Crohn's disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the lining of the gastrointestinal, or digestive, tract and belongs to a group of diseases called inflammatory bowel diseases. The patches of inflammation associated with Crohn's disease can occur in any part of the digestive tract and often spread into deeper layers of the bowel. If Crohn's disease spreads, it may cause serious complications.
Causes
The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, but there are a number of factors that are believed to contribute to the development of the disease. The most popular theory is that Crohn's disease is a result of an autoimmune disease in which the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract. Another theory is that Crohn's disease occurs as a result of a bacterial or viral infection. The infection causes an immune system response that results in inflammation in the digestive tract, according to Mayo Clinic. Genetic mutations are also believed to lead to the development of Crohn's disease.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of Crohn's disease is severe pain in the abdomen that is most often felt in the lower left side of the abdomen, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Another common symptom is diarrhea. Other symptoms of Crohn's disease include rectal bleeding, weight loss, blood in the stool, ulcers, reduced appetite, fever and stools that float.
Tests
In order to diagnose Crohn's disease, a number of tests must be performed. Blood tests are given to check for specific antibodies that are indicative of Crohn's disease. This is not enough to give a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, however, because not all cases produce these antibodies, according to Mayo Clinic. A colonoscopy is often used to view the inside of the colon through the use of a thin, lighted tube. During a colonoscopy, a biopsy will also be taken to test for the presence of cells called granulomas, which indicate Crohn's disease. An upper GI series is another way to test for Crohn's disease. During this procedure, the patient must drink a chalky solution that coats the lining of the intestine and makes abnormalities visible through X-rays, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Treatment
Treatment for Crohn's disease depends on the severity of each specific case. Mild cases of Crohn's disease can be successfully treated with the use of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medications. Antibiotics may also be used if there is an excess of bacteria located in the intestine that can cause serious infections. In severe cases of Crohn's disease, surgery may be needed to remove the damaged part of the intestine.
Complications
If left untreated, Crohn's disease can cause a number of serious complications. One of the most common complications is bowel obstruction. This occurs when the intestinal wall becomes so inflamed that it causes a physical blockage in the opening of the intestine, according to Mayo Clinic. Other common complications include ulcers, which form as a result of chronic inflammation, and fistulas, which are abnormal connections between different parts of the intestine that occur as a result of ulcers. Malnutrition, due to diarrhea and lack of eating because of abdominal pain, is also a common complication of Crohn's disease.
