Pediatric IBD is a chronic immune-mediated disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. The incidence of pediatric IBD is approximately 10 per 100,000 children in the United States and rising. Furthermore, IBD presenting in children less than six years of age is known as very early-onset IBD (VEO-IBD), accounting for 6-15% of pediatric IBD cases. NCH aims to understand the genetic makeup of IBD within South Florida and support personalized diagnoses and treatment for NCH pediatric patients and their families.

Inclusion Criteria

1. Children and adolescents between 0 months and 20 years old
2. Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease made by a primary gastroenterologist based upon history, physical exam, laboratory/radiological studies, and gastrointestinal histology.
3. Mild, moderate, or severe disease activity based on PCDAI score and PUCAI score.
4. Parent/guardian and the patient must be able to comprehend the consent and assent.
5. Parent/guardian and the patient must be able to attend study visits at baseline and weeks +12, +26, +52, and +72.
6. Patient must not have medication changes for his/her IBD medications for at least 1 month before study enrollment unless medically necessary.

Exclusion Criteria

1. Has had a change of maintenance medication within the last month.
2. Engages in tobacco, alcohol, or illicit drug abuse.
3. Is pregnant.