RESUMO
The components of the endogenous cannabinoid system are widely expressed in the gastrointestinal tract contributing to local homeostasis. In general, cannabinoids exert inhibitory actions in the gastrointestinal tract, inducing anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, antisecretory, and antiproliferative effects. Therefore, cannabinoids are interesting pharmacological compounds for the treatment of several acute intestinal disorders, such as dysmotility, emesis, and abdominal pain. Likewise, the role of cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic intestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease, is also under investigation. Patients with chronic intestinal inflammatory diseases present impaired quality of life, and mental health issues are commonly associated with long-term chronic diseases. The complex pathophysiology of these diseases contributes to difficulties in diagnosis and, therefore, in the choice of a satisfactory treatment. Thus, this article reviews the involvement of the cannabinoid system in chronic inflammatory diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract and highlights possible therapeutic approaches related to the use of cannabinoids.
RESUMO
La colitis ulcerosa es una inflamación crónica no granulomatosa, que afecta fundamentalmente al colon. Se caracteriza por inflamación y ulceraciones de la mucosa intestinal. La etiopatogenia es compleja y multifactorial. Los síntomas gastrointestinales dependen de la situación, magnitud y severidad de la inflamación. El diagnóstico se basa en la sospecha clínica apoyada por estudios de laboratorio y de gabinete y el tratamiento depende de la severidad del cuadro. Presentamos a un niño que curso con un cuadro de colitis ulcerosa fulminante y que evoluciono favorablemente con el tratamiento instaurado.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic non granulomatous inflammation that affects mainly the colon. It is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal mucosa. The etiology and pathogenesis is complex and due to several factors. Gastrointestinal symptoms depend on the location, size and severity of the inflammation. Diagnosis is based upon clinical examination supported by laboratory studies. Treatment depends on the severity of the case. We present the history of a child that showed a very severe case of ulcerative colitis who responded favorably to prescribed treatment.