[Amyloidosis in Crohn disease. Case reports and review of the literature].

A review of the literature on Crohn's disease with secondary amyloidosis and four own case reports are presented. At least 1% of patients with Crohn's disease develop amyloidosis. The extent of the inflammatory bowel disease seems to have an influence on the occurrence of amyloidosis. The survival time of 40 out of 72 patients was 2.1 years after the onset of diagnosis. The complications induced by the amyloidosis determine the fate of the patients. Therefore the periodical protein determination in urine and the Congo-red-colouring of rectal mucosa after rectoscopy are justified. After the diagnosis of amyloidosis in patients with Crohn's disease the inflammation should be treated consequently, according to the principles of the treatment of the underlying disease. But the resection of the inflammatory bowel should be avoided if the renal function is still sufficient, because frequently there occurs a postoperative renal failure. In the case of renal amyloidosis with a creatinin-clearance of more than 10 ml/min, a therapeutic attempt should be made with 1.0 to 1.5 mg/day of colchicin or 10 g/day dimethylsulphoxid (DMSO) for at least six months. During existing renal failure the proceeding of amyloidosis in other organs is to be expected. The secondary amyloidosis disposes the fate of the patients.