Crohn’s & Colitis Glossary

Abscess

A collection of pus (dead white blood cells) formed by an infection.

Absorption

Your body’s process of taking nutrients from the digestive system into the blood so they can be used elsewhere in the body.

Adherence

Taking medication(s) as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Aminosalicylates

Medications that contain 5-aminosalicylic acid and help reduce inflammation in the lining of the intestine.

Antibiotics

Medications that treat infections and slow down the growth of bacteria.

Antibodies

Cells that fight infections or other substances in your blood/body.

Anus

The very last part of the large intestine where the rectum ends.

Appeal

A request to a health insurance plan to review a decision denying a benefit, service, or payment.

Biologic therapies

Medications made from antibodies of living organisms and/or grown in a laboratory that help to suppress inflammation.

Biomarkers

Molecules in the body, like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) that may be measured by laboratory tests to assist in diagnosis and management of disease.