Diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative colitis with cytomegalovirus infection: importance of controlling mucosal inflammation to prevent cytomegalovirus reactivation

A case of ulcerative colitis in a patient undergoing surgery due to exacerbation resulting in toxic megacolon after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination

We herein report a case involving a patient with quiescent ulcerative colitis (UC) in long-term clinical remission whose condition rapidly worsened after receiving a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination, leading to colectomy due to toxic megacolon. The patient received the fifth dose of the Spikevax (mRNA-1273) vaccine and experienced a severe flare-up of UC 6 days later. Pathologic findings of the surgical specimens were consistent with severe active UC concomitant with cytomegalovirus infection. Because mRNA vaccines stimulate both humoral and cellular immunogenicity, it is important to note that they can be a triggering factor for the relapse of UC.

Predictive Factors of Cytomegalovirus Colonic Reactivation in Patients with Active Ulcerative Colitis

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-associated colitis reflects the adverse impact of CMV reactivation on ulcerative colitis (UC). Its diagnosis requires the detection of viral markers in intestinal biopsies sampled during endoscopy, which may constitute invasive and expensive analyses. Moreover, less than 30% of acute flare-ups in steroid refractory UC are associated with CMV colitis. This retrospective study aimed to identify non-invasive factors that are predictive of CMV reactivation, and was conducted from 2014 to 2019 in a cohort of UC patients consulting at the University Hospital of Saint-Etienne, France. Patient characteristics, disease activity, immunosuppressive treatment and tissue CMV DNA load were collected at the time of UC relapse. Factors potentially associated with CMV reactivation were analyzed through a multivariate analysis. A total of 173 UC patients providing 323 pairs of intestinal biopsies were analyzed. In the CMV seropositive subgroup, a Mayo endoscopic score ≥2 (OR 2.553, 95% CI 1.353-4.818, p = 0.004) was identified as a predictive factor of CMV colitis in the multivariate analysis; in contrast, biological parameters exhibited no predictive value. In addition, the use of anti-TNFα monoclonal antibodies was associated with a reduced risk of CMV reactivation (OR 0.384, 95% CI 0.158-0.935, p = 0.035). Intestinal biopsies appear to be unavoidable for assessing disease activity and CMV reactivation in UC patients.

Cytomegalovirus in Ulcerative Colitis: An Unwanted "Guest"

The role of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the flare-up of ulcerative colitis (UC) is not clearly understood. CMV can cause similar symptoms in different clinical contexts, which may be attributed to the natural evolution of the viral infection, the patient's immune status, or its association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aims to delineate the diverse manifestations of CMV-related lesions from clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological perspectives, alongside a brief narrative review of the literature. In managing IBD patients, it is crucial to be vigilant for signs of CMV reactivation, especially before the initiation of more intensive therapies.

Cytomegalovirus Infection in Adult Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Literature Review

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is classified within the Herpesvirales order and is prevalent in 50%‒80% of the general population. Most carriers experience this infection without noticeable clinical symptoms. HCMV causes a lifelong latent infection that can be reactivated due to immune disorders and inflammation. The reactivation of HCMV becomes particularly significant when it coincides with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis in IBD patients was identified years ago, the role of CMV in triggering flare-ups, acute severe colitis, treatment resistance, and other outcomes in IBD patients experiencing CMV reactivation remains a subject of ongoing debate. In this review, we aim to address an updated insight into aspects related to the CMV colitis in IBD patients including epidemiology, risk factors, clinical features, diagnostic tests, histology, place of immunosuppressants and indications for antiviral treatment. We suggest for personalized and thorough assessment based on the disease phase and colitis severity when prescribing drugs to these patients. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of regular patient follow-up to monitor drug side effects, ensuring treatment success, and minimizing the risk of colectomy.

Impact of cytomegalovirus on outcomes in acute severe ulcerative colitis: a retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Concomitant cytomegalovirus (CMV) is highly prevalent in acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) but data for outcomes of CMV positivity in ASUC and the benefit of antiviral therapy remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to determine the impact of CMV positivity, and antiviral therapy, on outcomes such as colectomy-free survival, length of hospital stay and readmission rate, among hospitalized patients with ASUC.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective, multicentre study of patients admitted with ASUC.

METHODS

CMV positivity was diagnosed from blood CMV DNA and inpatient colonic biopsies. Background demographics and disease characteristics, clinical characteristics and outcomes during admission and long-term outcomes were obtained from electronic medical records and compared according to the presence of CMV and the use of antiviral therapy.

RESULTS

CMV was detected in 40 (24%) of 167 ASUC admissions. Previous steroid exposure was the only clinical predictor of CMV positivity on multivariate analysis. Outcomes of greater requirement for rescue therapy (60% versus 33%), longer hospital stay (14.3 versus 9.9 days) and higher readmission rates at 3 and 12 months were associated with CMV positivity. No difference was found in the rate of colectomy or colectomy-free survival. Antiviral therapy was not associated with a lower risk of colectomy but did extend the time to colectomy (126 versus 36 days).

CONCLUSION

CMV positivity was associated with worse outcomes of need for rescue therapy, hospital stay and readmissions. Antiviral therapy was not found to reduce the risk of colectomy but did extend the time to colectomy. Further prospective studies will be required to more clearly determine its benefit in patients with concomitant CMV and ASUC.

The association between antigenemia, histology with immunohistochemistry, and mucosal PCR in the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis with concomitant human cytomegalovirus infection

BACKGROUND

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) colitis can be involved in active ulcerative colitis (UC) in patients refractory to steroid and immunosuppressive drugs. Histological examination with colonic biopsy specimens and antigenemia assays are the standard tests for diagnosing HCMV enterocolitis, and we have previously reported the usefulness of mucosal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. However, the associations among histopathological tests, antigenemia assays, and mucosal PCR are unknown.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 82 UC patients who underwent mucosal biopsy from inflamed colonic tissues for histological evaluation and mucosal PCR to detect HCMV. We analyzed the relationships between the HCMV-DNA copy number in colonic mucosa and other HCMV tests.

RESULTS

In total, 131 HCMV mucosal PCR tests from 82 UC patients were positive. The HCMV-DNA copy number was significantly higher in patients with positive immunohistochemistry (IHC) (p < 0.01) and was correlated with the number of positive cells for the antigenemia (C7-HRP, p < 0.01; C10/11, p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis confirmed 1300 copies/μg of HCMV-DNA as the best diagnostic cut-off value to predict positive results of antigenemia (area under the curve = 0.80, 95% CI 0.68-0.93). HCMV-DNA copy number also correlated with the total UCEIS score (p = 0.013) and the bleeding score (p = 0.014). For each individual patient, a positive correlation between the change in total UCEIS score and HCMV-DNA copy number was observed (p = 0.040).

CONCLUSION

The antigenemia assay and histopathological test with IHC were significantly associated with the HCMV-DNA copy number in colonic tissues. Moreover, endoscopic examination with the UCEIS can help diagnose the HCMV colitis in UC patients.

Impact of Dextran-Sodium-Sulfate-Induced Enteritis on Murine Cytomegalovirus Reactivation

(1) Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the intestines, which participates in human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) reactivation from its latent reservoir. CMV-associated colitis plays a pejorative role in the clinical course of UC. We took advantage of a model of chemically induced enteritis to study the viral reactivation of murine CMV (MCMV) in the context of gut inflammation. (2) Methods: Seven-week-old BALB/c mice were infected by 3 × 103 plaque-forming units (PFU) of MCMV; 2.5% (w/v) DSS was administered in the drinking water from day (D) 30 to D37 post-infection to induce enteritis. (3) Results: MCMV DNA levels in the circulation decreased from D21 after infection until resolution of the acute infection. DSS administration resulted in weight loss, high disease activity index, elevated Nancy index shortening of the colon length and increase in fecal lipocalin. However, chemically induced enteritis had no impact on MCMV reactivation as determined by qPCR and immunohistochemistry of intestinal tissues. (4) Conclusions: Despite the persistence of MCMV in the digestive tissues after the acute phase of infection, the gut inflammation induced by DSS did not induce MCMV reactivation in intestinal tissues, thus failing to recapitulate inflammation-driven HCMV reactivation in human UC.

Current Status of Opportunistic Infection in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients in Asia: A Questionnaire-Based Multicenter Study

Background/Aims

Opportunistic infection in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has become a serious problem. However, its status of doctors' opinions and test equipment in hospitals are unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate these issues to improve the prognosis of IBD patients.

Methods

This retrospective, multicenter study was conducted by 83 investigators who were members of the Asian Organization for Crohn's and Colitis. Data on opportunistic infection were collected from hospital databases between January 2017 and December 2017. The survey consisted of 11 items.

Results

Most physicians appreciated the diagnostic value of tissue cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA, accounting for 86.1% of members in China, 37.5% in Japan, 52.9% in South Korea, and 66.7% in Southeast Asia. Only 83.1% of hospitals had the ability to test for CMV immunohistochemistry in Asia. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) screening was recommended by all members. However, only 66.7% in China, 70.6% in South Korea, and 66.7% in Southeast Asia agreed to routinely vaccinate IBD patients when HBsAg tested negative. Most members preferred metronidazole (74.7%) as the first choice for patients with Clostridium difficile infection. However, the proportion of stool C. difficile toxin test was lower in China than in other areas (75.0% in China vs 95.8% in Japan and 100% in South Korea and Southeast Asia, p<0.05).

Conclusions

Opportunistic infection from CMV, hepatitis B virus, and C. difficile should be of high concern for IBD patients. More efforts are needed, such as understanding consensus in clinical practice and improving testing facilities in hospitals.

Clinical Significance of Residual Nonrectal Inflammation in Ulcerative Colitis Patients in Clinical Remission

Background/Aims

The treatment goal of ulcerative colitis (UC) has been changed to achieve endoscopic remission (ER). However, there is insufficient clinical evidence to determine whether a step-up treatment should be performed to achieve ER in clinical remission (CR) without ER, and there are inadequate data on the need to consider the distribution and severity of residual inflammation. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of the distribution and severity of residual inflammation in UC patients in CR.

Methods

A total of 131 UC patients in CR who underwent endoscopic evaluation for more than three times between January 2000 and December 2018 were reviewed. The patients were allocated by the endoscopic healing state and the distribution of inflammation to ER (n=31, 23.7%), residual nonrectal inflammation with patchy distribution (NRI) (n=17, 13.0%) or residual rectal involvement with continuous or patchy distribution (RI) (n=83, 63.3%) groups. We reviewed clinical characteristics, endoscopic findings, and factors associated with poor outcome-free survival (PFS).

Results

In UC patients in CR, PFS was significantly higher in the ER and NRI groups than in the RI group (p=0.003). Patients in the ER and NRI groups had similar PFS (p=0.647). Cox proportional hazard model showed only RI (hazard ratio, 5.76; p=0.027) was associated with a higher risk of poor outcome.

Conclusions

We suggest that escalation of treatment modalities may be selectively performed in consideration of the residual mucosal inflammation pattern, even if ER has not been achieved, in UC patients with CR. (Gut Liver 2021;15-409)

Human Cytomegalovirus and Autoimmune Diseases: Where Are We?

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the β-subgroup of the herpesvirus family. After the initial infection, the virus establishes latency in poorly differentiated myeloid precursors from where it can reactivate at later times to cause recurrences. In immunocompetent subjects, primary HCMV infection is usually asymptomatic, while in immunocompromised patients, HCMV infection can lead to severe, life-threatening diseases, whose clinical severity parallels the degree of immunosuppression. The existence of a strict interplay between HCMV and the immune system has led many to hypothesize that HCMV could also be involved in autoimmune diseases (ADs). Indeed, signs of active viral infection were later found in a variety of different ADs, such as rheumatological, neurological, enteric disorders, and metabolic diseases. In addition, HCMV infection has been frequently linked to increased production of autoantibodies, which play a driving role in AD progression, as observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Documented mechanisms of HCMV-associated autoimmunity include molecular mimicry, inflammation, and nonspecific B-cell activation. In this review, we summarize the available literature on the various ADs arising from or exacerbating upon HCMV infection, focusing on the potential role of HCMV-mediated immune activation at disease onset.

Cytomegalovirus and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) with a Special Focus on the Link with Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infects approximately 40% of adults in France and persists lifelong as a latent agent in different organs, including gut. A close relationship is observed between inflammation that favors viral expression and viral replication that exacerbates inflammation. In this context, CMV colitis may impact the prognosis of patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), and notably those with ulcerative colitis (UC). In UC, the mucosal inflammation and T helper cell (TH) 2 cytokines, together with immunomodulatory drugs used for controlling flare-ups, favor viral reactivation within the gut, which, in turn, increases mucosal inflammation, impairs corticoid and immunosuppressor efficacy (the probability of steroid resistance is multiplied by more than 20 in the case of CMV colitis), and enhances the risk for colectomy. This review emphasizes the virological tools that are recommended for exploring CMV colitis during inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and underlines the interest of using ganciclovir for treating flare-ups associated to CMV colitis in UC patients.

Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches to Cytomegalovirus Infections in Ulcerative Colitis Patients Based on Clinical and Basic Research Data

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus (the human herpesvirus 5) and an opportunistic pathogen that primarily infects HIV-positive and other immuno-compromised patients. Retrospective studies in the field of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have suggested a relationship between a concomitant colonic HCMV infection and poor outcomes in patients with an ulcerative colitis (UC) due to the presence of HCMV in surgical specimens of patients with a toxic megacolon or a steroid-resistant UC. Therefore, gastroenterologists have focused on the contribution of HCMV infections in the exacerbation of UC. Numerous studies have addressed the benefits of treating colonic HCMV reactivation in UC using an antiviral treatment. However, its clinical relevance remains uncertain as only a few prospective studies have assessed the direct relationship between clinical outcomes and the viral load of HCMV in colonic tissues. HCMV reactivation can be triggered by inflammation according to fundamental research studies. Thus, optimal control of intestinal inflammation is essential for preventing an HCMV reactivation in the intestinal mucosa. Indeed, several reports have indicated the effectiveness of an anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) treatment in patients with an active UC and concomitant HCMV infections. In this review, we describe the mechanism of HCMV reactivation in UC cases and discuss the current issues regarding diagnosis and treatment of HCMV infections in UC patients.

Clinical characteristics of cytomegalovirus gastritis: A retrospective study from a tertiary medical center

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) gastritis is a rare opportunistic infection with diverse clinical manifestations. Our study aimed to investigate the clinical features of Chinese patients with CMV gastritis.Six inpatients diagnosed with CMV gastritis were retrospectively enrolled, based on the finding of inclusion bodies in routine hematoxylin and eosin staining or positive anti-CMV monoclonal antibodies under immunohistochemistry in the gastric biopsy. Data, including demographics, diagnostic measurements, and medications, were collected.Abdominal pain was the most frequently reported symptom, occurring in 4 patients. Five patients were immunocompromised with associated underlying diseases, and 3 patients had decreased leukocyte differentiation antigen 4 positive (CD4) T lymphocyte counts. Only 3 patients had either positive cytomegalovirus (CMV)-immunoglobulin (Ig) M or increased copies of CMV-DNA peripherally. All patients had gastric lesions in the antrum of the stomach, including ulcers or erosions observed by gastroscopy. All patients received ganciclovir by intravenous injection (IV) as the first line anti-CMV therapy, and attained complete (4) or partial remission (2) during the follow-up.CMV gastritis should be taken into consideration in patients with immunocompromised status who have abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Gastroscopy and necessary biopsy are the major diagnostic methods for CMV gastritis. Early diagnosis leads to a better prognosis for these patients.

Cytomegalovirus Enterocolitis in a Patient with Refractory Immune-Related Colitis

Although most immune-related adverse events (irAEs) secondary to immune checkpoint inhibitors can be managed with immunosuppressive therapies; they can induce reactivation of infectious diseases, including cytomegalovirus (CMV). Here, we show a case of CMV enterocolitis during steroid therapy for an irAE. A 77-year-old man with unresectable malignant melanoma was treated with ipilimumab. He suffered from immune-related colitis (irColitis) and was treated with methylprednisolone. Although corticosteroids initially improved his symptoms, CMV reactivation occurred and colitis was exacerbated. Antiviral therapy improved his symptoms without augmenting the immunosuppressive therapy. CMV colitis should be considered when a patient with irColitis shows resistance to immunosuppressive therapy.

Management of elderly ulcerative colitis in Japan

Japan has the largest aging society, where many elderly people have intractable diseases including ulcerative colitis (UC). Along with the increasing total number of UC patients, the number of elderly UC patients has also been increasing and will continue to do so in the future. Although the clinical features and natural history of UC in the elderly have many similarities with UC in the non-elderly population, age-specific concerns including comorbidities, immunological dysfunction, and polypharmacy make the diagnosis and management of elderly UC challenging compared to UC in non-elderly patients. Based on increasing data related to elderly UC patients from Japan, as well as other countries, we reviewed the epidemiology, clinical course, differential diagnosis, management of comorbidities, surveillance, medical therapy, and surgery of UC in the elderly.

Cytomegalovirus infection in ulcerative colitis assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction: risk factors and effects of immunosuppressants

We investigated the risk factors of and appropriate treatment for cytomegalovirus colitis in patients with ulcerative colitis, using quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis to detect cytomegalovirus in the colonic mucosa. Between February 2013 and January 2017, patients with exacerbated ulcerative colitis who were admitted to our hospital were consecutively enrolled in this retrospective, single-center study. Patients were evaluated for cytomegalovirus using serology (antigenemia) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses of the colonic mucosa, which were sampled during colonoscopy. Of 86 patients, 26 (30.2%) had positive quantitative polymerase chain reaction results for cytomegalovirus; only 4 were also positive for antigenemia. The ages of the cytomegalovirus DNA-positive patients were significantly higher than those of negative patients (p = 0.002). The mean endoscopic score of cytomegalovirus DNA-positive patients was significantly higher than that of cytomegalovirus DNA-negative patients. Treatment with combined immunosuppressants was associated with an increased risk of cytomegalovirus. Fourteen of 15 (93.3%) cytomegalovirus DNA-positive patients who were negative for antigenemia showed a clinical response to treatment with additional oral tacrolimus, without ganciclovir. cytomegalovirus reactivation in active ulcerative colitis is associated with age and combined immunosuppressant therapy. Because additional treatment with tacrolimus was effective, patients who are negative for antigenemia and cytomegalovirus DNA-positive colonic mucosa may recover without antiviral therapy.

Evidence-based consensus on opportunistic infections in inflammatory bowel disease (republication)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are a high-risk population for opportunistic infections. The IBD group of the Chinese Society of Gastroenterology of the Chinese Medical Association organized an expert group to discuss and develop this consensus opinion. This consensus opinion referenced clinical study results from China and other countries to provide guidance for clinical practices. Eight major topics, including cytomegalovirus infection, Epstein-Barr virus infection, viral hepatitis, bacterial infection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, fungal infection, parasitic infection, and vaccines were introduced in this article.

Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease by leukocytapheresis

Studies about leukocytapheresis have emerged with the need of search for alternatives to conventional treatment in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Leukocytapheresis is a novel non-pharmacologic approach for active ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), in which leukocytes are mechanically removed from the circulatory system. Patients with active IBD treated with leukocytapheresis using a Cellsorba E column between 2012 and 2015, were enrolled in Turkey. In our experience, the results of leukocytapheresis therapy in 6 patients with CD and 20 patients with active UC were overviewed. Leukocytapheresis (10 sessions for remission induction therapy, 6 sessions for maintenance therapy) was applied to the patients with their concomitant medications. Intensive leukocytapheresis (≥4 leukocytapheresis sessions within the first 2 weeks) was used in 30% patients with active severe UC. The overall clinical remission rate in patients with UC was 80%, and the mucosal healing rate was 65%. Patients were followed for an average of 24 months. It was observed that clinical remission has continued in 65% of patients with UC. Mild relapse was observed in 3 patients with UC during follow up period. In 5 patients with CD significant clinical remission was achieved except only one patient. Surgical needs were disappeared in 3 patients with obstructive type Crohn's disease. Adverse events were seen in only 4.3% of 416 sessions. Any concomitant medications did not increase the incidence of adverse events. Our results indicate that leukocytapheresis is efficacious in improving remission rates with excellent tolerability and safety in patients with IBD.

Human cytomegalovirus encoded chemokine receptor US28 activates the HIF-1α/PKM2 axis in glioblastoma cells

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encoded chemokine receptor US28 promotes tumorigenesis through activation of various proliferative and angiogenic signaling pathways. Upon infection, US28 displays constitutive activity and signals in a G protein-dependent manner, hijacking the host's cellular machinery. In tumor cells, the hypoxia inducible factor-1α/pyruvate kinase M2 (HIF-1α/PKM2) axis plays an important role by supporting proliferation, angiogenesis and reprogramming of energy metabolism. In this study we show that US28 signaling results in activation of the HIF-1α/PKM2 feedforward loop in fibroblasts and glioblastoma cells. The constitutive activity of US28 increases HIF-1 protein stability through a Gαq-, CaMKII- and Akt/mTOR-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, we found that VEGF and lactate secretion are increased and HIF-1 target genes, glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), involved in glucose metabolism, are upregulated in US28 expressing cells. In addition, PKM2 is phosphorylated and found to be in a tumor-associated dimeric state upon US28 expression. Also in HCMV-infected cells HIF-1 activity is enhanced, which in part is US28-dependent. Finally, increased proliferation of cells expressing US28 is abolished upon inhibition of the HIF-1α/PKM2 cascade. These data highlight the importance of HIF-1α and PKM2 in US28-induced proliferation, angiogenesis and metabolic reprogramming.

Targeting cytomegalovirus during ulcerative colitis flare-ups

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common cause of opportunistic infection leading to severe and fatal disease in immune-compromised individuals. In inflammatory bowel disease patients, particularly those with ulcerative colitis (UC), CMV is often reactivated because these patients are frequently treated with immunosuppressive agents. Many reports have described the relationship between CMV reactivation and UC exacerbation, however, a therapeutic strategy for CMV infection in UC patients has not been established. Area covered: This review highlights therapeutic strategies for UC patients with CMV infection. Recent findings have suggested a benefit from antiviral therapy in patients with histologically proven CMV colitis and/or a high colonic CMV load as determined by quantitative PCR. Expert commentary: To decide who requires antiviral therapies and when we start antiviral therapies, prospective studies of large numbers of UC patients with CMV infection are needed. However, we should know that the bottom-line therapy for UC patients with CMV infection is to optimally control mucosal inflammation.

Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in Asia: the results of a multinational web-based survey in the 2(nd) Asian Organization of Crohn's and Colitis (AOCC) meeting in Seoul

Background/Aims

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management guidelines have been released from Western countries, but no adequate data on the application of these guidelines in Asian countries and no surveys on the treatment of IBD in real practice exist. Since there is a growing need for a customized consensus for IBD treatment in Asian countries, Asian Organization of Crohn's and Colitis performed a multinational survey of medical doctors who treat IBD patients in Asian countries.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed between August 2013 and November 2013. It was composed of 4 domains: personal information, IBD diagnosis, IBD treatment, and quality of IBD care. Upon completion of the questionnaire, a web-based survey was conducted between 17 March 2014 and 12 May 2014.

Results

In total, 353 medical doctors treating IBD from ten Asian countries responded to the survey. This survey data suggested a difference in available medical treatments (budesonide, tacrolimus) among Asian countries. Therapeutic strategies regarding refractory IBD (acute severe ulcerative colitis [UC] refractory to intravenous steroids and refractory Crohn's disease [CD]) and active UC were coincident, however, induction therapies for mild to moderate inflammatory small bowel CD are different among Asian countries.

Conclusions

This survey demonstrated that current therapeutic approaches and clinical management of IBD vary among Asian countries. Based on these results and discussions, we hope that optimal management guidelines for Asian IBD patients will be developed.

Cytomegalovirus Colitis, Cytomegalovirus Hepatitis and Systemic Cytomegalovirus Infection: Common Features and Differences

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous human herpes virus, which, after often asymptomatic primary infection, establishes a lifelong latent infection that can periodically be reactivated in both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed carriers. Whereas the diagnostic approach in case of a suspicion of CMV reactivation is well defined, the indication for antiviral therapy can often only be made in the context of an extent of organ involvement, the immune status, and comorbidities of the patient. This article reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis, and therapy of CMV reactivation with a focus on inflammatory bowel diseases and potentially different diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in Asia and the Western world.

Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes Associated with Cytomegalovirus Colitis in Patients with Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis can contribute to an unfavorable outcome of acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of ASUC according to the CMV status and identify risk factors for CMV colitis in patients with ASUC.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients with ASUC from 2011 to 2014 according to the criteria of Truelove and Witts. CMV colitis was diagnosed by histopathological and/or immunohistochemical analysis of tissue samples. The risk factors for CMV colitis were investigated and clinical outcomes were assessed using the rate of rescue therapy and colectomy.

RESULTS

Of 149 patients with ASUC, 50 (33.6%) were diagnosed with CMV colitis. During admission, 16 of 149 patients (10.7%) underwent colectomy: 7 of 50 (14.0%) in the ASUC-CMV group versus 9 of 99 (9.1%) in the ASUC-only group (P = 0.364). The need for rescue therapy was 2.28-fold higher in the ASUC-CMV group than in the ASUC-only group in multivariate analysis (95% confidence interval, 1.10-4.72). Multivariate analysis also revealed that recent use of high-dose steroids (odds ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.33-8.19) and a higher Mayo score (odds ratio, 1.58; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-2.38) were risk factors for CMV colitis.

CONCLUSIONS

CMV colitis often occurs in ASUC, particularly in patients who have recently been treated with high-dose steroids and have a higher Mayo score on admission. Patients with ASUC and CMV colitis seem to have a poorer prognosis, as indicated by the greater need for rescue therapy.

Natural History of Elderly-onset Ulcerative Colitis: Results from a Territory-wide Inflammatory Bowel Disease Registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Data on the natural history of elderly-onset ulcerative colitis [UC] are limited. We aimed to investigate clinical features and outcomes of patients with elderly-onset UC.

METHODS

Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of UC between 1981 and 2013, from 13 hospitals within a territory-wide Hong Kong Inflammatory Bowel Disease Registry, were included. Clinical features and outcomes of elderly-onset patients, defined as age ≥ 60 years at diagnosis, were compared with those of non-elderly-onset disease [< 60 years at diagnosis].

RESULTS

We identified 1225 patients, of whom 12.8% [157/1225; 56.1% male] had elderly-onset UC. Median duration of follow-up was 11 years [interquartile range, 6-16 years]. Age-specific incidence of elderly-onset UC increased from 0.1 per 100000 persons before 1991 to 1.3 per 100000 persons after 2010. There were more ex-smokers [32.2% vs. 12.2%, p < 0.001] and higher proportion of comorbidities [p < 0.001] in elderly-onset than non-elderly-onset patients. Disease extent, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants use, and colectomy rates were similar between the two groups. Elderly-onset disease was an independent risk factor for cytomegalovirus infection [odds ratio 2.9, 95% confidence interval 1.6-5.2, p < 0.001]. More elderly-onset patients had Clostridium difficile infection [11.0% vs. 5.4%, p = 0.007], hospitalisation for UC exacerbation [50.6% vs. 41.8%, p = 0.037], colorectal cancer [3.2% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.033], all-cause mortality [7.0% vs. 1.0%, p < 0.001], and UC-related mortality [1.9% vs. 0.2%, p = 0.017] than non-elderly-onset patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly-onset UC patients are increasing in number. These patients have higher risk of opportunistic infections, hospitalisation, colorectal cancer, and mortality than non-elderly-onset patients. Management and therapeutic strategies in this special group need careful attention.

Cytomegalovirus in inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review

AIM

To identify definitions of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and intestinal disease, in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to determine the prevalence associated with these definitions.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and interrogated PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane for literature on prevalence and diagnostics of CMV infection and intestinal disease in IBD patients. As medical headings we used "cytomegalovirus" OR "CMV" OR "cytomegalo virus" AND "inflammatory bowel disease" OR "IBD" OR "ulcerative colitis" OR "colitis ulcerosa" OR "Crohn's disease". Both MeSH-terms and free searches were performed. We included all types of English-language (clinical) trials concerning diagnostics and prevalence of CMV in IBD.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 924 citations, and 52 articles were eligible for inclusion. We identified 21 different definitions for CMV infection, 8 definitions for CMV intestinal disease and 3 definitions for CMV reactivation. Prevalence numbers depend on used definition, studied population and region. The highest prevalence for CMV infection was found when using positive serum PCR as a definition, whereas for CMV intestinal disease this applies to the use of tissue PCR > 10 copies/mg tissue. Most patients with CMV infection and intestinal disease had steroid refractory disease and came from East Asia.

CONCLUSION

We detected multiple different definitions used for CMV infection and intestinal disease in IBD patients, which has an effect on prevalence numbers and eventually on outcome in different trials.

Evaluation of a multiplex PCR assay for detection of cytomegalovirus in stool samples from patients with ulcerative colitis

AIM: To evaluate a multiplex PCR assay for the detection of bacterial and viral enteropathogens in stool samples from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS: We prospectively analyzed 300 individuals, including immunocompetent patients, immunocompromised patients, and patients with UC. Stool samples were collected from the recto-sigmoid region of the colon by endoscopy. The samples were qualitatively analyzed for bacterial and viral enteropathogens with a multiplex PCR assay using a Seeplex^® Kit. Additional clinical and laboratory data were collected from the medical records.

RESULTS: A multiplex PCR assay detected 397 pathogens (191 bacteria and 206 viruses) in 215 samples (71.7%). The most frequently detected bacteria were Escherichia coli H7, 85 (28.3%); followed by Aeromonas spp., 43 (14.3%); and Clostridium perfringens, 36 (12.0%) samples. The most prevalent viruses were Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), 90 (30.0%); followed by human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6), 53 (17.7%); and cytomegalovirus (CMV), 37 (12.3%) samples. The prevalence rate of CMV infection was significantly higher in the immunocompromised group than in the immunocompetent group (P < 0.01). CMV infection was more common in patients with UC (26/71; 36.6%) than in the immunocompetent patients excluding UC (6/188; 3.2%) (P < 0.01). CMV infection was more prevalent in UC active patients (25/58; 43.1%) than in UC inactive patients (1/13; 7.7%) (P < 0.05). Among 4 groups which defined by the UC activity and immunosuppressive drugs, the prevalence rate of CMV infection was highest in the UC active patients with immunosuppressive drugs (19/34; 55.8%). Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection was more common in the immunocompromised patients excluding UC (18/41; 43.9%) than in the immunocompetent patients excluding UC (47/188; 25.0%) (P < 0.05). The simultaneous presence of CMV and EBV and/or HHV6 in UC active patients (14/58; 24.1%) was greater than in immunocompromised patients excluding UC (5/41; 12.2%) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The multiplex PCR assay that was used to analyze the stool samples in this study may serve as a non-invasive approach that can be used to exclude the possibility of CMV infection in patients with active UC who are treated with immunosuppressive therapy.

Infliximab Does Not Worsen Outcomes During Flare-ups Associated with Cytomegalovirus Infection in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppressive therapies used for treating ulcerative colitis are known to favor chronic and latent viral diseases. This study aimed at evaluating prospectively the association between colonic cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) monoclonal antibodies (mabs) by comparison to azathioprine (AZA) in a series of flare-ups occurring in consecutive ulcerative colitis patients.

METHODS

A total of 109 flare-ups were recorded in 73 patients receiving a maintenance therapy by anti-TNF mabs (n = 69) or AZA (n = 40). The CMV DNA load in colonic tissue was determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction on a pair of biopsies.

RESULTS

The number of CMV reactivation was of 35% and 38% in patients receiving anti-TNF mabs and AZA, respectively. The median of CMV DNA load was 378 [10-29,800] and 8300 [10-3,25,000] copies/mg of tissue in patients treated by anti-TNF mabs and AZA, respectively (P = 0.11 by Mann-Whitney U test). In a subgroup of 45 patients under anti-TNF mabs requiring an optimized treatment by infliximab, clinical remission (partial Mayo score <3) was not significantly impacted by the presence of CMV reactivation at the time of flare-up (P = 0.52). Twenty of these patients underwent a second colonic biopsy 8 weeks after the initiation of flare-up therapy; except for 3 patients, the colonic CMV DNA load was stable or decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients under anti-TNF maintenance therapy are not at higher risk of CMV reactivation in case of flare-up. No reciprocal adverse influence was observed between anti-TNF mabs and CMV infection, suggesting that these drugs must be considered for treating flare-ups associated to CMV reactivation.

Relationship between cytomegalovirus infection and inflammatory bowel disease

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common opportunistic pathogenic virus, which causes dormant or latent infection following primary infection in immunocompetent individuals and overt infection in immunocompromised patients. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory illness and patients with IBD are often immunosuppressed, through combined action of potentially malnutrition, use of immunosuppressants, etc. These factors predispose patients with IBD to an increased risk of developing HCMV infection. The number of IBD patients with concomitant HCMV infection is increasing and the adverse role of HCMV in IBD has drawn much attention from clinicians. Recent evidence suggests that HCMV may play an essential role in the progression of IBD, and elucidating the possible association between HCMV infection and IBD as well as the underlying mechanisms has great diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Here we review the possible relationship between HCMV and IBD.

Usefulness of the cytomegalovirus antigenemia assay in patients with ulcerative colitis

Background/Aims

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are at high risk for cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation. The usefulness of the CMV antigenemia assay in active UC patients has rarely been studied. We assessed whether the assay detects CMV colitis and predicts clinical outcomes in patients with UC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients hospitalized for moderate-to-severe UC from 2003 to 2012. Positive CMV antigenemia was defined as ≥1 pp65-positive cell per 2×10⁵ polymorphonuclear neutrophils. CMV colitis was defined as the presence of inclusion bodies and/or positive immunohistochemistry in the colonic mucosa. The primary outcome was steroid refractoriness, defined as the absence of clinical improvement after intravenous high-dose steroid administration.

Results

A total of 43 patients were enrolled. CMV antigenemia was detected in 12 (27.9%) patients. Positive CMV antigenemia was significantly associated with CMV colitis (P =0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of positive CMV antigenemia for diagnosing CMV colitis were 66.7% and 87.1%, respectively. Steroid refractoriness was found in 11 of 12 (91.7%) and 12 of 31 (38.7%) patients with positive and negative CMV antigenemia, respectively (P =0.002). The independent predictors for steroid refractoriness were positive CMV antigenemia (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 7.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22-49.19; P =0.030) and a shorter duration from the diagnosis of UC (adjusted OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99; P =0.025).

Conclusions

The CMV antigenemia assay shows low sensitivity but high specificity for detecting CMV colitis and may predict steroid-refractory UC. Early rescue therapy might be considered in UC patients positive for CMV antigenemia.

Long-term outcomes of cytomegalovirus reactivation in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis: a multicenter study

Background/Aims

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivations are frequently observed in patients with active ulcerative colitis (UC), and ganciclovir therapy is effective in patients with steroid-refractory UC. This study aimed to determine the long-term outcomes of CMV reactivation and the long-term therapeutic efficacy of ganciclovir treatment.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included a cohort of 72 patients with moderate-to-severe UC who were evaluated for CMV reactivation at the time of their initial UC flare. Colectomy, disease relapse, and the recurrence rate of CMV reactivation were investigated.

Results

The mean duration of follow-up for the 72 patients was 43.16±19.78 months (range, 1 to 67 months). The cumulative colectomy (log-rank, p=0.025) and disease flare-up rates (log-rank, p=0.048) were significantly higher in the CMV-positive group. Of the 11 patients who were successfully treated with ganciclovir in the initial treatment, three patients (27.3%) experienced CMV reactivation, and six patients (54.5%) experienced poor outcomes, such as the need for colectomy or a steroid-dependent state.

Conclusions

The patients who had CMV-reactivated UC showed poor outcomes at the long-term follow-up, and the long-term efficacy of ganciclovir therapy was marginal. Careful assessment is necessary for patients who exhibit evidence of CMV reactivation.