Clinical Profile of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in a Private Service

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the digestive tract. This study examines 188 IBD patients in a private healthcare service in Canoas/RS, Brazil, aiming to understand their clinical profiles.

Most patients were young adults, primarily white, with more women affected. Both CD and UC patients commonly experienced diarrhea, but blood in stools was more prevalent in UC. CD mostly affected the small intestine, while UC involved the rectum or extended through the colon. The diagnosis was prompt, with most CD cases diagnosed within six months and UC cases within twelve months of symptom onset. Family histories of IBD and colorectal cancer were observed, particularly in CD patients. Extraintestinal manifestations were more frequent in CD. Elevated CRP levels were common in CD, while FC values were elevated in both groups. Treatment approaches differed, with 5-ASA primarily used in UC and immunomodulators in CD. Biological therapy was less commonly employed initially.

This study aligns with global IBD trends in demographics, symptoms, and disease locations. Early diagnosis likely results from specialized private healthcare, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and tailored treatment.

Keywords
Inflammatory bowel disease; Crohn's disease; Ulcerative colitis; epidemiology; incidence; prevalence; surgery