What is Crohn’s Disease?

by Matson Huff | Aug 14, 2023 | Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is characterized by inflammation, which can occur anywhere along the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus, although it most commonly affects the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine (colon). Crohn’s disease is a lifelong condition that can cause a variety of symptoms and complications.

Some of the common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping: This can range from mild to severe and is often located in the lower right abdomen.
• Diarrhea: Chronic and sometimes bloody diarrhea is a common symptom.
• Fatigue: Inflammation and other factors can lead to fatigue and a general sense of low energy.
• Weight loss: Reduced appetite and malabsorption of nutrients can result in weight loss.
• Loss of appetite: Inflammation can lead to decreased appetite and difficulties in maintaining a healthy diet.
• Fever: Inflammation and infection can cause fever, especially during flare-ups.
• Joint pain: Inflammatory processes can affect the joints, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Skin and eye problems: Some individuals with Crohn’s disease might experience skin rashes and eye inflammation.

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. The immune system in individuals with Crohn’s disease mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues of the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and the symptoms associated with the condition.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition with periods of flare-ups (active disease) and periods of remission (minimal to no symptoms). Treatment aims to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life. Treatment approaches might include medications to control inflammation, suppress the immune response, and alleviate symptoms. 

In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to remove damaged portions of the intestine or address complications such as strictures (narrowing) or fistulas (abnormal connections between organs).

It’s important for individuals with Crohn’s disease to work closely with healthcare professionals, including gastroenterologists, to develop a personalized treatment plan and to manage the condition effectively.

What Testing is Done for Diagnosing Crohn’s Disease? 

Diagnosing Crohn’s disease typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. During the medical history assessment, a healthcare provider will inquire about the individual’s symptoms, their duration, and any family history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 

A physical examination might reveal signs of abdominal tenderness, swelling, or other indicators of inflammation. Laboratory tests such as blood tests can be conducted to assess for markers of inflammation, anemia, and nutritional deficiencies. 

Additionally, stool samples may be analyzed to rule out infections and assess for the presence of blood or inflammation. To visualize the gastrointestinal tract, imaging studies like endoscopy and imaging techniques such as colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and imaging scans (such as CT scans and MRIs) are used. 

These tests can help identify inflammation, ulcers, strictures, and other abnormalities characteristic of Crohn’s disease. Biopsy samples collected during endoscopy can provide further insight into the nature and extent of the inflammation. 

The diagnosis of Crohn’s disease requires the integration of all these findings, as well as the exclusion of other conditions with similar symptoms, to arrive at an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis.

How is Crohn’s Disease Managed?

Crohn’s disease is managed through a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing monitoring. The primary goal of management is to achieve and maintain remission (periods of minimal to no symptoms) while improving the individual’s quality of life. 

Medical interventions often include medications that target inflammation, suppress the immune response, and alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. These can include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, biologics, and, more recently, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. 

Nutritional therapy might involve dietary adjustments, potentially eliminating trigger foods, and ensuring proper nutrient intake. 

Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management techniques, regular exercise, and adequate hydration, can also play a crucial role in symptom control. 

For severe cases or complications like strictures and fistulas, surgical intervention might be necessary to remove damaged sections of the intestine or address complications. 

Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is important to monitor disease activity, adjust treatment plans, and manage potential side effects of medications. Crohn’s disease management is individualized, with treatment plans tailored to each person’s specific needs and response to therapies. 

An integrated approach involving gastroenterologists, dietitians, mental health professionals, and support groups helps individuals navigate their condition effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

Can Regenerative Medicine Help Crohn’s Disease?

Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, is an emerging field that focuses on harnessing the body’s own regenerative capabilities to treat and repair damaged tissues or organs. Stem cells have the potential to differentiate into various cell types and promote tissue repair.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of adult stem cell that has gained attention for their potential therapeutic applications, including in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s disease. MSCs have the ability to modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair, making them a promising candidate for regenerative medicine approaches. Potential mechanisms by which MSCs may benefit Crohn’s disease include:

Immunomodulation: MSCs have the ability to regulate immune responses, suppressing harmful inflammatory processes and promoting immune tolerance. This can help reduce the excessive immune response seen in Crohn’s disease.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: MSCs secrete molecules that can dampen local inflammation and help create a more favorable environment for tissue healing.

Tissue Repair: MSCs have the potential to differentiate into various cell types, including those involved in tissue repair, thereby aiding in the regeneration of damaged intestinal tissue.

If you’re interested in MSC therapy for Crohn’s disease, discuss your options with a regenerative medicine specialist or healthcare provider who is knowledgeable to see if stem cell therapy is an opportunity for you to explore.