Assessment, diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease emergencies

Abstract

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) and Crohn's disease (CD) can present as medical emergencies that require immediate and coordinated care due to the risk of significant morbidity and mortality. This clinical review explores the assessment and management of inflammatory bowel disease emergencies, including ASUC, toxic megacolon, massive haemorrhage, intra-abdominal abscesses, and bowel obstruction. The review highlights the critical importance of prompt diagnosis, patient-centred care, and the integration of multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) in managing these complex cases. It also outlines the clinical approaches, necessary investigations, and both medical and surgical management strategies essential for optimising patient outcomes. The review emphasises the need for healthcare professionals to be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to manage these emergencies effectively, thus enhancing patient care and safety. This article does not aim to explore UC and CD in their entirety but rather aims to focus on the acute emergencies associated with these conditions.