Perianal disease takes many forms, is very common and can impair quality of life significantly. The symptoms of perianal disease, including pain, bleeding, discharge and pruritus, are common to several conditions that are sometimes difficult to disentangle. It is crucial to identify the serious causes of perianal symptoms, but also to reduce the burden of the less dangerous conditions that nevertheless can be debilitating and interfere with an individual’s work, social or intimate life. Below we discuss some of the frequent and important mistakes made in the management of perianal disease based, where possible, on evidence, and where not, on clinical experience.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common and deadly disease. Advances in understanding the disease have improved diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Genetic factors play a role in some cases of CRC, and identifying hereditary disorders has helped reduce morbidity and mortality. Serrated polyps are also precursors of CRC, and colonoscopy is crucial for screening and prevention. However, colonoscopy is not perfect, and some lesions may be missed. Here we discuss common mistakes in CRC diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, and how to avoid them.

Refractory coeliac disease (RCD) is characterized by the persistence or recurrence of symptoms and signs of malabsorption associated with villous atrophy in patients with coeliac disease who have adhered to a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) for more than 12 months.^1–3 Serology is usually negative or, in a small percentage of cases, positive at a low titre.⁴ Splenic hypofunction, a risk factor for RCD, can be indicated by Howell–Jolly bodies and pitted red cells in a peripheral blood smear. A reduced spleen size visible on ultrasound examination also provides direct evidence of hyposplenism.⁵ 

The introduction and general use of new immunosuppressive agents, including biologic agents and small molecules, has revolutionised the therapeutic management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Such immunosuppression may expose patients to opportunistic infections, which can be challenging to recognise. These infections are crucial due to their association with morbidity or mortality and the challenges regarding effective treatment. New evidence in this field and vaccination strategies for immunosuppressed IBD patients led to updated European Crohn’s and Colitis Organization (ECCO) guidelines in 2021. Here we discuss the errors to avoid when managing the risk of opportunistic infections in IBD patients. The discussion is based on evidence, whenever possible, and our clinical experience.

Tissue sampling during endoscopic procedures is a fundamental aspect of investigating digestive diseases, with histological examination playing a crucial role in almost every case. Given its prevalence, the potential for mistakes is significant. Therefore, understanding the appropriate indications, techniques, and consequences of tissue sampling is essential for gastroenterologists. Key questions to consider before taking a biopsy or acquiring tissue include: Why? What for? How? How many?

This manuscript addresses these critical questions by detailing the eight most frequent and correctable mistakes in tissue acquisition during endoscopy. The recommendations provided are largely supported by existing guidelines and evidence, with some insights drawn from the authors' professional experience.

The relationship between nutrition and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been an area of substantial interest and research for many decades now. Evidence-based nutritional strategies are being utilised as a key part of the therapeutic armamentarium in Crohn’s disease for both induction and maintenance, as primary and adjuvant treatment methods. Exclusive enteral nutrition, for instance, is well established in the treatment of paediatric IBD and adult centres are increasingly incorporating it into treatment models as an effective, drug-free alternative.  The role for partial enteral nutrition and Crohn’s disease specific diets are also being more clearly elucidated. Used appropriately, and through engagement with dietetic support services, nutritional therapies can not only achieve the IBD treatment ‘targets’ but serve to optimise other vital aspects of care, such as growth, bone health, body composition and overall patient well-being. Here we discuss some of the mistakes that are frequently made in the area of nutritional management of IBD. The discussion is evidence based, with key references incorporated for further analysis beyond the scope of this article, and combines several decades of leading clinical and research experience in the area of nutrition and IBD from the authors.