Crohn's disease is an inflammatory gastrointestinal disease. The lesions are segmental. Any part of the gastrointestinal tract can be affected. It most commonly affects the terminal ileum, followed by colon and anus. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort or bulge, severe diarrhea, cramps, vomiting and blood in stool. Severe cases have intestinal fibrosis and narrowing, which leads to loss of appetite and weight loss. Crohn's disease is a benign disease and the cause is unknown. There is no effective treatment yet. During the early stage, medication can be used. More serious cases shall have part of the intestine removed. If the end part of the colon or anus is affected, doctors will make an artificial opening on the abdomen for stool discharge.
How is Crohn's disease treated in practice?