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Last updated Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Causes
The cause of inflammatory bowel disease is not known. Research suggests that the immune system, the body's natural defense against foreign invaders, is somehow altered in people with these conditions. Researchers believe that the chronic (long-lasting) inflammation present in the intestines of persons with both forms of IBD damages the bowel. This may permit bacteria to enter the damaged bowel wall and circulate through the bloodstream. The body's reaction to this bacteria may then cause problems in other areas of the body. The most common is inflammation of the joints. Other problems include skin sores, inflammation of the eyes, and certain types of liver disease.
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