[Evaluation of psychological disorders in Tunisian patients with inflammatory bowel disease. A comparative case-control study].

Aim: To evaluate the psychological state in Tunisian patients with inflammatory bowel disease using the general health questionnaire in 12 items.

Methods: A prospective case-control study was performed, including 60 cases of Crohn's disease. 60 cases of ulcerative colitis and 60 healthy control subjects. The total score of the general health questionnaire was calculated on the basis of 0-0-1-1 system.

Results: The total score of the general health questionnaire was significantly higher in inflammatory bowel disease patients compared to control group (3.70+3,57 vs 0,16+ 0,52, p<0.0001). In inflammatory bowel disease patients, the total score of the general health questionnaire was significantly higher in Crohn's disease patients compared to ulcerative colitis patients (4,40+3,84 vs 3.01+3.18,p=0.03) and in case of active disease compared to quiescent disease (5,57+3.18 vs 1,64+2,78,p<0.0001).

Conclusion: Psychological disorders are frequent in Tunisian patients with inflammatory bowel disease, essentially in patients with Crohn's disease or in case of active disease.