A group of disorders that includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. 

What is pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe two chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

While these conditions affect the digestive tract in different ways, they share many symptoms and treatment options.

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. It can also affect multiple layers of the bowel wall.

Ulcerative colitis affects only the large intestine (colon). Inflammation is limited to the inner lining of the colon.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go over time.

When symptoms return or worsen, this is called an IBD flare or active disease. During a flare, children may experience increased inflammation and worsening symptoms. When symptoms improve after treatment, the disease may be considered in remission.

Symptoms of pediatric IBD
Symptoms can vary from child to child and may include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Blood in the stool
  • Abdominal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Poor weight gain
  • Delayed growth
  • Fatigue
  • Ongoing digestive symptoms

Diagnosing pediatric IBD
IBD is diagnosed using a combination of information, including:

  • Medical history
  • Physical exam
  • Blood tests
  • Stool tests
  • Imaging studies, when needed
  • Endoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsies

These tests help providers confirm a diagnosis and determine the type and severity of IBD.

Treatment for pediatric IBD
Treatment depends on the type of IBD and how severe the disease is. The goals of treatment are to:

  • Reduce inflammation
  • Control symptoms
  • Achieve remission
  • Maintain long-term remission
  • Prevent complications
  • Improve quality of life

Treatment often begins with medication. In some cases, surgery may be recommended if medications are no longer effective or complications develop.

Medications for pediatric IBD
Your provider may recommend medications based on your child’s condition and treatment needs. These may include:

  • Antibiotics
  • Anti-diarrheal medications
  • Biologic medications
  • Corticosteroids
  • Immunomodulators or immunosuppressants

These medications help reduce inflammation and manage the immune system response.

Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care
IBD requires ongoing care and regular follow-up visits to monitor your child’s health and treatment progress.

Follow-up care may include:

  • Routine office visits
  • Blood tests
  • Stool tests
  • Additional testing when needed
  • Medication monitoring

Because IBD can change over time, treatment plans may need to be adjusted as your child grows or symptoms change.

Supporting your child with IBD
Living with IBD can be physically and emotionally challenging for children. Families can help support their child by:

  • Identifying foods that may trigger symptoms
  • Working with a dietitian to maintain proper nutrition
  • Tracking symptoms during flares
  • Planning when away from home
  • Packing extra supplies for emergencies
  • Helping manage stress
  • Connecting with support groups
  • Seeking mental health support when needed

For More Information on IBD:

Crohn's and Colitis Foundation - Minnesota/Dakotas Chapter
Offers a variety of support groups in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota, sponsors a summer camp for kids, and offers other activities. Their website can be found at www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/chapters/minnesota/ 

2277 Highway 36 West, Suite #170
Roseville, MN 55113
Phone: 651-917-2424
Toll Free: 1-888-422-3266
Fax: 651-917-2425
E-mail: minnesota@crohnscolitisfoundation.org 

Crohn's and Colitis Foundation
This is the national organization that is involved in education, fundraising, research, and advocacy for IBD. Their website has a variety of information relating to IBD.

733 Third Avenue, Suite #510
New York, NY 10017
Phone: 800-932-2423
Internet: www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ 
E-mail: info@crohnscolitisfoundation.org 

Books:
The First Year---Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed
by Jill Sklar
ISBN# 1-56924-532-0

Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis
by Fred Saibil
ISBN #1-55209-114-7

Contact us
If you have questions about pediatric inflammatory bowel disease or your child’s treatment plan, please contact our office at 612-871-1145.