Crohn’s Disease Specialist

What is Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can involve any part of the body, even outside of the gastrointestinal tract. When compared to ulcerative colitis, another IBD which typically involves only the colon, Crohn’s disease can be quite devastating and present in many ways.

What is the cause of Crohn's disease?

The cause of Crohn's disease is unknown. It primarily affects the large and small bowel, but again can affect any body part.

What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease can cause many symptoms including:

• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Weight loss
  
  

Many gastrointestinal conditions can also mimic the symptoms of Crohn's disease, so differentiating the cause of these symptoms is important so therapy can be focused.

How is Crohn's disease diagnosed?

Crohn's disease is typically diagnosed by endoscopy with biopsies; however, recent blood studies can search for antibodies associated with Crohn's disease to help support the diagnosis. Biopsies are typically taken during the endoscopy in order to make the diagnosis.

Other forms of diagnostic testing, such as CT scans, barium X-rays, and capsule endoscopy, can aid in the diagnosis of Crohn's disease.

What are the risk factors for Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease is often found in patients with a family history of the disease or those with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. Smoking increases the risk for developing Crohn's disease.

The highest incidence is in adolescence and early adulthood, although a later age presentation is also found.

How is Crohn's disease treated?

Crohn's disease is typically treated with medicines, ranging from anti-inflammatory agents to stronger drugs, such as steroids, immunosuppressants, or biological agents such as RemicadeⓇ, HumiraⓇ, EntyvioⓇ, StelaraⓇ or CimziaⓇ. Surgery may be required in more aggressive cases not responding to medicines or in patients with complications of Crohn's disease, such as an abscess, a fistula, or strictures.

Is Crohn's disease curable?

No. The goal is not to cure Crohn's disease, but to minimize its activity and its associated complications. Symptomatic control and endoscopic healing to those body parts affected are of utmost importance.

If you have symptoms of Crohn’s disease, call Edmunds Gastroenterology, or book an appointment online while you’re here on the website.

This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Please consult with your primary care physician or a specialist regarding your symptoms.