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Disturbed autonomic nerve function in patients with Crohn's disease
1Dept. of Medicine, University of Lund, Malmö General Hospital, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Nearly half of Crohn's disease patients exhibit autonomic neuropathy, a condition affecting nerve function. This autonomic nerve dysfunction may explain frequent bowel function disturbances in Crohn's disease.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
- Autonomic nerve dysfunction is a common complication in various chronic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate autonomic and peripheral nerve function in patients with Crohn's disease.
- To determine the prevalence and potential correlates of autonomic neuropathy in Crohn's disease.
Main Methods:
- Autonomic nerve function assessed using heart rate variability tests (E/I ratio, acceleration and brake indices).
- Peripheral nerve function evaluated through neurography and sensory threshold measurements.
- 33 patients with Crohn's disease underwent comprehensive nerve function testing.
Main Results:
- 48% (16/33) of Crohn's disease patients displayed signs of autonomic neuropathy.
- Peripheral nerve function remained normal in all tested patients.
- Autonomic neuropathy occurrence was not linked to disease duration, severity, inflammation, or malabsorption.
Conclusions:
- Autonomic nerve dysfunction is a significant feature in Crohn's disease patients.
- Autonomic neuropathy may contribute to the gastrointestinal motility disturbances common in Crohn's disease.
- Further research is warranted to explore the clinical implications of autonomic dysfunction in Crohn's disease.