Evaluation of People With Gastrointestinal Disease

Patients with suspected or established acute or chronic gastrointestinal diseases are evaluated and treated in this protocol and will be screened for entry into other research protocols. This protocol serves several purposes: 1) allows for detailed inquiry into the gastrointestinal disorders of these patients and the status of other organ systems that would determine their ability to safely enroll in active Digestive Diseases Branch (DDB) research protocols; 2) allows investigators to offer clinical diagnostic testing, procedures, and treatment to patients if clinically indicated to facilitate their participation in clinical trials; 3) allows outpatient evaluation and treatment of patients with a variety of gastrointestinal diseases for the purposes of physician education in our accredited gastroenterology training program; and 4) After completion of the initial evaluation process, patients will either be offered a chance to participate in an active research protocol or, if no appropriate protocol is identified, patients may be seen long-term to follow the disease progression for potential future participation in DDB gastrointestinal studies. Recommendations for other treatment options outside of the NIH will be discussed with study patients and/or to their primary or referring physicians.

• INCLUSION CRITERIA:
• Known or suspected gastrointestinal disorders.
• Patients greater than or equal to 18 years of age capable of providing informed consent.
• Existence of a referring community physician who would be able to manage care outside of the NIH.

Exclusion criteria

• Significant medical illnesses that the investigators feel may interfere with potential evaluations.
• Any medical, psychiatric, or social conditions which, in the opinion of the investigators, would make participation in this protocol not in the best interest of the patient.