Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammation of the intestines that can cause diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, fever, joint pain and weight loss. It is estimated that over one million Americans have IBD and the number of patients diagnosed with the condition is increasing each year. Genetic and environmental factors play a role in the disease process.

IBD includes Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and microscopic colitis. Although Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis share common symptoms and thus are often misdiagnosed for each other, each disease affects the digestive tract differently and requires unique treatment. Therefore, it is important that you visit your doctor for a definite diagnosis and specialized treatment plan.

The UCSF Center for Colitis and Crohn's Disease provides comprehensive care for patients with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, microscopic or collagenous colitis and related illnesses. Our center is dedicated to patient care, doctor and patient education as well as clinical and basic science research to find a cure for the disease. Recent advancements in our understanding of the pathophysiology of IBD are rapidly increasing the therapeutic options for IBD, and we are at the forefront of studying the various new drugs to treat the disease.

The center's team of experts includes adult and pediatric gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, immunologists, nutritionists, psychologists, ostomy nurses and social workers. This team meets regularly to discuss cases and devise optimal treatment plans. Therapy is always directed at improving the quality of life of our patients with these diseases, and therefore their input regarding treatment decisions is of critical importance.

For more information or to make an appointment, please contact:

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 14, 2008