We decided to make an objective study of the state of the stomach and small intestine in this disease, with special reference to the histological picture as judged by peroral biopsy specimens. In addition to obtaining gastric and small-intestinal specimens, it was our intention to make some studies of small-intestinal function. The full range of tests available for the study of this function takes a considerable time. In dealing with an attack of ulcerative colitis it is essential that treatment be given without undue delay, and, in addition, the patient is often not fit to withstand any disturbing investigation. It has therefore been necessary for us to restrict the tests to one or two which can be carried out in the course of a few days and which do not cause any upset. In the event it has proved possible to estimate the faecal fat excretion and the absorption of vitamin B12 without inconveniencing the patient. Some patients were already on corticosteroid treatment at the time of our studies, but others with first attacks of the disease or with a recent relapse were studied before specific treatment was instituted. The object of this paper is to present the results obtained in a pilot study along the lines just discussed and to consider future possibilities.
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Salem et al. (1964) studied this question.