Crohn's Disease

Overview

Each year, Mayo Clinic physicians treat more than 2,000 people with Crohn's disease. Mayo doctors are internationally known for their expertise in treating this disorder and for comprehensive and supportive patient care. At the Mayo Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinics in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota, Crohn's disease patients work closely with an integrated team that may include specialists in gastroenterology, colorectal surgery, radiology, pathology and nutritional care. Our patients also have access to some of the world's leading experts and researchers on inflammatory bowel disease.

Diagnosis

Treatment is most effective when Crohn's disease is diagnosed as early as possible. Mayo Clinic is a recognized leader in developing and using advanced imaging techniques to evaluate bowel symptoms. These new, noninvasive procedures allow for faster, more thorough and more comfortable examinations of the small intestine than were possible in the past. In many cases, you can be diagnosed and start treatment in just three or four days. Read more about Crohn's disease diagnosis.

Treatment

No one treatment is effective for every person with Crohn's disease. At Mayo Clinic, a team of specialists works to develop a personalized therapeutic plan for each patient. In most cases, the appropriate medications can help relieve symptoms and potentially bring about long-term remission.

Even so, many people with Crohn's disease eventually need surgery to remove inflamed tissue or treat complications. For these patients, Mayo offers one of the largest colorectal surgery programs in the world and a team of surgeons who specialize in laparoscopic and bowel-sparing techniques. Read more about treatment options for Crohn's disease at Mayo Clinic.

Mayo Clinic has been ranked No. 1 in gastrointestinal disorders on U.S. News and World Report's Honor Roll of Top Hospitals since the rankings began 18 years ago.

About Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain and cramping, severe diarrhea, bleeding, and weight loss. Although the disease can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anal area, it mainly affects the small or large intestine, often spreading into the deepest layers of tissue.

Most people with Crohn's disease have bouts of serious illness alternating with periods of remission when symptoms improve or disappear. Although remissions sometimes last for years, the disease tends to recur throughout life.

Read more about Crohn's disease.