Testing for IBD

The term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes conditions characterized by the presence of inflammation and ulceration in the lining of the digestive tract. Two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease are ulcerative colitis, in which inflammation and ulcers are limited to the colon and rectum, and Crohn’s disease, in which inflammation is more extensive and may be seen along the entire digestive tract from mouth to rectum. Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, sores in the mouth, fatigue, and weight loss.

Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin, is a medication that is used to treat acne.  Accutane has many reported side effects.   It has been linked to bowel problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis , and Crohn’s disease.  In June 2009, the manufacturer of Accutane announced that it notified the FDA of its intent to discontinue the manufacture and distribution of Accutane in the United States.

A patient with symptoms suggestive of IBD will usually be referred to a gastroenterologist, a physician who specializes in digestive conditions. Common diagnostic procedures include blood tests, stool sample analysis, endoscopy, and imaging studies such as CT scans and barium enema with subsequent X-ray.

Endoscopy
Endoscopy refers to a procedure in which a doctor uses a flexible lighted tube to visualize internal structures. Endoscopy procedures used in the diagnosis of IBD include colonoscopy, in which the entire large intestine is examined, flexible sigmoidoscopy, in which the rectum and final two feet of the colon are examined, and capsule endoscopy, in which a camera-containing pill is swallowed. The camera transmits images of its journey through the digestive tract to a computer for analysis.

Blood Tests
Blood tests for inflammatory bowel disease include testing for anemia, which can indicate internal bleeding, and testing for specific antibodies which can suggest a diagnosis of IBD.

Stool Sample Analysis
Stool sample analysis examines stool for the presence of occult (hidden) blood cells and allows the physician to rule out conditions such as parasites or bacterial infection.

Imaging Studies
X-ray imaging after a barium enema allows a physician to see the outline of the rectum, large intestine, and part of the small intestine. Computerized Tomography (CT) scans allow the physician to examine the entire digestive tract in greater detail.

Any person who suffers from symptoms indicative of inflammatory bowel disease should contact their doctor to  discuss whether it would be appropriate to get a referral to a gastroenterologist. Timely diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve symptoms and prevent complications.

Do you believe you or a loved one has been injured by Accutane®? Goldberg & Osborne can help.

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