Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2015 Nov;8(6):352-9. doi: 10.1177/1756283X15592585.
Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology
Francis Ha, Hanan Khalil
PMID: 26557891 PMCID: PMC4622286 DOI: 10.1177/1756283X15592585
Crohn's disease is increasing in prevalence worldwide. It arises from a complex interplay between both genetic predisposition and environmental influence. A search of databases and clinical practice guidelines was performed to provide the most up-to-date evidence-based approach for diagnosing and managing patients with Crohn's disease. No single gold standard investigation exists. Whilst full ileocolonoscopy with biopsies remains the mainstay for diagnosis, other less invasive imaging modalities are being actively considered in the workup, as well as the use of serological markers. Management should incorporate dietary and lifestyle modifications where necessary, the use of medications in induction and remission of disease, and consideration of surgical intervention where medical therapy has failed.
Keywords: Crohn’s disease; colorectal cancer; diagnosis; inflammatory bowel disease; investigations; management; risk factors