Crohn’s Disease
What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Although not generally fatal, it is a serious disease that can have a devastating impact on the quality of life of patients, many of whom are young and active, and in some cases may cause life threatening complications.1
Crohn’s disease is one of two main forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the other being ulcerative colitis. The disease causes inflammation of the bowel wall and may involve any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Most frequently, the ileum (lower part of the small intestine) and/or the colon is affected.2
Who does it affect?
The disease mostly affects adolescents and young adults, usually aged between 15 to 35, but can occur at any age.2 An estimated 28,000 Australians and 6,400 New Zealanders live with Crohn’s disease, It is estimated that the prevalence of Crohn’s disease will increase by 20 per cent by 2020.3
While the exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, research towards finding the cause is progressing, along with improvements in diagnosis and advances in therapy.3
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include:
- abdominal pain
- frequent diarrhoea
- fatigue
- fever
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- perianal fistula and fissures
Some patients may also present with rectal bleeding and arthritis.2
How is it diagnosed and managed?
The diagnosis of Crohn’s disease is often challenging due to its strong similarity to ulcerative colitis. Gastroenterologists are trained to diagnose and treat Crohn’s disease. Diagnostic imaging, laboratory tests and pathological examinations are important for an accurate diagnosis.
There is currently no surgical or medical cure for Crohn’s disease. The main goal for treating Crohn’s disease is to suppress the inflammatory response and ultimately improve quality of life for patients.
Pharmaceutical treatment options for Crohn’s disease include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), corticosteroids, aminosalicylates, immunomodulators, antibiotics and biologic therapies.2
Where can I get more information?
Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional or visit some of the following sites that may offer more information.
1 The Mayo Clinic, Crohn’s disease. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/crohns-disease/DS00104/METHOD=print. Accessed on Oct 20, 2009.
2 Head, K. Inflammatory bowel disease part II: Crohn’s disease –pathophysiology and conventional and alternative treatment options. Alternative Medicine Review. Dec 2004.
3 Access Economics and the Australian Crohn’s and Colitis Association. The Economic Costs of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. June 2007.