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Review
. 2009 Jul;132(1):1-9.
doi: 10.1016/j.clim.2009.02.006. Epub 2009 Mar 24.

Advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD

Nicholas A Braus  1 , David E Elliott
Affiliations
Review

Advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD

Nicholas A Braus et al. Clin Immunol. 2009 Jul.

Abstract

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic remitting and relapsing inflammatory bowel diseases. We present a typical case of Crohn's disease in a young woman and discuss potential treatment options. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis likely result from interaction of multiple genetic and environmental risk and protective factors. Both are diseases ultimately caused by immune dysregulation. Medical therapy is with mesalamine compounds, corticosteroids, immunomodulators and/or biologics that target TNFalpha signaling or alpha4-integrin-mediated trafficking. Investigational agents include those targeted against other cytokines and costimulatory molecules or designed to promote immune regulation such as exposure to helminths which is a focus of this review.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Colonoscopic view of the transverse colon in health (Normal) and disease (Crohn’s)
The normal colon shows regular haustra and a transparent intact mucosa. The colon from the patient with Crohn’s disease shows numerous deep ulcerations and areas of more normal appearing mucosa.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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