Endoscopy in inflammatory bowel disease.
With the heterogeneous clinical presentation of IBD, endoscopy plays an integral role in the initial diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Although radiographic tests often are supplemental in the work-up of IBD, colonoscopy with biopsy is the test of choice if IBD is suspected and is more sensitive than radiographic tests. Endoscopic features can be helpful in differentiating ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Currently the only mode for detecting dysplasia and stratifying the risk of developing colorectal cancer is through complete colonoscopy with multiple biopsy specimens. Complications of IBD can be managed effectively with endoscopic therapy. The role of endoscopic ultrasound and future developments in endoscopic therapy need to be defined by future studies.
Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
Scott D
SD
Lee
Russell D
RD
Cohen
D003113:Colonoscopy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal; D006801:Humans; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*