Consensus and controversy in the management of pediatric Crohn disease: an international survey

The Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence, Implementation Strategies, Practical Guidance, and Future Directions

Dietary therapy is increasingly recognized for the management of Crohn's disease (CD) over recent years, including the use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) as first-line therapy for pediatric CD according to current guidelines. The Crohn's disease exclusion diet (CDED) is a whole-food diet designed to reduce exposure to dietary components that are potentially pro-inflammatory, mediated by negative effects on the gut microbiota, immune response, and the intestinal barrier. The CDED has emerged as a valid alternative to EEN with cumulative evidence, including randomized controlled trials, supporting use for induction of remission and possibly maintenance in children and adults. We gathered a group of multidisciplinary experts, including pediatric and adult gastroenterologists, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) expert dietitians, and a psychologist to discuss the evidence, identify gaps, and provide insights into improving the use of CDED based on a comprehensive review of CDED literature and professional experience. This article reviews the management of CDED in both children and adults, long-term aspects of CDED, indications and contraindications, selecting the best candidates, identifying challenges with CDED, globalization, the role of the multidisciplinary team, especially of dietitian, and future directions. We concluded that CDED is an established dietary therapy that could serve as an alternative to EEN in many pediatric and adult cases, especially with mild to moderate disease. In severe disease, complicated phenotypes, or with extraintestinal involvement, CDED should be considered on a case-by-case basis, according to physician and dietitians' discretion. More studies are warranted to assess the efficacy of CDED in different scenarios.

Natural History of Pediatric Patients With Crohn's Disease Treated With Mesalamine Therapy

Background

5-aminosalicylates (5-ASA) are used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. Despite their lack of efficacy in Crohn disease (CD), they are still used in real-world practice. Additionally, when patients have progressive disease, they may escalate to biologic therapy, at which time 5-ASA may or may not be discontinued.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to assess the clinical outcomes of patients started on 5-ASA for the treatment of pediatric CD. The secondary aims were to evaluate the outcomes of those who continue 5-ASA to those who discontinue 5-ASA upon biologic escalation.

Methods

We performed a single-center retrospective chart review of pediatric CD patients from 2010 to 2019 who were initially treated with 5-ASA. Demographics, medication and laboratory data, and clinical disease activity were collected.

Results

Sixty-one patients were included in the study; the majority had inflammatory CD with ileocolonic involvement. Twenty-four patients were on a concomitant immunomodulator. The majority of patients (85.2%) required escalation to biologics. Thirty-two patients (61.5%) who escalated to biologic therapy continued on 5-ASA. Eighty percent of patients achieved clinical remission at 1 year, and there was no difference between those who continued 5-ASA at time of biologic initiation compared to those who did not continue the medication. Patients who discontinued 5-ASA had an average annual cost savings of $6741.

Conclusion

5-ASA is not a durable monotherapy for the treatment of pediatric CD. Patients who require escalation from 5-ASA to biologic therapy do not benefit from concomitant 5-ASA therapy. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Global attitudes on and the status of enteral nutrition therapy for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

Enteral nutrition (EN) is a diet-remission therapy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that plays a more important role in children than adults. EN includes exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN), partial enteral nutrition (PEN), and maintenance enteral nutrition (MEN). However, EEN remains an unstandardized treatment for pediatric IBD. The types and methods of EN differ around the world. The current study reviewed the EN literature on children with IBD. A total of 12 survey studies were identified that analyzed the current state of EN use, including clinical opinions, implementation methods, treatment course, EEN formula, IBD classification, progress, dietary reintroduction, and patient feedback. The findings revealed that EEN has a strong effect on mild to moderate Crohn's disease (CD). The usage rates of this treatment in different sites were ileum/colon (Paris classification L3) > ileum (L1) > upper digestive tract (L4) > colon (L2) > perianal disease (P) > ulcerative colitis (UC) > extraintestinal lesions. The polymeric formula was the most used EN formulation. New EN diets include a CD exclusion diet (CDED), a specific carbohydrate diet (SCD), and a CD treatment-with-eating (CD-TREAT) diet. Children with IBD responded similarly to EEN administered orally or using a feeding tube. Most guidelines recommended 6-8 weeks of EEN treatment to induce remission. Many clinicians preferred to combine drug medications during EEN and recommended that MEN accounts for at least 25-35% of daily caloric intake. EN remains an unstandardized therapy that requires teamwork across disciplines.

Implementation of exclusive enteral nutrition in pediatric patients with Crohn's disease-results of a survey of CEDATA-GPGE reporting centers

BACKGROUND

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is the first-line therapy for pediatric-onset Crohn's disease (CD) patients. CEDATA-GPGE® is the largest patient registry for children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Europe, collecting data from over 5000 patients since 2004 in Germany and Austria. Since the application of EEN over 8 weeks is difficult and a high dropout rate is often described, the mode of application including a supporting structure is crucial for success. The aim of this study was to ascertain the variation in the application of EEN across the participating centers and to associate these with the outcome.

RESULTS

Thirty-one centers responded to the survey (81.6%). 88.5% of CD patients were recommended EEN for induction therapy, 71.8% actually started with EEN, and 22.1% terminated the EEN prematurely. The duration of EEN typically lasted 6 to 8 weeks, and the polymeric formula was mainly used. 80.6% of the clinics added flavorings to the formulas. After EEN, the most preferred diet for maintenance therapy was a healthy, well-balanced diet considering individual intolerances.

CONCLUSIONS

EEN is widely recommended as an induction therapy by the German and Austrian pediatric gastroenterologists for children and adolescents with CD. However, this questionnaire-based study has shown a wide variation in EEN protocols used by the different pediatric clinics of CEDATA-GPGE®.

Declining Use of Corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease Has Implications for Study Recruitment: Results of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Corticosteroids (CS) have been used extensively to induce remission in Crohn’s disease (CD); however, they are associated with severe side effects. We hypothesized that the administration of an exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) formula to CS would lead to increased CD remission rates and to decreased CS-related adverse events. We proposed to undertake a pilot study comparing EEN and CS therapy to CS alone to assess decrease symptoms and inflammatory markers over 6 weeks.

Aim

The overall aim was to assess study feasibility based on recruitment rates and acceptability of treatment in arms involving EEN

Methods

The pilot study intended to recruit 100 adult patients with active CD who had been prescribed CS to induce remission as part of their care. The patients were randomized to one of three arms: (i) standard-dose CS; (ii) standard-dose CS plus EEN (Modulen 1.5 kcal); or (iii) short-course CS plus EEN.

Results

A total of 2009 CD patients attending gastroenterology clinics were screened from October 2018 to November 2019. Prednisone was prescribed to only 6.8% (27/399) of patients with active CD attending outpatient clinics. Of the remaining 372 patients with active CD, 34.8% (139/399) started or escalated immunosuppressant or biologics, 49.6% (198/399) underwent further investigation and 8.8% (35/399) were offered an alternative treatment (e.g., antibiotics, surgery or investigational agents in clinical trials). Only three patients were enrolled in the study (recruitment rate 11%; 3/27), and the study was terminated for poor recruitment.

Conclusion

The apparent decline in use of CS for treatment of CD has implications for CS use as an entry criterion for clinical trials.

Parent Perspectives on Exclusive Enteral Nutrition for the Treatment of Pediatric Crohn Disease

OBJECTIVES

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is infrequently used in the United States but is an effective treatment for pediatric Crohn disease (CD). Limited data exists regarding patient and parent perspectives on this treatment modality. The aim of this study was to determine parent and provider perspectives regarding EEN and understand parent-cited barriers to its use.

METHODS

We surveyed the parents/guardians of children ages 1 through 17 with CD in our institution regarding EEN. Healthcare provider perspectives regarding reason for stopping EEN and those cited by survey respondents were compared using retrospective chart review.

RESULTS

One hundred fifteen (62.5%) out of 184 recipients responded to the survey. Ninety percentage of respondents had heard of EEN but of these, 26% had not discussed it with their gastroenterologist. Thirty-eight patients (33%) were treated in the past and 15 (13%) were currently on EEN. Common barriers cited by current EEN users were cost/finances and difficult social situations. Of the children who stopped EEN, most did so as parents felt it was not working (n = 14, 37%). In these cases, their primary gastroenterologist cited treatment failure for 4 cases and nonadherence for 6.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the efficacy of EEN and interest in dietary treatments by patients with CD, there are many barriers surrounding effective communication and successful implementation of dietary therapies. Future research is needed regarding patient-physician communication, cost mitigation, and coping with the social limitations of dietary therapies.

Systematic review with meta-analysis of partial enteral nutrition for the maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease

Although enteral nutrition (EN) is effective for induction therapy in Crohn's disease (CD), it remains unclear whether partial enteral nutrition (PEN), i.e., EN, along with a daily diet, is effective for maintenance therapy in CD. It was hypothesized that PEN would be effective as a maintenance therapy in CD. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PEN for maintenance therapy in CD. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched up to January 2019 for eligible prospective controlled trials, and then a meta-analysis was conducted. The primary outcome was clinical relapse, as defined in the primary studies. Eight studies with 429 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The rate of clinical relapse at 0.5 to 2 years was significantly lower in patients receiving PEN (420-1800 kcal/d) than in those not receiving nutrition therapy (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.54-0.82, P < .01; number needed to treat = 5, P < .01). Patients receiving PEN exhibited a higher frequency of clinical remission maintenance at 0.5 to 1 year (67%) than did those not receiving nutrition therapy (48%; RR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.07-1.64, P = .01). The total adverse event rate was comparable in the two groups (RR: 3.60, 95% CI: 0.70-18.66, P = .13). PEN may be more effective than the absence of EN therapy for the maintenance of remission in CD with a good safety profile.

The pharmacotherapeutic management of pediatric Crohn's disease

Introduction: Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory condition that can occur throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The aims of treatment of children with CD are to induce and maintain clinical remission of disease, optimize nutrition and growth, minimize adverse effects of therapies, and if possible, achieve mucosal healing.Areas covered: This review summarizes evidence for the various therapeutic options in the treatment of children with CD. Exclusive enteral nutrition, corticosteroids, and biologics may be used for induction of remission. Immunomodulators (thiopurines, methotrexate) and biologics (infliximab, adalimumab) may be employed for maintenance of remission to prevent flares of disease and avoid chronic steroid use. In cases of fibrotic disease, intestinal perforations, or medically refractory, surgery may be the best therapeutic option.Expert opinion: Exclusive enteral nutrition, corticosteroids, and biologics (including anti-TNF inhibitors) may be used for induction of remission in patients with active flare of their disease. Immunomodulators and TNF inhibitors may be used for maintenance of remission. Early use of anti-TNF inhibitors in patients with moderate to severe CD may improve efficacy and prevent penetrating complications of disease. While pediatric data is limited, newer biologics, such as vedolizumab and ustekinumab, are used off-label in anti-TNF refractory disease.

Benefits of Exclusive Enteral Nutrition in Adults With Complex Active Crohn’s Disease: A Case Series of 13 Consecutive Patients

Background and Aims

Immunosuppressive therapy is routine for adults with complex active Crohn’s disease (CD), however carries risks, particularly in the setting of sepsis. Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is widely used in paediatric CD, yet efficacy data in adults are sparse. This study evaluated outcomes of EEN in adults with complex active CD.

Methods

Between December 2016 and June 2018, 13 patients with complex active CD (range 20–74 years) managed at a single hospital received 2 or more weeks of EEN. Patients were offered EEN based on either malnutrition, contraindication to immunosuppression, or CD refractory to multiple therapies. Subjective and objective outcomes were recorded at 2 and 6 weeks and compared with baseline data.

Results

Nine of 13 patients experienced subjective improvement in wellbeing. Objective improvements included nine CRP decrements (median = 87.7 mg/L, IQR = 70.6 mg/L), nine serum albumin increments (median = 7 g/L, IQR = 4 g/L), and six gained weight (median = 3.6 kg, IQR = 3.0 kg). All five patients with complex abscess resolved without surgery. One ileocolic fistula and one enterocutaneous fistula achieved resolution without surgery. One of two perianal fistulae cases resolved without surgery. Seven of 10 patients initially thought to need surgery avoided it due to disease resolution. Only one of the three patients who proceeded to surgery sustained a post-operative complication. There were no EEN-associated complications.

Conclusions

In complex active CD, our real-world data show that EEN improves wellbeing, decreases inflammatory markers, leads to healthy weight gain, reduces need for surgical intervention, and reduces postoperative complications.

Enteral Nutrition in Adult Crohn's Disease: Toward a Paradigm Shift

Medical and surgical treatments for Crohn's disease are associated with toxic effects. Medical therapy aims for mucosal healing and is achievable with biologics, immunosuppressive therapy, and specialised enteral nutrition, but not with corticosteroids. Sustained remission remains a therapeutic challenge. Enteral nutrition, containing macro- and micro-nutrients, is nutritionally complete, and is provided in powder or liquid form. Enteral nutrition is a low-risk and minimally invasive therapy. It is well-established and recommended as first line induction therapy in paediatric Crohn's disease with remission rates of up to 80%. Other than in Japan, enteral nutrition is not routinely used in the adult population among Western countries, mainly due to unpalatable formulations which lead to poor compliance. This study aims to offer a comprehensive review of available enteral nutrition formulations and the literature supporting the use and mechanisms of action of enteral nutrition in adult Crohn's disease patients, in order to support clinicians in real world decision-making when offering/accepting treatment. The mechanisms of actions of enteral feed, including their impact on the gut microbiome, were explored. Barriers to the use of enteral nutrition, such as compliance and the route of administration, were considered. All available enteral preparations have been comprehensively described as a practical guide for clinical use. Likewise, guidelines are reported and discussed.

Exclusive enteral nutrition in children with inflammatory bowel disease: Physician perspectives and practice

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is recognized internationally as the first line of treatment for children with active Crohn's disease (CD). A survey conducted a decade ago demonstrated that 40% of Australian pediatric gastroenterologists did not think EEN to be an appropriate treatment for CD. This study aimed to explore the current attitudes of Australian and New Zealand (NZ) pediatric gastroenterologists toward the use of EEN in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

All practicing pediatric gastroenterologists in Australia and NZ were invited via an existing email network to complete an anonymous online questionnaire.

RESULTS

The questionnaire was completed by 37 respondents (54% response rate), 31 from Australia and 6 from NZ. All respondents felt that EEN definitely or probably has a role in inducing remission for children with newly diagnosed CD. Australian gastroenterologists were more likely to use EEN for relapsed CD or IBD-unclassified than NZ doctors (P < 0.05). Adherence was reported to be the greatest disadvantage of EEN. Dietitians were believed to play the most crucial role in EEN administration. Variations in EEN protocols included the use of flavorings or fluids during EEN and different patterns of food reintroduction.

CONCLUSIONS

These Australia and NZ pediatric gastroenterologists felt that EEN plays an important role in the induction of remission in children with newly diagnosed CD. However, the perceived role of EEN use in other types of IBD varied. EEN protocols varied widely between centers. Attitudes toward the roles of EEN have altered greatly across Australasia over the last decade.

The Use of 5-Aminosalicylic Acid in Children and Adolescents With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND

In ulcerative colitis (UC) 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) is recommended as primary therapy for mild to moderate disease. Topical 5-ASA has been proven especially effective. In Crohn's disease (CD) the evidence for a beneficial role of 5-ASA is weak. We investigated the use of topical and systemic 5-ASA therapy in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of patients younger than 18 years, registered between April 2008 and December 2015 in the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort, were analyzed.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients were included; 189 with CD and 131 with UC. Over one third of UC patients [51 (39%)] received topical 5-ASA therapy and 43 (33%) received combination therapy during their disease course. UC patients with left-sided colitis or proctitis were more likely to receive topical or combination therapy as compared with patients with pancolitis (P<0.001 and <0.001, respectively). An increase in the use of topical 5-ASA therapy in UC patients was noted over time from 5% to 38%. Forty-seven percent of CD patients were treated with oral 5-ASA during their disease course. The usage was stable over time at approximately 15% to 20%.

CONCLUSIONS

In recent years a very positive trend showing an increase in topical 5-ASA therapy in children and adolescents with UC has been observed. However topical therapy is still used with relative low frequency, especially in patients with a more extensive disease. Conversely, despite weak evidence supporting 5-ASA use in CD patients it has been frequently prescribed. Physicians should continue to encourage their UC patients to use topical therapy.

Using Quality Improvement to Increase Utilization of Enteral Therapy in Pediatric Crohn Disease: Results and Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) for induction of remission in children with Crohn disease (CD) is recommended as first-line therapy, but underutilized in the United States related to real and perceived barriers. We hypothesized that quality improvement (QI) methodology could increase use of EEN.

METHODS

We developed, implemented, and revised an algorithm and a set of tools to facilitate use of EEN. Through a series of Plan Do Study Act cycles, the approach was modified to overcome provider and patient/family barriers. The primary outcome, the percentage of newly diagnosed CD patients who receive EEN per month between July 2013 and October 2015, assessed using statistical process control. Secondary outcomes, including the short pediatric Crohn disease activity index (sPCDAI), body mass index (BMI) z score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, and hemoglobin were compared before and after EEN.

RESULTS

Among patients newly diagnosed with CD, 73 patients initiated EEN and were included (mean age 12.7 ± 2.9 years, 49% girls, 86% white). Rates of utilization of EEN increased significantly from a baseline of <5% to an average of approximately 50%. Of the 73 patients who started EEN, 37 (50%) completed a minimum of 8 weeks. Of those completing therapy, 25 (71%) achieved remission, with a significant reduction of sPCDAI (33.6 ± 14.4 to 10.7 ± 12.3, P < 0.0001) CONCLUSIONS:: Use of QI methodology to systematically implement tools designed to improve utilization was effective in increasing the use of EEN. Among those completing therapy, EEN was effective in inducing remission.

Enteral nutritional therapy for induction of remission in Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroids are often preferred over enteral nutrition (EN) as induction therapy for Crohn's disease (CD). Prior meta-analyses suggest that corticosteroids are superior to EN for induction of remission in CD. Treatment failures in EN trials are often due to poor compliance, with dropouts frequently due to poor acceptance of a nasogastric tube and unpalatable formulations. This systematic review is an update of a previously published Cochrane review.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of exclusive EN as primary therapy to induce remission in CD and to examine the importance of formula composition on effectiveness.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL from inception to 5 July 2017. We also searched references of retrieved articles and conference abstracts.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials involving patients with active CD were considered for inclusion. Studies comparing one type of EN to another type of EN or conventional corticosteroids were selected for review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were extracted independently by at least two authors. The primary outcome was clinical remission. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, serious adverse events and withdrawal due to adverse events. For dichotomous outcomes, we calculated the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). A random-effects model was used to pool data. We performed intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses for the primary outcome. Heterogeneity was explored using the Chi² and I² statistics. The studies were separated into two comparisons: one EN formulation compared to another EN formulation and EN compared to corticosteroids. Subgroup analyses were based on formula composition and age. Sensitivity analyses included abstract publications and poor quality studies. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool to assess study quality. We used the GRADE criteria to assess the overall quality of the evidence supporting the primary outcome and selected secondary outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies (1,011 participants) were included. Three studies were rated as low risk of bias. Seven studies were rated as high risk of bias and 17 were rated as unclear risk of bias due to insufficient information. Seventeen trials compared different formulations of EN, 13 studies compared one or more elemental formulas to a non-elemental formula, three studies compared EN diets of similar protein composition but different fat composition, and one study compared non-elemental diets differing in glutamine enrichment. Meta-analysis of 11 trials (378 participants) demonstrated no difference in remission rates. Sixty-four per cent (134/210) of patients in the elemental group achieved remission compared to 62% (105/168) of patients in the non-elemental group (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.18; GRADE very low quality). A per-protocol analysis (346 participants) produced similar results (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.18). Subgroup analyses performed to evaluate the different types of elemental and non-elemental diets (elemental, semi-elemental and polymeric) showed no differences in remission rates. An analysis of 7 trials including 209 patients treated with EN formulas of differing fat content (low fat: < 20 g/1000 kCal versus high fat: > 20 g/1000 kCal) demonstrated no difference in remission rates (RR 1.03; 95% CI 0.85 to 1.26). Very low fat content (< 3 g/1000 kCal) and very low long chain triglycerides demonstrated higher remission rates than higher content EN formulas. There was no difference between elemental and non-elemental diets in adverse event rates (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.60; GRADE very low quality), or withdrawals due to adverse events (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.09; GRADE very low quality). Common adverse events included nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and bloating.Ten trials compared EN to steroid therapy. Meta-analysis of eight trials (223 participants) demonstrated no difference in remission rates between EN and steroids. Fifty per cent (111/223) of patients in the EN group achieved remission compared to 72% (133/186) of patients in the steroid group (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.03; GRADE very low quality). Subgroup analysis by age showed a difference in remission rates for adults but not for children. In adults 45% (87/194) of EN patients achieved remission compared to 73% (116/158) of steroid patients (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.82; GRADE very low quality). In children, 83% (24/29) of EN patients achieved remission compared to 61% (17/28) of steroid patients (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.97; GRADE very low quality). A per-protocol analysis produced similar results (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.14). The per-protocol subgroup analysis showed a difference in remission rates for both adults (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.95) and children (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.97). There was no difference in adverse event rates (RR 1.39, 95% CI 0.62 to 3.11; GRADE very low quality). However, patients on EN were more likely to withdraw due to adverse events than those on steroid therapy (RR 2.95, 95% CI 1.02 to 8.48; GRADE very low quality). Common adverse events reported in the EN group included heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea and vomiting, and for steroid therapy acne, moon facies, hyperglycemia, muscle weakness and hypoglycemia. The most common reason for withdrawal was inability to tolerate the EN diet.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Very low quality evidence suggests that corticosteroid therapy may be more effective than EN for induction of clinical remission in adults with active CD. Very low quality evidence also suggests that EN may be more effective than steroids for induction of remission in children with active CD. Protein composition does not appear to influence the effectiveness of EN for the treatment of active CD. EN should be considered in pediatric CD patients or in adult patients who can comply with nasogastric tube feeding or perceive the formulations to be palatable, or when steroid side effects are not tolerated or better avoided. Further research is required to confirm the superiority of corticosteroids over EN in adults. Further research is required to confirm the benefit of EN in children. More effort from industry should be taken to develop palatable polymeric formulations that can be delivered without use of a nasogastric tube as this may lead to increased patient adherence with this therapy.

Enteral Nutrition for Pediatric Crohn's Disease: An Underutilized Therapy

Enteral nutrition (EN) for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD) involves administration of a liquid nutrition product, administered orally or through tube feeding, while excluding typical dietary components. It is a safe and effective, but largely underused, therapy in the United States as a treatment for CD. EN is a particularly attractive option for pediatric CD as it avoids side effects of corticosteroids, improves growth, and may have a higher likelihood of achieving mucosal healing than some traditional medications. However, there are multiple real and perceived barriers to its use among providers. A comprehensive approach to addressing these barriers to EN may result in its increased use. This paper reviews the literature on the efficacy of EN, methods of utilization, and potential barriers and solutions to those barriers.

Exclusive enteral nutrition in Crohn's disease: Evidence and practicalities

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is the first line therapy for paediatric Crohn's disease, providing a complete nutritional feed whilst simultaneously inducing remission in up to 80% of cases. The effect of EEN on systemic/local intestinal immune function and subsequent inflammation (including barrier permeability, direct anti-inflammatory effects and cytokine signalling pathways), alongside changes in the microbiome (specific species and broad taxonomic shifts, functional changes) are becoming clearer, however the exact mechanism for induction of remission in Crohn's disease remains uncertain. The evidence of efficacy in paediatric Crohn's disease is strong, with selected adult populations also benefiting from EEN. However despite recommendations from all major societies (ECCO, ESPGHAN, NASPGHAN and ESPEN) first-line use of EEN is varied and Europe/Australasia/Canada show significantly more routine use than other parts of North America. Growth and nutritional status are significantly improved with EEN compared to corticosteroids but long-term outcomes are sparse. This review discusses the evidence underlying the use of EEN, highlighting the mechanisms thought to underlie how EEN induces remission in Crohn's disease, when and how to use EEN, including practical issues in both paediatric and adult practice (formulation, compliance, volumes and administration), and summarises the ongoing research priorities.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: enteral nutrition therapy for the induction of remission in paediatric Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Despite potential adverse-events in a paediatric population, corticosteroids are used to induce remission in paediatric Crohn's disease. Exclusive enteral nutrition also induces remission, but is infrequently used in the USA because corticosteroids are considered the superior therapy. New data have become available since the publication of the most recent meta-analysis in 2007.

AIM

To see if current literature supports the use of EEN versus CS in paediatric populations.

METHODS

All studies with comparator arms of exclusive enteral nutrition and an exclusive corticosteroids, with remission clearly defined were identified by searching eight online databases.

RESULTS

Of 2795 identified sources, nine studies met our inclusion criteria. Eight of these (n = 451), had data that could be abstracted into our meta-analysis. Exclusive enteral nutrition was as effective as corticosteroids in inducing remission (OR = 1.26 [95% CI 0.77, 2.05]) in paediatric Crohn's disease. There was no difference between Exclusive enteral nutrition and corticosteroids efficacy when comparing newly diagnosed Crohn's (OR = 1.61 [95% CI .87, 2.98]) or relapsed (OR = 0.76 [95% CI .29-1.98]). Intestinal healing was significantly more likely among patients receiving Exclusive enteral nutrition compared to corticosteroids (OR = 4.5 [95% CI 1.64, 12.32]). There was no difference in the frequency of biomarker normalisation including CRP (OR = 0.85 [95% CI .44, 1.67]) and faecal calprotectin (OR 2.79 [95% CI .79-10.90]).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference in efficacy between exclusive enteral nutrition and corticosteroids in induction of remission in Crohn's disease in a paediatric population. Exploratory analyses suggest that a greater proportion of patients treated with exclusive enteral nutrition achieved mucosal healing.

Japanese physicians' attitudes towards enteral nutrition treatment for pediatric patients with Crohn's disease: a questionnaire survey

Background/Aims

Enteral nutrition (EN) is recommended for the treatment of pediatric Crohn's disease (CD) in Japan. However, the indications and treatment protocols for EN vary among hospitals. In the present study, we aimed to determine how EN was administered to pediatric patients and whether physicians followed treatment guidelines in their practices.

Methods

Two types of questionnaires were administered to 32 physicians who were involved in the treatment of pediatric CD. The consensus questionnaire evaluated the physicians' attitudes towards EN, whereas the efficacy questionnaire collected data on patients with CD, aged <17 years, who had undergone induction therapy between 2006 and 2011.

Results

A total of 23 physicians responded to the questionnaires. The results of the consensus questionnaire indicated that 82% and 59% of study participants recommended EN treatment for all newly diagnosed pediatric patients with CD and all relapsed patients, respectively. Exclusive EN (EEN) and elemental formula were recommended by 84% and 85% of physicians, respectively. The efficacy questionnaire revealed that 57 of the 58 patients received EN. Elemental formula was used in 39 of 40 patients who were treated with EEN. Of these 40 patients, 27 were treated with EEN alone; of these, 22 (81%) achieved remission without any other treatment. The mean duration of EEN was 15.9 days.

Conclusions

EN is widely recommended by physicians treating pediatric CD in Japan. In contrast to Western countries, clinicians used elemental formula more often and with a shorter EEN treatment duration.

The Impact of Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN) on the Gut Microbiome in Crohn's Disease: A Review

Crohn’s disease (CD), a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is thought to arise from a complex interaction of genetics, the gut microbiome, and environmental factors, such as diet. There is clear evidence that dietary intervention is successful in the treatment of CD—exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is able to induce remission in up to 80% of CD patients. While the mechanism of action of EEN is not clear, EEN is known to cause profound changes in the gut microbiome. Understanding how EEN modifies the gut microbiome to induce remission could provide insight into CD etiopathogenesis and aid the development of microbiome-targeted interventions to guide ongoing dietary therapy to sustain remission. This review includes current literature on changes in composition and function of the gut microbiome associated with EEN treatment in CD patients.

Characteristics of Pediatric Crohn's Disease in Saudi Children: A Multicenter National Study

Background and Aims. Crohn's disease (CD) is an evolving disease in KSA. Little is known about its characteristics in the Saudi population. The aims of this study were to describe the characteristics of Saudi children with CD and to determine whether the characteristics of CD in KSA are different from those seen in Western countries. Methods. In this study, children younger than eighteen years of age diagnosed with CD between January 2003 and December 2012 were included. Results. Of 330 patients identified, 186 (56.4%) were males. The median age at diagnosis was 15.8 years. A positive family history for IBD in first-degree relatives occurred in 13.6% of patients. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain (84.2%), weight loss (75.2%), and diarrhea (71.8%). The main disease location was ileocolonic (42.1%) and the main disease behavior was nonstricturing and nonpenetrating (63.6%). Perianal involvement was seen in 60 (18.2%) patients. Laboratory findings revealed anemia in 57.9% of patients, low albumin in 34.5%, and high CRP in 39.4%. Conclusions. Saudi children with CD have lower frequency of first-degree relatives with IBD, lower prevalence of early onset disease, longer diagnostic delay, higher prevalence of growth failure, and greater frequency of stricturing and penetrating disease behavior compared to Western patients.

Toward enteral nutrition for the treatment of pediatric Crohn disease in Canada: a workshop to identify barriers and enablers

The treatment armamentarium in pediatric Crohn disease (CD) is very similar to adult-onset CD with the notable exception of the use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN [the administration of a liquid formula diet while excluding normal diet]), which is used more frequently by pediatric gastroenterologists to induce remission. In pediatric CD, EEN is now recommended by the pediatric committee of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation and the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition as a first-choice agent to induce remission, with remission rates in pediatric studies consistently >75%. To chart and address enablers and barriers of use of EEN in Canada, a workshop was held in September 2014 in Toronto (Ontario), inviting pediatric gastroenterologists, nurses and dietitians from most Canadian pediatric IBD centres as well as international faculty from the United States and Europe with particular research and clinical expertise in the dietary management of pediatric CD. Workshop participants ranked the exclusivity of enteral nutrition; the health care resources; and cost implications as the top three barriers to its use. Conversely, key enablers mentioned included: standardization and sharing of protocols for use of enteral nutrition; ensuring sufficient dietetic resources; and reducing the cost of EEN to the family (including advocacy for reimbursement by provincial ministries of health and private insurance companies). Herein, the authors report on the discussions during this workshop and list strategies to enhance the use of EEN as a treatment option in the treatment of pediatric CD in Canada.

Epithelial CaSR deficiency alters intestinal integrity and promotes proinflammatory immune responses

The intestinal epithelium is equipped with sensing receptor mechanisms that interact with luminal microorganisms and nutrients to regulate barrier function and gut immune responses, thereby maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Herein, we clarify the role of the extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) using intestinal epithelium-specific Casr(-/-) mice. Epithelial CaSR deficiency diminished intestinal barrier function, altered microbiota composition, and skewed immune responses towards proinflammatory. Consequently, Casr(-/-) mice were significantly more prone to chemically induced intestinal inflammation resulting in colitis. Accordingly, CaSR represents a potential therapeutic target for autoinflammatory disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases.

Enteral nutrition in Crohn's disease: an underused therapy

This paper reviews the literature on the history, efficacy, and putative mechanism of action of enteral nutrition for inflammatory bowel disease in both paediatric and adult patients. It also analyses the reasoning behind the low popularity of exclusive enteral nutrition in clinical practice despite the benefits and safety profile.

The epidemiology of anemia in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease: prevalence and associated factors at diagnosis and follow-up and the impact of exclusive enteral nutrition

BACKGROUND

Anemia is poorly studied in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. This study explored the epidemiology and associated factors of anemia at diagnosis, after 1 year, and during treatment with exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN).

METHODS

Three cohorts were included: (1) a representative population of newly diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease children (n = 184); (2) patients currently receiving care with data available at diagnosis (n = 179) and after 1 year (n = 139); and (3) 84 children treated with EEN.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, 72% were anemic. Abnormal inflammatory markers were more common in Crohn's disease with severe anemia (severe versus no anemia [%]: raised C-reactive protein; 89% versus 48%; suboptimal albumin; 97% versus 29%; P < 0.002). Anemic children with Crohn's disease had shorter diagnosis delay and lower BMI than nonanemic patients (severe versus mild versus no anemia, median [interquartile range]; diagnosis delay [months]: 3 [3.9] versus 6 [10] versus 8 [18], P < 0.001; BMI z score [SD]: -1.4 [1.4] versus -1.3 [1.5] versus -0.2 [1.4], P = 0.003). Extensive colitis was associated with severe anemia in ulcerative colitis. The proportion of severely anemic patients decreased from 34% to 9% and mild anemia doubled at 1 year. After EEN, severe anemia decreased (32% to 9%; P < 0.001) and the hemoglobin concentration increased by 0.75 g/dL. This was observed only after 8 weeks of treatment. Disease improvement and low hemoglobin at EEN initiation but not weight gain were associated with hemoglobin improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia is high at diagnosis and follow-up and should receive more attention from the clinical team; however, the focus should remain suppression of inflammatory process in active disease.

Exclusive enteral nutrition and induction of remission of active Crohn's disease in children

Exclusive enteral nutrition is an effective therapy for the management of active Crohn's disease, especially in children and adolescents. This therapeutic approach involves the use of a liquid nutritional product with the exclusion of normal diet for a period of many weeks. Although recent studies have helped to delineate some aspects of how exclusive enteral nutrition should be used, there remain many gaps in our understanding. In addition, several recent reports have provided intriguing insights into the mechanisms of this nutritional approach.

Impact of exclusive enteral nutrition on body composition and circulating micronutrients in plasma and erythrocytes of children with active Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Nutritional therapy is the primary treatment for active pediatric Crohn's disease (CD) in the UK/Europe, improving disease activity and anthropometry. This study assessed changes in micronutrient status during exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN).

METHODS

Seventeen children (male/female: 8/9; median age: 12.7 years) with active CD were treated exclusively for 6-8 weeks on a polymeric feed (Modulen IBD; Nestle, UK). Body impedance was measured at baseline, during EEN, and posttreatment on normal diet and converted to z-scores of fat and lean mass. Blood samples for nutrient analysis were collected from 13 children at baseline, end of EEN, and posttreatment.

RESULTS

Lean but not fat mass improved at the end of EEN (initiation vs. end of EEN; fat mass [z-score]: -0.5 vs. -0.3; P = 0.141; lean mass [z-score]: -2.1 vs. -0.8; P < 0.0001). At baseline several children presented with suboptimal concentrations of carotenoids, trace elements, vitamin C, B6, and folate in plasma but not in erythrocytes. EEN improved concentrations for several nutrients, but more than 90% of patients had depleted concentrations of all carotenoids. The latter improved on normal diet but other micronutrients, which improved during EEN, returned toward pretreatment concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Lean but not fat mass improved at the end of EEN. Median concentrations for several plasma micronutrients improved on EEN but carotenoids were depleted. These findings may have implications for clinical practice and producers of enteral feeds. As plasma concentrations for many micronutrients can be affected by the acute phase response, measurements in erythrocytes may be a better marker of actual body stores.

An update of the role of nutritional therapy in the management of Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease is an increasingly global health concern. Currently without a cure, it significantly alters the quality of life of Crohn's disease sufferers and places a heavy financial burden on the community. Recent reports show that the rising prevalence of Crohn's disease is no longer confined to Western countries, with considerable increases seen particularly in Asia. Nutritional problems are often associated with Crohn's disease, most notably in the paediatric population, with underweight and stunting commonly seen at presentation. In addition, linear growth retardation and pubertal delay can also manifest in these younger patients. Therefore, exclusive enteral nutrition has been used as a therapeutic option to treat Crohn's disease, in part to address the nutritional complications of the disease. Exclusive enteral nutrition can improve nutrition as well as induce remission at a rate equivalent to corticosteroids. It is safe particularly with long-term use and can induce mucosal healing, considered the gold standard for therapy, at a rate superior to corticosteroids. Exclusive enteral nutrition has thus become the preferred therapeutic option in many centres for the treatment of paediatric Crohn's disease. This review discusses the role of exclusive enteral nutrition as a therapeutic option for the treatment of Crohn's disease, as well as the latest findings into its mechanisms of action.

International survey of enteral nutrition protocols used in children with Crohn's disease

OBJECTIVE

  Differing protocols have been utilized in published studies evaluating exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in the management of active pediatric Crohn's disease. This study aimed to ascertain the protocols currently utilized in different pediatric centers around the world and to highlight their similarities and differences.

METHODS

  A questionnaire was circulated to individuals at pediatric centers in countries in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific. Respondents were asked to indicate the number of children treated with EEN at their centers in the previous years and to provide details of their protocol used for administering EEN to these children.

RESULTS

  Responses were received from 35 separate centers (42% of those asked). The duration of EEN varied from <6 weeks to >12 weeks, but was most commonly 6 to 8 weeks. Although 23 different formulas were utilized across the centers, most (90%) used polymeric formulas. Flavourings were commonly added to formulas but wide variations existed between centers with the prescription of food and fluids permitted during the EEN period. The reintroduction of food after EEN also varied greatly: the most common recommendations were for an initial low-fiber diet (26%) or the gradual introduction of food quantity as the formula volume decreased (52%).

CONCLUSIONS

  This questionnaire-based study has shown the wide variations in EEN protocols used in different areas of the world. The development of consistent protocols may enhance the acceptance, efficacy and wider utilization of this therapy.

Use of enteral nutrition for the control of intestinal inflammation in pediatric Crohn disease

Exclusive enteral nutrition is an effective yet often underused therapy for the induction of remission in pediatric Crohn disease. The North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition formed the Enteral Nutrition Working Group to review the use of enteral nutrition therapy in pediatric Crohn disease. The group was composed of 5 pediatric gastroenterologists and 1 pediatric nutritionist, all with an interest and/or expertise in exclusive enteral nutrition. Specific attention was placed upon review of the evidence for efficacy of therapy, assessment of the variations in care, identification of barriers to its widespread use, and compilation of the necessary components for a successful program. The present guideline is intended to aid physicians in developing an enteral nutrition therapy program and potentially promote its use.

The role of nutrition in the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease

Many foods have been implicated in theories about the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease. While evidence has accumulated that nutritional factors as part of overall lifestyle changes may play a role in the growing incidence, no specific dietary recommendations except the promotion of breastfeeding can currently be given to decrease the risk of developing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. For the treatment of Crohn's disease in children and adolescents, however, enteral feeding with a semi-elemental diet seems to be as effective as corticosteroids in inducing and maintaining remission. In the meta-analyses, advantages of one formula over the other are evened out, and more research is warranted into the anti-inflammatory properties of different nutrients, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, butyrate, glutamine, and cytokines, such as transforming growth factors-beta. Unfortunately, for practical reasons, nutritional therapy remains underutilized, even though pediatric patients are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of nutrient deficiencies on growth, pubertal development, and bone health. There is hope that in the future the new field of nutrigenomics may enable physicians to more accurately tailor a specific diet to the patient genotype.

Exclusive enteral nutrition in the treatment of children with Crohn's disease in Sweden: a questionnaire survey

AIM

The general use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) as therapy for children with Crohn's disease (CD) in Sweden has not previously been studied. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate how EEN is used as therapy in Sweden for children with CD.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent to all 37 paediatric units in Sweden that treat children with inflammatory bowel disease.

RESULTS

The response rate was 78%, which covers nearly 90% of Sweden's paediatric population between 0 and 17 years of age. Ninety-six per cent of the units used EEN as a treatment option for children with CD, and 65% of the units used EEN as their primary therapy in newly diagnosed CD. The standard duration of EEN was 6 weeks, but the questionnaire revealed a span of 4-8 weeks. The use of polymeric formula was just as common as a combination of polymeric and elemental formulas. Fifty-seven per cent used oral nutrition supplements, and 81% allowed some extent of concomitant feeding, the addition of food and fluids, during EEN. All units used enteral nutrition to some extent as maintenance therapy after EEN was discontinued.

CONCLUSIONS

In Sweden, EEN is used as therapy for children with Crohn's disease (CD), but the EEN protocols vary as to choice of formula and type of food and fluids allowed during EEN. Standardized EEN protocols would enable multicentre studies in Sweden, with the objective of investigating how EEN treatment can be improved and employed in the most efficient way.

Physician attitudes and practices of enteral nutrition as primary treatment of paediatric Crohn disease in North America

BACKGROUND

The use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in children with Crohn disease has not been universally adopted by North American paediatric gastroenterologists. This is in stark contrast to their European counterparts. The present study aimed to define attitudes and practice patterns of EEN use by members of the North American Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition.

METHODS

Members were contacted by e-mail and provided with access to a Web-based survey.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 326 of 1162 (30.7%) eligible North American Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition members from North America (86% United States, 14% Canada). Thirty-one percent of respondents reported never using EEN, 55% reported sparse use, and 12% reported regular use. Physicians in Canada reported significantly more use than those in United States (P < 0.001). Currently working and previously working in a centre where EEN was used were highly correlated with both the perceived appropriateness of EEN and the regularity of its use (P < 0.01). More American physicians than Canadian physicians reported that concurrent medical therapy was necessary to induce remission (P < 0.001). Canadian respondents were more likely to use maintenance therapy than American respondents (P = 0.02). Compliance issues were seen as the main disadvantages of EEN and as the major barrier to increased use by nonregular users.

CONCLUSIONS

There are significant variations in the patterns of use and the acceptance of EEN between Canada and the United States, with Canadian physicians showing a greater use of EEN. The use of EEN appears influenced by the extent to which physicians are exposed to its use both in their training and in their current practice setting.

Steady-state of azathioprine during initiation treatment of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Azathioprine (AZA) has a slow onset of action in treatment of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is anticipated, that this delay correlates to the kinetics of 6-thioguanine nucleotides (6-TGN) accumulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the time to steady state of 6-TGN concentration in red blood cells.

METHODS

The inclusion criteria were: a) age 0-19 years b) IBD diagnosis c) AZA treatment initiation. High performance liquid chromatography was used for the 6-TGN analysis. Concentrations of metabolites were studied in weeks 0, 1, 2, 5, and 8 after beginning of treatment.

RESULTS

The inclusion criteria were matched to 18 patients with IBD. The median time to steady state of 6-TGN was 55.3 days. The mean 6-TGN concentration at the steady state achieved 326 (SD 154) pmol/8.108 erythrocytes. High erythrocyte TPMT activity corresponds to the low steady state 6-TGN concentration and vice versa. This correlation reached statistical significance (p<0.01) for the dose expressed in mg per square meter of body surface area.

CONCLUSION

The time to steady state of 6-TGN erythrocyte concentration is significantly shorter than would expected according to clinical observation describe earlier.

Longitudinal study of bone mineral density in children after a diagnosis of Crohn's disease

AIM

The purpose of this study was to measure the bone mineral density (BMD) of children with Crohn's disease (CD) and to prospectively assess its evolution.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 27 children (20 boys, seven girls), aged 12.1±2.5 years, were recruited at the time of CD diagnosis. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to measure BMD, expressed as Z scores for chronological age (BMD/CA) and bone age (BMD/BA). One year later, BMD was measured again to identify any correlations with disease activity [group A (active disease) vs group R (remission)].

RESULTS

BMD/CA and BMD/BA were negatively correlated with delay in diagnosis (P<0.0001 and P<0.05, respectively). BMD/CA was less than -2 standard deviation (SD) in nine patients and BMD/BA was less -2 SD in four patients. At the follow-up, the increase in BMD was smaller in group A (n=14), whether expressed as absolute values (-0.002 vs 0.040 g/cm(2) per year; P<0.024) or as percentages (-0.2 vs 6.6%; P<0.041); changes in BMD/CA (-0.5 vs -0.1 SD/year) and BMD/BA (-0.3 vs 0 SD/year) did not differ.

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic delay greatly affects BMD in children with CD even prior to corticosteroid therapy. The risk of low BMD increases with persistent CD activity, although the risk is reduced in association with bone maturation delay.

Nutritional therapy for the treatment of pediatric Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are lifelong conditions with particular effects upon nutrition, especially in children and adolescents. Various therapies are available for these conditions but there remains no cure. Over the last decades, exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) has been demonstrated to have efficacy in the induction of remission, along with numerous other nutritional and inflammatory benefits. This article reviews the benefits and outcomes associated with EEN in Crohn's disease. The potential mechanisms of this therapy are highlighted, along with factors that are barriers to the wider use of EEN.

Comparison of two dosing methods for induction of response and remission with oral budesonide in active pediatric Crohn's disease: a randomized placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Oral budesonide has been found to be comparable to systemic corticosteroids in mild to moderately active Crohn's disease (CD). Remission rates in pediatric studies to date have been suboptimal (47%-55%), even though patients with colonic involvement were excluded in some studies. In addition, the optimal pediatric dosing regimen has never been evaluated before.

METHODS

This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind study in 70 children with mild or moderately active CD randomized to 1 of 2 groups: Group 1: Standard dose budesonide (9 mg/day) for 7 weeks followed by 6 mg budesonide daily for an additional 3 weeks. Group 2: Induction with 12 mg/day for the first month followed by the same regimen as Group 1. Outcome measures included a decrease in Pediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index and remission rates. Patients with colonic disease were not excluded.

RESULTS

At week 7 a clinical response was obtained in 51.4% in Group 1 versus 74.3% in Group 2. A significant decrease in C-reactive protein was seen only in Group 2. At the end of treatment, remission was obtained in 42.9% in Group 1 versus 65.7% in Group 2 (P = 0.054). There was no significant difference in adverse events or serum cortisol.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of an induction dose of budesonide followed by a budesonide taper resulted in a trend to higher rates of clinical remission and a decrease in inflammation, without an increase in steroid-associated side effects. Budesonide was also useful for patients with ileocolonic disease.

Exclusive enteral nutrition for children with Crohn's disease: use in Australia and attitudes of Australian paediatric gastroenterologists

AIM

Although available data support a role for exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in children with Crohn's disease (CD), use of this therapy varies. The aim of this study was to define the patterns of use of EEN across Australia and to better understand the reasons for this variation.

METHODS

Using an existing email network, Australian paediatric gastroenterologists were asked to provide details of their attitudes towards, and use of, EEN in children. A questionnaire was designed to direct responses, with regard to use of EEN, to current EEN protocols and patterns of use.

RESULTS

Twenty-one replies were received (58% response). Although 12 respondents felt that EEN was an appropriate therapy for CD, only 8 regularly used EEN for their patients. Usage varied between states and within units. Current use was related to practitioners' experiences of EEN during their gastroenterology training. The concerns of those who did not recommend EEN included compliance, cost and resource demands. The doctors who recommend EEN reported that family support, team approach and disease location were important factors for a positive outcome from EEN. Current protocols varied in terms of type of formula, length of therapy and use of concurrent medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Variations in care were illustrated across these paediatric gastroenterologists. Practitioners have many reasons and concerns about the use of EEN: these impede the wider use of EEN for paediatric CD. More consistent protocols for the use of EEN and an improved understanding of the mechanisms of EEN could lead to enhanced use of this therapy.

Systematic review: nutritional therapy in paediatric Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

At least 25% of individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) have onset of disease in childhood. Almost all children with CD have nutritional impairments, such as weight loss or stunting, at diagnosis or subsequently. Nutritional therapy (exclusive enteral nutrition) is established as a valid and effective treatment in paediatric CD. The advantages of this approach are induction of remission and control of inflammatory changes, mucosal healing, positive benefits to growth and overall nutritional status, and avoidance of other medical therapies.

AIM

To provide a comprehensive up-to-date review of the roles of nutritional therapy in CD and of the data supporting this therapy.

METHODS

A search of PubMed was performed with search terms 'enteral nutrition', 'nutritional therapy', 'Crohn disease' and 'children'. Relevant articles were selected from this search. In addition, the reference lists of available articles were reviewed for further relevant articles.

RESULTS

Nutritional therapy offers numerous benefits in the management of CD. Recent work has begun to elucidate the likely mechanisms of this therapy. These include direct mucosal anti-inflammatory effects and alteration of intestinal microflora.

CONCLUSION

Further studies are required to define longer-term effects of nutritional therapy in patients with CD.

Dietary modifications, nutritional supplements and alternative medicine in paediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Data on use of complementary and alternative medicine in children with inflammatory bowel disease are scarce.

AIM

To assess prevalence, predictors and parental attitude to the use of complementary and alternative medicine in a paediatric population with inflammatory bowel disease in the west of Scotland.

METHODS

Questionnaire survey encompassing alternative therapists, nutritional supplements and dietary modifications used in the management of inflammatory bowel disease was used. Demographics, disease and treatment data were also collected.

RESULTS

86 guardians completed the survey. 61% had used at least one type and 37% were using complementary and alternative medicine recently. The most common types were probiotics (44%) and dairy-free diet (28%). Higher parental education and young parental age were predictors of complementary and alternative medicine use. An increased number of oral steroid courses and prior use of complementary and alternative medicine for other health reasons were associated with use of alternative therapists. Personal recommendation and to complement conventional medicine were the main reasons for using complementary and alternative medicine. 48% judged complementary and alternative medicine at least partially effective. 86% agreed that doctors should be supportive of use. 89% would give complementary and alternative medicine to their children.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of complementary and alternative medicine was higher in children with IBD than in adults with the same disease. The gastrointestinal nature of the disease could explain the high use of nutritional supplements and dietary modifications in this survey.

Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma in adolescents and young adults with Crohn's disease: a cautionary tale?

Therapy for the inflammatory bowel diseases increasingly includes the use of immune-modifying and biologic therapies. Recently, in young patients with IBD, an association has been noted between the use of infliximab along with concomitant purine analogues and the development of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL)-a rare and all but incurable form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This report briefly reviews the issue of lymphoma and IBD therapy. Additionally, a description of HSTCL and a summary of the known cases of this apparent therapeutic complication are presented. Clinical options in light of this new information are explored.