Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can cause a syndrome of diffuse intestinal inflammation and increased bowel permeability known as NSAID enteropathy. Patients can have multiple abnormal lesions in the small bowel even when esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy show normal results. Discontinuing use of NSAIDs often results in resolution of symptoms and healing of lesions. The use of acetaminophen, prednisone, cigarettes, or coffee does not cause diffuse small bowel inflammation.
