Second Opinion

[CavsFan]

I was diagnosed with mild Crohn's (not confirmed from biopsy) for inflammation in my terminal ileum. I also had other tests (MR Enterography, Upper Endoscopy, blood work) that did not show anything. I went to get a second opinion because I felt that my gastro and I were not on the same page and he was not very understanding of some of my concerns.

With the second opinion, I received the Prometheus test which came back NOT consistent with IBD. After looking at all of my results, the new Gastro said he thought it was really 50-50 on whether or not I have Crohn's so he wanted to do another colonoscopy to see.

I am a little hesitant on getting a second colonoscopy in 10 months. I am fine with the prep, but have been trying to build up my good gut bacteria and eat better and figure that a colonoscopy prep will probably erase all of the positive things that I have been trying to do.

Also, I was curious that since my large intestines were fine in February during my last colonoscopy, I believe all they can see is the beginning part of my small intestines which is where the inflammation was seen. Are there other tests that would be better suited to check all of my small intestines to see the extent of the inflammation rather than a colonoscopy? The MR Enterography didn't show anything apparently so I think things looked good on that when I had it done in March.

 

[Clash]

The MRE or pill cam would show the small bowel. But if the colonoscopy was able to reach through the IC valve into the terminal ileum and see inflammation the first time then a colonoscopy should be able to do so again plus you would get the benefit of biopsies.

My son has a colonoscopy averaging about every six months for the last 2.5 years. For him, the benefit outweighs any disruption in gut flora since he is already diagnosed and not in remission. I guess the benefit for you would be possibly getting anew answer to whether you are dealing with IBD.

 

[my little penguin]

First you need to understand the Prometheus test is not helpful
IT can't be used to determine whether or not you have ibd
It was designed only to "help" determine whether indeterminate colitis was Crohns or ulcerative colitis nothing else

Scope is the gold standard for evaluating the terminal ileum
Good luck

 

[ronroush7]

Just curious. You said you were trying to build up the good gut bacteria. Are you on probiotics? That might help.