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Granuloma In Intestine
Granulomas in the intestine signal chronic inflammation and can cause pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis using imaging and endoscopy, personalized treatment plans, and advanced therapies to manage and resolve intestinal granulomas.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Crohn's disease
Infections (tuberculosis, Yersinia)
Autoimmune disorders
Family history of inflammatory bowel disease
Stress and smoking
Poor diet and nutrition
Signs and Symptoms
Belly pain or cramping
Persistent diarrhea
Blood or mucus in the stool
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue and anemia from chronic inflammation
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms-epigastric or abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, family history of inflammatory bowel disease, smoking and diet-and performs a focused physical exam to check for tenderness, bloating or masses.
Blood Tests
We order complete blood counts to look for anemia, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and serologic tests to rule out infections such as tuberculosis or Yersinia.
MRI enterography provides detailed views of the small intestine to detect granulomas and active inflammation.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy or colonoscopy lets Dr. Scott directly visualize the lining of your gut. He inspects for ulcers, nodules or inflamed areas and pinpoints exact locations for tissue sampling.
Biopsy and Laboratory Analysis
During endoscopy, small tissue samples are taken and sent to pathology. Microscopic examination confirms granuloma formation and special stains help exclude infectious causes.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for intestinal granulomas.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Personalized meal plans rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Hydration guidance to support intestinal health
Food journal strategies to identify and avoid trigger foods
Stress-reduction techniques such as walking, deep breathing and yoga
2. Medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce gut swelling
Short-term corticosteroids for acute flare control
Immune-modulating therapies to calm overactive immune responses
Biologics tailored for Crohn's-related granulomas
3. Minimally Invasive or Surgical Treatments
Balloon dilation to open narrowed intestinal segments
Strictureplasty to widen strictures without tissue removal
Surgical resection of affected bowel when necessary
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes granulomas in the intestine?
Chronic inflammation from Crohn's disease is the most common cause. Infections such as tuberculosis or Yersinia and certain autoimmune conditions can also lead to intestinal granulomas.
How are intestinal granulomas diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging (CT or MRI), endoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy, and blood tests to assess inflammation and rule out infections.
Can diet changes help manage intestinal granulomas?
Yes. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with avoiding trigger foods and staying hydrated, can support gut health and reduce symptoms.
Are natural or complementary treatments effective?
Some patients benefit from probiotics, stress-reduction techniques (like yoga or meditation), and gentle exercise. These should complement-but not replace-doctor-prescribed therapies.
How long does treatment usually take?
Many people notice symptom relief within a few weeks of starting medication and lifestyle changes. The overall timeline depends on the underlying cause and severity of inflammation.
Will I need surgery for intestinal granulomas?
Surgery or procedures such as balloon dilation or strictureplasty are reserved for patients who don't respond to medical therapy or who develop strictures causing obstruction.
Is treatment for intestinal granulomas covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover diagnostic tests and treatments. Our team at GastroDoxs can help verify your benefits and guide you through the process.
