Crohn disease

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease

Crohn's disease
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue
Complications	Bowel obstruction, fistulas, malnutrition
Onset	Usually between ages 15 and 30
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown
Risks	Family history, smoking, NSAID use
Diagnosis	Colonoscopy, CT scan, MRI, Blood test
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Medication, surgery, dietary changes
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	3.2 per 1,000 people (US)
Deaths	N/A

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus. It is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process that can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary widely among individuals and may change over time. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Persistent diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever

Complications of Crohn's disease can include bowel obstruction, fistulas, abscesses, and malnutrition. The disease can also lead to extraintestinal manifestations such as arthritis, skin rashes, and eye inflammation.

Causes

The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. A family history of the disease increases the risk, and certain environmental factors such as smoking and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may exacerbate the condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Crohn's disease typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Common diagnostic procedures include:

• Colonoscopy with biopsy
• CT scan or MRI to assess the extent of inflammation
• Blood tests to check for anemia and inflammation markers

Treatment

There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include:

• Medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologics
• Surgical interventions to remove damaged portions of the intestine
• Nutritional therapy and dietary modifications

Prognosis

The course of Crohn's disease is unpredictable, with periods of remission and flare-ups. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

Also see

• Ulcerative colitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Gastroenterology