XI: Diseases of the digestive system

K50-K52: Noninfective enteritis and colitis

Noninfective enteritis and colitis refer to a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the digestive system, specifically the small intestine (enteritis) and the large intestine, or the colon (colitis). These conditions are typically noninfective, which means they aren't caused by an infection but are often instead due to an autoimmune response, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract. Symptoms of these conditions can range from mild to severe, and may include abdominal pain, bloating, rapid weight loss, and diarrhea. It's also common for the individual to see blood in their stools. These symptoms can lead to further complications, such as dehydration and nutrient deficiencies. The progression of the disease varies among individuals, and it's important to note that both enteritis and colitis can have periods of relapse (when symptoms worsen) and remission (when symptoms improve).