Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A 40-year-old man presents with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. He has a history of Crohn's disease. Laboratory tests reveal low hemoglobin and elevated ESR. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A. Ulcerative colitis
  • B. Irritable bowel syndrome
  • C. Celiac disease
  • D. Crohn's disease flare
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Crohn's disease flare. Given the patient's history of Crohn's disease, symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and abnormal lab findings (low hemoglobin, elevated ESR) are indicative of a flare-up of Crohn's disease. This is supported by the clinical presentation and the lab results. Ulcerative colitis (A) presents differently with rectal bleeding and mucous diarrhea. Irritable bowel syndrome (B) does not typically cause weight loss or abnormal lab findings. Celiac disease (C) would present with malabsorption symptoms and specific antibodies, not consistent with this patient's presentation. Crohn's disease flare (D) is the most likely diagnosis based on the information provided.