Skip lesion

Skip lesions are a characteristic feature of Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They are areas of inflamed tissue separated by areas of healthy tissue. The term "skip" refers to the fact that the inflammation is not continuous along the length of the intestine, but rather "skips" from one area to another.

Definition

A skip lesion is a term used in gastroenterology to describe the patchy distribution of disease processes in the gastrointestinal tract. It is most commonly associated with Crohn's disease, but can also be seen in other conditions such as tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.

Pathophysiology

In Crohn's disease, skip lesions occur due to the transmural nature of the inflammation, which can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation can penetrate through all layers of the bowel wall, leading to the formation of fistulas, abscesses, and strictures. The areas of inflammation are often separated by segments of normal, unaffected bowel, hence the term "skip lesions".

Clinical significance

The presence of skip lesions can help differentiate Crohn's disease from ulcerative colitis, another type of IBD. In ulcerative colitis, the inflammation is continuous and starts from the rectum, whereas in Crohn's disease, the inflammation can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract and is often discontinuous.

Diagnosis

Skip lesions can be identified through various diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and computed tomography enterography. During a colonoscopy, the doctor can directly visualize the inside of the colon and identify areas of inflammation and healthy tissue. Capsule endoscopy and computed tomography enterography can provide images of the entire gastrointestinal tract, allowing for the identification of skip lesions in the small intestine.

Treatment

The treatment of skip lesions involves managing the underlying condition causing them. In the case of Crohn's disease, this may involve medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery.

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