| [ Summary ] |
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon with unknown etiology. It has rather complicated pathophysiology and clinical decision making is occasionally difficult in regard to the selection of appropriate therapeutic modalities. Practice guidelines for ulcerative colitis were developed in order to support decisions of clinicians and improve outcomes of patients with this disorder. Clinical indicators in the guidelines are based on evidence and consensus of the experts, and are the standard procedures with internal validity. In clinical practice, however, clinicians should apply guidelines flexibly, considering patients' preferences. |