Summary about Disease
Terminal ileitis is inflammation of the terminal ileum, the final section of the small intestine. It's often associated with Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The inflammation can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, affecting the body's ability to absorb nutrients.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Abdominal pain (often in the lower right area)
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Fatigue
Fever
Rectal bleeding
Nausea and vomiting
Reduced appetite
Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels
Causes
The exact cause of terminal ileitis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of factors, including:
Genetics: A family history of IBD increases the risk.
Immune system dysfunction: An abnormal immune response may trigger inflammation in the intestine.
Environmental factors: Diet, stress, smoking, and prior infections may play a role.
Gut Microbiome: An imbalance of bacteria in the gut may contribute to the inflammation.
Medicine Used
Medications used to treat terminal ileitis depend on the severity of the condition and may include:
Anti-inflammatory drugs: Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine)
Corticosteroids: Prednisone or budesonide to reduce inflammation during flare-ups.
Immunomodulators: Azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or methotrexate to suppress the immune system.
Biologics: Anti-TNF agents (e.g., infliximab, adalimumab), anti-integrin agents (e.g., vedolizumab), or anti-IL-12/23 agents (e.g., ustekinumab) to target specific proteins involved in inflammation.
Antibiotics: To treat infections.
Other medications: Anti-diarrheal medications, pain relievers, and nutritional supplements.
Is Communicable
No, terminal ileitis is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
While terminal ileitis is not preventable, certain precautions can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups:
Follow a doctor's treatment plan: Take medications as prescribed.
Dietary modifications: Identify and avoid foods that trigger symptoms. A low-residue diet or elemental diet may be recommended during flare-ups.
Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
Smoking cessation: Smoking can worsen IBD.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet can support overall health.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially during diarrhea.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an outbreak (flare-up) of terminal ileitis varies greatly from person to person. It can last for a few days, weeks, or even months. With treatment, symptoms can be brought under control, but the disease is chronic, meaning it can recur.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:
Medical history and physical examination
Blood tests: To check for inflammation, anemia, and other abnormalities.
Stool tests: To rule out infections and check for blood.
Endoscopy (colonoscopy or ileoscopy): A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon or ileum to visualize the lining and take biopsies.
Imaging tests: CT scan or MRI may be used to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out complications.
Capsule endoscopy: A small wireless camera is swallowed to visualize the small intestine.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies. It can be a gradual onset over weeks or months, or sudden. Symptoms can be persistent, or they can come and go (relapsing-remitting course). There may be periods of remission where there are few or no symptoms, followed by flare-ups where symptoms return.
Important Considerations
Terminal ileitis is often associated with Crohn's disease but can have other causes, correct diagnosis is critical.
The disease can lead to complications such as bowel obstruction, fistulas, abscesses, and malnutrition.
Long-term management often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving a gastroenterologist, dietitian, and other healthcare professionals.
The disease may increase the risk of colon cancer, so regular screening is important.
Quality of life can be significantly affected; support groups and mental health care can be beneficial.