Development of Red Flags Index for Early Referral of Adults with Symptoms and Signs Suggestive of Crohn’s Disease: An IOIBD Initiative

Abstract

Diagnostic delay is frequent in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). We developed a tool to predict early diagnosis. A systematic literature review and 12 CD specialists identified ‘Red Flags’, i.e. symptoms or signs suggestive of CD. A 21-item questionnaire was administered to 36 healthy subjects, 80 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (non-CD group) and 85 patients with recently diagnosed (p < 0.0001). The Red Flags index using early symptoms and signs has high predictive value for the diagnosis of CD. These results need prospective validation prior to introduction into clinical practice.