Inflammatory bowel disease biomarkers

Med Res Rev. 2022 Sep;42(5):1856-1887. doi: 10.1002/med.21893. Epub 2022 May 23.

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized as chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, which includes two main subtypes, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Endoscopy combined with biopsy is the most effective way to establish IBD diagnosis and disease management. Imaging techniques have also been developed to monitor IBD. Although effective, the methods are expensive and invasive, which leads to pain and discomfort. Alternative noninvasive biomarkers are being explored as tools for IBD prognosis and disease management. This review focuses on novel biomarkers that have emerged in recent years. These serological biomarkers and microRNAs could potentially be used for disease management in IBD, thereby decreasing patient discomfort and morbidity.

Keywords: biomarker; diagnostics; inflammatory bowel disease; noninvasive; therapeutics.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Colitis, Ulcerative* / diagnosis
  • Crohn Disease*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • Humans
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases* / diagnosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers