Via practica 3/2009

Crohn´s disease

Crohn´s disease is a life long disease arising from an interaction between genetic and environmental factors, observed predominantly in the developed countries of the world. The precise aetiology is unknown and therefore medical therapy to cure the disease is not yet available. The diagnosis of CD is made on the basis of careful medical history, clinical picture, endoscopic, radiological and laboratory findings. Although a great part of the patients can be treated with aminosalicylates, many patients eventually require corticosteroids and immunosupresives. More than 30% patients are resistant or dependent on corticosteroids and immunosupresives have a slow onset. One such possible therapy for these patients is the biological approach of therapy, nowadays with anti TNF alfa monoclonal antibody.

Keywords: Crohn´s disease, aetiology, course, treatment, biological therapy.