Crohn's Disease

Crohn's Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation within the digestive tract, which can affect any part of it, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly occurs in the last section of the small intestine (ileum) and the beginning of the large intestine (colon). The inflammation is transmural, meaning it can impact all layers of bowel tissue, leading to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. The exact cause of Crohn's Disease is unknown, but it is thought to result from an interaction of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors that lead to an abnormal immune response.

The symptoms of Crohn's Disease can vary greatly but often include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. It’s a relapsing-remitting condition, with periods of flare-ups followed by times of remission. Complications may include intestinal obstructions, fistulas, abscesses, anal fissures, and an increased risk of colon cancer. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of patient history, examination, lab tests, endoscopic procedures, and imaging studies. While there is no cure, treatments such as medication, nutritional support, and surgery can help manage symptoms, maintain remission, and improve quality of life.