Chronic intestinal inflammation causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malabsorption.
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting any portion of gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, characterized by transmural inflammation and segmental involvement.
Crohn's disease results from dysregulated immune response against gut flora in genetically predisposed individuals, involving both innate and adaptive immunity. Transmural inflammation causes ulceration, strictures, fistulas, and abscess formation. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, malaise, and extraintestinal manifestations affecting joints, skin, and eyes. Malabsorption of nutrients including protein, iron, vitamin B12, fat-soluble vitamins, and minerals is common. Nutritional management includes adequate calories and micronutrients, lactose avoidance if malabsorption present, and low fiber during active disease. Anti-inflammatory agents and immunosuppressive medications form medical therapy foundation.
Represents chronic intestinal inflammation requiring careful nutritional management to maintain nutritional status and reduce symptom burden.
During remission, consume adequate protein and calories with emphasis on nutrient-dense foods and consider supplementation of vitamin B12, iron, and fat-soluble vitamins. During active disease, consider low-residue diet and elemental nutrition to reduce luminal content. Work with gastroenterologist and dietitian for individualized management.
Crohn's disease requires individualized nutritional strategy with adequate micronutrient supplementation and modification based on disease activity to maintain nutritional status.
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