CROHNS-DISEASE IN CHILDREN

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that may affect an y part of the gastrointestinal system and multiple extraintestinal org ans. Although its exact pathogenesis remains unknown, increasing evide nce suggests an abnormality in the control of ''physiologic'' inflamma tion caused by bacterial and other antigens. Diagnosis starts with a c areful history and physical examination, and confirmation rests with r adiologic and histologic studies. Newer treatments are more specifical ly targeting the cascade of cytokine-mediated events that perpetuate i nflammation.