Crohn's Disease

Abstract

Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis are the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease, which are characterized by idiopathic chronic or relapsing inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract. The exact cause of the disease remains unknown, although current theories postulate that individuals with a genetic predisposition for this disease develop a sustained mucosal immune response after an exposure to a yet unknown trigger. Crohn's disease may occur anywhere within the gastrointestinal tract, but most commonly involves the ileum and colon. Patients with this disease commonly suffer from chronic abdominal pain, malnutrition, and diarrhea, and may also develop strictures or fistulas necessitating surgery. CD does not have a cure, and treatments are focused on inducing remission of the disease in order to prevent disease complications. The treatment of CD has evolved dramatically over the past several years, and biologic therapies are now the mainstay of modern therapy. The next several years will likely see a myriad of new treatment strategies as we broaden our understanding of the disease.