J Korean Med Assoc.  2017 Jun;60(6):484-490. 10.5124/jkma.2017.60.6.484.

Diagnosis and treatment of Crohn's disease

• Kim HS

• KMID: 2384394
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2017.60.6.484

Abstract

Crohn's disease is a chronic and relapsing disease that is not easily controlled with medications. It is characterized by progressive transmural inflammation, and ultimately leads to stricture and penetrating complications requiring surgery. Over the past decades, the prevalence of Crohn's disease has gradually increased in Korea. Conventional treatments with aminosalicylates, steroids, and immunosuppressants are inadequate to control its symptoms and complications. Biologic therapy shows promise for controlling disease activity and promoting mucosal healing. Despite the development of several medical therapies, the treatment of Crohn's disease remains challenging. Individually tailored treatment according to an endoscopic or symptomatic assessment is required.

Keyword

Crohn disease; Diagnosis; Therapeutics

MeSH Terms

Biological Therapy
Constriction, Pathologic
Crohn Disease*
Diagnosis*
Immunosuppressive Agents
Inflammation
Korea
Prevalence
Steroids
Immunosuppressive Agents
Steroids

Figure

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  Figure 1 Colonoscoic findings in Crohn disease. (A) Deep longitudinal ulcer and (B) cobble stone appearance.

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