Crohn's disease: An enigmatic variant with gastritis and ileal obstruction

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageThere are multiple atypical manifestations of Crohn's disease, which sometimes delay diagnosis or even more often result in complete misdiagnosis, especially in poorly equipped facilities. This is the case of an elderly woman with Crohn's disease who presented with gastritis and bowel obstruction. She had hitherto been wrongly managed for peptic ulcer disease and functional constipation based mainly on her symptoms. Her diagnosis was made only after years of failed symptomatic management. This case aims to highlight the uncommon and easily misdiagnosed gastroduodenal presentation of Crohn's disease, as well as clinical clues to correctly diagnosing the condition.