could this be crohns ?

Hi, I am a 22 year old female. I have had abdominal pain in the right lower side for several months now and still no answer. I also have frequent diarrhea with what looks like grease or fat in it. I have a little blood in the stools sometimes, but not everytime. I have a lump in my right lower abdomen too. My parents can even feel it. My symptoms are worse with my period but that is not the only time I have pain. I also seem to be running low-grade fevers, in th 99 degree range. Recent blood work showed elevated WBC and platelet count. I am on the birth control pill for my periods. I have seen several doctors and still have no answer. I am not sure if it is GYN or a gastrointestinal issue. Do you think this could be crohn's disease or some other GI disease ?

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
You have features of fat malabsorption.
Crohn's disease is just one of the causes of malabsorption.
Since you have a palpable lump also, a CT scan of the abdomen may be done.
Based on the location of the lump further tests like colonoscopy/ enteroscopy may have to be done for further evaluation.

[canady2009]

Thanks for replying .  I do think that it is a GI problem. After discussing the issue with my parents, I have made an appointment with a gastroenterolgist. The appt. is a couple weeks from now. I am sure the Dr. will do all the tests. Thanks for the advice.