Summary
Crohn’s disease (CD) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors.
Common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, weight loss, and stomach pain—often in the lower right side of the abdomen, which can sometimes be mistaken for appendicitis.
A colonoscopy with tissue biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Because Crohn’s disease is a complex condition requiring ongoing care, specialist involvement is important from the time of diagnosis to ensure proper treatment and monitoring.
The main goals of treatment are to control symptoms, maintain remission (a period without symptoms), and prevent complications.
Diagnosis and When to Seek Help
If your child has frequent diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, stomach pain, fatigue, or poor growth, it’s important to consult a doctor. Other signs may include anemia (low iron levels) or delayed puberty.
A specialist will diagnose Crohn’s disease using:
- Colonoscopy and ileoscopy: A procedure to examine the digestive tract and collect tissue samples.
- Tissue biopsy: A small sample of intestinal tissue to confirm inflammation.
- Blood and stool tests: To check for signs of infection, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies.
Management
Although there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, treatment can help control inflammation and improve quality of life. Common approaches include:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and biologic therapies to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
- Nutritional support: Special diets or supplements may be recommended, especially if growth is affected.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged parts of the intestine or manage complications.
Because treatment can have side effects, regular medical follow-ups are essential.
Follow-Up and Monitoring
Ongoing care is crucial to prevent complications such as intestinal blockages, abscesses, or fistulas (abnormal connections between parts of the intestine). Crohn’s disease can also affect other parts of the body, leading to joint pain, skin rashes, or eye inflammation.
With the right treatment and support, children with Crohn’s disease can manage their symptoms and lead active lives.
History and Exam
Key diagnostic factor
- presence of risk factors
- abdominal pain
- prolonged diarrhoea
- perianal lesions
Other diagnostic factors
- bowel obstruction
- blood in stools
- fever
- fatigue
Risk factor
- white ethnicity and Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
- age 15-40 or 50-60 years
- family history of CD
- cigarette smoking
Diagnostic Investigations
1st investigations to order
- FBC
- iron studies (serum iron, serum ferritin, total iron binding capacity [TIBC], transferrin saturation)
- serum vitamin B12
- serum folate
Investigations to consider
- abdominal and pelvic ultrasonography
- ileocolonoscopy
- tissue biopsy
- oesophagogastroduodenoscopy
Emerging tests
- serological markers
Book an Appointment
Other Related Conditions
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