Doctors may use gore tests, stool tests, and imaging tests to diagnose IBD. However, endoscopy with biopsy is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and differentiate the two types.
Inflammatory intestine disease (IBD) is a general term health care professionals use to label disorders that cause chronic irritation of the stomach (GI) area.
The two types of IBD are:
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) touches the large intestine and rectum.
- Crohn’s disease: can affect any share of the GI expanse.
The indications of IBD resemble those of other common diseases, so diagnosis can sometimes be challenging.
Various tests and examinations help doctors diagnose IBD and differentiate between the two types. Accurate diagnosis is the first step to fruitful treatment and symptom control.
Blood tests for IBD
A complete blood count (CBC) can show the red and white blood cell levels. You may have anaemia if you have fewer red blood cells than usual. This may indicate bleeding in the colon or rectum. High levels of white gore cells in the blood may indicate inflammation or infection in the body.
Blood tests for specific biomarkers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte deposit rate (ESR), can also help doctors control if there is inflammation in your body.
Blood tests often help doctors differentiate Crohn’s disease from ulcerative colitis. Definite antibodies or biomarkers in a blood sample can indicate either condition.
Stool test for IBD
A stool sample must be collected in a small container. Lab technicians will conduct an examination to identify the causes of digestive diseases. Analysis of specific faecal proteins, such as calprotectin and lactoferrin, can alert doctors to gastrointestinal inflammation.
A stool test can help doctors look for signs of IBD and rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms, such as an infection.
Endoscopy for IBD testing
Endoscopy is critical for diagnosing IBD. According to a 2023 review, experts consider this test to be the most accurate and specific.
These tests usually involve looking at the inside of your stomach tract using an endoscope, a thin tube with a light and photographic camera attached.
Your doctor will also take tissue samples (biopsy) to check for inflammation.
These procedures are usually performed in a hospital or outpatient centre. Your healthcare team will give you orders on preparing for the procedure, which may require several days of preparation, such as a bowel movement.
Your healthcare provider may order one or more of the following types of endoscopy:
- Colonoscopy: A doctor uses an endoscope to inspect the entire Costa Rican colon and rectum during a colonoscopy.
- Upper GI endoscopy: In a higher GI endoscopy, a doctor mildly directs an endoscope over your gullet and into your stomach and duodenum (the first share of your small intestine) to look inside your upper peptic tract.
- Enteroscopy: An enteroscopy inspects your small intestine.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Doctors use flexible sigmoidoscopy to consider the rectum and the lower part of the colon if your Costa Rican colon is inflamed.
Crohn’s illness can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. However, because ulcerative colitis (UC) affects only the colon and rectum, it can only be detected by colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
Imaging tests for IBD
Doctors may also recommend X-rays to get a better idea of what’s going on inside your body.
Standard imagination tests for IBD comprise:
- CT scan: CT scans use X-rays and processer technology to generate movies of your GI tract. They may help doctors comprehend the extent of damage in your GI expanse or rule out other conditions.
- CT enterography (CTE): CTE delivers a more detailed scan than CT. Before the scan, you drink an answer that makes seeing specific constructions in your form calmer.
- Magnetic resonance enterography (MRE): MRE remains a noninvasive examination that allows medics to view detailed imageries of your small intestine. This is particularly helpful in checking for inflammation and signs of Crohn’s illness, like creeping fat.
- Upper GI series: Also recognized as a barium swallow, this test involves eating a chalky liquid before undergoing an X-ray image of your upper GI tract.
- Lower GI series: Rather than believing the barium, you receive a barium purgative before X-ray observation of the colon and rectum.
Next steps
Once your healthcare provider diagnoses you with IBD, talk to them about getting a referral to a gastroenterologist who specializes in treating these conditions.
There is no cure for IBD, but some treatments, procedures, and existing changes can help you feel better and prevent complications. Your gastroenterologist will likely prescribe treatment and recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to help relieve your indications.
Your treatment will be contingent on the severity of your disorder and other factors. Most people with IBD can lead whole, active lives if they know how to avoid symptoms and complications.
Takeaway
IBD is a complex disease that can be difficult to diagnose. If you are experiencing any symptoms of IBD, it is best to consult with your doctor to learn more about the possible cause of your discomfort.
Several tests, including lab tests, endoscopy, and imaging tests, can help your medic determine whether you have IBD and what type of disease you have. You and your doctor can work together to develop the best treatment plan for your condition.