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Granuloma In Intestine
Discover how intestinal granulomas—clusters of immune cells triggered by inflammation or infection—are identified and treated by Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston. Learn about causes, symptoms, diagnostics, and personalized therapies to manage your condition effectively and regain digestive health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Crohn's disease
Infections such as tuberculosis or Yersinia
Sarcoidosis
Reactions to certain medications
Family history of bowel or immune-mediated disease
Underlying immune system disorders
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Ongoing abdominal pain or cramps
Persistent diarrhea
Blood in the stool
Unexplained weight loss
Low energy or fever
Loss of appetite
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Epigastric Pain from an Intestinal Granuloma?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—epigastric pain, cramps, weight changes—and checks for family history of bowel disease or immune disorders.
Blood Tests
We draw blood to assess complete blood count, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and to rule out systemic infections.
Stool and Microbial Studies
Stool cultures and PCR to detect bacteria like Yersinia or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Fecal calprotectin or lactoferrin to gauge intestinal inflammation.
Endoscopic Evaluation
A colonoscopy (and, when indicated, upper endoscopy) lets Dr. Nguyen visualize the bowel lining, identify suspicious lesions, and obtain biopsy samples for granuloma confirmation.
Imaging Studies
CT enterography: maps areas of inflammation, strictures or abscesses.
MRI enterography: provides detailed soft-tissue contrast without radiation exposure.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for intestinal granulomas.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Anti-inflammatory meal plans featuring lean proteins and soft vegetables
Low-fiber food recommendations during active flares
Hydration guidance to support gut health
Stress-relief strategies such as walking, deep breathing, and mindfulness
2. Medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs to calm bowel inflammation
Short-term corticosteroids for flare control
Immune-modifying agents for long-term disease management
Biologic therapies targeting specific immune pathways
Antibiotics when underlying infections are identified
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic balloon dilation to widen narrowed intestinal segments
Advanced scope-based treatments with minimal recovery time
Surgical resection of diseased areas in severe cases, using the least invasive approach
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes intestinal granulomas?
They form when the immune system reacts to Crohn's disease, infections such as tuberculosis or Yersinia, sarcoidosis, or other triggers like certain medications.
How are intestinal granulomas found?
A colonoscopy with biopsy is the primary diagnostic test. Blood and stool analyses plus imaging studies (CT or MRI) may also be used to confirm the cause and extent.
Can diet help manage granulomas?
Yes. An anti-inflammatory diet, adequate hydration, and small, low-fiber meals during flares can reduce symptoms and support healing.
Is surgery always needed for intestinal granulomas?
No. Most patients improve with medication and lifestyle changes. Surgery or endoscopic procedures are reserved for severe cases or complications like strictures.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment duration varies: some people feel better in weeks, while others need long-term therapy and monitoring to prevent future flares.
Are there new treatments for granulomas?
Yes. Biologic drugs and advanced minimally invasive endoscopic techniques provide more targeted and effective care options.
