How can you treat chronically active Crohn’s disease?

Published January 17th, 2012 | Last updated January 17th, 2012

Consultant Gastroenterologist, Dr Purushothaman answers the following question from a totalhealth visitor:

“I have had Crohn’s diseaseA chronic inflammatory disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract. for 20 years now, moderately controlled by Remicade and 6-MP and am interested in novel approaches. In the past I have tried low dose naltrexone and helminth therapy. These treatments have shown a good response but have almost returned to a baseline level in symptoms. I am interested in the GMA approach and would like to know if this would be practical for me. Thanks!”

How can you treat chronically active Crohn’s disease?

I am sorry to hear about your chronically active Crohn’s disease. We see this in a selected group of patients where surgery is the only solution. White cellThe basic unit of all living organisms. apheresis treatment seems to be effective in chronic refractory colitisInflammation of the colon, also sometimes used to mean inflammation of the large intestine generally., either ulcerative or Crohn’s colitis. My data here at our unit is giving us close to 70% success in this difficult group of patients although we have mainly ulcerative colitisA form of inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation and ulceration of the colon. patients. The data from the Karolinska unit in Stockholm, Sweden however, suggest effectiveness in both groups.

The only way you can have this treatment is to come to our unit or go to Sweden to receive this treatment. One suggestion to come to the unit for five weeks and receive eight sessions of treatment. If the treatment is successful it is likely that you will remain in remissionThe lessening or disappearance of the symptoms or signs of a disease. for about a year or two before your next relapseA return or worsening of the symptoms of a disease after a period of remission.. We can also think about offering you maintenance treatment by way of few yearly sessions.

Each session will cost in the region of £1950.

I wish you the best and hope that your Crohn’s gets better with the current treatment so that you can enjoy your life without considering treatment overseas. However please do not hesitate to contact me should you need any further information.

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