Colonoscopic diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.

The indications and limitations of colonoscopy in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease are well defined. The endoscopic examination is usually easily performed and well tolerated by the patient, but, since endoscopic examination of the colon is an invasive procedure (and potentially dangerous), colonoscopy should only be performed in those patients in whom the indication is clear and the benefits identifiable. Colonoscopy may provide valuable information in the diagnosis and may help outline the course of therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.