A 28-year-old woman with a known history of Crohn's disease presents with a 3-week history of worsening abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and low-grade fever. Endoscopy reveals moderate to severe inflammation in the terminal ileum and ascending colon. She has failed oral mesalamine in the past. What is the most appropriate initial treatment for this acute flare?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
For moderate to severe acute Crohn's flares, systemic corticosteroids are the cornerstone of initial therapy to induce remission. Immunomodulators like azathioprine or biologics like adalimumab are used for maintenance or in refractory cases.