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- General: The diagnosis of IBD is based on a combination of exams. A colonoscopy is the standard diagnostic test for IBD. In order to determine whether the IBD is ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, tests such as capsule endoscopy, upper endoscopy, barium study or CT–scan may be conducted. These tests help the gastroenterologist determine whether there is inflammation in gastrointestinal areas other than the colon. If there is inflammation in areas other than the colon, the patient is diagnosed with Crohn's disease.
- Colonoscopy: A qualified healthcare provider may observe the colon with an endoscope. The endoscope is a thin tube, which is inserted through the anus and attached to a television monitor. The physician looks for inflammation, bleeding or ulcers on the colon wall.
- Capsule endoscopy: Capsule endoscopy may be performed if an individual experiences symptoms of Crohn's disease, but other diagnostic tests are negative for the disease. The patient swallows a capsule that has a camera inside. The camera photographs the gastrointestinal tract. The pictures are then subsequently transmitted to a computer screen. The healthcare provider will then look for abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract, including inflammation and ulcers. Once the device has traveled through the digestive tract, it will pass painlessly in the stool.
- Barium study: During a barium study, the patient drinks a barium solution before X–rays of the intestines are taken. The barium will appear white on the X–ray film, which allows the physician to see possible problems, such as inflammation.
- Computerized tomography (CT–scan): A CT–scan, which provides more detail than a standard X–ray, may also be performed. This test shows the entire gastrointestinal tract, and tissues outside of the bowel. This test may help the healthcare provider detect complications, such as blockages, abscesses or fistulas.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A qualified healthcare provider may perform a sigmoidoscopy. During this procedure, the physician uses a slender, flexible tube to examine the last two feet of the colon, known as the sigmoid. The test is usually completed in a few minutes. However, it is slightly uncomfortable, and there is a slight risk that the colon wall may become perforated. In addition, this test may not detect problems higher in the colon or small intestine.
- Upper endoscopy: An upper endoscopy may be performed to check the esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine for bleeding, inflammation or ulcers associated with Crohn's disease.
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