Crohn's disease Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the small and large intestines, but can also involve other parts of the digestive system. In mild forms, small erosions called apthous ulcers form in the inner surface of the bowel. In more serious cases, deeper and larger ulcers can develop, causing scarring and stiffness and possibly narrowing of the bowel or obstruction.
Deep ulcers can puncture holes in the bowel wall, which can lead to infection.
The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and weight loss. For more serious cases, drugs that suppress the immune system are used or even surgery.