The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases describes Crohn's disease as an inflammatory, ongoing and hard-to-diagnose disease of the bowel. Distinguished by its involvement in all layers of the bowel interspersed by healthy sections, it affects men and women, is more prevalent in the Jewish community, and runs in families. The cause is still unknown as of 2010, but blood tests can diagnose the condition.
CBC
MelinePlus, a website operated by the U.S. National Library of Medicine describes a complete blood count, or CBC, as a blood test that measures red and white blood cells, amount of hemoglobin, the hematocrit or percentage of red blood cells, size of the red blood cells, the amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell and the platelet count. Although a definite diagnosis cannot be reached with a CBC, this blood test can determine if blood is present in the stools; if the white blood cell count is elevated, indicating an infection and the level of inflammation; and if the number of clotting cells or platelets is raised, again indicating infection.
Blood Chemistry
The University of California states that a blood chemistry test examines the different elements and waste products in the blood. It is indicative of the functioning levels of various organs, including the liver and kidneys. It also looks at electrolyte levels and reveals information on the general nutritional state and overall health of the individual.
Fecal Occult Blood Test
This test, according to Harvard Medical School, can reveal the presence of blood in the stool from bleeding anywhere along the digestive tract. It is a non-invasive test that the individual can perform by collecting a sample of stool in a small vial. A newer test uses flushable pads that don't require a stool sample but test the water in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
IBD Serology 7
The IBD Serology 7 test, proprietary to Prometheus Labs, uses multiple markers in the blood that provide additional information to assist in diagnosing Crohn's disease. According to Prometheus Labs, an advanced diagnostic tool called the Smart Diagnostic Algorithm was developed to read the additional markers. They add that the extra information allows a physician to assess the progression, risks and complications of the disease.
