Accurate prediction of IBD Prognosis using a colonoscopy: Is it real?

Endoscopic evaluation has a major role in assessing patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Macroscopic features and histological findings assist in diagnosing disease and defining its extent. Moreover, endoscopic findings often provide crucial information for determining the prognosis in patients with IBD. However, few studies have determined the impact of regular endoscopy or the appropriate interval between examinations. Thus, in terms of disease monitoring and decision-making in clinical practice, the impact of endoscopic examinations still remains unclear. In our study, repeated follow-up endoscopy did not have a significant impact on the overall clinical course and outcomes in patients with IBD. However, if patients with UC have symptoms or signs for which endoscopic examination is indicated, constant vigilance is necessary. Although mucosal healing (MH) is one of the most important prognostic factors for IBD, little is known about the effects of MH on the clinical course of intestinal Behcet's disease (BD). An investigation of the relationship between MH and intestinal BD has not yet been reported. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of MH on the long-term outcome of intestinal BD. In our study, MH in patients with intestinal BD at the time of clinical remission was significantly associated with a lower risk of disease relapse. MH might be the ultimate therapeutic goal in the treatment of intestinal BD.