Exogenous factors in Crohn's disease. A critical review.

The etiology of Crohn's disease remains elusive. Though there may be a genetic predisposition to the disease, epidemiologic evidence suggests that environmental factors are important. The role of dietary components and enhanced intestinal permeability deserve more attention. From this review of past studies, this investigator believes that ingested compounds may play an important role in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease. Silica and various silicates provide models of how dietary factors might cause the disease and explain some of its features.