Crohn's disease is a chronic, inflammatory disease that can affect every part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the end of the large intestine. It is estimated that one out of every 800 children in the United States has Crohn's disease, and that number is on the rise. This inflammatory bowel disease often first strikes children between the ages of 12 and 16.
"Symptoms of Crohn's disease include decreased appetite, crampy abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever from unknown reason, and anemia. Sometimes only impaired growth or weight loss are the only symptoms," says Karoly Horvath, M.D., pediatric gastroenterologist at the University of Maryland Hospital for Children (UMHC) and professor of pediatrics at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
"There is a genetic link to Crohn's. It tends to run in families," adds Dr. Horvath. But right now, the cause is unclear. However, one theory is that the disease is caused when the immune system reacts to the lining of the intestine.
It's also unclear why an increased number of children are developing Crohn's. But Dr. Horvath says it may be connected to the lifestyle we live and the food we eat, including processed and fast foods. The disease occurs less frequently in developing countries.
Diagnosing Crohn's disease involves a complete medical evaluation. It may also include blood tests, X-rays and even a colonoscopy, which is a test in which a long, thin flexible tube is inserted into the colon to allow doctors to look for inflammation.
There is no cure for Crohn's, but steroids, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can help control it. A patient may have to avoid certain foods or take nutritional supplements. In some cases, surgery is necessary.
Crohn's disease will often go into remission, but many patients experience flare-ups, which can sometimes require hospital treatment. Otherwise, patients with Crohn's disease lead normal and active lives.
To reach Dr. Horvath or any of the other physicians at the UMHC, call 1-800-492-5538.
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