WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CROHN'S DISEASE AND ULCERATIVE COLITIS?

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CROHN'S DISEASE AND ULCERATIVE COLITIS?

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC) are the two main diseases that are known as IBD or Inflammatory Bowel Disease. While they often respond to the same or similar diets and medications, there are important differences, particularly in the complications that can arise, surgery that might be performed and their long-term needs. 


Crohn's DiseaseUlcerative Colitis
Fistula OccursDoes not occur
Stricture  Can lead to blockage Rare
Arthritis20 %11 %
Skin Problems8-15 %3-10 %
Liver disease  1 %   3 %
Smoking Makes much worseLess effect
SurgeryMay mean more surgery laterRemoves disease*
CancerOccurs Common when uncontro lled**
In childrenMore severe diseaseMore extensive disease***
In childrenGrowth issues are increasedGrowth issues occur

*     After surgery, some patients thought to have UC, are found to have had Crohn's disease

**   With newer therapies, cancer risk from the disease seems to be less 

*** More of the large intestine is involved compared to adults

Fortunately, the symptoms, location and certain patterns of the disease help doctors tell the difference.


Crohn's DiseaseUlcerative Colitis
Abdominal Pain ++++++
Diarrhea+++++
Rectal Bleeding++++
Perianal Disease   ++–
Weight loss++++
LocationEntire GI tractMainly limited to colon
Disease characterPatchy, can have deep ulcersMore on the surface layers 

This article, as well as all others, was reviewed and edited by a member of our Medical Advisory Board.

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