CD is a chronic inflammatory process that causes damage to the wall of the gastrointestinal tract.
CD typically appears between the ages of 15 and 40 years. Also called ileitis or enteritis, the exact cause of CD is unknown, but some consideration has been given to the possibility of a viral, bacterial or immunological etiology. Disease severity and the areas affected influence therapy selection. The goals of medical treatment are to minimize symptoms and complications, induce and maintain remission, improve nutrition and avoid surgical intervention. Some people have long periods of remission, sometimes years, when they are free of symptoms.