A 42-year-old male is admitted to the hospital with chronic inflammation of the intestinal walls resulting in diarrhea, constipation, and melena. Which of the following conditions does the patient have? A. Malabsorption syndrome
B. Intussusception
C. Crohn's disease
D. Volvulus
Look up each one on Google, and let us know what you think.
To determine the correct answer, we will go through each option and explain how to identify the correct condition.
A. Malabsorption syndrome: Malabsorption syndrome refers to a group of disorders that impair the body's ability to absorb nutrients. While diarrhea can be a symptom of malabsorption syndrome, constipation and melena (black, tarry stools) are less commonly associated with it. Therefore, this is an unlikely answer.
B. Intussusception: Intussusception occurs when one part of the intestine slides inside another part, causing a blockage. Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody stools. Diarrhea, constipation, and chronic inflammation of the intestinal walls are not typical characteristics of intussusception. Hence, this is an unlikely answer.
C. Crohn's disease: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and in some cases, rectal bleeding. The chronic inflammation of the intestinal walls, along with the presence of both diarrhea and constipation, suggests Crohn's disease. Therefore, this is a possible answer.
D. Volvulus: Volvulus refers to the twisting of the intestine, causing a blockage in the blood supply. Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation. While constipation is a symptom of volvulus, diarrhea and chronic inflammation of the intestinal walls are not typically associated with it. Therefore, this is an unlikely answer.
Based on the information given, the most appropriate answer is C. Crohn's disease. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.