Inflammatory Bowel Disease - IBD

Indications for TestingLaboratory testing for IBD is appropriate to:Diagnose individuals who present with abdominal pain, diarrhea or bloody stool, frequent/urgent bowel movements, tenesmus, fatigue, weight loss, anemia, fever, fistulas, and/or growth failure (in children)Guide treatment decisions in patients with an established diagnosisMonitor disease activity and therapeutic responseLaboratory TestingDiagnosisInitial TestingMost laboratory tests used for IBD diagnosis are nonspecific; however, the following tests can help to identify inflammation associated with IBD. Definitive diagnosis of IBD typically involves imaging and endoscopic evaluation.Initial WorkupThe American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN), and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) recommend that initial laboratory testing for IBD include a CBC. CBC results may reveal an...