Chron's Disease

I have been having stomach problems for several years now.  It started with upper right side pain, which resulted in my gall bladder being taken out.  After that, I started having frequent loose stools, which my doctor said was probably bile salts diaherra (diarrhea).  It can be controlled for the most part with imodium (immodium) or questran.  However, I recently had a colonoscopy and several blood tests run.  The colonoscopy showed mild inflammation, but was otherwise normal.  All my CRP, SED, blood cell and vitamin levels were within range.  However, the doctor said my ASCA level was 35 and normal is 25.  Does this mean I have Chron's disease?  My only symptom right now is 1-3 loose stools per day and occasional stomach discomfort after eating.  I feel fine otherwise.  

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The ASCA levels may be suggestive of Crohn's disease, but it is not 100% diagnostic.  

Further tests should be done, including a small bowel series - which can indicate inflammation in the small bowel that may have been missed by the colonoscopy.

Obtaining biopsies during the colonoscopy can also help with the diagnosis.

The anti-OmpC antibody as well as the pANCA are other tests that you may want to consider if the diagnosis is in question.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com