• Blood tests: Blood tests are generally done to know the presence of certain antibodies can sometimes help diagnose which type of inflammatory bowel disease, but these tests can’t definitely make the diagnosis.

• Colonoscopy: This exam allows to view the inside of the entire colon using a thin, flexible, lighted tube with an attached camera. During the procedure, small samples of tissue (biopsy) for laboratory analysis. Sometimes a tissue sample can help confirm a diagnosis.

• X-ray: A standard X-ray of abdominal area may be done to rule out toxic mega colon or a perforation of the colon if these conditions are suspected because of severe symptoms.

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: In this procedure, doctor uses a slender, flexible, lighted tube to examine the last portion of colon (sigmoid colon).

• Barium enema: This diagnostic test allows to evaluate the entire large intestine with an X-ray. Barium, a contrast solution, is placed into the bowel using an enema. Sometimes, air is added as well. The barium coats the bowel lining, creating a silhouette image of rectum, colon and a portion of the small intestine. This test is rarely and can be dangerous because the pressure required to inflate and coat the colon can lead to rupture of the colon.

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan of the abdomen or pelvis may be performed if your doctor suspects a complication from ulcerative colitis or inflammation of the small intestine that might suggest Crohn’s disease. A CT scan may also reveal how much of the colon is inflamed.

• Stool sample: The presence of white blood cells in the stool indicates an inflammatory disease, possibly IBD. A stool sample is done to rule out other disorders, such as those caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites.

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI scanner uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues. Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets. During the test, the patient lies on a movable table inside the MRI machine. This test is very helpful in diagnosing and managing Crohn’s disease. It’s biggest advantage is that there is no radiation exposure. Its particularly useful for evaluating a fistula around the anal area (pelvic MRI) or the small intestine (MRI enterography).

• Capsule endoscopy: If there are symptoms that suggest Crohn’s disease but other diagnostic tests are negative, the doctor may perform capsule endoscopy. For this test patient needs to swallow a capsule that has a tiny camera in it. The camera takes pictures as it moves through the digestive tract, and the images are transmitted to a computer. The doctor can see the images, which are then displayed on a monitor and checked for signs of Crohn’s disease. Once it’s made the trip through the digestive system, the camera exits the body painlessly in stool.

• Double-balloon endoscopy: For this test, a longer scope is used where standard endoscopes don’t reach. This technique is useful when capsule endoscopy shows abnormalities but the diagnosis is still not clear. It allows for biopsy of the abnormal area. It’s usually performed in specialized endoscopy centers.