Patient Stories > Christian Blandon

Christian Blandon was 15 years old when he was seen in the St. Christopher's Emergency Department for abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss and bloody diarrhea. During his visit, an infectious disease work up was started and Gastroenterology was contacted regarding his symptoms and for follow up.

Within three days of being seen in the Emergency Department, Christian was brought in for an office visit. After an evaluation, Christian was scheduled for an urgent colonoscopy and upper endoscopy. Both tests revealed significant inflammation in his colon with additional small bowel involvement. Biopsies taken during the colonoscopy confirmed a diagnosis of Crohn's disease within days of the procedure.

Christian was immediately put on a regimen of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory medications. Within a few weeks, his symptoms had improved significantly.

Today, Christian is asymptomatic and doing great. He has regained his energy and is very active.

For more information on the Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, please call 215-427-6778.