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Updated: May 1, 2026

Evaluating Therapeutic Interventions in the SHIP-deficient Mouse Model of Crohn Disease-like Ileitis and Fibrosis
Published on: October 14, 2025
Terminal ileitis is not always Crohn's disease
Daniela Bojic1, Srdjan Markovic2
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zvezdara University Clinical Center and Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia (Daniela Bojic).
Diagnosing Crohn's disease (CD) in the terminal ileum (TI) requires careful evaluation, as other conditions can mimic its symptoms. Differentiating these diseases is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate patient treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Chronic inflammation in the terminal ileum (TI) is a key indicator for suspected Crohn's disease (CD).
- Accurate diagnosis of CD requires comprehensive clinical, laboratory, endoscopic, and histopathological assessments.
- The TI is the most common site affected by Crohn's disease.
Approach:
- This article reviews differential diagnoses for terminal ileitis.
- It highlights conditions that can mimic Crohn's disease terminal ileitis, including NSAID enteropathy, lymphoid hyperplasia, infections, lymphoma, and ulcerative colitis (UC).
- The authors emphasize factors clinicians must consider when evaluating patients with terminal ileitis.
Key Points:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) intake can cause terminal ileitis.
- Infectious and neoplastic conditions may present similarly to Crohn's disease in the TI.
- Accurate differentiation is essential for effective management.
Conclusions:
- Misdiagnosing Crohn's disease can lead to ineffective treatments and unnecessary surgeries.
- Prompt and accurate diagnosis of terminal ileitis ensures patients receive appropriate and timely medical care.
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