Inflammatory Bowel Disease Case Study
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Case Study
The patient is an 11-year-old girl who has been complaining of intermittent right lower quadrant pain and diarrhea for the past year. She is small for her age. Her physical examination indicates some mild right lower quadrant tenderness and fullness.
Studies
Hemoglobin (Hgb), Hematocrit (Hct), Vitamin B12 level, Meckel scan, D-Xylose absorption,
Lactose tolerance, Small bowel series, Diagnostic Analysis
Results
8.6 g/dL (normal: >12 g/dL)
28% (normal: 31%-43%)
68 pg/mL (normal: 100-700 pg/mL)
No evidence of Meckel diverticulum
60 min: 8 mg/dL (normal: >15-20 mg/dL)
120 min: 6 mg/dL (normal: >20 mg/dL)
No change in glucose level (normal: >20 mg/dL rise in glucose)
Constriction of multiple segments of the small intestine
The child’s small bowel series is compatible with Crohn disease of the small intestine. Intestinal absorption is diminished, as indicated by the abnormal D-xylose and lactose tolerance tests. Absorption is so bad that she cannot absorb vitamin B12. As a result, she has vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. She was placed on an aggressive immunosuppressive regimen, and her condition improved significantly. Unfortunately, 2 years later she experienced unremitting obstructive symptoms and required surgery. One year after surgery, her gastrointestinal function was normal, and her anemia had resolved. Her growth status matched her age group. Her absorption tests were normal, as were her B12 levels. Her immunosuppressive drugs were discontinued, and she is doing well.
Critical Thinking Questions
- Why was this patient placed on immunosuppressive therapy?
- Why was the Meckel scan ordered for this patient?
- What are the clinical differences and treatment options for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’sDisease? (always on boards)
- What is prognosis for patients with IBD and what are the follow up recommendations formanaging disease?
