Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases in children and adolescents Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is further increasing in children and adolescents in most Western countries including Finland. The etiologic factors of IBD and possible triggers have remained unclear. The clinical picture in paediatric IBD is more aggressive than in adults and operative intervention is common. Medical therapy is basically in line with the therapy used in adult patients. Optimal treatment is crucial in order to support normal growth and pubertal development. New serological and fecal analyses enhance the diagnostic accuracy and help the screening of the disease. The impact of IBD into the quality of life and psychosocial health has to be considered especially in severe cases.