Alternative Names
Inflammatory bowel disease – Crohn’s disease; Regional enteritis; Ileitis; Granulomatous ileocolitis; IBD- Crohn’s disease
Definition of Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It usually affects the intestines, but may occur anywhere from the mouth to the end of the rectum (anus).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
While the exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, the condition is linked to a problem with the body’s immune system response.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on what part of the gastrointestinal tract is affected. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and can come and go with periods of flare-ups.
Signs and tests
A physical examination may reveal an abdominal mass or tenderness, skin rash, swollen joints, or mouth ulcers. Tests to diagnose Crohn’s disease include:
Treatment
DIET AND NUTRITION
Expectations (prognosis)
There is no cure for Crohn’s disease. The condition is marked by periods of improvement followed by flare-ups of symptoms.
Review
George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 12/13/2010
