-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
digestive system
Crohn's disease/regional enteritis
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
a nonspecific, idiopathic, inflammatory disease usually affecting the lower ileum but often involving the colon and other parts of the GI tract; also called granulomatous ileitis, or ileocolitis

etiology:
Crohn's disease may involve a hyperimmune response in the large intestine as a result of food sensitivities. Avoidance may not always ameliorate the condition, as the patient needs to rebuild the lining of the intestine.

Most cases begin before age 40, with peak incidence in the 20s. It is equal in both sexes, more common among Jews, and shows familial tendencies.

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
• acute abdomen

• chronic diarrhea with
» abdominal pain,
» fever
» anorexia
» weight loss
» abdominal mass

lab findings:
• x-rays show segmental disease and narrowed lumen
• biopsy

course and prognosis

Chronic inflammation of the intestines causes ulcerations which, if inflammation continues to progress, ultimately lead to extensive fibrosis.
Inflammation, deep ulceration, edema, and fibrosis lead to secondary complications such as obstruction, fistula formation, and mesenteric abcesses.

Appropriate dietary management improves prognosis.

Some physicians have observed an association between Crohn's disease and dental amalgam mercury syndrome.

differential diagnosis

• appendicitis
• bowel obstruction
• volvulus
• ulcerative colitis
• diverticulitis
• other inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions


footnotes