Effect of inflammatory bowel disease classification changes on NOD2 genotype-phenotype associations in a population-based cohort.

Background: NOD2 mutations are associated with Crohn's disease (CD) in Caucasian clinic-based cohorts. Data from population-based cohorts are limited. Clinic-based studies may overestimate this association.

High incidence of Crohn's disease in Canterbury, New Zealand: results of an epidemiologic study.

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased exponentially in industrialized nations over the last 50 years. Previous New Zealand studies have shown that IBD is less common than in other countries; however, clinical observations suggested a high incidence and prevalence of IBD in Canterbury, particularly Crohn's disease (CD).

Aim: This study aimed to determine the descriptive epidemiology of IBD in Canterbury.

Thiopurine drug adverse effects in a population of New Zealand patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Purpose: The thiopurine drugs, azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine are effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, their use is limited by serious adverse effects that can lead to cessation of therapy. The incidence of these adverse effects has been reported to be approximately 9% but in Christchurch it was felt that the incidence was higher.

Surveillance for dysplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a national survey of colonoscopic practice in New Zealand.

Background: Patients with chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn's colitis have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Because of this, surveillance colonoscopy is practiced.

Aims: We aimed to describe the practice of surveillance colonoscopy in New Zealand, with comparison among specialties, and with practice internationally.