Gastroenterology

Biography

Biography: Abigail Basson

Abstract

Signifi cant diff erences in CD susceptibility genotype have been identifi ed between the racial groups in South Africa; however there is no recent data for such groups describing the disease phenotype or clinical features. We performed a cross sectional examination of all consecutive Crohn’s disease (CD) patients seen at 2 large infl ammatory bowel disease (IBD) referral centers in the Western Cape, South Africa between September 2011- January 2013. Numerous demographic and clinical variables at diagnosis and date of study enrolment were identifi ed via; investigator-administered questionnaire; clinical examination; and patient case notes. Using predefi ned defi nitions, disease behaviour was stratifi ed as ‘complicated’ or ‘uncomplicated’. All statistical analysis included only White and Coloured subjects, due to the small number of Black subjects. Over an approximate 17 month period we identifi ed; 35 (18%) White; 152 (78%); Coloured; 7(4%) Black subjects. On multiple logistic regression analysis there was no signifi cant diff erence between Coloured and White subjects with regard to CD location, or CD behaviour at diagnosis. However, signifi cantly more Coloured subjects had developed ‘complicated’ CD (60% vs. 9%) during the disease course compared to Whites. In addition, all Black subjects developed ‘complicated’ CD within 3 years aft er diagnosis. Th ere was no signifi cant inter-racial diff erence in terms of extraintestinal manifestations or medical management. A low proportion of IBD family history was observed among the non-White subjects. Compared to earlier reports, our data suggests a rising CD prevalence among the non-White populations. Th ese observed trends lend support to both diff erent susceptibility genes and variable environmental interactions between racial groups.