A new look at toxic megacolon: an update and review of incidence, etiology, pathogenesis, and management

Ulcerative colitis (K51), adults

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GADECCU 2022 Guideline for the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. Adaptation and updating of the GETECCU 2020 Guideline

INTRODUCTION

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease that compromises the colon, affecting the quality of life of individuals of any age. In practice, there is a wide spectrum of clinical situations. The advances made in the physio pathogenesis of UC have allowed the development of new, more effective and safer therapeutic agents.

OBJECTIVES

To update and expand the evaluation of the efficacy and safety of relevant treatments for remission induction and maintenance after a mild, moderate or severe flare of UC.

RECIPIENTS

Gastroenterologists, coloproctologists, general practitioners, family physicians and others health professionals, interested in the treatment of UC.

METHODOLOGY

GADECCU authorities obtained authorization from GETECCU to adapt and update the GETECCU 2020 Guide for the treatment of UC. Prepared with GRADE methodology. A team was formed that included authors, a panel of experts, a nurse and a patient, methodological experts, and external reviewers. GRADE methodology was used with the new information.

RESULTS

A 118-page document was prepared with the 44 GADECCU 2022 recommendations, for different clinical situations and therapeutic options, according to levels of evidence. A section was added with the new molecules that are about to be available.

CONCLUSIONS

This guideline has been made in order to facilitate decision-making regarding the treatment of UC, adapting and updating the guide prepared by GETECCU in the year 2020.

Campylobacter jejuni pancolitis complicated by toxic megacolon in an immunocompetent host

This is an unusual case of a middle-aged, immunocompetent man who developed toxic megacolon (TM) secondary to infection with a normally harmless bug, Campylobacter jejuni. He presented with diarrhoea, fever and abdominal pain. Faecal cultures were positive for C. jejuni. However, the patient did not show significant improvement after a trial of intravenous antibiotics. Bowel segment dilation on a CT scan combined with systemic signs (fever) led to the diagnosis of TM. A subtotal colectomy was planned but an unexpected positive response to conservative therapy deferred the surgery. Our case emphasises the crucial role that bowel rest and good nutritional support play in treating TM of infectious aetiology and how it can help avoid the need for a life-altering subtotal colectomy and ileostomy. For such presentations we also highlight how empirical steroid therapy or diagnostic sigmoidoscopy for suspected underlying ulcerative colitis can be detrimental to patient outcomes.

ECCO-ESGAR Topical Review on Optimizing Reporting for Cross-Sectional Imaging in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The diagnosis and follow up of patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] requires cross-sectional imaging modalities, such as intestinal ultrasound [IUS], magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and computed tomography [CT]. The quality and homogeneity of medical reporting are crucial to ensure effective communication between specialists and to improve patient care. The current topical review addresses optimized reporting requirements for cross-sectional imaging in IBD.

METHODS

An expert consensus panel consisting of gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons convened by the ECCO in collaboration with ESGAR performed a systematic literature review covering the reporting aspects of MRI, CT, IUS, endoanal ultrasonography and transperineal ultrasonography in IBD. Practice position statements were developed utilizing a Delphi methodology incorporating two consecutive rounds. Current practice positions were set when ≥80% of the participants agreed on a recommendation.

RESULTS

Twenty-five practice positions were developed, establishing standard terminology for optimal reporting in cross-sectional imaging. Assessment of inflammation, complications and imaging of perianal CD are outlined. The minimum requirements of a standardized report, including a list of essential reporting items, have been defined.

CONCLUSIONS

This topical review offers practice recommendations to optimize and homogenize reporting in cross-sectional imaging in IBD.

The Classification and Surgical Treatments in Adult Hirschsprung’s Disease: A Retrospective Study

Purpose

To explore the treatments and short-term effects of different types of adult Hirschsprung’s disease.

Methods

89 patients treated in Shanghai Changhai Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. According to the patient’s medical history, clinical manifestations, auxiliary examination and postoperative pathological results, the patients were divided into adult congenital megacolon, adult idiopathic megacolon, ganglion cell deficiency (types I and II), toxic megacolon and iatrogenic megacolon, The Treatment methods and short-term prognosis of patients in each group were summarized.

Results

41 cases of Hirschsprung’s disease in adults and low anterior resection or pull-out low anterior resection was performed, and 35 patients with idiopathic Megacolon were treated with one-stage subtotal colon resection under the condition of adequate preoperative preparation. Some patients admitted for emergency intestinal obstruction received conservative treatment first or underwent elective surgery after colonoscopic decompression was improved; two patients with ganglion cell deficiency subtotal colectomy were performed to remove the dilated proximal bowel segment and the narrow distal bowel segment; three patients with toxic Hirschsprung’s disease underwent colostomy in mild cases, while subtotal colorectal resection was required in severe cases; Iatrogenic megacolon was diagnosed in eight cases and the optimum operation should be selected according to the specific conditions of patients.

Conclusion

Adult Hirschsprung’s diseases were divided into adult congenital hirschsprung’s disease, idiopathic Hirschsprung’s disease, ganglion cell deficiency, toxic hirschsprung’s disease, and iatrogenic Hirschsprung’s disease. Different types of surgical treatments for Hirschsprung’s disease in adults should be selected according to the specific diagnosis. All patients with adult Hirschsprung’s diseases have good short-term outcomes after surgical treatment.

Bowel perforation due to chronic idiopathic megacolon: Case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Chronic idiopathic megacolon is a rare condition characterized by an irreversible distension of the colon in the absence of organic disease. The pathogenesis of this condition is still unclear and the data in literatures are not consistent.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of an 87-years-old woman affected by bowel perforation in chronic idiopathic megacolon. The patient underwent an emergency subtotal colectomy with terminal ileostomy. The postoperative was uneventful. At the histopathological examination, no organic cause of megacolon was found, so a diagnosis of idiopathic megacolon was done.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Idiopathic megacolon is difficult to diagnose due to the lack of specific clinical manifestations and pathological features. If not carefully investigated, can lead to severe complications such as perforation of the dilated bowel and subsequent peritonitis and sepsis, metabolic and electrolyte abnormalities. The protocols for management of IMC remains controversial. To achieve a good long-term outcome, early intervention is recommended.

CONCLUSION

Early diagnosis of idiopathic megacolon is needed to perform the best therapeutic strategy and prevent complications, but further studies are needed.

Acute severe ulcerative colitis: management advice for internal medicine and emergency physicians

Acute severe ulcerative colitis is a medical emergency that warrants in-patient management. This is best served within a multidisciplinary team setting in specialised centres or with expert consultation. Intravenous corticosteroids remain the cornerstone in the management of ASUC and should be initiated promptly, along with general management measures and close monitoring of patients. Unfortunately, one-third of patients will fail to respond to steroids. Response to intravenous corticosteroid therapy needs to be assessed on the third day and rescue therapies, including cyclosporine and infliximab, should be offered to patients not responding. Choice of rescue therapy depends on experience, drug availability and factors associated with each individual patient, such as comorbidities, previous medications or contra-indications to therapy. Patients who have not responded within 7 days to rescue therapy must be considered for surgery. Surgery is a treatment option in ASUC and should not be delayed in cases of failure of medical therapy, because such delays increase surgical morbidity and mortality. This review summarises the current management of acute severe ulcerative colitis and discusses potential future developments.

Management of ulcerative colitis: a clinical update

The objective of this study was to evaluate the consensus of expert societies and published guidelines on the management of ulcerative colitis, and to compare with the experience of the authors, in order to standardize procedures that would help the reasoning and decision-making process of the physician. A search was performed in scientific literature, specifically in electronic databases: Medline/Pubmed, SciELO, EMBASE and Cochrane, and the following descriptors were used: ulcerative colitis, acute colitis, clinical treatment, surgery and randomized trial. It can be concluded that the goals of therapy in ulcerative colitis are clinical and endoscopic remission, deep, sustained remission without corticosteroids, prevention of hospitalizations and surgeries, and improved quality of life. The surgical indications are reserved for selected cases, ranging from medical intractability, complications (severe refractory acute colitis, toxic megacolon, perforation and hemorrhage) and malignancy. Information in this review article must be submitted to evaluation and criticism of the specialist responsible for the conduct to be followed, in the face of his/her reality and the clinical status of each patient.

The degree of recommendation and strength of evidence were based using the GRADE system (The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) described below:

1. A: Experimental or observational studies of higher consistency.

2. B: Experimental or observational studies of lower consistency.

3. C: Case reports (non-controlled studies).

4. D: Opinion without critical evaluation, based on consensus, physiological studies or animal models.

Ulcerative Colitis: Making the Diagnosis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory condition of the colon. The diagnosis of ulcerative colitis is based on clinical presentation, endoscopic evaluation, and histologic parameters in the absence of demonstrable alternate etiology. The differential diagnosis remains broad, and infection in particular must be considered and excluded. Although laboratory and radiographic findings can aid in the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, endoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis. A correct diagnosis and disease staging are imperative because these factors affect treatment options and prognosis.

Ustekinumab treatment for toxic megacolon in severe colonic Crohn's disease

Toxic megacolon is most commonly considered as a complication of inflammatory bowel disease, especially ulcerative colitis and colonic Crohn's disease to a lesser extent. It appears in the context of moderate-to-severe disease and often requires colectomy. Currently, after an inadequate response to conventional therapy with systemic corticosteroids, the use of cyclosporine or infliximab is considered as an alternative option, prior to surgical intervention. We present a case report of toxic megacolon in a patient with a severe refractory colonic Crohn's disease, where anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapies were contraindicated. Consequently, we decided to use ustekinumab as a rescue therapy, despite insufficient evidence to provide recommendations for this indication.

Are Antimotility Agents Safe for Use in Clostridioides difficile Infections? Results From an Observational Study in Malignant Hematology Patients

Objectives

To evaluate the safety of antimotility agents (AAs) in a population of patients with hematologic malignancies and concurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and to describe the outcomes of AA use in a hospital setting.

Patients and Methods

We used the electronic health record to identify patients who were hospitalized in the adult malignant hematology service who had 1 or more toxin-positive C difficile stool assay between April 1, 2012, and September 21, 2017. We reviewed medical charts to obtain information on the use of AAs and any subsequent gastrointestinal complications.

Results

There were 339 patients who were stool toxin positive for CDI during the study period. Of those, 94 patients (27%) were prescribed AAs within 14 days of CDI diagnosis. All patients received CDI antimicrobial therapy within the first 24 hours. There were 2 adverse gastrointestinal events in the group that received AAs and 6 in the group that did not receive AAs. The risk of adverse events did not differ between patients who received AAs and those who did not (adjusted odds ratio, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.06 to 2.10). The mean age of the full cohort was 52.7±15.5 years, and the mean length of stay was 26.7±22.6 days. Early AA use (<48 hours of diagnosis) was not associated with increased adverse effects.

Conclusion

There was no increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal events in the arm that used AAs compared with the control arm. The evidence suggests that for patients with hematologic malignancies and CDI, the addition of AAs to appropriate antimicrobial therapy poses no additional risk.

Fish Oil, Cannabidiol and the Gut Microbiota: An Investigation in a Murine Model of Colitis

Inflammatory bowel disorders can be associated with alterations in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) and behavioral disturbances. In experimental colitis, administration of fish oil (FO) or cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), reduce inflammation. We investigated the effect of combined FO/CBD administration on inflammation and dysbiosis in the dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) model of mouse colitis, which also causes behavioral disturbances. Colitis was induced in CD1 mice by 4% w/v DSS in drinking water for five consecutive days followed by normal drinking water. FO (20–75 mg/mouse) was administered once a day starting two days after DSS, whereas CBD (0.3–30 mg/kg), alone or after FO administration, was administered once a day starting 3 days after DSS, until day 8 (d8) or day 14 (d14). Inflammation was assessed at d8 and d14 (resolution phase; RP) by measuring the Disease Activity Index (DAI) score, change in body weight, colon weight/length ratio, myeloperoxidase activity and colonic interleukin (IL)-1β (IL-1β), IL-10, and IL-6 concentrations. Intestinal permeability was measured with the fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran. Behavioral tests (novel object recognition (NOR) and light/dark box test) were performed at d8. Fecal microbiota composition was determined by ribosomal 16S DNA sequencing of faecal pellets at d8 and d14. DSS-induced inflammation was stronger at d8 and accompanied by anxiety-like behavior and impaired recognition memory. FO (35, 50, 75 mg/mouse) alone reduced inflammation at d8, whereas CBD alone produced no effect at any of the doses tested; however, when CBD (3, 10 mg/kg) was co-administered with FO (75 mg/mouse) inflammation was attenuated. FO (20 mg/mouse) and CBD (1 mg/kg) were ineffective when given alone, but when co-administered reduced all inflammatory markers and the increased intestinal permeability at both d8 and d14, but not the behavioral impairments. FO, CBD, and their combination affected gut bacteria taxa that were not affected by DSS per se. Akkermansia muciniphila, a species suggested to afford anti-inflammatory action in colitis, was increased by DSS only at d14, but its levels were significantly elevated by all treatments at d8. FO and CBD co-administered at per se ineffective doses reduce colon inflammation, in a manner potentially strengthened by their independent elevation of Akkermansia muciniphila.

Toxic Megacolon: Background, Pathophysiology, Management Challenges and Solutions

Toxic megacolon (TM) is one of the fatal complications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or any infectious etiology of the colon that is characterized by total or partial nonobstructive colonic dilatation and systemic toxicity. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and surgical management is necessary for the majority of the cases. An accurate history and physical examination, plain radiographs of the abdomen, sigmoidoscopy, and, most important of all, awareness of the condition facilitate diagnosis in most cases. Operative intervention is warranted when massive hemorrhage, perforation, or peritonitis complicate the clinical scenario or medical therapy fails to control the disease. We sought to review the management challenges of TM and its possible management strategies in this article.

Campylobacter colitis leads to toxic megacolon and multiple organ failure

A 58-year-old woman presented to the emergency department in a district general hospital with severe abdominal pain and diarrhoea, after collapsing at home. She was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) in septic shock, and with acute kidney injury. An initial CT scan was suggestive of colitis. She was treated for suspected gastroenteritis and her microbiology results showed Campylobacter coli as the causative organism. She failed to respond to antibiotics, and underwent serial contrast CTs which showed no progression of colitis. Colonoscopy performed on day 10 of her admission, however, revealed fulminant colitis. After a multidisciplinary meeting among gastroenterologists, general surgeons and intensivists, the patient underwent total colectomy with ileostomy. She made a slow but steady recovery in ICU, and subsequently in the ward, and was discharged to a local community hospital for further rehabilitation.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): ulcerative colitis

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a Position Statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of ulcerative colitis management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve the quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Inpatient Management of Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a potentially life-threatening presentation of ulcerative colitis that in nearly all cases requires inpatient management and coordinated care from hospitalists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons. Even with ideal care, a substantial proportion of patients will ultimately require colectomy, but most patients can avoid surgery with intravenous corticosteroid treatment and if needed, appropriate rescue therapy with infliximab or cyclosporine. In-hospital management requires not only therapies to reduce the inflammation at the heart of the disease process, but also to avoid complications of the disease and its treatment. Care for ASUC must be anticipatory, with patient education and evaluation starting at the time of admission in advance of the possible need for urgent medical or surgical rescue therapy. Here we outline a general approach to the treatment of patients hospitalized with ASUC, highlighting the common pitfalls and critical points in management.

An approach to acute severe ulcerative colitis

Introduction: Despite the introduction of novel therapies and treatment strategies for ulcerative colitis (UC), many patients develop acute, severe episodes, warranting prompt care and aggressive management. There is a significant unmet need to improve outcomes in these patients. Clinicians must be able to identify those that will have worse prognosis and plan an aggressive therapy with an early/proactive adjustments in management if needed.Areas covered: The aim of this review is to evaluate the most recent evidence on the assessment and management of patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis. We searched the mainstream literature search engines for the most recent evidence on diagnosis and management of acute UC.Expert Opinion: The approach to patients with severe UC includes clinical and endoscopic assessment of disease severity and ruling out over-infections. While intravenous corticosteroids remain the first line therapy for acute severe colitis, many patients do not respond and require escalation to calcineurin inhibitors or infliximab, and may ultimately require colectomy. Even though several novel therapies are available or in development, their role in acute severe episodes of colitis is unknown.

New-onset ulcerative colitis in pregnancy associated to toxic megacolon and sudden fetal decompensation: Case report and literature review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease rarely arising during gestation. Because the available information is based on case reports or small retrospective studies, diagnosis may be difficult and treatment is still controversial. A case of toxic megacolon developing in late pregnancy associated to a sudden fetal decompensation is described. Diagnostic and clinical topics of acute UC onset in pregnancy are debated.A primipara, 34 years old, 33/0 weeks of gestation, was admitted with a diagnosis of preterm labor, associated to acute bloody diarrhea (up to 10 daily motions) and cramping abdominal pain. A diagnosis of new-onset early-stage UC was made by sigmoidoscopy. An intensive care regimen including hydrocortisone, antibiotics and parenteral nutrition was immediately started. Magnetic resonance imaging of maternal abdomen, fostered by the worsening patient conditions, evidenced dilatation of the entire colon and a severely hampered of fetal muscular tone.Toxic megacolon complicated by superimposed Clostridium difficile infection was associated to a sudden fetal decompensation diagnosed by chance during maternal abdominal magnetic resonance imaging. An emergency cesarean section was mandatory. According to a senior surgeon's decision, total colectomy was not immediately performed following cesarean section with reference to the absence of colonic perforation. We obtained a good short-term maternal outcome and an uncomplicated neonatal course. Counseling of those patients must be focused on timely and multidisciplinary intervention in order to improve the course of maternal disease and to prevent fetal distress.

A comprehensive review and update on ulcerative colitis. Dis Mon 2019;65:100851. [PMID: 30837080 DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2019.02.004]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disorder of the colon that causes continuous mucosal inflammation extending from the rectum to the more proximal colon, with variable extents. UC is characterized by a relapsing and remitting course. UC was first described by Samuel Wilks in 1859 and it is more common than Crohn's disease worldwide. The overall incidence and prevalence of UC is reported to be 1.2-20.3 and 7.6-245 cases per 100,000 persons/year respectively. UC has a bimodal age distribution with an incidence peak in the 2nd or 3rd decades and followed by second peak between 50 and 80 years of age. The key risk factors for UC include genetics, environmental factors, autoimmunity and gut microbiota. The classic presentation of UC include bloody diarrhea with or without mucus, rectal urgency, tenesmus, and variable degrees of abdominal pain that is often relieved by defecation. UC is diagnosed based on the combination of clinical presentation, endoscopic findings, histology, and the absence of alternative diagnoses. In addition to confirming the diagnosis of UC, it is also important to define the extent and severity of inflammation, which aids in the selection of appropriate treatment and for predicting the patient's prognosis. Ileocolonoscopy with biopsy is the only way to make a definitive diagnosis of UC. A pathognomonic finding of UC is the presence of continuous colonic inflammation characterized by erythema, loss of normal vascular pattern, granularity, erosions, friability, bleeding, and ulcerations, with distinct demarcation between inflamed and non-inflamed bowel. Histopathology is the definitive tool in diagnosing UC, assessing the disease severity and identifying intraepithelial neoplasia (dysplasia) or cancer. The classical histological changes in UC include decreased crypt density, crypt architectural distortion, irregular mucosal surface and heavy diffuse transmucosal inflammation, in the absence of genuine granulomas. Abdominal computed tomographic (CT) scanning is the preferred initial radiographic imaging study in UC patients with acute abdominal symptoms. The hallmark CT finding of UC is mural thickening with a mean wall thickness of 8 mm, as opposed to a 2-3 mm mean wall thickness of the normal colon. The Mayo scoring system is a commonly used index to assess disease severity and monitor patients during therapy. The goals of treatment in UC are three fold-improve quality of life, achieve steroid free remission and minimize the risk of cancer. The choice of treatment depends on disease extent, severity and the course of the disease. For proctitis, topical 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) drugs are used as the first line agents. UC patients with more extensive or severe disease should be treated with a combination of oral and topical 5-ASA drugs +/- corticosteroids to induce remission. Patients with severe UC need to be hospitalized for treatment. The options in these patients include intravenous steroids and if refractory, calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus) or tumor necrosis factor-α antibodies (infliximab) are utilized. Once remission is induced, patients are then continued on appropriate medications to maintain remission. Indications for emergency surgery include refractory toxic megacolon, colonic perforation, or severe colorectal bleeding.

Current updates in management of Clostridium difficile infection in cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a significant health burden, now recognized as the leading cause of acquired diarrhea in patients receiving antibiotic therapy. Complications of infection with this pathogen include severe diarrhea, causing electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, hemodynamic instability, toxic megacolon, shock, and death. Hence it is extremely paramount to stay updated on management options for this infection, especially in cancer patients.

REVIEW

This article presents an in-depth review of literature on the treatment modalities available for CDI in cancer patients. Relevant articles highlighting therapeutic and symptomatic management of CDI patients with underlying malignancy have been summarized.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the current options available, more studies are needed to assess the newer therapeutic options that are being employed for populations other than cancer patients.

Clostridioides difficile-related toxic megacolon after Cryptococcus neoformans cellulitis: A complex of two rare infections in an immunocompromised host

A 76-year-old Japanese woman was admitted due to uncontrolled cellulitis of the right lower leg. She had deep vein thrombosis on the right limb. Moreover, she had a long history of rheumatoid arthritis treated with corticosteroids. Skin biopsy and lumbar puncture were performed to diagnose disseminated cryptococcosis. She was administered antifungal agents (liposomal amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine). On treatment day 14, debridement was performed, and cryptococcosis was controlled. However, she developed toxic megacolon due to Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). On day 32, she was transferred to the intensive care unit due to severe acidosis and acute kidney injury secondary to CDI-related toxic megacolon. Vancomycin, metronidazole, and tigecycline were administered for treatment of CDI. After several weeks of intensive care, toxic megacolon was improved, but renal replacement therapy was discontinued according to the patient's will. On day 73, she died of renal failure. We experienced a complex of rare diseases, Cryptococcus neoformans cellulitis and Clostridioides difficile-related toxic megacolon. Both diseases were presumed to be the result of corticosteroid and methotrexate use. Hence, careful monitoring is required when treating immunocompromised hosts to reduce the risk of developing complications.

Contemporary Medical Management of Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis

Acute severe ulcerative colitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition, evaluation, and intervention. Patients require hospital admission with laboratory, radiographic, and endoscopic evaluation with initiation of corticosteroid treatment. Despite early intervention, many patients require salvage medical therapy, with some progressing to colectomy. Here we review important concepts and recent advances in the evaluation and medical management of adult and pediatric patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis.

The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland consensus guidelines in surgery for inflammatory bowel disease

AIM

There is a requirement of an expansive and up to date review of surgical management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can dovetail with the medical guidelines produced by the British Society of Gastroenterology.

METHODS

Surgeons who are members of the ACPGBI with a recognised interest in IBD were invited to contribute various sections of the guidelines. They were directed to produce a procedure based document using literature searches that were systematic, comprehensible, transparent and reproducible. Levels of evidence were graded. An editorial board was convened to ensure consistency of style, presentation and quality. Each author was asked to provide a set of recommendations which were evidence based and unambiguous. These recommendations were submitted to the whole guideline group and scored. They were then refined and submitted to a second vote. Only those that achieved >80% consensus at level 5 (strongly agree) or level 4 (agree) after 2 votes were included in the guidelines.

RESULTS

All aspects of surgical care for IBD have been included along with 157 recommendations for management.

CONCLUSION

These guidelines provide an up to date and evidence based summary of the current surgical knowledge in the management of IBD and will serve as a useful practical text for clinicians performing this type of surgery.

Impact of Modern Drug Therapy on Surgery: Ulcerative Colitis

Background

The primary treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is conservative, and substantial therapeutic progress has been made in the past few decades. Meanwhile, biologicals have become a mainstay in the treatment for steroid-refractory UC. Despite further development of drug therapy and an increased time span to operation, a significant proportion of patients with UC require surgical intervention. Surgical intervention needs to be carried out in medically refractory cases, imminent or malignant transformation, or complications. This article discusses the impact of modern drug therapy on surgery for UC.

Methods

A selective literature search of PubMed was conducted, taking into account current studies, reviews, meta-analyses, and guidelines. Selected articles were then reviewed in detail and recommendations were drafted based on data and conclusions of the articles.

Results

In recent years, modern drug therapy has changed the timing, approach, and outcomes of surgery for UC. Most of the studies showed a decrease in surgery rates over time while the rate of emergency colectomies remains unchanged. So far, no convincing surgery-sparing effect of newer medications has been established, and it remains debatable if surgery rates have decreased because of improved management for UC in general or due to the introduction of biologicals. The intensified conservative therapy with increasing use of biologics has been accompanied by a trend towards performing a three-step procedure in the last decade. There is a subset of patients with complex refractory disease who most likely benefit from elective surgery as an alternative to prolonged conservative therapies after failure of first-line treatment. The majority of patients after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis can avoid hospitalizations and colitis-related medications with their associated potential adverse effects. In addition, the procedure substantially reduces UC-related symptoms and the risk for dysplasia or cancer. There is a long-term pouch success rate of >90% after 10 and 20 years of follow-up.

Conclusion

Conservative medical therapy in the treatment of UC will continue to develop and the number of approved therapeutics will grow. Surgery should not be considered as the negative endpoint of treatment modalities but as a good alternative to a prolonged conservative therapy for some patients. In conclusion, a close cooperation between the various disciplines in the pre- and postoperative management is essential in order to optimize the timing and outcome of patients with UC.

First reported case of afatinib-associated toxic megacolon

We report the first case of toxic megacolon associated with afatinib use, which is a potentially fatal complication, with risks of colonic perforation. In this case, the condition improved on stopping afatnib. Clinicians need to be alert of this rare but fatal adverse effect and to avoid anti-diarrhoeal agents, which can worsen toxic megacolon. Anti-diarrhoeal agents are routinely given if diarrhoea occurs on afatinib. These should be stopped and avoided if toxic megacolon occurs.

Management of Paediatric Ulcerative Colitis, Part 2: Acute Severe Colitis-An Evidence-based Consensus Guideline From the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization and the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Acute severe colitis (ASC) is one of the few emergencies in pediatric gastroenterology. Tight monitoring and timely medical and surgical interventions may improve outcomes and minimize morbidity and mortality. We aimed to standardize daily treatment of ASC in children through detailed recommendations and practice points which are based on a systematic review of the literature and consensus of experts.

METHODS

These guidelines are a joint effort of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization (ECCO) and the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN). Fifteen predefined questions were addressed by working subgroups. An iterative consensus process, including 2 face-to-face meetings, was followed by voting of the national representatives of ECCO and all members of the Paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Porto group of ESPGHAN (43 voting experts).

RESULTS

A total of 24 recommendations and 43 practice points were endorsed with a consensus rate of at least 91% regarding diagnosis, monitoring, and management of ASC in children. A summary flowchart is presented based on daily scoring of the Paediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index. Several topics have been altered since the previous 2011 guidelines and from those published in adults.

DISCUSSION

These guidelines standardize the management of ASC in children in an attempt to optimize outcomes of this intensive clinical scenario.

The impact of biologics in surgical outcomes in ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is an immune mediated condition characterized by inflammation of colonic mucosa, associated with progressive damage of the colon and possible complications, such as hemorrhage, perforation and cancer. It is strongly advocated a treat to target approach in patients with UC consisting in an early and aggressive inflammatory control. Some patients can require colectomy for medically refractory disease or to treat colonic neoplasia. Even though the first line biologic therapy targeting the tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α) is associated with improvement of the inflammation in some patients, others do not respond at first or lose response over time. Novel drugs targeting different inflammatory pathways have been studied in UC, however, it remains unclear whether surgical rates have been reduced in the biological era. Controversy also exists if biological agents impair surgical postoperative complication rates in UC. The aim of this review is to describe all relevant data available and briefly summarize the real impact of biologics in surgical outcomes in ulcerative colitis.

[Acute severe colitis]

Acute severe colitis is a potentially life-threatening medical and surgical emergency requiring hospitalization and intensive monitoring. The diagnosis of severe acute colitis is based on clinical and biological criteria. Colectomy should be discussed at each stage of management and is indicated immediately in case of complications. Thromboembolic prevention with low molecular weight heparin is essential in any patient with severe acute colitis. The first-line medical treatment is intravenous corticosteroid at a dose of 0.8mg/kg/day of prednisone equivalent. In case of failure, a second line of medical treatment can be attempted in the absence of complications. The two possible treatments are infliximab and ciclosporin.

Management of acute severe ulcerative colitis in children

The incidence of pediatric-onset ulcerative colitis (UC) is rising. Children often present with a more severe disease phenotype as compared to adults with over a third requiring hospitalization for the management of acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC). Further, in pediatric patients presenting with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) limited to the colon, a definitive diagnosis of UC vs. Crohn's disease is often unclear. Here, we review the unique aspects of pediatric ASUC including the epidemiology, diagnosis, medical, and surgical management of this disease.

Gastrointestinal Motility Problems in Critically Ill Patients

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility problems are common complications in critical care patients. GI problems contribute to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Toxic megacolon (TM) is a type of acquired megacolon categorized as a medical emergency and includes severe inflammation affecting all layers of the colon wall. The high incidence of GI complications in critically ill patients requires the critical care nurse to provide close monitoring of patients at risk and an acute awareness of the causation, signs and symptoms, and treatment of various GI motility disorders, including gastroparesis, ileus, and TM.

Early Surgical Intervention for Acute Ulcerative Colitis Is Associated with Improved Postoperative Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Timing of surgical intervention for acute ulcerative colitis has not been fully examined during the modern immunotherapy era. Although early surgical intervention is recommended, historical consensus for "early" ranges widely. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes according to timing of urgent surgery for acute ulcerative colitis.

METHODS

All non-elective total colectomies in ulcerative colitis patients were identified in the National Inpatient Sample from 2002 to 2014. Procedures, comorbidities, diagnoses, and in-hospital outcomes were collected using International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision codes. An operation was defined as early if within 24 hours of admission. Results were compared between the early versus delayed surgery groups.

RESULTS

We found 69,936 patients that were admitted with ulcerative colitis, and 2650 patients that underwent non-elective total colectomy (3.8%). Early intervention was performed in 20.4% of patients who went to surgery. More early operations were performed laparoscopically (28.1% versus 23.3%, p = 0.021) and on more comorbid patients (Charlson Index, p = 0.008). Median total hospitalization costs were $20,948 with an early operation versus $33,666 with a delayed operation (p < 0.001). Delayed operation was an independent risk for a complication (OR = 1.46, p = 0.001). Increased hospitalization costs in the delayed surgery group were statistically significantly higher with a reported complication (OR = 3.00, p < 0.001) and lengths of stay (OR = 1.26, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Delayed operations for acute ulcerative colitis are associated with increased postoperative complications, increased lengths of stay, and increased hospital costs. Further prospective studies could demonstrate that this association leads to improved outcomes with immediate surgical intervention for medically refractory ulcerative colitis.

MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE SEVERE ULCERATIVE COLITIS: A CLINICAL UPDATE

Introduction:

Acute severe colitis is a potentially lethal medical emergency and, even today, its treatment remains a challenge for clinicians and surgeons. Intravenous corticoid therapy, which was introduced into the therapeutic arsenal in the 1950s, continues to be the first-line treatment and, for patients who are refractory to this, the rescue therapy may consist of clinical measures or emergency colectomy.

Objective:

To evaluate the indications for and results from drug rescue therapy (cyclosporine, infliximab and tacrolimus), and to suggest a practical guide for clinical approaches.

Methods:

The literature was reviewed using the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane library and SciELO databases, and additional information from institutional websites of interest, by cross-correlating the following keywords: acute severe colitis, fulminating colitis and treatment.

Results:

Treatments for acute severe colitis have avoided colectomy in 60-70% of the cases, provided that they have been started early on, with multidisciplinary follow-up. Despite the adverse effects of intravenous cyclosporine, this drug has been indicated in cases of greater severity with an imminent risk of colectomy, because of its fast action, short half-life and absence of increased risk of surgical complications. Therapy using infliximab has been reserved for less severe cases and those in which immunosuppressants are being or have been used (AZA/6-MP). Indication of biological agents has recently been favored because of their ease of therapeutic use, their good short and medium-term results, the possibility of maintenance therapy and also their action as a "bridge" for immunosuppressant action (AZA/6-MP). Colectomy has been reserved for cases in which there is still no response five to seven days after rescue therapy and in cases of complications (toxic megacolon, profuse hemorrhage and perforation).

Conclusion:

Patients with a good response to rescue therapy who do not undergo emergency operations should be considered for maintenance therapy using azathioprine. A surgical procedure is indicated for selected cases.

Second Korean guidelines for the management of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by a relapsing and remitting course. The direct and indirect costs of the treatment of UC are high, and the quality of life of patients is reduced, especially during exacerbation of the disease. The incidence and prevalence of UC in Korea are still lower than those of Western countries, but have been rapidly increasing during the past decades. Various medical and surgical therapies, including biologics, are currently used for the management of UC. However, many challenging issues exist, which sometimes lead to differences in practice between clinicians. Therefore, the IBD study group of the Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Diseases established the first Korean guidelines for the management of UC in 2012. This is an update of the first guidelines. It was generally made by the adaptation of several foreign guidelines as was the first edition, and encompasses treatment of active colitis, maintenance of remission, and indication of surgery for UC. The specific recommendations are presented with the quality of evidence and classification of recommendations.

The Surgical Treatment of Toxic Megacolon in Hirschsprung Disease

OBJECTIVES

Enterocolitis remains the most significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Hirschsprung disease (HD). It could progress into toxic megacolon (TM)-acute dilatation of the colon as accompanying toxic complication of Hirschsprung enterocolitis. It is a devastating complication, especially in infants with so far undiagnosed HD.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of medical records of 4 infants with TM was performed. The diagnosis TM was determined on the basis of clinical information (abdominal pain or tenderness, abdominal distension, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and constipation), plain x-rays of the abdomen (segmental or total colonic dilation), and the presence of such criteria (fever, high heart rate, increased white blood cell count, C reactive protein, anemia, dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, hypotension). Surgical management and outcome was evaluated by retrospective chart review.

RESULTS

The median duration of symptoms characteristic for TM was 3 days. Toxic megacolon was seen as the first manifestation of previously unknown HD in 3 patients; in 1 newborn, the contrast radiograph was suggestive of HD. In all patients, conservative treatment was failed. Three patients were treated with surgical decompression and ileostomy only. In all these cases, severe complications occurred, consequently 2 of them died. In 1 patient, a resection of the transverse dilated colon additionally was performed. This patient had no complications in postoperative period and survived.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of the high mortality in patients with TM that were treated medically or with colonic decompression, a resection of massively distended part of the colon should be performed.

Update on medical and surgical options for patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis: What is new?

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (UC) is a highly morbid condition that requires both medical and surgical management through the collaboration of gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. First line treatment for patients presenting with acute severe UC consists of intravenous steroids, but those who do not respond require escalation of therapy or emergent colectomy. The mortality of emergent colectomy has declined significantly in recent decades, but due to the morbidity of this procedure, second line agents such as cyclosporine and infliximab have been used as salvage therapy in an attempt to avoid emergent surgery. Unfortunately, protracted medical therapy has led to patients presenting for surgery in a poorer state of health leading to poorer post-operative outcomes. In this era of multiple medical modalities available in the treatment of acute severe UC, physicians must consider the advantages and disadvantages of prolonged medical therapy in an attempt to avoid surgery. Colectomy remains a mainstay in the treatment of severe ulcerative colitis not responsive to corticosteroids and rescue therapy, and timely referral for surgery allows for improved post-operative outcomes with lower risk of sepsis and improved patient survival. Options for reconstructive surgery include three-stage ileal pouch-anal anastomosis or a modified two-stage procedure that can be performed either open or laparoscopically. The numerous avenues of medical and surgical therapy have allowed for great advances in the treatment of patients with UC. In this era of options, it is important to maintain a global view, utilize biologic therapy when indicated, and then maintain an appropriate threshold for surgery. The purpose of this review is to summarize the growing number of medical and surgical options available in the treatment of acute, severe UC.

Campylobacter colitis: Rare cause of toxic megacolon

INTRODUCTION

Campylobacter is the leading cause of bacterial diarrhoeal illness worldwide. Toxic megacolon is a rare but potentially devastating complication.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 55year old female with liver cirrhosis, alcoholism and hepatitis C, presented with severe colitis and stool specimen positive for Campylobacter. She developed septic shock, multi-organ dysfunction syndrome and toxic megacolon unresponsive to medical therapy, and underwent a subtotal colectomy with end ileostomy. Despite initial improvement, the patient died on postoperative day 4.

DISCUSSION

Early surgical consultation is essential as toxic megacolon may be complicated by perforation or uncontrolled bleeding; progressive colonic dilatation with clinical deterioration is also an important indication for surgery.

CONCLUSION

Toxic megacolon should be considered in a patient with Campylobacter colitis who becomes critically unwell. Despite treatment, toxic megacolon is associated with a significant risk of mortality.

Accuracy of 99mTc (V)-Dimercaptosuccinic Acid Scintigraphy and Fecal Calprotectin Compared with Colonoscopy in Localizing Active Lesions in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

INTRODUCTION

Due to limitation of colonoscopy in assessing the entire bowel and patients’ intolerance in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), in the current study, we aimed to prospectively compare the accuracy of ^99mTc(V)-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) and fecal calprotectin with ileocolonoscopy as new methods for localizing inflammations.

METHODS

Current prospective study conducted between 2012 and 2014 on 30 patients with IBD attending Gastroenterology Clinic of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Fecal calprotectin and disease activity were measured for all participants and all of them underwent ^99mTc (V)-DMSA scintigraphy and colonoscopy. The accuracy of ^99mTc (V)-DMSA scintigraphy and calprotectin in localizing bowel lesions were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 22 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 8 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) were evaluated in our study. Sensitivity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), and positive predictive value (PPV) of scintigraphy and calprotectin over colonoscopy in localization of UC lesions were 86.36%, 0.86%, 100.00% and 90.91%, 0.91, and 100.00%, respectively. Meanwhile, it showed 66.67% sensitivity and 81.25% specificity with PLR=3.56, negative likelihood ratio (NLR)=0.41, PPV=84.21%, and negative predictive value (NPV)= 61.90% in localizing lesions in patients with CD. The calprotectin level had sensitivity, PLR, and PPV of 90.00%, 0.90, and 100.00% in detecting active disease over colonoscopy, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The ^99mTc (V)-DMSA scintigraphy would be an accurate method for detecting active inflammation in follow-up of patients with IBD and assessing response to treatment as a non-invasive and complementary method beside colonoscopy for more accurate diagnosis of CD or UC.

Review article: the practical management of acute severe ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a life-threatening condition for which optimal management strategies remain ill-defined.

AIM

To review the evidence regarding the natural history, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of ASUC to inform an evidence-based approach to management.

METHODS

Relevant articles addressing the management of ASUC were identified from a search of MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and conference proceedings.

RESULTS

Of ASUC, 31-35% is steroid-refractory. Infliximab and ciclosporin salvage therapies have improved patient outcomes in randomised controlled trials. Short-term response rates (within 3 months) have ranged from 40% - 54% for ciclosporin and 46-83% for infliximab. Long-term clinical response rates (≥1 year) have ranged from 42%-50% for ciclosporin and 50-65% for infliximab. Short-term and long-term colectomy rates have been respectively: 26-47% and 36-58% for ciclosporin, and 0-50% and 35-50% for infliximab. Mortality rates for ciclosporin and infliximab-treated patients have been: 0-5% and 0-2%, respectively. At present, management challenges include the selection, timing and assessment of response to salvage therapy, utilisation of therapeutic drug monitoring and long-term maintenance of remission.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal management of acute severe ulcerative colitis should be guided by risk stratification using predictive indices of corticosteroid response. Timely commencement and assessment of response to salvage therapy is critical to reducing morbidity and mortality. Emerging pharmacokinetic models and therapeutic drug monitoring may assist clinical decision-making and facilitate a shift towards individualised acute severe ulcerative colitis therapies.

Fecal impaction: a systematic review of its medical complications

Background

Fecal impaction (FI) is a common problem in the elderly and other at-risk groups, such as patients with a neuro-psychiatric disease. It has been associated with medical problems and high morbi-mortality. A systematic review of this topic might be useful to improve the knowledge in this area and helpful to make an appropriate and early diagnosis.

Methods

A PubMed systematic search was performed using relevant keywords. Case reports published in English, Spanish or French till June 2014 were included if they had a diagnosis of FI and a medical complication secondary to it. Each case was classified based on its principal complication. The main objective is to create a classification of FI complications based on published clinical cases.

Results

188 articles met inclusion criteria, comprising 280 clinical cases. Out of the total, 43,5 % were over 65 years old, 49 % suffered from chronic constipation, 29 % had an underlying neuropsychiatric disease and 15 % were hospitalised or institutionalised. A total of 346 medical complications secondary to FI were collected. They were divided according to gastrointestinal tract involvement and then classified based on their anatomical and pathophysiological mechanism into three groups: Complications secondary to fecaloma effect on the intestinal wall (73.4 %), on the intestinal lumen (14 %) and on adjacent structures (12.6 %).

Conclusions

FI causes complications that might be fatal. The elderly, underlying neuropsychiatric disease and hospitalised or institutionalised patients integrate the high-risk group in which FI must be suspected. The first FI complications classification is presented to improve the knowledge about this entity.