Post Accutane Side Effects Years Later

by admin on April 7th, 2011

Post Accutane side effects years later involving Crohn’s disease is one of two types of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that have been reported by former Accutane users. Prior to the launch of Accutane in 1982, the traditional approach to treating severe cases of acne was through tetracyclines and similar antibiotics. When Accutane debuted, it proved to be more effective. Since then, millions of people have used the prescription medication, both for severe and mild cases of acne. Unfortunately, many of these patients have suffered serious bowel problems, often several years after they stopped using the drug.

We’ll provide an introduction to this form of IBD below. We’ll define the condition, and describe its presentation. You’ll learn about common symptoms, potential complications, and some of the challenges involved with treating Accutane Crohn’s disease side effects over the long run.

Inflammation Of The Digestive Tract

Crohn’s disease is defined as chronic inflammation that develops in the tissue anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract. While it usually occurs in the last portion of the small intestine (i.e. ileum), it can do so at any point along the tract, from mouth to anus.

This form of IBD is categorized according to the organs it affects. There are five types: ileitis, ileocolitis, gastroduodenal Crohn’s disease, Crohn’s colitis, and jejunoileitis. Ileitis is inflammation of the ileum; ileocolitis affects both the ileum and large intestine; gastroduodenal CD defines inflamed tissue in the duodenum and stomach; Crohn’s colitis affects the colon; and lastly, jejunoileitis is inflammation of the top section of the small intestine.

When inflammation develops, it often breaches several layers of tissue. This can lead to one or more life-threatening complications (described below).

Signs And Symptoms Of Accutane Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s is usually accompanied by cramping and pain in the abdomen, typically in the lower right side. Rectal bleeding, bloody stools, and chronic diarrhea are also typical of the condition. Many patients suffer from intestinal ulcers that develop along the inner lining of the GI tract. Ulcers may also form inside the mouth. Because of these symptoms, patients often lose their appetite, causing weight loss.

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other signs normally dissipate and recur during flare-ups. The flare-ups may be mild or severe, in which case the patient may also suffer from fever, chills, and even dehydration. If they recur frequently, the patient may become malnourished since the intestines are unable to absorb sufficient nutrients.

Possible Complications Of The Disease

One of the most dangerous outcomes of Accutane Crohn’s disease is an obstruction in the bowel. As noted earlier, inflammation can penetrate several layers of tissue. This causes swelling and scarring within the intestinal tract. Over time, sections of the tract may become narrowed due to thickened tissue, a circumstance that may prevent material from moving freely toward the rectum. This can lead to tissue death and infection within the bowel.

Fistulas are also possible. These are shared channels that open between the GI tract and other organs. For instance, a tunnel may open between the rectum and vagina, allowing material to flow between them.

Crohn’s disease can also cause complications outside the digestive system. These include arthritis, diseases of the eyes (e.g. episcleritis, uveitis, etc.), and even bone loss. In some cases, gallstones can form in the gallbladder.

How Accutane Crohn’s Disease Is Treated

This type of inflammatory bowel disease is usually treated with medications. These include anti-inflammatory agents, immune system suppressors, and antibiotics. Laxatives and antidiarrheals are also given. Nearly 70 percent of patients with Crohn’s disease eventually undergo surgery to remove an affected portion of the gastrointestinal tract. This is not a curative approach since the disease can recur elsewhere in the digestive system. However, it can provide temporary relief that often lasts for years.

Accutane side effects years later caused by Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that lasts the patient’s lifetime. It’s important to keep in mind that certain complications, such as bowel obstructions, can be fatal if they are left untreated. If you have suffered from chronic abdominal pain, intestinal fistulas, or other serious Accutane inflammatory bowel disease side effects, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. Contact an Accutane lawsuit lawyer to discuss your options.