Crohn's Disease: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach

The inflammatory bowel disease affecting any part of the gastrointestinal tract is referred to as Crohn's disease. It is believed to arise due to a combination of several genetic, immune, environmental and bacterial factors. In this condition, the immune system of the body attacks the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's disease can occur in men and women of any age group but typically sets in between 15 and 30 years of age. Affected people may experience Crohn's related symptoms for years before the diagnosis. They may have recurring periods of remission and flare-ups. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, etc. can occur in affected people. Many systemic symptoms such as growth failure in children and weight loss in adults may also be seen. The diagnosis of Crohn's disease is considered challenging and requires a number of tests for a diagnosis to be established. Several medications, lifestyle changes and dietary regimes, activity and exercise seek to control its relapse. This book presents a diagnostic and therapeutic approach to the study of Crohn's disease. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this condition. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.