A healthcare professional will likely diagnose Crohn's disease only after ruling out other possible causes for symptoms. There is no single test to diagnose Crohn's disease. Blood tests.
Blood tests can check for signs of infection or anemia β a condition in which there aren't enough red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to the tissues. These tests also may be used to check for levels of inflammation, liver function or the presence of inactive infections, such as tuberculosis. Blood also may be screened for the presence of immunity against infections. CT scan. A CT scan is a special X-ray technique that provides more detail than a standard X-ray does.
This test looks at the entire bowel as well as at tissues outside the bowel. CT enterography is a special CT scan that involves drinking an oral contrast material and getting intravenous contrast images of the intestines. This test provides better images of the small bowel and has replaced barium X-rays in many medical centers.
An MRI scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues. MRI used with a contrast fluid, called MR enterography, is particularly useful for evaluating a fistula around the anal area or the small intestine. Sometimes MR enterography can be performed to check for disease status or progression. This test may be used instead of CT enterography to reduce the risk of radiation, especially in younger people.
Capsule endoscopy. This test involves swallowing a capsule with a camera in it. The camera takes pictures of the small intestine and sends them to a recorder worn on a belt. The images are then downloaded to a computer, displayed on a monitor and checked for signs of Crohn's disease.
