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Crohn's Disease
According to the National Institute of Health, Crohn's disease causes inflammation of the digestive system. It is one of a group of diseases called inflammatory bowel disease. The disease can affect any area from the mouth to the anus. It often affects the lower part of the small intestine called the ileum.
Crohn's disease seems to run in some families. It can occur in people of all age groups but is most often diagnosed in young adults.
There are five different types of Crohn's disease:
- Ileocolitis is the most common form. It affects the lowest part of the small intestine (ileum) and the large intestine (colon)
- Ileitis affects the ileum
- Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease causes inflammation in the stomach and first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.
- Jejunoileitis causes spotty patches of inflammation in the top half of the small intestine (jejunum)
- Crohn's (granulomatous) colitis only affects the large intestine
Common symptoms are pain in the abdomen and diarrhea. Bleeding from the rectum, weight loss, joint pain, skin problems and fever may also occur. Children with the disease may have growth problems. Other problems can include intestinal blockage and malnutrition.
Treatment may include medicines, nutrition supplements, surgery or a combination of these options. Some people have long periods of remission, when they are free of symptoms.
For more on crohn's disease and its possible association with accutane, click here.
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