Long-term exposure to<unk>  pathogens leads to a generalized state of intestinal inflammation. Chronic inflammation leads to both functional and structural changes which alter gut permeability and ability of the intestine to absorb nutrients. Evidence of villous atrophy in endoscopic images of the small intestine. Specifically, structural changes within the intestine include smaller villi, larger crypts (called crypt hyperplasia), increased permeability, and inflammatory cell build-up within the intestines. These changes result in poor absorption of food, vitamins and minerals – or "modest malabsorption". Simplified mechanism outlining causes and effects of EE.
Environmental enteropathy
Autoimmune enteropathy
Natural killer cell enteropathy
Tropical sprue
Congenital tufting enteropathy
Coeliac disease
Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome
Protein losing enteropathy