HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at London or Virtually from your home or work.
Paediatric Crohn's disease, a chronic and debilitating inflammatory bowel disorder, manifests in children and adolescents, presenting a complex and multifaceted clinical picture. This condition, classified under the umbrella of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation, ulceration, and the potential development of strictures. The etiology of Paediatric Crohn's disease remains elusive, with a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors contributing to its onset. Clinically, patients may experience a diverse range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies, thereby impacting growth and development. The diagnosis of Paediatric Crohn's disease involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes clinical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic procedures. Treatment strategies aim to induce and maintain remission, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Therapeutic interventions often include a combination of medications such as corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologics, tailored to the individual patient's needs. Despite medical advancements, Paediatric Crohn's disease poses significant challenges, with potential complications such as bowel strictures, fistulas, and nutritional deficiencies requiring surgical intervention in some cases. The management of Paediatric Crohn's disease extends beyond medical interventions, encompassing nutritional support, psychological care, and a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals. The chronic nature of the disease underscores the importance of long-term monitoring and follow-up to address evolving clinical needs and optimize outcomes for affected children and adolescents. In the realm of research, ongoing investigations into the genetic and environmental determinants, as well as innovative therapeutic modalities, hold promise for advancing our understanding and management of this complex condition in the Paediatric population.
