Isolated Jejunal Crohn's Disease Masquerading as Gastroparesis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Surgical Gastroenterology

Background:

• Isolated jejunal Crohn's disease (IJCD) is a rare small bowel inflammatory condition.
• Diagnosis is challenging, leading to frequent misdiagnosis or delayed identification.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms initially diagnosed as gastroparesis based on a gastric emptying study (GES).
• Standard imaging and endoscopic evaluations were unremarkable, complicating the diagnostic process.

Findings:

• Multiple imaging studies and double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) ultimately led to the diagnosis of IJCD.
• The patient's condition was successfully managed through surgical intervention.

Implications:

• IJCD should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with gastroparesis.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate management, including surgery, are crucial for improving prognosis in IJCD.
• This case highlights the importance of considering rare diagnoses when initial investigations are inconclusive.