Crohn's Disease
Also known as: Crohn Disease, Regional Enteritis, Granulomatous Colitis
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, though it most commonly involves the end of the small intestine (ileum) and beginning of the colon. The inflammation extends through all layers of the bowel wall and can lead to complications such as strictures, fistulas, and abscesses. While there is no cure, treatment can effectively manage symptoms and maintain remission.
Symptoms
Causes
- Exact cause unknown; likely an abnormal immune response
- Genetic factors (NOD2/CARD15 and other gene variants)
- Environmental triggers affecting gut microbiome
- Dysregulation of the immune system attacking intestinal tissue
Risk Factors
- Family history of IBD (first-degree relatives at higher risk)
- Smoking (strongest modifiable risk factor—doubles the risk)
- Age between 15 and 35 (peak onset)
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
- Use of NSAIDs (may trigger flares)
- Western/industrialized environment
Diagnosis
- Colonoscopy with ileal intubation and biopsies
- CT enterography or MR enterography for small bowel evaluation
- Blood tests (CBC, CRP, ESR) for inflammation markers
- Stool tests (fecal calprotectin) to measure intestinal inflammation
- Capsule endoscopy for small bowel visualization
Treatment
- Aminosalicylates (mesalamine) for mild disease
- Corticosteroids (prednisone, budesonide) for flares
- Immunomodulators (azathioprine, methotrexate) for maintenance
- Biologic therapies (infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, ustekinumab)
- Nutritional therapy and dietary management
- Surgery to remove damaged bowel segments or treat complications
Prevention
- There is no known way to prevent Crohn's disease
- Quitting smoking significantly reduces risk of flares and disease progression
- Regular medical monitoring can catch complications early
When to See a Doctor
- You have persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or bloody stools
- You experience unexplained weight loss or fever
- You develop perianal symptoms (pain, drainage, or swelling)
- Existing Crohn's disease symptoms are worsening despite treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
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