Crohn's disease

noun

ˈkrōnz- 

variants or less commonly Crohn disease

ˈkrōn- 

or Crohn's

: chronic inflammation that typically involves the lower portion of the ileum, often spreads to the colon, and is characterized by diarrhea, cramping, loss of appetite and weight, and the development of abscesses and scarring see inflammatory bowel disease

Examples of Crohn's disease in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Taking antibiotics An infection of the GI tract Smoking How does Crohn's disease affect you? —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024

Alzheimer's: Scientists Analyze Body Fluid to Find New Drugs for Disease Why Astronauts Age Faster in Space One study highlighted by the project revealed a rare gut cell type involved in inflammation, offering clues for addressing conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 20 Nov. 2024

Despite their diets, research indicates that calcium levels are generally lower in people with Crohn's disease than in those who do not have the disease.6 Calcium is absorbed in the small intestine, where Crohn's disease typically attacks. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 6 Nov. 2024

Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or other gastrointestinal conditions can impair your body's ability to absorb iron—even if dietary intake is sufficient. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Burrill B. Crohn †1983 American physician

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

Crohn's disease

noun

ˈkrōnz-

variants also Crohn disease

ˈkrōn- 

or Crohn's

: chronic ileitis that typically involves the distal portion of the ileum, often spreads to the colon, and is characterized by diarrhea, cramping, and loss of appetite and weight with local abscesses and scarring

called also regional enteritis, regional ileitis