Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Treatment of Children

At Mayo Clinic, specialists work together as a team to address the special needs of children and teens with inflammatory bowel disease. Team members frequently include pediatric surgeons, gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, dietitians and psychologists.

Because IBD can take an even greater physical and emotional toll on young people than it does on adults, Mayo pediatric specialists focus on your child's overall physical, emotional and social well-being. You and your child will work closely with a psychologist and other specialists who can help you navigate the day-to-day challenges of living with IBD.

Mayo's commitment to supportive, ongoing care is especially important for younger people. The longer a person has Crohn's disease, the more likely it is that complications of the disease or of treatment will occur. This makes careful, long-term monitoring essential. Through the years, your child's doctors can also help with crucial decisions about immunizations, travel, sports and school activities.

Diagnosis

Most children with IBD have the same symptoms as adults, and the disease is diagnosed in the same way. But advanced imaging tests developed by Mayo Clinic researchers are especially important for young people. Tests such as MR enterography aren't painful or invasive and do not require anesthesia. They also don't expose your child to ionizing radiation, which is a concern when repeated imaging tests are needed over the years.

Treatment

Mayo Clinic doctors work with you and your child to determine the safest and most effective treatment plans. Surgery will generally only be considered if your child doesn't respond to medications, develops complications or fails to grow despite treatment. Mayo Clinic colorectal surgeons are skilled in bowel sparing and minimally invasive techniques. These procedures help preserve normal bowel function and lead to shorter hospital stays and faster, less painful recoveries for young patients.

For more details about treatment of young people for IBD, see:

• Crohn's disease
• Ulcerative colitis