Inflammatory bowel disease in pediatric and adolescent patients.

IBD is a chronic pediatric disease that needs to be treated by a team of experts consisting of pediatricians, pediatric gastroenterologists, psychologists, nutritionists, social workers, and nurses. A critical factor in successful management of this disease is the willingness of the patient to participate and cooperate with the team. Parents and patients must be educated and supported to treat these disorders effectively. Much further research is necessary to understand the specific causative and therapeutic issues unique to young patients with IBD.