Date of Award

2017

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, MBA, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not complimentary and alternative medicines are safe and effective in improving symptoms of adult patients over the age of 18 with active Crohn disease.

Study design: A review of three published, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one published in 2010, and the second and third in 2014. All English language.

Data source: All 3 RCT’s were found using PubMed.

Outcomes measured: All three studies measured improvement of Crohn disease symptoms through the Crohn Disease Activity Index (CDAI), Hamilton’s Depression Scale (HAMD), the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) and the Partial Harvey Bradshaw Index (pHBI).

Results: Patient reported improved health-related quality of life and gastrointestinal function

Conclusions: The studies demonstrate some evidence that Complimentary and Alternative Medicines may improve acute symptoms of Crohn disease and an increased quality of life. However, it is inconclusive whether these therapies actually provide long-term results in healing patients with chronic disease.

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