Laboratory Evaluation, Including Novel Diagnostic Markers

Analyses of some biological markers (CRP, ASCA, ANCA, fecal calprotectin, 6-TGN) are commonly used in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as these tests are relatively simple and inexpensive, and allow regular monitoring of IBD patients. Other markers (drug trough levels, anti-drug antibodies) have increasingly been studied but are not yet available for use in clinical practice. For diagnostic purposes, there is currently no reliable “gold standard” marker. Hence, markers should always be combined with others parameters, such as disease history, morphological assessment, endoscopic and histological examinations. Prognostically, some biological markers could be useful to predict response, relapse, or disease severity. They may also have a role in clinical practice in terms of helping the physician in the monitoring and therapeutic management of patients.