Magnetic resonance imaging in the management of Crohn's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives Crohn's disease (CD) is a condition that can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, although usually forms in the colon and terminal ileum. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a beneficial modality in the evaluation of small bowel activity. This study reports on a systematic review and meta-analysis of magnetic resonance enterography for the prediction of CD activity and evaluation of outcomes and possible complications. Methods Following the PRISMA guidelines, a total of 25 low-risk studies on established CD were selected, based on a QUADAS-II score of >= 9. Results A sensitivity of 90% was revealed in a pooled analysis of the 19 studies, with heterogeneity of chi(2) = 81.83 and I-2 of 80.3%. Also, a specificity of 89% was calculated, with heterogeneity of chi(2) = 65.12 and I-2 of 70.0%. Conclusion It was concluded that MRI provides an effective alternative to CT enterography in the detection of small bowel activity in CD patients under supervision of radiologist for assessment of disease activity and its complications. Its advantages include the avoidance of radiation exposure and good diagnostic accuracy.

Automated summary

This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of magnetic resonance enterography in the prediction of Crohn's disease activity. It found that MRI has a high sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 89%, making it an effective alternative to CT enterography for assessing disease activity in CD patients.