Difference 4: Complications – The Aftermath of Inflammation
Complications arising from UC and CD are another area where we can see pronounced differences. This is primarily due to their differing anatomical locations and the depth of inflammation, as discussed earlier.
UC, being a disease limited to the colon, can lead to complications such as toxic megacolon, a severe condition where the colon dilates dramatically due to severe inflammation, potentially leading to a rupture. Prolonged inflammation in UC also increases the risk of colorectal cancer, especially in patients with extensive colonic involvement and a longer duration of the disease.
In contrast, CD, with its transmural nature and ability to affect any part of the digestive tract, can lead to a variety of complications. One of the significant complications of CD is the formation of fistulas, which are abnormal connections between the bowel and other organs, such as the bladder or skin, or between different parts of the bowel. Another unique complication of CD is the formation of strictures, which are areas of narrowing in the bowel due to chronic inflammation and scarring. Strictures can lead to bowel obstruction, a serious condition that often requires surgical intervention.
These complications not only affect the patient’s quality of life but also influence the management strategies for these diseases. (4)
