[Nutritional deficiencies and complications in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases].

BACKGROUND

Deficiencies of vitamins and trace elements are frequent in inflammatory bowel disease. Aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the prevalence of these deficiencies and of liver complications in a large population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records from 392 out-patients, 279 with Crohn's disease (160 female, 119 male) and 113 with ulcerative colitis (56 female, 57 male) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Deficiencies were found in 85% of patients with Crohn's disease vs 68% with ulcerative colitis during the course of the disease, predominantly a deficiency of iron and of calcium. Less frequently deficiencies of zinc, protein, cyanocobalamin, and folic acid were found. Elevated liver enzymes were seen in 38% of patients with Crohn's disease vs 27% with ulcerative colitis. In order of frequency: gamma-glutamyl-transferase, ALAT, AP, ASAT, and bilirubin. Gallstones were present in 12% of patients with Crohn's disease and 4% with ulcerative colitis. 6% of patients with Crohn's disease and 4% with ulcerative colitis had kidney stones.

CONCLUSIONS

In view of the high frequency of deficiencies in patients with inflammatory bowel disease it seems to be important to check frequently for extraintestinal complications.