PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which gastrointestinal symptom is classically associated with Chron's disease?

1. Constipation

2. Diarrhea

3. Bloody stools

4. Heartburn

The correct answer is: Diarrhea

Diarrhea is classically associated with Crohn's disease due to the inflammatory nature of the condition, which commonly affects the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's disease can lead to intestinal inflammation, ulceration, and disruption of the normal absorptive functions of the intestines. This inflammatory process often results in excessive fluid secretion and impaired absorption, which manifests as chronic diarrhea. In Crohn's disease, diarrhea may be associated with other factors such as malabsorption of nutrients and bile salts. Patients may also experience the urgency to defecate and potentially fecal incontinence due to inflammation in the affected bowel segments. The presence of diarrhea in Crohn's disease is a key symptom that typically prompts further investigation and diagnosis. Other gastrointestinal symptoms associated with Crohn's can include abdominal pain, weight loss, and sometimes fever. However, diarrhea remains a predominant and classic symptom that distinguishes Crohn's disease from other gastrointestinal conditions.