropathy (which can progress to coeliac disease)Coeliac diseaseA
malabsorption syndrome precipitated by the ingestion of foods containing
gluten in a predisposed individual. It is characterized by inflammation of the small intestine, loss of microvilli structure, deficient
nutrient absorption, and
malnutrition.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) HIV EnteropathyCharacterized by chronic diarrhea more than one month in duration with no obvious infectious cause in an HIV-positive individual. Thought to be due to direct or indirect effects of HIV on the enteric mucosa.
Immunodysregulation polyendocrinopathy and enteropathy, X-linked (see FOXP3)Protein-losing enteropathyRadiation enteropathyTropical enteropathyIf the condition also involves the stomach, it is known as "gastroenteropathy".
In pigs, porcine proliferative enteropathy is a diarrheal disease.
