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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These autoimmune disorders cause persistent inflammation, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.
IBD results from an inappropriate immune response to normal gut microbiota in genetically susceptible individuals. The inflammatory cascade involves dysregulated T-cell activation, increased pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and compromised intestinal barrier function, leading to chronic mucosal inflammation and tissue damage.
Diagnosis requires correlation of clinical symptoms with endoscopic findings, histopathology, and inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin. Treatment focuses on inducing and maintaining remission through immunosuppressive therapy, with options including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologic agents targeting specific inflammatory pathways.