ABSTRACT
The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are inflammatory conditions of unknown aetiology that affect the gastrointestinal tract. In Saudi Arabia, an increasing incidence of IBD has been registered, and a comparable disease progression has been recognised. Disease location is a significant factor associated with the long-term outcome in IBD. Extra-intestinal manifestations are pathologically and clinically important entities in IBD. Mortality due to IBD may be caused by complications of acute flares of the disease, long-term complication of the disease or surgical complications. Surgery is required in patients with IBD mainly for intestinal complications. The natural history of IBD is difficult to assess in today’s context, as a majority patients with symptoms will be undergoing some form of treatment. The downward trend may have been the result of more comprehensive surveillance programmes established in many high-volume IBD centres. IBDs are common chronic conditions, which place a significant burden on the individual and community.
