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Cutaneous Crohn's disease in children
T Ploysangam1, J E Heubi, D Eisen
1Department of Dermatology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, OH, USA.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Cutaneous Crohn's disease is rare in children, often presenting before gastrointestinal symptoms. Genital involvement is common in pediatric cases, frequently preceding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Dermatology
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Background:
- Cutaneous Crohn's disease (CCD) is infrequently observed in pediatric populations.
- This study addresses the rarity of CCD in children, contrasting it with adult prevalence.
Observation:
- Five pediatric cases of CCD were identified, with onset between 6-12 years.
- Manifestations included genital swelling and buttock abscesses.
- Most cases were diagnosed with skin lesions before gastrointestinal Crohn's disease was identified.
Findings:
- The study reviewed 80 CCD cases, with only 14 in children.
- Pediatric CCD cases showed a higher rate of genital involvement (two-thirds) compared to adults (half).
- A significant proportion of CCD cases (16/80) occurred without prior gastrointestinal diagnosis, predominantly with genital lesions (70%).
Implications:
- Pediatric CCD, though rare, can be an early indicator of Crohn's disease.
- Recognition of cutaneous signs is crucial for timely diagnosis in children.
- Genital manifestations are a key feature in pediatric CCD, often preceding GI diagnosis.