IBD: Advances in pathogenesis, complications, diagnosis, and therapy

摘要

The advances in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that we have witnessed in the last few decades are nothing short of remarkable. Relegated to a 'Cinderella status' behind many other chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases about 40 years ago, IBD is now at the forefront of progress in the fields of pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy among most immune-mediated conditions. This progress has led to the identification and recognition - widely viewed as correct - that both forms of IBD, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, result from the interaction of multiple factors among which environmental changes, genetic predisposition, the gut microbiome and the immune response play a leading role. What is particularly rewarding in this improved knowledge is the fact that patients affected by either form of IBD are directly benefitted from it, as demonstrated by the wide arsenal of diagnostic tools that have become available, a whole new array of innovative treatments, and an improved quality of life. In this issue, selected topics are reviewed that reflect progress ongoing in patho-genesis, diagnosis, complications and therapy of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.