Prediction of clinical outcome in Crohn's disease with confocal laser endomicroscopy: a prospective, observational, follow-up study

Background: Assessment of prognostic factors in Crohn's disease (CD) patients is of important importance for early intervention and “treat to target” strategies. Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy (CLE) enables on demand in vivo characterization of architectural changes during endoscopy. Aim: Prospective evaluation of CLE, endoscopic index of severity (CDEIS) and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) for prediction of clinical outcomes in CD. Methods: Consecutive CD patients undergoing colonoscopy with fluoresceine-aided confocal imaging were enrolled in a blind, observational, follow-up study. Results: Thirty-two CD patien…