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Background & Aims: Inflammatory bowel diseases are still difficult to diagnose and differentiate in some cases despite the serological, imaging, endoscopic and histopathological armamentarium. Raman spectroscopy is a technique that could help with these shortcomings. The aim of this paper is to present the accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Methods: We identified the published manuscripts and abstracts up to the 31st of December 2017 by a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane and other trial registries. Results: Eight publications were found, showing sensitivities and specificities of Raman spectroscopy in diagnosing and differentiating inflammatory bowel diseases ranging from 82 to 99% and 57 to 99%, respectively, and accuracies of up to 95%. Conclusion: The technique has so far proven its potential in the positive and differential diagnosis of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, allowing for very rapid results with high sensitivity and specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Diverticular disease of the colon is a common clinical condition in developed countries, and is associated with significant (direct and indirect) economic burden. The aim of this Position Paper is to provide clinical guidance for appropriate definition, prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of colonic diverticular disease. Methods: A working group of recognized experts established by the Board of the Romanian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (RSGH) screened the literature and the available guidelines on colonic diverticular disease. Statements were formulated based on literature evidence. These statements were discussed within the working group and decision for each of them was taken by consensus. Results: Thirty two statements were elaborated. The grade of recommendation, according to the level of evidence was established for each statement. Short comments with literature support accompany each statement. Conclusion: This Position Paper represents a practical guide for clinicians dealing with patients affected by colonic diverticular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]