AHN Unraveling the Complexities of IBD with Innovations in Diagnosis and Management

Kimberly Weaver
Credit: Allegheny Health Network

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, pose significant challenges for both patients and physicians. The chronic, relapsing nature of these conditions, compounded with their multifaceted symptoms and potential complications, requires a coordinated, comprehensive approach to management.

IBD, characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, is a common and often debilitating condition affecting millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for IBD, effective management strategies can significantly improve quality of life for patients.

Physicians at the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition provide patients with a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing IBD. They work closely with experts from dermatology, rheumatology, behavioral health, pharmacy, and social services.

“At AHN, we understand that IBD can be a very difficult and often overwhelming condition,” says Dr. Kimberly Weaver, AHN gastroenterologist. “Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and individualized IBD care to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.”

Understanding the challenges of IBD

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two main subtypes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Both conditions cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation in any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Patchy inflammation is more characteristic of Crohn’s disease, as are structuring and penetrating complications. In contrast, ulcerative colitis causes continuous inflammation of the large intestine.

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. These considerations contribute to various disease presentations, requiring personalized management strategies.

A multifaceted approach to diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective IBD management. At AHN, gastroenterologists offer a range of diagnostic modalities to establish the diagnosis and assess disease severity, including:

• Detailed medical history: The team reviews patient’s symptoms, including frequency, duration, and triggers.
• Imaging studies: Magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and computer tomography enterography (CTE) provide detailed images of the small bowel, helping to identify strictures, fistulas, and abscesses.
• Laboratory tests: Serological markers and fecal calprotectin levels aid in assessing disease activity and monitoring response to treatment.
• Endoscopic procedures: Colonoscopy with intubation of the terminal ileum is essential for visualizing a pattern of mucosal inflammation and obtaining biopsies.

Tailored treatment approaches

• The AHN team provides personalized treatment plans, taking into consideration disease location, severity, complications, and patient preferences. Therapeutic possibilities include:
• Medications: Options are geared toward reducing inflammation in the GI tract through the targeting of specific inflammatory pathways. These include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologics.
• Therapeutic endoscopy: This can be used to treat complications of IBD, including strictures.
• Nutritional support: Diet plays a crucial role in managing IBD, so the team provides dietary counseling.
• Lifestyle changes: The behavioral health team provides care to manage stress, improve sleep, and stay healthy through exercise.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove affected sections of the bowel and treat complications.

Patient education and empowerment

Dr. Weaver shared that patient education is crucial for successful IBD management. The team provides:

• Detailed information about IBD: Physicians explain the condition, its causes, and available treatment options.
• Support and resources: AHN connects patients with support groups and online resources to help them manage their condition.
• Ongoing follow-up: Patients receive regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and address concerns.

“We work closely with our patients to develop a treatment plan that meets their individual needs,” Dr. Weaver said. “We encourage them to be active participants in their care and to ask questions.”

To refer a patient to the AHN Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, call 844-MD-REFER.