Clinical review of Crohn's disease.
OBJECTIVE
This clinical review presents proposed theories regarding the etiology of Crohn's disease (CD), the pathophysiology of the disorder, and current diagnostic methods.


METHODS
Pertinent publications in the literature, the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation web page, and relevant texts regarding pathophysiology of the gastrointestinal system.


CONCLUSIONS
CD can be a devastating disease and difficult to diagnose. The advanced practice nurse (APRN) should be aware of the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic methods, and current treatment options of this disorder.


CONCLUSIONS
In collaboration with a gastroenterologist, APRNs can provide much needed information to the patient with CD. Practice recommendations include patient education, pain management, and support for quality of life issues.
Ruthruff
Brenda
B
General Surgery/Wound Care Department, Kaiser Permanente, Atlanta, Georgia 30328, USA. brenda.ruthruff@kp.org
D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000209:etiology; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001706:Biopsy; D015984:Causality; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003424:Crohn Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000209:etiology; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal; D005762:Gastroenterology; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015994:Incidence; D007249:Inflammation; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024802:Nurse's Role / Q000523:psychology; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012944:Social Support; D015431:Weight Loss
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents