PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - G. M. Van Rosendaal
TI  - Inflammatory bowel disease
DP  - 1989 Jul 15
TA  - Canadian Medical Association Journal
PG  - 113--123
VI  - 141
IP  - 2
4099  - http://www.cmaj.ca/content/141/2/113.short
4100  - http://www.cmaj.ca/content/141/2/113.full
SO  - CMAJ1989 Jul 15; 141
AB  - An increasing number of options are available for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease; the selection depends on the extent and severity of the disease. Experience with sulfasalazine and corticosteroids has led to a proliferation of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) compounds and experimentation with alternative corticosteroid preparations. Given rectally 5-ASA is particularly effective in the treatment of distal ulcerative colitis, and experience is accumulating with several oral formulations. Metronidazole is useful in some cases, and immunosuppressive agents have a role in some patients with chronic refractory disease. A variety of measures, such as nutritional therapy, surgery and psychosocial support, are important elements of therapy. Further therapeutic innovations are expected as the etiology and pathogenesis are clarified.