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Genetic Testing for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's Disease is a chronic infection that may cause mild to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and intestinal inflammation. While there is still no clear cause for Crohn's, research has suggested a link between the disease and certain genetic mutations.

  1. Genes

    • Researchers have discovered that mutations in the CARD15, also called NOD2, gene can put someone at a higher risk of developing the disease. There are also seven other genes that may be linked to Crohn's.

    High-Risks Groups

    • Crohn's disease has been shown to be more prevalent in those of European or Jewish heritage. Having a relative with Crohn's disease puts you at a 20 percent higher risk for the disease.

    Testing and Prevention

    • If found through testing to be a carrier of Crohn's-related genetic mutations, certain preventative measures can be taken in order to delay the onset of the disease.

    Research

    • Founder of the association between CARD15 and Crohn's, Dr. Judy H. Cho advises that genetic testing be used only for research purposes, as it is not an adequate predictive tool.

    Treatment

    • As researchers discover which genes may be linked to Crohn's, and what functions those genes govern, they are able to target those functions through treatment.

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