IBD mimics - Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis mimics on biopsy - Inflammatory bowel disease 5B
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathology often presents challenges due to its potential to have IBD mimics which can be confused with other gastrointestinal conditions. One notable mimic is infectious colitis, where bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can elicit symptoms akin to Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and inflammation. Distinguishing between the two requires careful examination, as the histopathological features of infectious colitis may overlap with those seen in IBD biopsies. Additionally, ischemic colitis, a condition characterized by reduced blood supply to the colon, can manifest with symptoms resembling IBD. The differentiation relies on recognizing vascular changes and infarction in the biopsy samples. Furthermore, microscopic colitis, a separate entity from IBD, shares clinical similarities but is differentiated by distinctive microscopic findings such as intraepithelial lymphocytosis. Colorectal malignancies, particularly early-stage cancers, may also mimic IBD, emphasizing the importance of biopsy in ruling out neoplastic conditions. Considering these mimics is crucial in the diagnostic process, ensuring that appropriate therapeutic strategies are employed based on the accurate identification of the underlying pathology. A thorough understanding of these potential mimickers is essential for clinicians to provide precise and effective care for patients with suspected or confirmed IBD.