Delays in Diagnosing Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Korea: Impact on Disease Severity and the Need for Early Recognition

BACKGROUND: A delayed diagnosis of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can lead to adverse outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic delay among pediatric patients with IBD, focusing on associations with disease classification, disease activity, and initial management. METHODS: This multicenter retrospective study included pediatric patients who had been diagnosed with IBD across 17 Korean medical centers. Clinical and demographic data were extracted from their medical records. RESULTS: = 0.004). Regarding CD, a long diagnostic delay was associated with fewer extraintestinal symptoms, lower C-reactive protein levels, and lower symptom scores. CONCLUSION: Significant diagnostic delays are primarily due to prolonged intervals between symptom onset and the first physician visit. Public awareness campaigns about IBD symptoms tailored to the growing number of pediatric IBD patients in Korea could be a crucial factor for early diagnosis.