Crohn’s Disease: Pathophysiology, and Management

Fatahi, Dima Ammar; Al Asmari, Abdullah Saad; Bukhari, Ghadah Abdulrahman; Alshamrani, Homoud Abdulaziz; Hunaydi, Khalid Abdullah; Sharahili, Ahmad Mufarreh; Alharshan, Tahani Khalid; Alherz, Anhar Ali

doi:10.21608/ejhm.2018.9407

Crohn’s Disease: Pathophysiology, and Management

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Tishreen University

² Taif University

³ Ibn Sina National College

⁴ Primary Health Care Center, Riyadh

⁵ Aseer Central Hospital

⁶ King Faisal University

⁷ King Faisal General Hospital

10.21608/ejhm.2018.9407

Abstract

Background: The incidence of crohn’s disease reaches up to 20 per 100,000 people per year, with a median age of 30 years, and is higher in the developed world. Although the exact cause and pathophysiology is unknown, several environmental and genetic factors have been linked with higher risk or severity of the disease.
Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, genetics of crohn’s disease, diagnosis of IBD, management crohn’s disease
Aim of the study: In this review, we aim to study the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of crohn’s disease. We will pay special attention to the newer biological drugs used in management.
Conclusion: Crohn’s disease is usually managed with medical treatment, although many patients will need to undergo surgery at least once. Treatment usually aims at the induction and maintenance of a remission without the excessive use and dependence of steroids. Achieving higher quality of life is the main goal of any modality of treatment.

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