Chronic Complications

• Anaemia- may be the result of chronic blood loss,
  failure to absorb iron and folic acid which are impor­tant in the production of red blood cells.
• Malnutrition- Loss of protein, low energy levels, tis­sue breakdown, failure to absorb nutrients resulting in weight loss.
• Growth Retardation- About a 1/3 with Crohn's fail to fully develop.

Is there any treatment?
The cause of Crohn's is not yet known, however, the goals of treatment are to reduce inflammation of the bowel, enable healing and relieve the symptoms of diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain.

Patients with obstructions are usually hospitalized and given intravenous fluids & salts. When found, abscesses should be drained through surgery and given a course of antibiotics to reduce future risk of infection. Those with free perforation need emergency surgery where the leak is sealed and the cavity cleansed to stop infection. Surgery may be required when dealing with a hemorrhage as well as blood transfusions and special measures to promote clotting.

To combat cases of anaemia GPs may prescribe sup­plements and an iron-rich diet. Supplements are also given to malnourished patients including vitamins
A.D,E, and K. For children who have not reached their growth spurt, and where dietary modifications have not been successful, the affected section of the bowel may be removed to provide hope.

What research is being done?
Research into drugs to combat Crohn's is ongoing.

• Anti-TNF- cells affected by Crohn's contain cytokine (a protein produced by the immune system) called Tumour Necrosis Factor which is responsible for inflammation. Anti-TNF drugs in­hibit the protein and break it down, removing it from the bloodstream. They have also been helpful in closing fistulas (see opposite).
• Immunosuppressive drugs (drugs re­ducing the response of the immune system have also proven helpful as they appear to fight the effects faster, with fewer side effects.
• Research is also being conducted to prove that a zinc rich diet is ideal for inflammation.

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