Association Between Use of Thiopurines or Tumor Necrosis Factor Antagonists Alone or in Combination and Risk of Lymphoma in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Thiopurines and the Risk of Cancer in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Reference Individuals Without Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Danish Nationwide Cohort Study (1996-2018)

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Thiopurine therapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to assess the effect of thiopurines on cancer risk in IBD according to drug exposure and age.

METHODS

Danish national registers were used to identify incident IBD patients, exposure to drugs, and status of cancers, in 1996 to 2018. Cox regressions were used to compare cancer risks in IBD and non-IBD individuals and to assess IBD patients' cumulative drug exposure and the association to first cancer, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer.

RESULTS

We followed 43,419 patients with IBD for a median of 8.2 years (interquartile range, 3.7-14.2 years) after IBD diagnosis. Cancer was reported in 3128 (7.2%) patients with IBD. The risk of cancer was increased in patients with IBD in all age categories compared with non-IBD individuals (<50 years: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-1.77; 50-65 years: aHR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.19-1.44; and >65 years: aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.05-1.24). Monotherapy (aHR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.17-1.57) and combination therapy (aHR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.64-3.78) were associated with an increased risk of cancer compared to unexposed patients with IBD. Among elderly patients (>65 years), the aHR was 2.79 (95% CI, 1.24-6.28) in those receiving combination therapy. In patients discontinuing thiopurines, aHRs returned to the level of unexposed (aHR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.78-1.01). The aHR was positively associated with cumulative thiopurine exposure and in patients with >5 years of exposure, reaching an aHR of 1.36 (95% CI, 1.15-1.61).

CONCLUSIONS

Thiopurines were associated with increased hazard of cancer, especially when used in combination therapy in the elderly. The hazard increased by 36% when patients were exposed to thiopurines for more than 5 years. Reassuringly, the hazard returned to baseline after discontinuation of thiopurines.

Adalimumab Biosimilars Demonstrate Long-Term Durability and Cost-Effectiveness in Paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Real-World Two-Centre European Cohort Study

Purpose

Adalimumab biosimilars are increasingly used in paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (PIBD), but data remain limited. This study assessed their durability, efficacy, safety and cost implications in PIBD.

Patients and Methods

Consecutive PIBD patients who started adalimumab biosimilars between October 2018 and December 2023 at two centres in Scotland and Italy, with at least 6 months follow-up, were included. Demographic, disease, treatment, and adverse event data were collected. Disease activity was assessed at baseline, 6, 12, 24, 36 months, and at last follow-up. Durability was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

In total 130 patients (81 males; median age 12.3 years) were included (115 Crohn's Disease, 7 Ulcerative Colitis, 8 IBD unclassified). The biosimilars were ABP 501 (85%), GP2017 (14%), SB5 (1%); 41 (32%) patients switched from originator. After a median follow-up of 26 months, 87/130 (67%) patients remained on biosimilars, while 43 discontinued at a median of 14 months. Durability probabilities were 93%, 86%, 75%, 62%, and 57% at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 54 months, respectively. Patients previously exposed to ADA originator had a lower risk of biosimilar failure (hazard ratio, adjusted for age at diagnosis: 0.51 [95% confidence interval: 0.26-0.99], p=0.047). Trough levels ≥11.6 μg/mL at 6 months were associated with greater durability (AUC=0.68, p=0.007). Adverse events occurred in 46/130 patients, mainly psoriasis and injection site reactions (13% each), with one lymphoma. Estimated cost savings were 5,030€ per patient/year.

Conclusion

This real-life study demonstrated high durability and remission rates for adalimumab biosimilars in PIBD, confirming their clinical, cost-effectiveness and safety profile in children.

Who and how to choose combination therapy for inflammatory bowel disease: a comprehensive expert review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Therapeutic options in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have expanded significantly. Patients often experience primary or secondary loss of response to biologics or small molecules therapy. Determining which patients may benefit from combination of two therapies remains a key question.

RECENT FINDINGS

Combination therapy leverages complementary mechanisms of action, conventionally using tumor necrosis factor antagonists simultaneously with immunosuppressive agents, and more recently using two advanced therapies together. Combination of two advanced therapies has shown promise in two recent randomized trials for improving clinical and endoscopic outcomes while maintaining acceptable safety profiles. Observational studies highlight its potential for refractory disease and complex phenotypes. Guidelines still conservatively recommend monotherapy for IBD patients, even for those at high risk for complications.

SUMMARY

Advanced combination therapy (ACT) represents a potential significant advancement in managing IBD, offering treatment options for refractory cases, concomitant immune-mediated diseases and high-risk populations. Nonetheless, further randomized trials and registry data are needed to generate evidence to support broader adoption of this approach. Future research should focus on cost-effectiveness, longer-term treatment strategies and safety to refine its application in clinical practice.

Treat-to-target of endoscopic remission in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in symptomatic remission on advanced therapies (QUOTIENT): rationale, design and protocol for an open-label, multicentre, pragmatic, randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Targeted immunomodulators (eg, advanced therapies) effectively achieve symptomatic remission in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, ~25%-50% of patients with IBD achieving symptomatic remission with an advanced therapy may have continued endoscopically/radiologically active bowel inflammation, and it is uncertain whether changing alternative advanced therapies in asymptomatic patients with IBD will reduce bowel inflammation and achieve durable deep remission.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The QUality Outcomes Treating IBD to Target (QUOTIENT) study is an open-label, multicentre, pragmatic, randomised, controlled trial that aims to compare the efficacy and safety of switching to an alternative advanced therapy targeting endoscopic/radiological remission (treat-to-target) versus continuing the initial, or index, advanced therapy, in asymptomatic patients with IBD with moderate-to-severe endoscopic/radiological bowel inflammation. Enrolment is planned for ~250 participants in Canada/USA, randomised 1:1 to switching to alternative advanced therapy or continuing index advanced therapy, and then followed 104 weeks within routine clinical practice. Patient-reported outcomes measure efficacy and quality of life/treatment burden/safety. Primary endpoint is the time from randomisation to treatment failure.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study is conducted in compliance with the protocol, ICH Good Clinical Practice, applicable regulatory requirements and appropriate review boards/independent ethics committees (approval numbers: Pro00077486; Pro00061437; STUDY00002062; 22-004171; i22-01269; IRB22-0890; IRB_00154397; 2000032384; SHIRB#2022.095-2; STUDY00007146; MMC#2024-18; REB#125290; 17784; Pro00142214; 20240660-01H), with documented written informed consent. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, scientific presentations, and publicly available Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) websites, including lay summaries. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Education, Support, and Advocacy Department, and our patient advocacy stakeholder, will develop educational and marketing resources to communicate findings to a broad audience (>250 000 patients/caregivers/healthcare professionals).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05230173.

Biologics in the management of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease: When and what to choose

Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, with rising global incidence and prevalence. Over the past two decades, biologics have added to the therapeutic armamentarium and revolutionized the approach to treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The available biologics include monoclonal antibodies which target inflammatory cytokines (anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha, anti-interleukin 12/23) or recruitment of leucocytes to the gastrointestinal tract (anti-alpha4beta7 integrin) and small molecules (Janus kinase inhibitors, sphingosine 1-phosphate-inhibitors) which modify the proinflammatory signaling. Considering their potential disease-modifying ability, recent pediatric guidelines from the West have advocated upfront use of biologics in appropriate clinical scenarios as a top-down approach rather than the conventional step-up approach. Although real-world studies are available regarding the clinical efficacy of biologics in PIBD, there is paucity of long-term outcome and safety data in children. Also, little information is available about the best approach in the newly industrialized - developing countries where PIBD is rising but at the same time, infections are prevalent and resources are limited. In this review, we summarize the efficacy and safety profile of biologics and small molecule drugs and discuss the challenges in the management of PIBD, especially in the developing world, and future directions.

Age of onset of inflammatory bowel disease is the strongest risk factor for the development of malignancy

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a multifactorial inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal system that impairs the patient's quality of life. Its presentation includes a spectrum of symptoms that may also be secondary to IBD complications, such as malignancy. On the other hand, immunosuppressive treatment to maintain remission also carries a risk of malignancy, which can cause patients distress due to the risk/benefit balance of IBD control and malignancy.

Methods

In this nationwide retrospective study, we aimed to elucidate which patient and treatment factors have the greatest impact on the development of malignancy in IBD patients. Statistical analysis was performed on patient factors, including treatment types, and nominal regression analysis was carried out to assess the effects of multiple risk factors on the incidence of malignancy in patients with IBD.

Results

Age at diagnosis of IBD correlated significantly with malignancy development, as did the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. IBD patients diagnosed with malignancy had an older age of onset of IBD than those who did not develop malignancy. Sex, treatment type, treatment duration, and extent or location of disease did not correlate significantly with malignancy development.

Conclusion

We conclude that age of onset of IBD plays the greatest role in malignancy development, whilst immunosuppressive treatment is not a significant risk factor.

Biological agents as attractive targets for inflammatory bowel disease therapeutics

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic, recurrent intestinal inflammatory conditions with a complex cause and unclear underlying mechanisms. It includes two main types: Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). The conventional treatment of IBD mainly includes 5-aminosalicylates, glucocorticoids, and immunosuppressive drugs, which have their limitations. Recent advancements in IBD research have expanded treatment options, with biological agents playing a key role. Anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha has emerged as the first-line therapy for moderate to severe IBD. Anti-integrin antibodies have also become important for the treatment, and vedolizumab is often used in cases of anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha failure and intolerance to other treatments. Other biological agents are being tested in clinical trials at different stages. This article reviews the efficacy and safety of the primary biological therapies for IBD and provides a comprehensive analysis of the current clinical challenges associated with the disease.

Estimating cancer risk in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases exposed to varying doses of tumour necrosis factor inhibitors

BACKGROUND

The safety profile of high doses of tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) therapy for cancer risk in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) remains uncertain. We evaluated the risk of cancer development in patients with IMIDs exposed to standard and high doses of TNFi compared with those never exposed to TNFi.

METHODS

A cohort study was conducted using the Japanese claims database encompassing over 4.6 million individuals from 2013 to 2021. The study included patients aged 16 years or older with new-onset IMIDs, such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriasis, who had no cancer history. The subdistribution hazard ratios (SHR) for cancer risk in TNFi standard and high dose groups comparing with TNFi unexposed group were estimated using a Fine and Gray model that accounted for the competing risk of death unrelated to cancer. The high dose of TNFi was defined as either a dose escalation or shortening of the intervals during administrations from the standard dose treatment.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 42,006 patients with new-onset IMIDs (40,573 in TNFi unexposed, 876 in TNFi standard dose, and 557 in TNFi high dose) and 1211 (2.8%) patients developed cancer, yielding an incidence rate of 787.8 (739.9-828.1) per 100,000 person-years. Neither the standard nor high doses of TNFi significantly increased the cancer risk (TNFi standard dose vs. TNFi unexposed, adjusted SHR, 0.65 [0.40-1.08]; TNF high dose vs. TNFi unexposed, adjusted SHR, 1.12 [0.67-1.87]).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no association between varying doses of TNFi therapy and cancer risk in IMIDs.

Progressing advanced therapies for inflammatory bowel disease: Current status including dual biologic therapy and discontinuation of biologics

INTRODUCTION

Advanced therapies (ADT) that encompass biological agents and small molecules have been approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), broadening the spectrum of available treatment options. Nevertheless, a substantial proportion of patients fail to achieve satisfactory responses, necessitating surgical intervention. Treatment objectives have evolved beyond clinical remission, reduction of inflammation, and mucosal healing, shifting focus toward enhancing the quality of life, acknowledging the profound impact of IBD on physical and mental well-being.

AREA COVERED

This comprehensive review describes the current landscape of ADT for IBD, including dual biologic therapy (DBT), which involves the combination of two biologics or a single biologic with a small-molecule compound, as well as considerations surrounding the discontinuation of biologics.

EXPERT OPINION

ADT is the standard treatment for moderate to severe IBD, while DBT appears promising for specific subsets of patients, including those with refractory disease or extraintestinal manifestations. However, these approaches may increase the risk of adverse effects, including malignancy. To optimize individualized treatment strategies in patients with refractory IBD, further trials are needed to refine ADT's predictive value, establish DBT's safety and indications, define biologic discontinuation criteria, and evaluate emerging biomarkers, artificial intelligence, and bowel ultrasound in patient management.

IBD Matchmaking: Rational Combination Therapy

A growing number of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have disease that is refractory to multiple advanced therapies, have undergone multiple surgeries, and require further treatment options. For this reason, there has been increasing use of multiple simultaneous advanced targeted therapies. Although the knowledge on combined advanced targeted therapy (CATT) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been largely limited to observational data and early-phase randomized controlled trials, combination of therapies is commonplace in many other diseases. This review discusses conceptual frameworks of CATT in IBD, provides context of combined therapies in other diseases, provides current evidence for CATT in IBD, and projects future applications and positioning of CATT using existing, novel, and orthogonal mechanisms of action. CATT aims to address the need to overcome low efficacy rates and frequent loss of response of current individual therapies. Both treatment exposure and disease duration are major determinants of response to therapy. Identification of safe and effective CATT may impact positioning of this strategy to apply to a broader IBD population.

Biologic Therapy Is Associated With Improved Oncologic Outcomes in Crohn's Disease-Associated Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with Crohn's disease face an elevated risk of colorectal cancer, in part due to underlying chronic inflammation. Biologic therapy is the mainstay of medical treatment; however, the impact of treatment on colorectal cancer-related outcomes remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between prior exposure to biologic treatment and colorectal cancer-related outcomes in patients with underlying Crohn's disease.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

High volume, tertiary colorectal surgery department.

PATIENTS

Adults (older than 18 years) diagnosed with Crohn's disease and colorectal cancer who underwent curative operation between 1998 and 2020.

INTERVENTIONS

Exposure to any biologic IBD medication before cancer diagnosis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Survival and recurrence outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 56 patients were included with a median age of 52.5 years (interquartile range, 18.9 years) at the time of surgery; 19 patients (33.9%) were treated with biologics before surgery; 10 (52.6%) received infliximab, 2 (10.5%) received adalimumab, and 7 (36.8%) received multiple biologics. Rectal cancer (57% vs 43.2%, p = 0.02) and well-differentiated or moderately differentiated tumors (93% vs 50%, p = 0.005) were more common in the biologic exposure group. Exposure to biologics was associated with a higher 5-year disease-free survival rate (80% vs 45%, p = 0.048), whereas the 5-year overall survival (93% vs 57%, p = 0.19) and 5-year recurrence rates (7% vs 31%, p = 0.18) were numerically but not statistically significant.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective, single-center study.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with Crohn's disease and colorectal adenocarcinoma who underwent curative surgery, those previously exposed to biologic therapy were more likely to have well-differentiated or moderately differentiated tumors, which were more likely to be distal to the splenic flexure. Biologic exposure was associated with significantly higher 5-year disease-free survival. These findings suggest that treatment of inflammation in patients with Crohn's disease fundamentally alters carcinogenesis pathways. See Video Abstract.

LA TERAPIA BIOLGICA SE ASOCIA CON MEJORES RESULTADOS ONCOLGICOS EN EL CNCER COLORRECTAL ASOCIADO A LA ENFERMEDAD DE CROHN

ANTECEDENTES:Los pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn enfrentan un riesgo elevado de cáncer colorrectal, en parte debido a la inflamación crónica subyacente. La terapia biológica es el pilar del tratamiento médico; sin embargo, el impacto del tratamiento en los resultados relacionados con el cáncer colorrectal sigue sin estar claro.OBJETIVO:Investigar la asociación entre la exposición previa al tratamiento biológico y los resultados relacionados con el cáncer colorrectal en pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn subyacente.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.ESCENARIO:Departamento de cirugía colorrectal de alto volumen de tercer nivelPACIENTES:Adultos (>18 años) diagnosticados con enfermedad de Crohn y cáncer colorrectal que se sometieron a una operación curativa entre 1998 y 2020.INTERVENCIÓN(ES):Exposición a cualquier medicamento biológico para la EII antes del diagnóstico de cáncer.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADOS:Resultados de supervivencia y recurrenciaRESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 56 pacientes, con una mediana de edad de 52.5 años (RIC: 18.9 años) en el momento de la cirugía; 19 (33.9%) pacientes fueron tratados con agentes biológicos antes de la cirugía; 10 (52.6%) recibieron infliximab, 2 (10.5%) recibieron adalimumab y 7 (36.8%) habían recibido múltiples agentes biológicos. El cáncer rectal (57% frente a 43.2%, p = 0.02) y los tumores bien o moderadamente diferenciados (93% frente a 50%, p = 0.005) fueron más comunes en el grupo de exposición a agentes biológicos. La exposición a agentes biológicos se asoció con una mayor tasa de supervivencia libre de enfermedad a 5 años (80% frente a 45%, p = 0.048), mientras que la supervivencia general a 5 años (93% frente a 57%, p = 0.19) y las tasas de recurrencia a 5 años (7% frente a 31%, p = 0.18) fueron numéricamente, pero no estadísticamente significativas.LIMITACIONES:Estudio retrospectivo de un solo centro.CONCLUSIONES:En pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn y adenocarcinoma colorrectal que se sometieron a cirugía curativa, aquellos expuestos previamente a terapia biológica tuvieron más probabilidades de tener tumores bien/moderadamente diferenciados, y tenían más probabilidades de estar distales al ángulo esplénico, asociados con una supervivencia libre de enfermedad a 5 años significativamente mayor. Estos hallazgos sugieren que el tratamiento de la inflamación en pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn altera fundamentalmente las vías de la carcinogénesis. (Traducción-Dr. Jorge Silva Velazco).

Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Inhibitor Use and Malignancy Risk: A Systematic Review and Patient Level Meta-Analysis

Over the last two decades, tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors (TNF-Is) have become standard therapies for chronic inflammatory disorders, with an ongoing expansion of indications and off-label applications [...].

HLA-DQA1*05 Associates With Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Immunogenicity and Low Adalimumab Trough Concentrations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients From the SERENE Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease Studies

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapies are commonly prescribed treatments for Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Many patients treated with anti-TNF therapy eventually develop anti-drug antibodies (ADAs). Understanding the factors associated with immunogenicity in anti-TNF-treated patients can help guide treatment. The Humira SERENE studies were Phase 3 trials investigating adalimumab induction regimens in CD and UC patients.

METHODS

We imputed alleles for 7 HLA genes in 1100 patients from the SERENE CD and SERENE UC trials. We then tested these alleles for association with time to immunogenicity. Subsequently, we tested loci significantly associated with immunogenicity for their association with patients who had consistently low drug serum concentrations.

RESULTS

This study replicated the association of HLA-DQA1*05 with time to immunogenicity (hazard ratio [HR] 1.42, p = 2.22E-06). Specifically, HLA-DQA1*05:05 was strongly associated (HR 1.76, p = 2.02E-10) and we detected a novel association represented by HLA-DRB1*01:02 (HR 3.16, p = 2.92E-07). Carriage of HLA-DQA1*05:05 and HLA-DRB1*01:02 was associated with patients who experienced consistently low adalimumab trough concentrations (HLA-DQA1*05:05: odds ratio [OR] 1.98, p = 0.0049; HLA DRB1*01:02: OR 7.06, p = 7.44E-05).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a significant association between alleles at genes in the human HLA locus and the formation of adalimumab immunogenicity and low adalimumab drug serum concentrations in large clinical studies of CD and UC patients. This work extends previous findings in CD to UC and directly shows a genetic association in patients with low drug concentrations. This work builds on existing literature to suggest that genetic screening could be a useful tool for clinicians concerned with patient anti-TNF immunogenicity.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

SERENE CD (NCT02065570), SERENE UC (NCT02065622).

Immunogenicity of Therapeutic Antibodies Used for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treatment and Clinical Considerations

The introduction of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors has led to a paradigm shift in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The subsequent introduction of both anti-integrins and cytokine blockers has since expanded the biologic armamentarium. However, immunogenicity, defined as the production of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) to the prescribed biopharmaceutical, means a significant fraction of patients exposed to biologic agents will experience a secondary loss of response to one or more of the drugs. In clinical settings, immunogenicity may be caused by several factors, both patient related (e.g., underlying chronic disease, systemic immune burden, including previous biologic therapy failure, and [epi]genetic background) and treatment related (e.g., dose and administration regimens, drug physical structure, photostability, temperature, and agitation). Here, we outline these elements in detail to enhance biopharmaceutical delivery and therapy for patients with IBD. Moreover, concurrent immunomodulator medication may reduce the risks of ADA generation, especially when using the chimeric drug infliximab. Summarizing the latest developments and knowledge in the field, this review aims to provide strategies to prevent ADA production and information on managing non-responsiveness or loss of response to biologics. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of ADAs and the critical factors influencing the immunogenicity of biopharmaceuticals may lead to improved health outcomes in the IBD community that may benefit both the individual patient and society through lower healthcare expenses.

B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Patient With Crohn's Disease After Anti-TNF-Alpha Treatment

This case report details a patient with Crohn's disease (CD) who developed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) 16 years after their initial diagnosis. Various immunosuppressive therapies used in the treatment included azathioprine, infliximab and, for a short period, vedolizumab and steroids for CD and hyper-CVAD chemotherapy for leukemia. The association between CD and increased cancer risk, particularly hematological malignancies, emphasizes the importance of regular cancer surveillance, including hematological assessments, for patients on immunosuppressive therapy.

Melatonin, an Antitumor Necrosis Factor Therapy

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a biomarker of inflammation whose levels are elevated in patients with several diseases associated with dysregulation of the immune response. The main limitations of currently used anti-TNF therapies are the induction of immunodepression, which in many cases leads to serious adverse effects such as infection and cancer, and the inability to cross the blood-brain barrier in neuroinflammatory conditions. Melatonin, in addition to being a chronobiotic compound, is widely known for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory capacity to control inflammatory processes in different pathological contexts. The aim of the present review is to address human-based studies that describe the effect of melatonin on TNF production. The review includes all the articles published in PubMed databases until April 15, 2024. After depuration, 45 studies were finally included in the review, 23 related to the in vitro action of melatonin in human cells and 22 in vivo studies in humans. Most of the data reviewed support the idea that melatonin has an immunosuppressive effect on TNF levels, which, together with its low toxicity profile, low cost, and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, points to melatonin as a potential anti-TNF therapy. Therefore, improving our knowledge of the action of melatonin in regulating TNF through appropriate clinical trials would reveal the true potential of this molecule as a possible anti-TNF therapy.

Certolizumab Pegol Treatment in Patients With Crohn's Disease: Final Safety Data From the SECURE Registry

Background

Crohn's disease (CD) treatment is associated with increased risks of infection and malignancies. Although the safety of certolizumab pegol (CZP) is well established, long-term data from community-based observational studies are lacking.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate long-term safety outcomes of patients from the SECURE registry receiving CZP relative to other CD treatments, including corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics. The primary outcome of this observational study was the evaluation of malignancies.

Methods

Adult patients with CD were prospectively monitored for up to 8 years. Pre-specified data were collected for all enrolled patients. Adverse events of interest (AEoIs) were reported per 100 patient-years (PY) of exposure. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated for AEoIs using multivariate regression analysis accounting for exposure to multiple treatments. Malignancies reported after any exposure to CZP were attributed to CZP. Post-hoc analyses were conducted to evaluate non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), lymphoma, and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

A total of 3072 patients were enrolled in the study. The risk of AEoIs was similar between patients with only CZP exposure versus comparator exposure. Among patients with any CZP exposure, there was a higher frequency of serious infections (IRR: 2.56 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.00, 3.29]) and hypersensitivity or anaphylactic reactions (IRR: 4.11 [95% CI: 1.80, 9.38]) versus patients with comparator exposure. Malignancy rates were similar across groups; however, concomitant use of thiopurines was associated with higher odds of NMSC (odds ratio: 2.30 [95% CI: 1.09, 4.89]). Most cases of lymphoma (5/7) occurred in patients with exposure to thiopurines. Pregnancy outcomes were similar across groups.

Conclusions

No new safety signals were identified for CZP; the use of thiopurines was identified as a risk factor for NMSC.

Trial registration

NCT00844285.

Persistence of newly prescribed 5-aminosalicylic acid in patients with ulcerative colitis: A nationwide comprehensive database study

The 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) agents are first-line drugs for ulcerative colitis (UC). However, intolerance as well as other issues have been reported for these drugs, making it difficult to sustain this treatment; accordingly, the persistence of 5-ASA is an important indicator of UC treatment strategy. We aimed to analyze the persistence of 5-ASA in patients with UC in Japan. This was a 1-year, nationwide, population-based cohort study using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan. We identified patients who were assigned UC-related disease codes and newly prescribed 5-ASA between April 2015 and September 2019 and specified the number of days until 5-ASA prescriptions were interrupted during a follow-up of up to 365 days. Among the 137 million patients who were covered by the universal health insurance in Japan during the study period, 68,234 eligible patients were identified. The 5-ASA persistence in these patients were 87.2%, 65.6%, and 56.4% after 30, 180, and 365 days, respectively. The 5-ASA persistence by subtype at 365 days was 54.4%, 56.4%, and 57.6% for time-dependent, pH-dependent, and multi-matrix system types, respectively. The 5-ASA persistence rate after 365 days was 65.0% for those under 20 years of age, 51.0% for those 20-39 years old, 57.5% for those 40-64 years old, and 65.5% for those over 64 years of age. This study revealed the 1-year persistence of newly prescribed 5-ASA in patients with UC newly prescribed 5-ASA in Japan, based on a national claims database of more than 100 million individuals.

AGA Living Clinical Practice Guideline on Pharmacological Management of Moderate-to-Severe Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) living guideline is intended to support practitioners in the pharmacological management of moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

A multidisciplinary panel of content experts and guideline methodologists used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework to prioritize clinical questions, identify patient-centered outcomes, conduct an evidence synthesis, and develop recommendations on the pharmacological management of moderate-to-severe UC.

RESULTS

The AGA guideline panel made 14 recommendations. In adult outpatients with moderate-to-severe UC, the AGA recommends the use of infliximab, golimumab, vedolizumab, tofacitinib, upadacitinib, ustekinumab, ozanimod, etrasimod, risankizumab, and guselkumab, and suggests the use of adalimumab, filgotinib, and mirikizumab over no treatment. In patients who are naïve to advanced therapies, the AGA suggests using a higher-efficacy medication (eg, infliximab, vedolizumab, ozanimod, etrasimod, upadacitinib, risankizumab, and guselkumab) or an intermediate-efficacy medication (eg, golimumab, ustekinumab, tofacitinib, filgotinib, and mirikizumab) rather than a lower-efficacy medication (eg, adalimumab). In patients who have previously been exposed to 1 or more advanced therapies, particularly tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α antagonists, the AGA suggests using a higher-efficacy medication (eg, tofacitinib, upadacitinib, and ustekinumab) or an intermediate-efficacy medication (eg, filgotinib, mirikizumab, risankizumab, and guselkumab) rather than a lower-efficacy medication (eg, adalimumab, vedolizumab, ozanimod, and etrasimod). In adult outpatients with moderate-to-severe UC, the AGA suggests against using thiopurine monotherapy for induction of remission, but suggests using thiopurine monotherapy over no treatment for maintenance of (typically corticosteroid-induced) remission. The AGA suggests against using methotrexate monotherapy, for induction or maintenance of remission. In adult outpatients with moderate-to-severe UC, the AGA suggests the use of infliximab, adalimumab, and golimumab in combination with an immunomodulator over corresponding monotherapy. However, the AGA makes no recommendation in favor of, or against, the use of non-TNF antagonist biologics in combination with an immunomodulator over non-TNF biologic alone. In patients with UC who are in corticosteroid-free clinical remission for at least 6 months on combination therapy of TNF antagonists and an immunomodulator, the AGA suggests against withdrawal of TNF antagonists, but makes no recommendation in favor of, or against, withdrawing immunomodulators. In adult outpatients with moderate-to-severe UC, who have failed 5-aminosalicylates, and have escalated to therapy with immunomodulators or advanced therapies, the AGA suggests stopping 5-aminosalicylates. Finally, in adult outpatients with moderate-severe UC, the AGA suggests early use of advanced therapies and/or immunomodulator therapy, rather than gradual step-up after failure of 5-aminosalicylates. The panel also proposed key implementation considerations for optimal use of these medications and identified several knowledge gaps and areas for future research.

CONCLUSIONS

This guideline provides a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to the pharmacological management of patients with moderate-to-severe UC.

An evaluation of risankizumab for the treatment of moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis

INTRODUCTION

Risankizumab (RZB) is a recombinant IgG1 humanized monoclonal antibody which selectively inhibits interleukin (IL)-23 though high-affinity binding of the p19 subunit. RZB was approved for use in Crohn's disease (CD) in 2022 and received regulatory approval for ulcerative colitis (UC) in the United States in June 2024.

AREAS COVERED

We will examine currently available therapies for UC, provide an overview of the IL-23 pathway, discuss available trial data for RZB in UC, and comment on how RZB may fit into the current UC treatment paradigm and future directions in the field.

EXPERT OPINION

RZB appears to be an effective agent for inducing and maintaining remission in patients with both treatment-naïve and refractory UC, with a favorable safety profile. The selective blockade of IL-23 has demonstrated potential advantages in efficacy over combined IL-12/23 inhibition for other disease states like CD and psoriasis, although where it will be positioned amidst other clinically available advanced therapies in UC requires further study.

Colon-targeted delivery of niclosamide from solid dispersion employing a pH-dependent polymer via hotmelt extrusion for the treatment of ulcerative colitis in mice

Niclosamide (NCL) is repurposed to treat inflammatory bowel disease due to its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to reduce oxidative stress. This therapeutic activity remains challenging if administered directly due to its low solubility and high recrystallization tendency in gastric pH. Solid dispersions using pH-dependent polymer will be a better idea to improve the solubility, dissolution and targeted delivery at the colon. Hot melt extrusion was used to formulate a solid dispersion with 30% NCL utilising hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate as a pH-dependent polymer. In vitro drug release studies revealed formulation (F1) containing 10%w/w Tween 80 showed minimal release (2.06%) at the end of 2 h, followed by 47.87% and 82.15% drug release at 6 h and 14 h, respectively, indicating the maximum amount of drug release in the colon. The drug release from the formulations containing no plasticiser and 5%w/w plasticiser was comparable to the pure crystalline drug (approximately 25%). Solid-state analysis confirmed particle conversion of crystalline NCL to amorphous form, and the optimised formulation was stable for 6 months without significant changes in dissolution profile. In contrast to pure NCL, the F1 formulation substantially reduced the disease activity index, colonic inflammation, histological alterations and oxidative damage in colitis mice. These findings reveal that the prepared formulation can potentially deliver the drug locally at the colon, making it an effective tool in treating ulcerative colitis.

Risk of Incident Cancer in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Prior Breast Cancer: A Multicenter Cohort Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy observed in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The aim of our study was to evaluate incident cancer rate (recurrence or new-onset cancer) in a cohort of patients with IBD with a history of breast cancer according to the subsequent IBD treatment provided.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study included consecutive patients with IBD with prior breast cancer. The inclusion date corresponded to the diagnosis of index malignancy. Follow-up lasted from cancer diagnosis until the occurrence of incident cancer.

RESULTS

Among 207 patients included (median disease duration, 13 years [interquartile range, 6-21]), first-line treatment (median interval of 28 months [interquartile range, 7-64]) was a conventional immunosuppressant in 19.3% of patients, anti-tumor necrosis factor in 19.8%, vedolizumab in 7.2%, and ustekinumab in 1.9%. After a median follow-up of 71 months (interquartile range, 34-148), 42 (20%) incident cancers were observed (34 breast cancer recurrences). Adjusted incidence rates per 1000 person-years were 10.2 (95% confidence interval, 6.0-16.4) for the untreated arm and 28.9 (95% confidence interval, 11.6-59.6) for exposed patients (P = .0519). There was no significant difference between treated patients and control subjects regarding incident cancer-free survival rates (P = .4796). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with incident cancer were stage T4d (P = .036), triple negative tumor (P = .016), and follow-up of less than 71 months (P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find a statistically significant increase in incident breast cancer related to IBD treatment beyond the already known poor prognostic factors of breast cancer.

A Population-Based Matched Cohort Study of Digestive System Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Individuals With and Without Inflammatory Bowel Disease

INTRODUCTION

To study digestive system cancer risks in individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) in the biologic era.

METHODS

We used population-level administrative and cancer registry data from Ontario, Canada, (1994-2020) to compare people with IBD to matched controls (1:10 by sex and birth year) on trends in age-sex standardized cancer incidence and risk ratios of incident cancers and cancer-related deaths.

RESULTS

Among 110,919 people with IBD and 1,109,190 controls, colorectal cancer incidence (per 100,000 person-years) declined similarly in people with ulcerative colitis (average annual percentage change [AAPC] -1.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] -2.48 to -1.156) and controls (AAPC -2.79; 95% CI -3.44 to -2.14), while small bowel cancer incidence rose faster in those with Crohn's disease (AAPC 9.68; 95% CI 2.51-17.3) than controls (AAPC 3.64; 95% CI 1.52-5.80). Extraintestinal digestive cancer incidence rose faster in people with IBD (AAPC 3.27; 95% CI 1.83-4.73) than controls (AAPC -1.87; 95% CI -2.33 to -1.42), particularly for liver (IBD AAPC 8.48; 95% CI 4.11-13.1) and bile duct (IBD AAPC 7.22; 95% CI 3.74-10.8) cancers. Beyond 2010, the incidences (and respective mortality rates) of colorectal (1.60; 95% CI 1.46-1.75), small bowel (4.10; 95% CI 3.37-4.99), bile duct (2.33; 95% CI 1.96-2.77), and pancreatic (1.19; 95% CI 1.00-1.40) cancers were higher in people with IBD.

DISCUSSION

Cancer incidence is declining for colorectal cancer and rising for other digestive cancers in people with IBD. Incidence and mortality remain higher in people with IBD than controls for colorectal, small bowel, bile duct, and pancreatic cancers.

6-Thioguanine nucleotide levels are associated with infliximab but not adalimumab levels in inflammatory bowel disease patients on combination therapy

BACKGROUND

Thiopurine co-therapy with anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNFα) agents is associated with higher anti-TNFα drug levels and reduced immunogenicity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIMS

We aimed to evaluate the association between 6-thioguanine nucleotide (6-TGN) and anti-TNFα levels and the optimal 6-TGN threshold level associated with higher anti-TNFα levels in combination therapy.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cross-sectional multicentre study of patients with IBD on combination anti-TNFα and thiopurine maintenance therapy between January 2015 and August 2021. Primary outcomes were infliximab and adalimumab levels. Secondary outcomes were antibodies to infliximab (ATI) or adalimumab (ATA). Univariable and multivariable linear regression were performed to identify variables associated with anti-TNFα levels. Receiver operator characteristic curves were used to define the optimal 6-TGN cut-off levels associated with therapeutic anti-TNFα levels.

RESULTS

The study included 743 paired 6-TGN and anti-TNFα levels (640 infliximab and 103 adalimumab). 6-TGN levels were associated with infliximab levels, but not adalimumab levels, on univariable and multivariable regression. The optimal 6-TGN cut-off associated with therapeutic infliximab levels (≥5 mcg/mL) was 261 pmol/8 × 108 red blood cell (RBC) (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.57) for standard infliximab dosing and 227.5 pmol/8 × 108 RBC (AUC = 0.58) for escalated dosing. For therapeutic adalimumab levels (≥7.5 mcg/mL), the 6-TGN cut-off was 218.5 pmol/8 × 108 RBC (AUC = 0.59) for standard adalimumab dosing and 237.5 pmol/8 × 108 RBC (AUC = 0.63) for escalated dosing.

CONCLUSION

6-TGN levels were weakly associated with infliximab but not adalimumab levels in combination therapy. 6-TGN levels in the lower end of the therapeutic range (230-260 pmol/8 × 108 RBC) may be adequate to maintain higher infliximab levels, particularly with escalated infliximab dosing.

Reactive Immunomodulator Addition to Infliximab Monotherapy Restores Clinical Response in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving infliximab (IFX) commonly experience immunogenic loss of response (LOR) by formation of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs). An immunomodulator (IMM) used in combination with initial IFX induction is known to reduce ADA development and improve clinical outcomes. We aimed to assess the impact of reactively adding an IMM to patients on IFX monotherapy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study and systematic review with meta-analysis of patients with IBD demonstrating immunologic LOR, with or without clinical LOR, that had an IMM (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or methotrexate) reactively added (reactive combination therapy; rCT) to combat elevated ADAs and raise IFX level. Data were extracted for pooled effect size estimation using random-effects models, and ADA and IFX trough levels were compared pre- and post-IMM initiation.

RESULTS

We identified 6 patients who received rCT due to rising ADA titers and low IFX levels. Median ADA titer decreased from 506 ng/mL (interquartile range (IQR) [416-750]) to 76.5 ng/mL (IQR [25.8-232]), an 85% decrease (p = 0.031). Median IFX trough increased from 0.4 µg/mL (IQR [0.4-0.48]) to 8.25 µg/mL (IQR [3.7-9.6]), a 20.6-fold increase (p = 0.038). Meta-analysis pooled effect size of 7 studies with 89 patients showed an 87% ADA titer reduction [95% confidence interval (CI) = 72-94%], 6.7-fold increased IFX trough (95% CI = 2.4-18.7), and 76% clinical remission rescue rate (95% CI = 59-93%).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest rCT is a valid rescue strategy in patients with immunogenic LOR to IFX to reduce ADA titers, restore therapeutic IFX levels, and recapture clinical remission of IBD.

Clinical impacts of immunomodulator withdrawal from anti-tumor necrosis factor combination therapy in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

OBJECTIVES

Combination therapy consists of both anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) and an immunomodulator (IMM) and has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study assesses the impacts of IMM withdrawal from combination therapy to anti-TNF monotherapy in children with IBD.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study included children with IBD initiated on combination therapy between 2014 and 2019 who discontinued the IMM. We evaluated whether IMM withdrawal impacts laboratory values and disease activity. Linear mixed effects models with random intercepts were used to compare differences between groups. Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for comparisons between patients who did and did not require subsequent escalation of therapy.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-two patients discontinued the IMM which did not significantly affect disease activity. However, 18% of patients escalated therapy after IMM withdrawal, primarily due to low anti-TNF levels. Lower anti-TNF and higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels before IMM withdrawal were associated with subsequent escalation of therapy. Overall, there was no statistically significant effect on anti-TNF drug levels. Patients with Crohn's disease (CD) on infliximab (IFX) and methotrexate (MTX) who discontinued the IMM had an increase in mean ESR and CRP (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

IMM withdrawal from anti-TNF combination therapy may be considered safe in the setting of higher anti-TNF levels and normal serum inflammatory markers. Clinicians should consider assessing anti-TNF levels and inflammatory markers after IMM withdrawal, especially in patients with CD receiving IFX who discontinued MTX.

Interrupting inflammatory bowel disease therapy: why, who, when and how to consider medication holidays

INTRODUCTION

Medication holidays in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) offer a potential means to balance disease management, costs, and quality of life. This concept is increasingly relevant in light of the chronic nature of IBD, the cumulative side effects associated with long-term pharmacotherapy, and the evolving treatment landscape that now includes a large armamentarium of effective induction, maintenance, and rescue therapies paired with disease monitoring tools that enable early intervention.

AREAS COVERED

This review critically examines the rationale, implementation, and risks of medication holidays in IBD. Recent evidence is reviewed to help guide the risks of relapse involved with cessation of therapy. The selection criteria for patients, the necessary monitoring protocols, and strategies for managing potential relapses are outlined.

EXPERT OPINION

Despite the potential benefits, medication holidays in IBD involve significant risks and require careful patient selection and active management. Current research highlights a need for improved predictive models and a deeper understanding of patient-specific outcomes and consequences. The future of medication holidays will depend heavily on advancements in noninvasive monitoring technologies and more personalized approaches to therapy. Ultimately, establishing clearer guidelines for safely conducting medication holidays will be crucial in integrating this strategy into routine clinical practice.

Dual-targeted treatment for inflammatory bowel disease: Whether fecal microbiota transplantation can be an important part of it

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory disease. With the emergence of biologics and other therapeutic methods, two biologics or one biologic combined with a novel small-molecule drug has been proposed in recent years to treat IBD. Although treatment strategies for IBD are being optimized, their efficacy and risks still warrant further consideration. This editorial explores the current risks associated with dual-targeted treatment for IBD and the great potential that fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) may have for use in combination therapy for IBD. We are focused on addressing refractory IBD or biologically resistant IBD based on currently available dual-targeted treatment by incorporating FMT as part of this dual-targeted treatment. In this new therapy regimen, FMT represents a promising combination therapy.

Should the Dermatological Assessment of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Become Standard during Qualifications for Biological Treatment? A Retrospective, Single-Center Experience from a Tertiary Center

Background: Oncological anxiety associated with biological therapy is a particular challenge in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it has raised questions about the need for the dermatological assessment of the skin before starting biological therapy. Methods: The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of dermal lesions, including cutaneous malignancies, in IBD patients. This retrospective, single-center study evaluated 805 IBD patients who qualified for biological treatment and were subjected to a dermatological assessment. Results: Dermal lesions (DLs) were found in 15.5% (125) of IBD patients. A risk factor for DLs was higher with body mass index (OR = 1.08, 95% CI [1.02; 1.14], p = 0.007). Surprisingly, there was no effect of thiopurines between the groups with and without DLs (90.4% vs. 84.6%, MD = 0.06, 95% CI [0.01; 0.12], p = 0.118). Moreover, cutaneous malignancies were diagnosed in 9 cases (1.1%), including 4 basal cell carcinomas, 4 squamous cell carcinomas, and 1 melanoma skin cancer. Only 13.4% of patients complied with our strict policy of skin surveillance every 6-8 months. Conclusions: DLs, including cutaneous malignancies, are common in patients with IBD, making skin monitoring at the initiation of biological treatment an extremely useful tool. The lack of effect of the drugs used suggests that skin surveillance is necessary in all IBD patients. The low compliance of skin monitoring among immunosuppressed patients indicates the need for better education on the prevention of cutaneous malignancies.

Factors Associated With Decision to Treat or Not to Treat Helicobacter pylori Infection in Children: Data From the EuroPedHp Registry

BACKGROUND

European and North-American guidelines on management of H. pylori infection in children provide the option not to treat even if the infection is endoscopically confirmed. We used data from the EuroPedHp Registry to identify factors associated with therapy decisions.

METHODS

We included treatment-naïve patients reported between 2017 and 2020 from 30 centers in 17 European countries. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors including comorbidities within and outside the gastrointestinal (GI) tract influencing the decision for or against therapy.

RESULTS

Of 1165 patients (52% females, median age 12.8), 28% (321/1165) reported any alarm symptom, 26% (307/1165) comorbidities, and 16% (192/1165) did not receive eradication treatment. Therapy was initiated less often in children having any GI comorbidity (57%, n = 181), particularly in those with eosinophilic esophagitis (60%, n = 35), inflammatory bowel disease (54%, n = 28), and celiac disease (43%, n = 58), compared to those with non-GI (86%, n = 126) or no comorbidity (89%, n = 858), despite similar frequencies of alarm and non-alarm symptoms, ulcers, erosions, and nodular gastritis. Patients with GI and without comorbidities remained more likely untreated in high versus low H. pylori prevalence countries (p < 0.0001). In children without comorbidities, factors favoring therapy included older age, being overweight, having symptoms, erosions, antral nodularity, and available antibiotic susceptibility results.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort, H. pylori-infected children with GI comorbidities compared to no comorbidity showed 75% reduced chance of receiving eradication therapy. We found no evidence supporting different management strategies in infected patients with GI comorbidities compared to all pediatric patients with endoscopically proven H. pylori infection.

Systematic review: Methotrexate-A poorly understood and underused medication in inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate, an immunosuppressant used for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) for over 30 years, remains underused compared to thiopurines.

AIMS

To review the efficacy, safety, optimal dosing and delivery regimens of methotrexate in adults with IBD.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of studies involving patients with IBD treated with methotrexate from inception to August 2023. All studies were included from the MEDLINE database via PubMed.

RESULTS

For Crohn's disease, we included eight randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and 17 observational studies. Parenteral methotrexate effectively increased remission rates in steroid-dependent patients at 25 mg/week for 16 weeks and at 15 mg/week for maintenance. Methotrexate can be used in combination with anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) agents to reduce immunogenicity. Data comparing thiopurines and methotrexate remain scarce. For ulcerative colitis (UC), we included five RCTs and 10 observational studies were included; there was no evidence to support the use of methotrexate in (UC). We extracted safety data from 17 studies; mild-to-moderate adverse effects were common. The incidence of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis was low.

CONCLUSION

Methotrexate is effective at inducing and maintaining remission in steroid-refractory Crohn's disease and can reduce anti-TNF-induced immunogenicity when used in combination therapy. Data regarding tolerance and safety are reassuring. These findings challenge preconceived ideas on methotrexate and suggest that it is a valid first-line conventional option for the treatment of mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease.

Risk of Gastrointestinal Perforation in Patients With Rheumatic Diseases Exposed to Janus Kinase Inhibitors Versus Adalimumab: A Nationwide Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the risk of gastrointestinal perforation (GIP), a rare but serious adverse event, in patients who a JAK inhibitor (JAKi; tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, or filgotinib) versus adalimumab (tumor necrosis factor inhibitor) among a comprehensive real-world population of patients with rheumatic diseases.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide population-based cohort study of the French national health data system, the exposed group that received a JAKi and the comparison group adalimumab. We included all individuals with a rheumatic disease who had their first dispensation of these treatments from July 2017 to December 2021. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of GIP (end of follow-up May 2022). Weighted hazard ratios (wHRs) were estimated with the inverse probability of treatment weighting method to account for confounding factors. Concomitant administration of systemic glucocorticoids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and proton-pump inhibitors were time-varying variables.

RESULTS

The cohort included 39,758 patients: 12,335 and 27,423 in the groups that received a JAKi and adalimumab (mean age 58.2 and 47.3 years; female 76% and 58%; rheumatoid arthritis 85.3% and 27.3%, and psoriatic arthritis/axial spondyloarthritis 14.7% and 72.7%), respectively. During follow-up, 38 and 42 GIPs occurred in the groups that received a JAKi and adalimumab groups; incidence rates were 2.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5-2.8) and 1.1 (95% CI 0.8-1.5) per 1,000 person-years, respectively. Rates of GIP did not differ between the groups that received a JAKi and adalimumab: wHR 1.1 (95% CI 0.7-1.9; P = 0.65). Despite the lack of power in some subgroup analyses, results were consistent whatever the subgroup of a type of JAKi received or subgroup with a type of rheumatic disease.

CONCLUSION

In this nationwide cohort study, the rates of GIPs did not differ between groups of patients who received JAKi and adalimumab treatment. These results need to be confirmed in other observational studies.

Epithelial barrier dysfunction and microbial dysbiosis: exploring the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies for Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease (CD), a chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory disease, is becoming more widespread worldwide. Crohn's disease is caused by gut microbiota changes, genetics, environmental stresses, and immunological responses. Current treatments attempt to achieve long-term remission and avoid complications, delaying disease progression. Immunosuppressive measures and combination medicines should be started early for high-risk patients. These medicines monitor inflammatory indicators and adjust as needed. The epithelial barrier helps defend against physical, chemical, and immunological threats. When tissues' protective barrier breaks down, the microbiome may reach the layer underneath. Unbalanced microbial populations and inflammation impair healing and adjustment. Inflammatory cells infiltrating sensitive tissues aggravate the damage and inflammation. This approach promotes chronic inflammatory diseases. The epithelial barrier hypothesis states that hereditary and environmental variables cause epithelial tissue inflammation. This review focuses on how epithelial barrier break-down and microbial dysbiosis cause Crohn's disease and current advances in understanding the epithelial barrier, immune system, and microbiome. Additionally, investigate treatments that restore barrier integrity and promote microbial balance. Overall, it stresses the role of epithelial barrier failure and microbial dysbiosis in Crohn's disease development and discusses current advances in understanding the barrier, immunological responses, and microbiota.

Evaluation of the Antifibrotic Effects of Drugs Commonly Used in Inflammatory Intestinal Diseases on In Vitro Intestinal Cellular Models

The mechanism underlying intestinal fibrosis, the main complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is not yet fully understood, and there is no therapy to prevent or reverse fibrosis. We evaluated, in in vitro cellular models, the ability of different classes of drugs currently used in IBD to counteract two pivotal processes of intestinal fibrosis, the differentiation of intestinal fibroblasts to activated myofibroblasts using CCD-18Co cells, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of intestinal epithelial cells using Caco-2 cells (IEC), both being processes induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The drugs tested included mesalamine, azathioprine, methotrexate, prednisone, methylprednisolone, budesonide, infliximab, and adalimumab. The expression of fibrosis and EMT markers (collagen-I, α-SMA, pSmad2/3, occludin) was assessed by Western blot analysis and by immunofluorescence. Of the drugs used, only prednisone, methylprednisolone, budesonide, and adalimumab were able to antagonize the pro-fibrotic effects induced by TGF-β1 on CCD-18Co cells, reducing the fibrosis marker expression. Methylprednisolone, budesonide, and adalimumab were also able to significantly counteract the TGF-β1-induced EMT process on Caco-2 IEC by increasing occludin and decreasing α-SMA expression. This is the first study that evaluates, using in vitro cellular models, the direct antifibrotic effects of drugs currently used in IBD, highlighting which drugs have potential antifibrotic effects.

De-escalating therapy in inflammatory bowel disease: Results from an observational study in clinical practice

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Combination therapy with an immunomodulator (IMM) and an anti-TNF is commonly recommended in Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. However, little is known about relapse rates after therapeutic de-escalation. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of relapse in a cohort of UC and CD patients with long-standing clinical remission after discontinuation of IMM or anti-TNF and to identify predictive factors for relapse.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients with UC or CD on combination therapy and clinical remission for at least 6 months. IMM or anti-TNF was stopped upon physician decision. Primary objective was to evaluate the relapse rates after discontinuation of IMM or anti-TNF and to analyze predictors of relapse.

RESULTS

The study included 88 patients, 48 patients (54.5%) discontinued IMM and 40 (45.5%) anti-TNF. During follow-up, relapse rates were 16.7% and 52.5% in the IMM discontinuation group and anti-TNF discontinuation group, respectively (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that anti-TNF discontinuation (HR=3.01; 95% CI=1.22-7.43) and ileal CD location (HR=2.36; 95% CI=1.02-5.47) were predictive factors for relapse while inflammatory CD phenotype was a protective factor (HR=0.32; 95% CI=0.11-0.90). Reintroduction of anti-TNF upon relapse was effective and safe.

CONCLUSION

Anti-TNF discontinuation led to significantly higher relapse rates compared to IMM discontinuation in UC and CD patients on combination therapy. Anti-TNF discontinuation and ileal CD location were identified as predictive factors for relapse while inflammatory CD phenotype was a protective factor. Retreatment after anti-TNF discontinuation was effective and safe.

Hidradenocarcinoma in a Crohn's patient on ustekinumab: A case report

Hidradenocarcinoma is a locally aggressive malignancy of the sweat glands, most commonly found on the head, neck, and upper body. Although rare, it has been seen in patients with hidradenitis supparativa, who have an increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancers. Ustekinumab, a biologic agent used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, has been associated with development of cancer in some patients. We present a case of a 36-year-old female with hidradenitis supparativa and Crohn's disease who developed hidradenocarcinoma in setting of ustekinumab use, demonstrating the need for further study of the relationship between biologic therapy and malignancy.

Modern View on Very Early Onset and Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in Children

Nowadays, an urgent problem of pediatric gastroenterology is the study of inflammatory bowel diseases with very early onset (VEO-IBD), which have unique genetic, clinical, immunological, morphological, and laboratory sings. Early VEO-IBD is usually considered as monogenic disease, especially in combination with congenital immune defects, which leads to difficulties in diagnosis and management this pathology. Despite this, systematization of information about this group of nosological forms of IBD is practically not carried out. This article presents a review of the available information on etiological factors, course variants, and therapeutic options for VEO-IBD.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients With Malignancy: Commentary

DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute Clinical Practice Update (CPU) Commentary is to discuss the risks of various malignancies in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and the impact of the available medical therapies on these risks. The CPU will also guide the approach to the patient with IBD who develops a malignancy or the patient with a history of cancer in terms of IBD medication management.

METHODS

This CPU was commissioned and approved by the AGA Institute CPU committee and the AGA Governing Board to provide timely guidance on a topic of high clinical importance to the AGA membership and underwent internal peer review by the CPU committee and external peer review through standard procedures of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. This communication incorporates important and recently published studies in the field, and it reflects the experiences of the authors who are experts in the diagnosis and management of IBD.

[Risks of Cancer Associated with Therapeutic Drugs for Inflammatory Bowel Disease]

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are lifelong chronic inflammatory conditions, with many patients requiring ongoing immunomodulatory drug therapy for maintenance treatment. Recent therapeutic goals in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not only aimed at symptomatic remission but also at achieving mucosal healing to improve the natural course of the disease. In this context, therapeutic approaches are being applied in clinical settings that involve early and appropriate use of drugs, such as immunomodulators or biologics, that have the potential to induce healing of the inflamed intestine before irreversible intestinal damage occurs. All drugs that continuously control intestinal inflammation in IBD can heal the mucosa and potentially reduce the incidence of colitis-associated bowel cancer; however, the continuous use of immunosuppressants can potentially increase the risk of malignancies. The safety issues of the drugs used in clinical practice are partly confirmed during their development processes or shortly after initial marketing, but in other cases, they are estimated through post-marketing case reports or epidemiological studies, sometimes decades after drug approval. This review explores the risks associated with malignancies related to the treatment of IBD, focusing on drugs currently approved in Republic of Korea.

Organoids as regenerative medicine for inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disorder with an increasing global prevalence. Managing disease activity relies on various pharmacological options. However, the effectiveness of current therapeutics is limited and not universally applicable to all patients and circumstances. Consequently, developing new management strategies is necessary. Recent advances in endoscopically obtained intestinal biopsy specimens have highlighted the potential of intestinal epithelial organoid transplantation as a novel therapeutic approach. Experimental studies using murine and human organoid transplantations have shown promising outcomes, including tissue regeneration and functional recovery. Human trials with organoid therapy have commenced; thus, this article provides readers with insights into the necessity and potential of intestinal organoid transplantation as a new regenerative therapeutic option in clinical settings and explores its associated challenges.

A Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhenqi Granule, Potentially Alleviates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Mouse Colitis Symptoms

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation in the large intestine. The etiology of UC is complex and incompletely understood, with potential contributing factors including genetic susceptibility, environmental influences, immune dysregulation, and gut barrier dysfunction. Despite available therapeutic drugs, the suboptimal cure rate for UC emphasizes the necessity of developing novel therapeutics. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has attracted great interest in the treatment of such chronic inflammatory diseases due to its advantages, such as multi-targets and low side effects. In this study, a mouse model of Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis was established and the efficacy of Zhenqi Granule, a TCM preparation composed of the extractives from Astragali Radix and Fructus Ligustri Lucidi, was evaluated. The results showed that treatment with Zhenqi Granule prior to or post-DSS induction could alleviate the symptoms of colitis, including weight loss, diarrhea, hematochezia, colon length shortening, and pathological damage of colon tissues of the DSS-treated mice. Further, network pharmacology analysis showed that there were 98 common targets between the active components of Zhenqi Granule and the targets of UC, and the common targets were involved in the regulation of inflammatory signaling pathways. Our results showed that Zhenqi Granule had preventive and therapeutic effects on acute colitis in mice, and the mechanism may be that the active components of Zhenqi Granule participated in the regulation of inflammatory response. This study provided data reference for further exploring the mechanism of Zhenqi Granule and also provided potential treatment strategies for UC.

How close are we to a success stratification tool for improving biological therapy in ulcerative colitis?

INTRODUCTION

Biological therapies have become the standard treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC). However, clinical remission rates post-induction therapy remain modest at 40-50%, with many initial responders losing response over time. Current treatment strategies frequently rely on a 'trial and error' approach, leading to prolonged periods of ineffective and costly therapies for patients, accompanied by associated treatment complications.

AREA COVERED

This review discusses current evidence on risk stratification tools for predicting therapeutic efficacy and minimizing adverse events in UC management. Recent studies have identified predictive factors for biologic therapy response. In the context of personalized medicine, the goal is to identify patients at high risk of progression and complications, as well as those likely to respond to specific therapies. Essential risk stratification tools include clinical decision-making aids, biomarkers, genomics, multi-omics factors, endoscopic, imaging, and histological assessments.

EXPERT OPINION

Employing risk stratification tools to predict therapeutic response and prevent treatment-related complications is essential for precision medicine in the biological management of UC. These tools are necessary to select the most suitable treatment for each individual patient, thereby enhancing efficacy and safety.

Biologics Versus JAK Inhibitors. Part I: Cancer Risk. A Narrative Review

INTRODUCTION

Biological drugs (BD) and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) have revolutionized the treatment of diverse dermatoses. However, there are concerns regarding their safety, especially the risk of cancer and opportunistic infections. Here, we discuss the risk of cancer associated with the BD and JAKi used in dermatology.

METHODS

A narrative review was carried out. All relevant articles evaluating the risk of cancer associated with BD or JAKi and published between January 2010 and February 2024 were selected.

RESULTS

Multiple large studies have evaluated the association between BD, JAKi and cancer risk. However, there is a lack of prospective, comparative studies. Overall, patients undergoing BD and JAKi present a cutaneous cancer incidence similar to that in the general population. The drugs more strongly associated with non-skin cancer risk were anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNFs) agents and JAKi (especially tofacitinib and oral ruxolitinib). This risk appears to increase with age, the presence of other factors (such as chronic immunosuppression from previous drugs or other comorbidities), and specific diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and myelodysplastic syndrome. Conversely, BD such as interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-23 inhibitors may even reduce the risk of some visceral and hematological malignancies. In patients with dermatological conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, the risk of malignancies may be lower than in other subgroups, and probably comparable to the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of cancer in patients undergoing BD or JAKi is generally low. This incidence can be higher in elderly patients with RA or myelodysplastic syndrome, and in those undergoing prolonged therapy with tofacitinib or ruxolitinib (oral), or anti-TNF agents.

Safety and Monitoring of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Advanced Therapies

The recent approval of new medications with novel mechanisms of action and emergence of updated safety information for existing therapies has changed the treatment landscape of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These advances led to unique adverse effect profiles and identification of new safety signals, resulting in the evolution of the safety, monitoring, and positioning of IBD therapies. In this updated review, we (1) examine the existing and updated safety data of monoclonal antibodies and small molecules for IBD, with a focus on recently Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapies, and (2) propose risk stratification and assessment considerations prior to and during IBD treatment.

Selecting first-line advanced therapy for ulcerative colitis: A clinical application of personalized medicine

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects the colon, leading to symptoms of bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and urgency. The treatment of UC has evolved over the past few decades from locally active anti-inflammatory compounds to more selective therapies that target specific arrays of the immune system. The challenge of selecting the first advanced therapy became apparent in this rapidly expanding landscape of medications. No current investigational tools, such as genetic, immunologic, or biological markers, can guide the identification of the safest and most effective therapeutic option for each patient. Hence, physicians must carefully assess patient/disease characteristics and match them with the most suitable drug through a clinically driven assessment. In this paper, we outline patient and drug characteristics that play a role in selecting first-line advanced therapies for UC and propose an algorithm for selection.

Nodal T-Follicular Helper Cell Lymphoma, Angioimmunoblastic-Type, Diagnosed in a Patient with Psoriasis Following COVID-19 Vaccination under Adalimumab Treatment: A Causal Association?

Biologics have expanded the armamentarium for psoriasis, but there has been a growing concern about the risk of lymphoma in patients under tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitor and methotrexate. Besides, the mRNA-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination was known to stimulate the proliferation of T-follicular helper cells. We report a case of a patient with psoriasis under adalimumab developing nodal T-follicular helper cell lymphoma, angioimmunoblastic-type following the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine. We suspect that adalimumab, methotrexate, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation, previous reactive lymphoid hyperplasia and psoriasis per se predispose our patient to a lymphoma-prone condition, and the two doses of the mRNA vaccine act as the last straw.

Lymphoma in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multicentre Collaborative Study Between GETAID and LYSA

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is associated with an increased risk of developing lymphoma. Although recent data have clarified the epidemiology of lymphoma in IBD patients, the clinical and pathological characteristics of lymphoma in IBD remain poorly known.

METHODS

Patients with IBD and lymphoma were retrospectively identified in the framework of a national collaborative study including the Groupe d'Étude Thérapeutique des Affections Inflammatoires du Tube Digestif [GETAID] and the Lymphoma Study Association [LYSA]. We characterized clinical and prognostic features for the three most frequent lymphoma subtypes occurring in IBD. We performed a multicentre case-control study. Controls [lymphoma de novo] were matched [5:1] to cases on gender, age at diagnosis, lymphoma subtype, year of diagnosis, and IPI/FLIPI indexes. Overall survival and progression-free survival were compared between cases and controls.

RESULTS

In total, 133 IBD patients with lymphoma were included [males = 62.4%, median age at lymphoma diagnosis = 49 years in males; 42 years in females]. Most had Crohn's disease [73.7%] and were exposed to thiopurines [59.4%]. The most frequent lymphoma subtypes were diffuse large B cell lymphoma [DLBCL, 45.1%], Hodgkin lymphoma [HL, 18.8%], and follicular lymphoma [FL, 10.5%]. When matched with 365 controls, prognosis was improved in IBD patients with DLBCL compared to controls [p = 0.0064, hazard ratio = 0.36] or similar [HL and FL].

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphomas occurring in IBD patients do not seem to have a worse outcome than in patients without IBD. Due to the rarity of this situation, such patients should be managed in expert centres.

The Complex Relationship between Mechanisms Underlying Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Its Treatment, and the Risk of Lymphomas: A Comprehensive Review

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease may be at higher risk of developing lymphomas and other cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, there may be a link between the use of thiopurines or anti-tumor necrosis factor drugs (anti-TNF) and these pathologies. The treatment of patients with Crohn's disease who have previously been diagnosed with lymphoma is a challenge for gastroenterologists. In this report, we examine important clinical issues related to the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease with active lymphoma, as well as of patients with hematological cancer history. In this discussion, we take into account most of the available treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, as well as the impact of chronic inflammation and viral infections. In addition, we try to find common ground for the development of lymphoproliferative disorders and autoimmune diseases. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease may be at higher risk of developing lymphomas and other cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Chronic inflammatory processes and viral infections play an important role in carcinogenesis. In addition, there may be a link between the use of thiopurines or anti-TNF drugs and these pathologies. A significant risk of the development of lymphoma in people undergoing each therapy should be considered, and it should be estimated how much greater this risk will be in patients with a history of lymphoproliferative disorders. The following review is an attempt to answer which therapy would be the most appropriate for patients with Crohn's disease and a history of lymphoma treatment. A lack of clear guidelines creates great challenges for doctors.