Sample Answer

Crohn’s Disease: A Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the digestive tract. It causes inflammation ¹ in the lining of the digestive tract, which can lead to a variety of symptoms. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune-related ² factors.  

Signs and Symptoms: Crohn’s disease can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. The inflammation can also lead to complications such as ulcers, strictures (narrowing of the intestine), and fistulas (abnormal connections between the intestine and other organs).

Diagnosis: Crohn’s disease is diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy (a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon), and imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI scans.

Risk Factors: While anyone can develop Crohn’s disease, certain individuals are at an increased risk. This includes people with a family history of IBD, smokers, and individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. The increased risk in these groups is likely due to genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Prevention: There is no known way to prevent Crohn’s disease entirely. However, certain lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk or manage symptoms. These include not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress.

Treatment: The treatment for Crohn’s disease aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. This may involve medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the intestine or treat complications.