Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe two different conditions: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Although there is a lot of information available about these conditions, diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease is a complex procedure involving several different tests.

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Here are some tests that may be needed to diagnose IBD:

1. Blood cell counts: Complete blood count and white blood cell counts are used to diagnose IBD. In addition, the detection of C-reactive protein in blood and the evaluation of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate can help to determine the rates of inflammation and infection in the patient.
2. Vitamin levels: Vitamin B12 levels and folate levels could indicate gastrointestinal malabsorption and bowel disease.
3. Stool tests and cultures: Fecal calciprotein is used as a non-invasive marker of intestinal inflammation in patients with IBD. Stool samples need to be cultured to check for bacterial and protozoal infections.
4. Serologic: Serologic testing is used to measure antibodies in the blood serum for inflammatory bowel diseases.
5. Imaging techniques: Radiographic, CT, and MRI scans can all used to diagnose IBD — especially to determine if a patient has ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
6. Invasive techniques: Biopsies and the study of tissue specimens may be used for severe cases of IBD.

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IBD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.