CROHN’S DISEASE: A REVIEW OF DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT INCLUDING CURRENT STATUS

Abstract

The prevalence of Crohnʼs disease (CD) has been increasing in Japan. If clinicians suspect a case of CD based on clinical symptoms and inflammatory findings on biochemical examination, the final diagnosis is confirmed by various morphological and histopathological findings. Although the process of diagnosis has not changed significantly, it has varied owing to the development of new diagnostic tools such as capsule endoscopy and balloon-assisted small bowel endoscopy. The common treatment options mainly include nutritional therapy and drug therapy. However, in recent years, the number of drug therapy options has increased with the addition of biologics and molecular targeted drugs. Shared decision making with patients is necessary to select effective and satisfactory treatment options. In addition, the current treatment of CD requires tight monitoring or “Treat to Target.”