Crohns Disease Introduction   Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the GI tract. It is also known as Regional Enteritis, Granulomatous Ileitis, and Ileocolitis.  It mainly affects the ileum and the colon, but it can occur at any site along the digestive tract.  Crohn's disease causes ulcerations in the wall of the intestine.  These ulcerations are patchy (skip lesions) and not confluent like the lesions of Ulcerative Colitis.  As a result of the damage to the wall, individuals may experience bleeding (anemia), malabsorption (malnutrition), fissures and fistulas (infection), and obstruction of the GI tract. [1]     There is no known cause of Crohn's disease. It is, however, thought to be mediated by autoimmune reactions.  These reactions directly impact the GI tract and can be due to environmental, dietary, and infectious agents.  The immune response, or reaction, often causes inflammation in the affected area.  It is this inflammation that leads to ulcer formation in the lining of the intestine.  Over time, the ulcers proliferate and inflammation occurs in nearby tissues.[2]   Crohn's disease affects both men and women equally.  Peak incidence is between the ages of 14-24, though it can occur for the first time in the 50-70's (known as second wave).  Over the past few decades, this condition has become more common in Western societies, with the Jewish population being the most affected.  As with many chronic conditions, there are increases in the prevalence of Crohn's disease in families with one member already diagnosed. [3]     Crohns Disease Symptoms   The most common presenting features of Crohn's disease are; chronic diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, fever, and right lower quadrant fullness.  Patients may complain of loss of appetite and fatigue. Some patients may be diagnosed after presenting to the ER with an acute abdomen.  Rectal bleeding and blood in the stool are also common symptoms. [4]   On examination, individuals with Crohn's disease may have fissures or fistulas in the perianal area.  These persons may also have anemia, or suffer from a concurrent infection in the GI tract.  Enlarged lymph nodes are common and are caused by an inflammatory response.  Children who are diagnosed with Crohn's disease may also suffer from severe malnutrition and growth retardation.  If obstruction is the primary presenting sign, individuals may exhibit constipation, fullness, nausea, and even vomiting. [5]   The worst complication of Crohn's disease is the perforation of the bowel, which results in fecal material entering the abdominal cavity. This causes severe infection and inflammation in the nearby organs, as well as a risk of severe bleeding. [6]     Crohns Disease Statistics At least 500,000 Americans have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease.   10% or 50,000 of those diagnosed will be less than 18 years old.   20-25% of individuals diagnosed will also have a relative with the disease.   An individual has 10 times the risk of developing Crohn's disease if a relative has the disease.   If a brother or sister has the disease the risk increases to 30 times.[7]   Learn More About Crohns Disease Crohns Disease Introduction Crohns Disease Treatment Products helpful for Crohns Disease   Learn More

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