Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Diagnosis
There is no single test to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For a patient whose history and physical examination
suggest the presence of IBD, we are likely to perform one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- Blood tests. Although IBD cannot be diagnosed by a blood test, certain laboratory studies may be “supportive” of IBD. For example, a complete
blood count (CBC) may show anemia or an elevated white blood cell count. Blood tests may also reveal nutritional deficiencies
and electrolyte abnormalities in patients with more severe diseases. Markers of inflammation (e.g., erythrocyte sedimentation
rate or ESR and C-reactive protein or CRP) may also be elevated.
- Stool Studies. Your doctor may also request that you provide a stool sample which may be tested for infection or markers of inflammation.
- Endoscopy. Inflammation seen in the colon and/or the end of the small intestine (ileum) during colonoscopy suggests the diagnosis of IBD in the appropriate clinical context. Biopsies - that is, very small samples of intestinal tissue
- will be examined under a microscope by a pathologist to further help in diagnosing IBD. Less commonly, upper endoscopy will be performed to assess for inflammatory changes in the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
Capsule endoscopy may also be ordered to examine the small intestine.
- Radiologic Tests. We may perform CT scan, MRI and/or small bowel series in some patients to help diagnose IBD and its complications.
Schedule an appointment
To schedule an appointment with the IBD Program of the Jefferson Digestive Disease Institute in Philadelphia, call 1-800-JEFF-NOW
or use our online appointment request form.
