In Western populations the prevalence of ulcerative colitis is approximately 1:1000 and of Crohn's disease, 1:1500, these being the two most common IBDs. David Rampton has assembled an excellent team of contributors, including a patient and a specialist nurse, to explain the background, clinical features and diagnosis, and management of IBD. The easy-to-follow style and simple diagrams will aid the reader in diagnosing and managing this stressful disease.