Analysis of Crohn's Disease

Analysis of Crohn's Disease

An inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by intermittent and recurrent abdominal pain associated with ulceration in bowel function. Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of chronic disorders that cause inflammation or ulceration in the small and large intestines. Most often, inflammatory bowel disease is classified as ulceration colitis or Crohn’s disease but may be referred to as colitis, enteritis, ileitis, or proctitis (Crohn's disease-website).

Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation of segments of the GI tract. The parts of the tract where Crohn’s disease is most often seen are in the terminal ileum, jejunum, and right side of colon. Involvement of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum is rare. Crohn’s disease is an inflammation that extends into all deep layers of the intestinal wall. Areas of involvement are usually discontinuous, with segments of normal bowel occurring between diseased portions. Thickening of the bowel wall occurs, as well as narrowing of the lumen. Narrowing of the lumen is caused by scar tissue from inflammation and this may cause strictures and obstruction. Fistulas are a cardinal feature and may develop between segments of bowel. Typically ulcerations are deep and longitudinal and penetrate between pieces of inflamed edematous mucosa, causing the cobblestone appearance. Persons with Crohn’s disease are hospitalized frequently and often become depressed because of the painful character of the disease (Lewis et al, 1996, p.1231-1232).

Cause

Crohn’s disease is of unknown etiology. Although Crohn’s disease has no known cause, there are many theories about what might cause this disease. One theory is that some agent; perhaps a virus or bacterium affects ...

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...In conclusion, Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition and may recur at various times over a lifetime. Some people have long periods of remission, sometimes for years, when they are free of symptoms. There is no way to predict when a remission may occur or when symptoms will return. You just need to be aware of the symptoms to treat it as soon as possible for a healthier future.

Bibliography:

Crohn’s disease (website). Available HTTP: http://members, aol.com/bospol/homepage/crohns info.htm#c/[1998, March 11].

Hanauer, S. (1996, March). Inflammatory bowel disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 334(13), 841-846.

Lewis, S., Collier, I., & Heitkemper, M. (1996). Crohn’s disease (4). St Louis, MI: Mosby-Year Book.

Satsangi, J. (1996, January). Unifying hypothesis for inflammatory bowel disease and associated colon cancer. Lancet, 347(8993), 40-44.