Rheumatic manifestations in inflammatory bowel disease

Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino). 2021 Mar;67(1):79-90. doi: 10.23736/S2724-5985.20.02726-9. Epub 2020 Jul 3.

Abstract

Rheumatic manifestations are the most frequent extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, and they are responsible for a relevant reduction of quality of life. IBD is associated with a variety of musculoskeletal manifestations such as arthritis and non-inflammatory pain as well as with metabolic diseases, such as osteoporosis. Different imaging techniques (primarily ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and X-rays) can help the clinician to correctly identify the nature of manifestations and to treat the patient accordingly. Nowadays, in the setting of IBD-related arthritides, different drugs are available and can be effective on both articular and intestinal involvement. Therefore, a multi-disciplinary approach provides an early diagnosis and a better clinical outcome that can only be given from the recognition and consideration of the different EIMs. As for rheumatic manifestations, namely IBD-related arthritis, an early intervention allows to control disease activity and to prevent structural damage.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / complications*
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / diagnosis
  • Rheumatic Diseases / etiology*