Pathophysiologic Principles
Both genetic and environmental factors play important roles
in disease pathogenesis.
New hypotheses implicate the innate immune system and the
intestinal epithelium in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Lymphocytes, cytokines, and adhesion molecules are
dysregulated and have been targeted for therapeutic
intervention.
Based on a new understanding of the complicated
mechanisms that underlie the disease process, combination
therapies are currently being pursued.
A better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms
will aid in prevention and more effective maintenance of
remission of IBDs