[Inflammatory bowel diseases: diagnosis (including new procedures for small intestine examination)]

Abstract

Medical history, clinical examination, general laboratory data and microbial stool examinations are basic diagnostics in inflammatory bowel diseases. Specific immunologic parameters can make classification easier in indefinite disease, their use is still in an experimental state. Ultrasound and endoscopic examinations have largely replaced conventional radiological procedures. For the experienced examiner, ultrasound allows assessment of small bowel and colon as well as other organs. Ileo-colonoscopy with biopsies remains the gold standard in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases. For small bowel examination, modern methods like push-enteroscopy, capsule endoscopy or the Hydro-MRI can be employed. At the moment, their usage is limited to specialized centers. Because of its broad availability small bowel follow through is still the standard in small bowel examination. After 8 years of colitis ulcerosa, ileo-colonoscopy with biopsy should be performed every year according to the guidelines. If these recommendations also apply to Crohn's disease is not sure yet.