Extra-intestinal malignancies in inflammatory bowel disease: results of the 3rd ECCO Pathogenesis Scientific Workshop (III)

Is cervical dysplasia a major concern in females with inflammatory bowel disease? A Spanish retrospective study

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide. The risk of women immunosuppressed due to AIDS or organ transplantation is well documented, as most cases are caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and immunosuppression can prevent clearing HPV. Although European guidelines advise that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) women under immunosuppression should be screened for CC as regularly as high-risk patients, quality evidence is lacking in our country. We performed a retrospective case-control (2020-2021) study to analyse the risk factors associated with the appearance of low-grade (LSIL) or high-grade (HSIL) squamous intraepithelial cervical lesions in patients with IBD. We included all women aged 21-65 years , followed up at the University Hospital Fundación Alcorcón (Spain). Cases were defined as those patients with abnormalities in cervical cytology, while the control group consisted of the rest of the women. Disease characteristics, treatments and epidemiological data (smoking habit, sexual behaviour and reproductive history) were obtained. We documented the evolution of abnormalities over time and compare data between women under immunosuppressive treatment or not.

[Risk factors for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or cervical cancer in chronic inflammatory bowel disease]

INTRODUCTION

Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is thought to increase the risk of high-grade histological intraepithelial lesions (HGIL) and cervical cancer. The risk factors for developing these lesions are poorly understood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective case-control study including IBD patients followed at our University Hospital Center from 2011 to 2021 who presented with HGIL or cervical cancer. Four controls were case-matched according to IBD type, age, active smoking and multiparity.

RESULTS

Eighteen cases and 72 controls were included. We found no significant differences between the 2 groups with regard to mean age at IBD diagnosis, mean duration of IBD, IBD location, history of IBD-related surgery or even association with another chronic inflammatory disease. In our study, the use of immunosuppressants/biotherapies in these patients [50% (9/18) for cases vs. 56% (40/72) for controls; P=0.9] was not a risk factor for IGRA or cervical cancer. Similarly, neither the total duration of exposure to immunosuppressants/biotherapies (9.9±8years for cases vs. 6.6±5.3years for controls; P=0.1), nor combined therapies [11% (2/18) for cases vs. 6% (4/72) for controls; P=0.3], nor azathioprine or methotrexate use [22% (4/18) for cases vs. 11% (8/72) for controls; P=0.3] were found to be risk factors.

CONCLUSION

In our study, we found no risk factors for patients with IBD to develop IGRA or cervical cancer.

Cumulative thiopurine dosing and keratinocyte skin cancer in inflammatory bowel disease: a case-control study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treated with thiopurines are at increased risk of keratinocyte skin cancer (KSC). Most international guidelines recommend yearly dermatological screening of thiopurine-treated patients. Whether the association between the development of KSC and the use of thiopurines is dose-dependent remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the cumulative thiopurine dose and KSC development in patients with IBD which can be helpful to assist in further skin cancer risk stratification and personalization of screening recommendations in patients with IBD.

METHODS

We performed a single-center case-control study, including patients with IBD with and without a history of KSC (cases and controls, respectively). The primary outcome was the association of cumulative azathioprine, mercaptopurine and thioguanine dose with KSC development. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed, the latter corrected for age and smoking, known risk factors of KSC.

RESULTS

We included 50 cases and 150 controls, predominantly white population. Age and current azathioprine use were univariably significantly associated with KSC development. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, age at inclusion remained significantly associated. Cumulative doses of thiopurines (separate or combined) or duration of thiopurine use did not impact KSC risk, also after correcting for age and smoking.

CONCLUSION

Cumulative thiopurine dose and duration did not show an association with KSC development. Future KSC risk stratification, based on all available KSC risk factors, may aid in selecting individuals who can benefit most from dermatologic screening programs.

Extraintestinal Cancers in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic multifactorial inflammatory disorders including two major entities: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Preliminary evidence suggests that patients with IBD may be at increased risk of developing intestinal and extraintestinal cancers (EICs). Actually, little is known about the association between IBD and EICs, and there is ever-growing concern regarding the safety of immunomodulators and biological therapy, which may represent a risk factor for carcinogenesis.

AIMS

The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence regarding the association between IBD and EICs, the safety of immunomodulators and biological therapy and the management of immunomodulators and biologic agents in IBD patients with prior or current EICs.

RESULTS

IBD patients have a higher risk of developing different forms of extraintestinal solid organ tumors and hematological malignancies. Immunomodulators and biological therapy may increase the risk of developing some types of EICs and may be consciously used in patients with IBD and current or prior history of malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Decisions regarding the use of immunomodulators or biological therapies should be made on an individual basis, considering a multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists.

Incidence of cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis 30 years after diagnosis (the IBSEN study)

OBJECTIVES

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have shown an increased risk for colorectal cancer, hepatobiliary, hematologic, and skin cancers, but updated long-term data is needed. This study aimed to estimate the risk of cancer in patients with UC compared to the general Norwegian population, in a population-based cohort (the IBSEN study), 30 years after diagnosis; and to identify possible risk factors associated with cancer.

METHODS

The IBSEN cohort prospectively included all incident patients between 1990 and 1993. Cancer incidence data were obtained from the Cancer Registry of Norway. The overall and cancer-specific hazard ratios (HR) were modelled using Cox regression. Standardized incidence ratios were estimated compared to the general population.

RESULTS

In total, the cohort included 519 patients, and 83 cases were diagnosed with cancer. There was no statistically significant difference in the overall cancer risk (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: [0.79-1.29]) and colorectal cancer risk (HR = 1.37, 95% CI: [0.75-2.47]) between patients and controls. The incidence of biliary tract cancer was higher than expected (SIR = 9.84, 95%CI: [3.19-20.15]), especially when UC patients suffered from primary sclerosing cholangitis. Male UC patients were also more at risk of being diagnosed with hematologic malignancies (HR = 3.48, 95% CI: [1.55-7.82]). Being prescribed thiopurines was associated with a higher risk of cancer (HR = 2.03, 95% CI: [1.02-4.01]).

CONCLUSIONS

At 30 years after diagnosis, the risk of all cancer in patients with UC was not significantly increased compared with the general population. However, the risks of biliary tract cancer and hematologic cancers were increased, particularly in male patients.

Elevated risk of cervical cancer in elderly women with incident ulcerative colitis in South Korea

The association between ulcerative colitis (UC) and uterine cervical cancer is still unclear. To investigate cervical cancer risk in South Korean women with UC, we analyzed the Korean National Health Insurance claims data. UC was defined using both ICD-10 codes and UC-specific prescriptions. We analyzed incident cases of UC diagnosed between 2006 and 2015. Age-matched women without UC (control group) were randomly selected from the general population (1:3 ratio). Hazard ratios were calculated using multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression, and the event was defined as occurrence of cervical cancer. A total of 12,632 women with UC and 36,797 women without UC were enrolled. The incidence of cervical cancer was 38.8 per 100,000 women per year in UC patients and 25.7 per 100,000 women per year in controls, respectively. The adjusted HR for cervical cancer was 1.56 (95% CI 0.97-2.50) in the UC group with reference to the control group. When stratified by age, the adjusted HR for cervical cancer was 3.65 (95% CI 1.54-8.66) in elderly UC patients (≥ 60 years) compared to elderly control group (≥ 60 years). Within UC patients, increased age (≥ 40 years) and low socioeconomic status were associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. The incidence of cervical cancer was found to be higher among elderly patients (≥ 60 years) with newly diagnosed UC in South Korea, compared to age-matched controls. Therefore, regular cervical cancer screening is recommended for elderly patients who have recently been diagnosed with UC.

The Optimal Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients with Cancer

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of cancer secondary to chronic inflammation and long-term use of immunosuppressive therapy. With the aging IBD population, the prevalence of cancer in IBD patients is increasing. As a result, there is increasing concern about the impact of IBD therapy on cancer risk and survival, as well as the effects of cancer therapies on the disease course of IBD. Managing IBD in patients with current or previous cancer is challenging since clinical guidelines are based mainly on expert consensus. Evidence is rare and mainly available from registries or observational studies. In contrast, excluding patients with previous/or active cancer from clinical trials and short-term follow-up can lead to an underestimation of the cancer or cancer recurrence risk of approved medications. The present narrative review aims to summarize the current evidence and provide practical guidance on the management of IBD patients with cancer.

Risk of prostate cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a nationwide cohort study in South Korea

BACKGROUND

Several studies have suggested an association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the risk of prostate cancer development. However, these findings are inconsistent, and studies based on Asian populations are limited.

OBJECTIVES

We compared the risk of prostate cancer according to IBD status using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database.

DESIGN

A population-based retrospective cohort of age-matched 59,044 non-IBD patients and 14,761 IBD patients between January 2009 and December 2011 was analyzed up to December 2017.

METHODS

The risk of prostate cancer was compared between patients with IBD and controls using the Cox proportional hazards regression model and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 6 years, the incidence rate of prostate cancer was 264 per 100,000 person-years in non-IBD patients and 242 per 100,000 person-years in patients with IBD. IBD status was not associated with the risk of prostate cancer compared to non-IBD [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-1.08, p = 0.32). The cumulative incidence of prostate cancer did not differ by IBD status (non-IBD patients versus IBD patients: log-rank p = 0.27; non-IBD patients versus ulcerative colitis versus Crohn's disease: log-rank p = 0.42). In multivariate analysis, age was an independent risk factor for the development of prostate cancer (HR 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02-1.03, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In our population-based study, IBD status was not associated with the risk of prostate cancer.

Discontinuation of Infliximab Therapy in Patients with Crohn's Disease

Infliximab Discontinuation in Patients with Crohn's DiseaseThis randomized controlled trial explores infliximab withdrawal in patients with Crohn's disease in clinical, biochemical, and endoscopic remission with long-term infliximab maintenance therapy. Time to relapse was significantly shorter among patients who discontinued infliximab than among those who continued therapy.

Risk of Cervical Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Studies

INTRODUCTION

There is increased risk of several malignancies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, evidence regarding risk of cervical cancer in IBD is conflicting. We aimed to investigate the risk of cervical cancer in IBD by undertaking a systematic review and meta-analysis of unselected, population-based studies.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched using Medical Subject Heading terms, and 2 reviewers independently screened results. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using random effects model meta-analysis for risk of cervical cancer in IBD. Subgroup meta-analysis was undertaken to assess risk of cervical cancer by IBD subtype (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), treatment exposure, and grade of lesion.

RESULTS

We screened 1,393 articles to identify 5 population-based studies, including 74,310 patients with IBD and 2,029,087 reference patients, across 5 different countries. Pooled random effects model meta-analysis of these studies did not show statistically significant increased risk for cervical cancer in IBD compared with reference populations (HR: 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-1.63). Meta-analysis by grade of lesion showed increased risk of low-grade cervical lesions (HR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04-1.28). Meta-analysis by disease subtype indicated no statistically significant increased risk in Crohn's disease (HR: 1.36; 95% CI: 0.83-2.23) or ulcerative colitis (HR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.72-1.25) or in patients treated with antitumor necrosis factor (HR: 1.19; 95% CI: 0.64-2.21) or thiopurines (HR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.60-1.50).

DISCUSSION

This meta-analysis of high-quality, unselected population-based studies shows no statistically significant increased risk of cervical cancer in patients with IBD. There is, however, increased risk of low-grade cervical lesions compared with the general population.

Epstein-Barr virus status and immunosuppression use in paediatric autoimmune liver disease

BACKGROUND

Since azathioprine is associated with lymphoproliferative disorders in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-naïve patients with inflammatory bowel disease, guidelines advise avoidance. No recommendations exist for autoimmune liver disease (AILD).

AIMS

To evaluate EBV status and EBV-related complications in paediatric AILD.

METHODS

Single-centre, retrospective, observational study of paediatric AILD.

RESULTS

In 245 paediatric patients with AILD, azathioprine was used in 168 (68.6%) and mycophenolate mofetil in 69 (28.2%). EBV status was assessed in 18 (10.7%) prior to azathioprine and 6 (8.7%) MMF. Acute EBV infection was diagnosed in five patients while on immunosuppression, resulting in one transient hepatitis and one persistent hepatitis. There were no cases of lymphoproliferative disorder in native livers. Liver transplantation (LT) was performed in 39 (15.9%) patients, with 8 EBV IgG-negative at LT. Post-LT EBV viraemia developed in 29 (74.4%), first detected at median 26 days (IQR, 13-86). EBV IgG-negative recipients had higher peak viraemia (266 984 IU/mL [IQR, 41108-2429050] v 5333 [IQR, 2036-38770], P = .004) and longer time to peak viraemia (375 days [IQR, 251-884] v 70 [IQR, 21-604], P = .04). Early EBV-associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) was diagnosed in two patients, both EBV-IgG negative with prior azathioprine.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-world data demonstrate that EBV serostatus is not routinely checked before immunosuppression for paediatric AILD. Lymphoproliferative disorder was not diagnosed in those with native livers; however, EBV IgG-negative LT recipients receiving EBV IgG-positive donor organs are at risk of early PTLD. Large multicentre studies with longer follow-up are required to further evaluate the risk.

Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Withdrawal in Children With Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Endoscopic and Histologic Remission

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to investigate outcomes of anti-TNF-alpha (ATA) withdrawal in selected pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease who achieved clinical remission and mucosal and histological healing (MH and HH).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on children and adolescents affected by Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) who were followed up at 2 tertiary referral centers from 2008 through 2018. The main outcome measure was clinical relapse rates after ATA withdrawal.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy patients received scheduled ATA treatment; 78 patients with CD and 56 patients with UC underwent endoscopic reassessment. We found that MH was achieved by 32 patients with CD (41%) and 30 patients with UC (53.6%); 26 patients with CD (33.3%) and 22 patients with UC (39.3%) achieved HH. The ATA treatment was suspended in 45 patients, 24 affected by CD and 21 by UC, who all achieved concurrently complete MH (Simplified Endoscopic Score for CD, 0; Mayo score, 0, respectively) and HH. All the patients who suspended ATA shifted to an immunomodulatory agent or mesalazine. In contrast, 17 patients, 8 with CD and 9 with UC, continued ATA because of growth needs, the persistence of slight endoscopic lesions, and/or microscopic inflammation. Thirteen out of 24 patients with CD who suspended ATA experienced disease relapse after a median follow-up time of 29 months, whereas no recurrence was observed among the 9 patients with CD who continued treatment (P = 0.05). Among the patients with UC, there were no significant differences in relapse-free survival among those who discontinued ATA and those who did not suspend treatment (P = 0.718).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the application of rigid selection criteria, ATA cessation remains inadvisable in CD. In contrast, in UC, the concurrent achievement of MH and HH may represent promising selection criteria to identify patients in whom treatment withdrawal is feasible.

Tofacitinib for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis: Analysis of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Rates From the Ulcerative Colitis Clinical Program

BACKGROUND

Tofacitinib is an oral, small molecule Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). We present integrated analyses of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) incidence in the tofacitinib UC clinical program.

METHODS

Nonmelanoma skin cancer events were evaluated from 3 randomized, placebo-controlled studies: 2 identical, 8-week induction studies (NCT01465763, NCT01458951), a 52-week maintenance study (NCT01458574), and an open-label, long-term extension study (NCT01470612). Cohorts analyzed were: Induction, Maintenance, and Overall (patients receiving ≥1 dose of tofacitinib 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily [BID]). An independent adjudication committee reviewed potential NMSC. Proportions and incidence rates (IRs; unique patients with events per 100 patient-years of exposure) for NMSC were evaluated. A Cox proportional hazards model was used for risk factor analysis.

RESULTS

Nonmelanoma skin cancer was evaluated for 1124 patients (2576.4 patient-years of tofacitinib exposure; ≤6.8 years' treatment). In the Induction Cohort, NMSC IR was 0.00 for placebo and 1.26 for 10 mg BID. Nonmelanoma skin cancer IR was 0.97 for placebo, 0.00 for 5 mg BID and 1.91 for 10 mg BID in the Maintenance Cohort, and 0.73 (n = 19) in the Overall Cohort. No NMSC was metastatic or led to discontinuation. In the Overall Cohort, Cox regression identified prior NMSC (hazard ratio [HR], 9.09; P = 0.0001), tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) failure (3.32; P = 0.0363), and age (HR per 10-year increase, 2.03; P = 0.0004) as significant independent NMSC risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients receiving tofacitinib, NMSC occurred infrequently. Older age, prior NMSC, and TNFi failure, which are previously reported NMSC risk factors in patients with UC, were associated with increased NMSC risk.

Solid extraintestinal malignancies in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Malignancies constitute the second cause of death in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), after cardiovascular diseases. Although it has been postulated that IBD patients are at greater risk of colorectal cancer compared to the general population, lately there has been evidence supporting that this risk is diminishing over time as a result of better surveillance, while the incidence of extraintestinal cancers (EICs) is increasing. This could be attributed either to systemic inflammation caused by IBD or to long-lasting immunosuppression due to IBD treatments. It seems that the overall risk of EICs is higher for Crohn’s disease patients and it is mainly driven by skin cancers, and liver-biliary cancers in patients with IBD and primary sclerosing cholangitis. The aims of this review were first to evaluate the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of EICs in patients with IBD and second to raise awareness regarding a proper surveillance program resulting in early diagnosis, better prognosis and survival, especially in the era of new IBD treatments that are on the way.

Evolving Role of Thiopurines in Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Era of Biologics and New Small Molecules

In recent years, with the increasing availability of biologic therapies and due to safety concerns, the role of thiopurines in the management of inflammatory bowel disease has been questioned. While acknowledging that the benefit/risk ratio of biologic therapies is very high, they are expensive and are not required by a majority of patients. Therefore, thiopurines do retain an important role as steroid-sparing and maintenance agents when used as monotherapy, and in combination therapy with biologics due to their clinical and pharmacokinetic optimization of anti-tumor necrosis factor agents in particular. Safety concerns with thiopurines are real but also relatively rare, and with careful pre-treatment screening and ongoing monitoring thiopurine benefits outweigh risks in the majority of appropriately selected patients. Measurement of newer pharmacogenomic markers such as nudix hydrolase 15 (NUDT15), when combined with knowledge of existing known mutations (e.g., thiopurine S-methyltransferase-TPMT), will hopefully minimize the risk of potentially life-threatening leukopenia by allowing for pre-treatment dosing stratification. Further optimization of thiopurine dosing via measurement of thiopurine metabolites should be performed routinely and is superior to weight-based dosing. The association of thiopurines with malignancies including lymphoproliferative disorders needs to be recognized in all patients and individualized in each patient. The decrease in lymphoma risk after thiopurine cessation provides an incentive for thiopurine de-escalation in appropriate patients after a period of prolonged deep remission. This review will summarize the current role of thiopurines in inflammatory bowel disease management and provide recommendations for commencing and monitoring therapy, and when to consider de-escalation.

Crohn's disease exclusion diet in children with Crohn's disease: a case series

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) represents an established, evidence-based dietary therapy used in Crohn's disease (CD); although successful, EEN is extremely restrictive with limited acceptability and prolonged use. The Crohn's disease exclusion diet (CDED) is a new, sustainable and patient-friendly dietary therapy used for the management of pediatric CD. CDED is designed to reduce exposure to dietary components hypothesized to negatively affect the microbiome, intestinal barrier and immunity. By focusing on five clinical cases, this article illustrates the benefits of using CDED as mono- or co-therapy with partial enteral nutrition in children with mild to moderate CD. CDED combined with partial enteral nutrition is a safe and effective therapeutic option for both induction and maintenance therapy in children with mild to moderate CD. It ensures sustained remission and can induce mucosal healing in children with mild to moderate Crohn's disease.

Dietary Management in Pediatric Patients with Crohn's Disease

It has been widely endorsed that a multifactorial etiology, including interaction between genetic and environmental factors, can contribute to Crohn's Disease (CD) pathogenesis. More specifically, diet has proven to be able to shape gut microbiota composition and thus is suspected to play a significant role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis. Moreover, poor nutritional status and growth retardation, arising from several factors such as reduced dietary intake or nutrient leakage from the gastrointestinal tract, represent the hallmarks of pediatric CD. For these reasons, multiple research lines have recently focused on the utilization of dietary therapies for the management of CD, aiming to target concurrently mucosal inflammation, intestinal dysbiosis and optimization of nutritional status. The forerunner of such interventions is represented by exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN), a robustly supported nutritional therapy; however, it is burdened by monotony and low tolerance in the long term. Novel dietary interventions, such as Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet or Crohn's Disease treatment with eating, have shown their efficacy in the induction of remission in pediatric patients with CD. The aim of the present narrative review is to provide a synopsis of the available nutritional strategies in the management of pediatric CD and to discuss their application in the dietary management of these patients.

Increased Risk of High-grade Cervical Neoplasia in Women with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case-controlled Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Women with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] may be at higher risk for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN]. However, data are conflicting. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of high-grade dysplasia and cancer [CIN2+] in IBD women and identify risk factors.

METHODS

Clinical data from adult IBD women in a multicentre Dutch IBD prospective cohort [PSI] from 2007 onwards were linked to cervical cytology and histology records from the Dutch nationwide cytology and pathology database [PALGA], from 2000 to 2016. Patients were frequency-matched 1:4 to a general population cohort. Standardised detection rates [SDR] were calculated for CIN2+. Longitudinal data were assessed to calculate CIN2+ risk during follow-up using incidence rate ratios [IRR] and risk factors were identified in multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Cervical records were available from 2098 IBD women [77%] and 8379 in the matched cohort; median follow-up was 13 years. CIN2+ detection rate was higher in the IBD cohort than in the matched cohort (SDR 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.52). Women with IBD had an increased risk of CIN2+ [IRR 1.66, 95% CI 1.21-2.25] and persistent or recurrent CIN during follow-up (odds ratio [OR] 1.89, 95% CI 1.06-3.38). Risk factors for CIN2+ in IBD women were smoking and disease location (ileocolonic [L3] or upper gastrointestinal [GI] [L4]). CIN2+ risk was not associated with exposure to immunosuppressants.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with IBD are at increased risk for CIN2+ lesions. These results underline the importance of human papillomavirus [HPV] vaccination and adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines in IBD women, regardless of exposure to immunosuppressants.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for inflammatory bowel disease 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term for chronic or remitting/relapsing inflammatory diseases of the intestinal tract and generally refers to ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Since 1950, the number of patients with IBD in Japan has been increasing. The etiology of IBD remains unclear; however, recent research data indicate that the pathophysiology of IBD involves abnormalities in disease susceptibility genes, environmental factors and intestinal bacteria. The elucidation of the mechanism of IBD has facilitated therapeutic development. UC and CD display heterogeneity in inflammatory and symptomatic burden between patients and within individuals over time. Optimal management depends on the understanding and tailoring of evidence-based interventions by physicians. In 2020, seventeen IBD experts of the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology revised the previous guidelines for IBD management published in 2016. This English version was produced and modified based on the existing updated guidelines in Japanese. The Clinical Questions (CQs) of the previous guidelines were completely revised and categorized as follows: Background Questions (BQs), CQs, and Future Research Questions (FRQs). The guideline was composed of a total of 69 questions: 39 BQs, 15 CQs, and 15 FRQs. The overall quality of the evidence for each CQ was determined by assessing it with reference to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, and the strength of the recommendation was determined by the Delphi consensus process. Comprehensive up-to-date guidance for on-site physicians is provided regarding indications for proceeding with the diagnosis and treatment.

Health Maintenance for Adult Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review serves as a summary of healthcare maintenance items that should be addressed when managing patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This manuscript discusses vaccine-preventable illnesses, cancer prevention recommendations, and other screenings that are important to gastroenterologists and primary care physicians caring for patients with IBD.

RECENT FINDINGS

Patients with IBD often require immunomodulator agents and/or biologics to induce and maintain disease remission which can increase the risk of developing several infections. Also, subsets of patients with IBD are at an increased risk for a number of malignancies including colon, cervical, and skin cancers.

SUMMARY

Staying up-to-date with health care maintenance of patients with IBD is critical, especially given their increased risk for vaccine-preventable infections as well as comorbidities such as cancers, bone health, and mood disorders. Gastroenterologists and primary care physicians should familiarize themselves with the required screenings and vaccines that are recommended for adult patients with IBD, particularly those who are immunosuppressed.

Long-term safety of vedolizumab for inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Vedolizumab, a gut-selective α₄ β₇ integrin antibody, is approved for moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD).

AIM

To report the final results from the vedolizumab GEMINI long-term safety (LTS) study.

METHODS

The phase 3, open-label GEMINI LTS study (initiated May 2009) enrolled patients with UC or CD from four prior clinical trials and vedolizumab-naïve patients. Vedolizumab LTS was evaluated; efficacy and patient-reported outcomes were exploratory endpoints.

RESULTS

Enrolled patients (UC, n = 894; CD, n = 1349) received vedolizumab 300 mg IV every 4 weeks; median cumulative exposure was 42.4 months (range: 0.03-112.2) for UC and 31.5 months (range: 0.03-100.3) for CD. Over 8 years, adverse events (AEs) occurred in 93% (UC) and 96% (CD) of patients, with UC (36%) and CD (35%) exacerbations most frequent. Serious AEs were reported for 31% (UC) and 41% (CD) of patients. Vedolizumab discontinuation due to AEs occurred in 15% (UC) and 17% (CD) of patients. There were no new trends for infections, malignancies, infusion-related reactions, or hepatic events, and no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Of the ten deaths (UC, n = 4; CD, n = 6), two were considered drug-related by local investigators (West Nile virus infection-related encephalitis and hepatocellular carcinoma). Continuous vedolizumab maintained clinical response long-term, with 33% (UC) and 28% (CD) of patients in clinical remission at 400 treatment weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety profile of vedolizumab remains favourable with no unexpected or new safety concerns. These results further establish the safety of vedolizumab and support its long-term use (NCT00790933/EudraCT 2008-002784-14).

Repeated Occurrences of Basal Cell Cancer in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treated With Immunosuppressive Medications

INTRODUCTION

There are limited data on repeated basal cell cancer (BCC) occurrences among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), especially the impact of continuing immunosuppressive medications.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 54,919 patients with IBD followed in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. We identified patients who had an incident BCC after their IBD diagnosis. We defined patients' exposure based on their IBD medications use as follows: (i) only aminosalicylate (5-ASA) use, (ii) only active thiopurine (TP) use, (iii) past TP use (discontinued >6 months ago) and no antitumor necrosis factor (TNF) use, (iv) anti-TNF use after previous TP use, (v) only anti-TNF use, and (vi) active anti-TNF and TP use. The outcome of interest was the repeated occurrence of BCC. Adjusted and unadjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate the risk of repeated BCC occurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 518 patients developed BCC after their IBD diagnosis. The numbers of repeated BCC occurrences per 100 person-years were 12.8 (5-ASA use only), 34.5 (active TP use), 19.3 (past TP use and no anti-TNF use), 25.4 (anti-TNF use after previous TP use), 17.8 (only anti-TNF use), and 22.4 (active anti-TNF and TP use). Compared with 5-ASA use alone, only active TP use was associated with an increased risk for repeated BCC occurrence (adjusted hazard ratio 1.65, 95% confidence interval 1.24-2.19; P = 0.0005). However, the increased risk was no longer present for other exposure categories.

DISCUSSION

Among IBD patients who developed an incident BCC while taking a TP and continued it, there was an increased risk of repeated BCC occurrences.

Multidisciplinary, evidence-based consensus guidelines for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in high-risk populations, Spain, 2016

Introduction: Although human papillomavirus (HPV) routine vaccination programmes have been implemented around the world and recommendations have been expanded to include other high-risk individuals, current recommendations often differ between countries in Europe, as well as worldwide.

Aim: To find and summarise the best available evidence of HPV vaccination in high-risk patients aiding clinicians and public health workers in the day-to-day vaccine decisions relating to HPV in Spain.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the immunogenicity, safety and efficacy/effectiveness of HPV vaccination in high-risk populations between January 2006 and June 2016. HPV vaccination recommendations were established with levels of evidence according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

Results: A strong recommendation about HPV vaccination was made in the following groups: HIV infected patients aged 9–26 years; men who have sex with men aged 9–26 years; women with precancerous cervical lesions; patients with congenital bone marrow failure syndrome; women who have received a solid organ transplant or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation aged 9–26 years; and patients diagnosed with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

Conclusions: Data concerning non-routine HPV vaccination in populations with a high risk of HPV infection and associated lesions were scarce. We have developed a document to evaluate and establish evidence-based guidelines on HPV vaccination in high-risk populations in Spain, based on best available scientific evidence.

Lack of Increased Risk of Lymphoma by Thiopurines or Biologics in Japanese Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Large-Scale Administrative Database Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases may have higher incidences of non-melanoma skin cancers and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, potentially linked to underlying disease and treatments. This analysis assessed incidence rates of these malignancies in Japanese patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, and their association with thiopurine and/or anti-tumor necrosis factor-α treatment, using data from a nationwide administrative database in Japan.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease without malignancy were identified from the Medical Data Vision database. Incident cases of non-melanoma skin cancers and non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosed after prescription of thiopurine and/or anti-tumor necrosis factor-α were identified between April 2008 and January 2018. Age- and sex-adjusted incidence rate ratios were calculated relative to the total treated patient population.

RESULTS

A total of 75 673 eligible patients were identified at the index date. Thiopurine prescription with or without anti-tumor necrosis factor-α agents increased incidence rate ratios for non-melanoma skin cancers relative to the overall population (3.39 and 4.03, respectively). There were no notable differences in non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidence relative to the total population in any treatment subgroup, regardless of prescription of thiopurine and/or anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (all incidence rate ratios, ~1).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no evidence for an increased incidence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma attributable to thiopurine or anti-tumor necrosis factor-α treatment in Japanese patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The impact of racial differences on non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidences should be considered. Thiopurine therapy may be a risk factor for non-melanoma skin cancers in Japanese patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Tumor Necrosis Factor Antagonists in Treatment of Internal Fistulizing Crohn's Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Few data are available on the effects of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonist therapy for patients with internal fistulizing Crohn's disease (CD) and there is debate regarding the risk of abscess. We aimed to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of anti-TNF therapy for patients with internal fistulas.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of data collected from the Groupe d'Etude Thérapeutique des Affections Inflammatoires Digestives trial, from January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2017. Our final analysis included 156 patients who began treatment with an anti-TNF agent for CD with internal fistula (83 men; median disease duration, 4.9 y). The primary end point was the onset of a major abdominal surgery. Secondary analysis included disappearance of the fistula tract during follow-up evaluation and safety. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up period of 3.5 years, 68 patients (43.6%) underwent a major abdominal surgery. The cumulative probabilities for being surgery-free were 83%, 64%, and 51% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. A concentration of C-reactive protein >18 mg/L, an albumin concentration <36 g/L, the presence of an abscess at the fistula diagnosis, and the presence of a stricture were associated independently with the need for surgery. The cumulative probabilities of fistula healing, based on imaging analyses, were 15.4%, 32.3%, and 43.9% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Thirty-two patients (20.5%) developed an intestinal abscess and 4 patients died from malignancies (3 intestinal adenocarcinomas). One patient died from septic shock 3 months after initiation of anti-TNF therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In a retrospective analysis of data from a large clinical trial, we found that anti-TNF therapy delays or prevents surgery for almost half of patients with CD and luminal fistulas. However, anti-TNF therapy might increase the risk for sepsis-related death or gastrointestinal malignancies.

The Complex Interplay Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Malignancy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Both the chronic inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and its treatment, can increase the risk of malignancy. There is also an increasing number of patients with current and prior cancer who require IBD treatment. Thus, there is a complex interplay between immunosuppressive treatment and monitoring for new and recurrent cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

Vedolizumab and ustekinumab have not been shown to increase the risk of malignancy. Transplant data shows a potential risk with tofacitinib although rheumatoid arthritis data does not. IBD patients have been shown to tolerate chemotherapy, specifically with cytotoxic compared with hormonal chemotherapy. Patients with prior cancer are at increased risk of new or recurrent cancers; however, immunosuppression appears to be safe. Emerging treatments for IBD have demonstrated acceptable safety profiles for malignancy risk, and immunosuppression appears to be safe for use in patients with current and prior malignancy. More data is still needed to assess long-term risk of malignancy in these patients, especially with newer treatments.

Cancer Risk in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A 6-Year Prospective Multicenter Nested Case-Control IG-IBD Study

BACKGROUND

In a 6-year, multicenter, prospective nested case-control study, we aimed to evaluate risk factors for incident cancer in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), when considering clinical characteristics of IBD and immunomodulator use. The secondary end point was to provide characterization of incident cancer types.

METHODS

All incident cases of cancer occurring in IBD patients from December 2011-2017 were prospectively recorded in 16 Italian Group for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease units. Each of the IBD patients with a new diagnosis of cancer was matched with 2 IBD patients without cancer, according to IBD phenotype (ulcerative colitis [UC] vs Crohn's disease [CD]), age (±5 years), sex. Risk factors were assessed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Cancer occurred in 403 IBD patients: 204 CD (CD cases), 199 UC (UC cases). The study population included 1209 patients (403 IBD cases, 806 IBD controls). Cancer (n = 403) more frequently involved the digestive system (DS; 32%), followed by skin (14.9%), urinary tract (9.7%), lung (6.9%), genital tract (6.5%), breast (5.5%), thyroid (1.9%), lymphoma (2.7%, only in CD), adenocarcinoma of the small bowel (SBA; 3.9%, 15 CD, 1 pouch in UC), other cancers (15.9%). Among cancers of the DS, colorectal cancer (CRC) more frequently occurred in UC (29% vs 17%; P < 0.005), whereas SBA more frequently occurred in CD (13% vs 6.3% P = 0.039). In CD, perforating (B3) vs non-stricturing non-perforating (B1) behavior represented the only risk factor for any cancer (odds ratio [OR], 2.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33-4.11). In CD, risk factors for extracolonic cancer (ECC) were a B3 vs B1 and a stricturing (B2) vs B1 behavior (OR, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.62-5.43; OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.09-2.98). In UC, risk factors for ECC and for overall cancer were abdominal surgery for UC (OR, 4.63; 95% CI, 2.62-8.42; OR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.88-5.92) and extensive vs distal UC (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.10-2.75; OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.16-3.47). Another risk factor for ECC was left-sided vs distal UC (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.00-2.86). Inflammatory bowel disease duration was a risk factor for skin and urinary tract cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

Perforating CD, extensive UC, and abdominal surgery for UC were identified as risk factors for overall incident cancer and for ECC. The clinical characteristics associated with severe IBD may increase cancer risk.

The Safety Profile of Vedolizumab in Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease: 4 Years of Global Post-marketing Data

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Vedolizumab is a gut-selective antibody to α 4  β 7 integrin, approved to treat moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in adults. Clinical trial data on patients meeting protocol-specified criteria may not reflect real-world clinical practice. This is a descriptive analysis of 4 years of post-marketing safety data on vedolizumab.

METHODS

The Vedolizumab Global Safety Database contains all adverse event reports collated by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd since vedolizumab approval [May 20, 2014]. Adverse event reports received between approval and May 19, 2018 were identified using Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities version 21.0 Preferred Terms. Adverse event frequencies were calculated and categorised.

RESULTS

In approximately 208 050 patient-years of vedolizumab exposure, 32 752 patients reported 80 218 events. In patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, 37 662 and 34 259 events occurred in 14 191 and 14 042 patients, respectively, and 8297 events occurred in 4519 individuals with other [off-label] or unreported indications. Overall, 5230 [14%; Crohn's disease] and 3580 [10%; ulcerative colitis] events were serious. Most frequently reported were gastrointestinal events (Crohn's disease, 6156 [16%]; ulcerative colitis, 5701 [17%]). Patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis reported 251 malignancies [<1%], 402 hepatobiliary events [<1%], and 5876 infections (1137 serious [19%], 301 opportunistic [5%]). Patients aged ≥70 years [2326 patients] reported <10% of events.

CONCLUSIONS

Adverse event patterns were consistent with clinical trials, with no new safety concerns. Most reported events were non-serious and event frequency was low, considering patient-years of exposure. Although limitations of post-marketing safety reports require acknowledgement, these real-world data support a favourable safety profile of vedolizumab.

Inhibitory effect of Bifidobacterium bifidum ATCC 29521 on colitis and its mechanism

Probiotics are known to be beneficial in preventing different diseases in model animals, including inflammatory bowel disease. However, there are few studies on probiotics related to miRNA regulation and disease status. In this article, the beneficial role and mechanisms of the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium bifidum ATCC 29521 have been studied in ulcerative colitis using dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) model. Male C57JBL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups (n=7): Normal group, dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) group, and Bifido group gavage with Bifidobacterium bifidum ATCC 29521 (2×10⁸ CFU/day). Our strain restored the DSS-caused damage by regulating the expression of immune markers and tight junction proteins (TJP) in the colon; briefly by up-regulating ROS-scavenging enzymes (SOD1, SOD2, CAT, and GPX2), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, PPARγ, IL-6), TJP's (ZO-1, MUC-2, Claudin-3, and E Cadherin-1) and downregulating inflammatory genes (TNF-α, IL-1β) in Bifido group mice. Inflammatory markers appeared to be regulated by NF-κB nuclear P65 subunit, and its translocation was inhibited in Bifido group mice colon. In addition, the expression of inflammatory genes and colonic TJP were also associated with the restoration of miRNAs (miR-150, miR-155, miR-223) in B. bifidum ATCC 29521 treated Bifido group. The dysbiosis executed by DSS was restored in the Bifido group, demonstrating that B. bifidum ATCC 29521 possessed a probiotic role in our DSS colitis mouse model. B. bifidum ATCC 29521 exhibited its probiotic role through its anti-inflammatory role by modulating miRNA-associated TJP and NF-κB regulation and by partially restoring dysbiosis.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): general principles of IBD management

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 inflammatory bowel disease 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 general principles of surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Thiopurine Therapy in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Focus on Metabolism and Pharmacogenetics

Thiopurines have been widely used for the maintenance of remission or steroid sparing in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. However, potential drug-related adverse events frequently interfere with their use. Indeed, drug withdrawals associated with adverse reactions have been reported in approximately 25% of patients. To balance the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of thiopurines, regular monitoring of biomarkers (complete blood cell count, liver function test, and metabolic profiles), steady dose escalation, and pretreatment thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) genotype screening have been routinely recommended. However, the complex thiopurine metabolic pathway and individual differences attributed to pharmacogenetic diversity limit the effectiveness of these strategies in the optimization of thiopurine therapy. Recently, in an effort to facilitate more accurate and personalized prediction of thiopurine response or toxicity, novel genetic markers including NUDT15 and FTO genes were discovered. These discoveries are remarkable because TPMT screening has minimal efficacy for predicting myelosuppression especially in Asian populations, despite the fact that thee populations have a higher frequency of myelosuppression than Western populations. This review focuses on the current understanding of the metabolic pathway and the pharmacogenetics of thiopurines and suggests a personalized preventive strategy against potential adverse drug reactions to optimize their therapeutic application.

Elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Updated review of the therapeutic landscape

High-quality data remains scarce in terms of optimal management strategies in the elderly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) population. Indeed, available trials have been mostly retrospective, of small sample size, likely owing to under-representation of such a population in the major randomized controlled trials. However, in the last five years, there has been a steady increase in the number of published trials, helping clarify the estimated benefits and toxicity of the existing IBD armamentarium. In the Everhov trial, prescription strategies were recorded over an average follow-up of 4.2 years. A minority of elderly IBD patients (1%-3%) were treated with biologics within the five years following diagnosis, whilst almost a quarter of these patients were receiving corticosteroid therapy at year five of follow-up, despite its multiple toxicities. The low use of biologic agents in real-life settings likely stems from limited data suggesting lower efficacy and higher toxicity. This minireview will aim to highlight current outcome measurements as it portends the elderly IBD patient, as well as summarize the available therapeutic strategies in view of a growing body of evidence.

Crohn's Disease and the Risk of Cancer

Crohn's disease is associated with various intestinal and extraintestinal malignancies. This article reviews the current literature regarding Crohn's disease and subsequent risk of cancer formation. Recognition of risk factors (both modifiable and unmodifiable) is essential for prevention and appropriate screening. Future investigations into the molecular mechanisms associated with Crohn-related malignancy will provide additional insight into carcinogenesis, potential for early intervention, and identification of at-risk patients.

The Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients With a History of Malignancy

As patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are living longer and our medical armamentarium expands, gastroenterologists are more frequently faced with treatment decisions about patients with IBD who also have a history of malignancy. This review aims to summarize the current literature on IBD, the inherent risk of developing gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal malignancies, and the risk of malignancies associated with available biologic and immunomodulatory therapies and to discuss the overall treatment strategy for a patient with a history of malignancy.

Lymphoproliferative Disease in the Rectum 4 Years After Local Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy for Refractory Perianal Crohn's Fistulas: A Case Report

Mesenchymal stromal cell [MSC] therapy is a new treatment for perianal fistulas in Crohn's disease. Although MSC therapy shows a favourable safety profile, long-term safety data are limited. We detected an Epstein Barr virus [EBV]-associated B cell lymphoproliferative lesion in the rectum of a patient 4 years after local administration of MSCs for his perianal fistulas. To investigate whether MSC therapy contributed to the development of this lymphoproliferative disease, we analyzed the possibility of EBV transfer via the MSC product and the persistence of MSCs in the lymphoproliferative lesion using short tandem repeat analysis.

The Role of Vitamin D in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Mechanism to Management. Nutrients. 2019;11. [PMID: 31067701 PMCID: PMC6566188 DOI: 10.3390/nu11051019]

Vitamin D has been linked to human health benefits that extend far beyond its established actions on calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. One of the most well studied facets of extra-skeletal vitamin D is its activity as an immuno-modulator, in particular its potent anti-inflammatory effects. As a consequence, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Low serum levels of the major circulating form of vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) are significantly more prevalent in patients with IBD, particularly in the winter and spring months when UV-induced synthesis of vitamin D is lower. Dietary malabsorption of vitamin D may also contribute to low serum 25(OH)D in IBD. The benefits of supplementation with vitamin D for IBD patients are still unclear, and improved vitamin D status may help to prevent the onset of IBD as well as ameliorating disease severity. Beneficial effects of vitamin D in IBD are supported by pre-clinical studies, notably with mouse models, where the active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D) has been shown to regulate gastrointestinal microbiota function, and promote anti-inflammatory, tolerogenic immune responses. The current narrative review aims to summarise the different strands of data linking vitamin D and IBD, whilst also outlining the possible beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation in managing IBD in humans.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach in Paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Results from a Clinical Practice Survey

OBJECTIVES

Despite existence of international guidelines for diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in children, there might be differences in the clinical approach.

METHODS

A survey on clinical practice in paediatric IBD was performed among members of the ESPGHAN Porto IBD working group and interest group, PIBD-NET, and IBD networks in Canada and German-speaking countries (CIDsCANN, GPGE), using a web-based questionnaire. Responses to 63 questions from 106 paediatric IBD centres were collected.

RESULTS

Eighty-four percentage of centres reported to fulfil the revised Porto criteria in the majority of patients. In luminal Crohn disease (CD), exclusive enteral nutrition is used as a first-line induction therapy and immunomodulators (IMM) are used since diagnosis in the majority of patients. Infliximab (IFX) is mostly considered as first-line biological. Sixty percentage of centres have experience with vedolizumab and/or ustekinumab and 40% use biosimilars. In the majority of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients 5-aminosalicylates are continued as concomitant therapy to IMM (usually azathioprine [AZA]/6-MP). After ileocaecal resection (ICR) in CD patients without postoperative residual disease, AZA monotherapy is the preferred treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of centres follows both the Porto diagnostic criteria as well as paediatric (ESPGHAN/ECCO) guidelines on medical and surgical IBD management. This reflects the value of international societal guidelines. However, potentially desirable answers might have been given instead of what is true daily practice, and the most highly motivated people might have answered, leading to some bias.

Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy in Intestinal Behçet's Disease

Intestinal Behçet’s disease is a rare, immune-mediated chronic intestinal inflammatory disease; therefore, clinical trials to optimize the management and treatment of patients are scarce. Moreover, intestinal Behçet’s disease is difficult to treat and often requires surgery because of the failure of conventional medical treatment. Administration of anti-tumor necrosis factor–α, a potential therapeutic strategy, is currently under active clinical investigation, and evidence of its effectiveness for both intestinal Behçet’s disease and inflammatory bowel diseases has been accumulating. Here, we review updated data on current experiences and outcomes after the administration of anti-tumor necrosis factor–α for the treatment of intestinal Behçet’s disease. In addition to infliximab and adalimumab, which are the most commonly used agents, we describe agents such as golimumab, etanercept, and certolizumab pegol, which have recently been shown to be effective in refractory intestinal Behçet’s disease. This review also discusses safety issues associated with anti-tumor necrosis factor–α, including vulnerability to infections and malignancy.

Usefulness of Thiopurine Monotherapy for Crohn's Disease in the Era of Biologics: A Long-Term Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Thiopurines are classically used in Crohn's disease (CD). Treatment fails in a proportion of patients either due to adverse events (AE) or lack of efficacy. Increasing use of anti-TNFα biologic drugs may have had impact on thiopurines usage.

AIM

To evaluate the evolving use of azathioprine (AZA) monotherapy in the era of biologics.

METHODS

The study retrospectively analyzed clinical records of all CD patients who started treatment with AZA monotherapy at our center since 1990. Dates of starting AZA and treatment failure (TF) were collected. We defined AZA TF if it was withdrawn due to lack of efficacy or AE, or biologics were added.

RESULTS

A total of 383 patients were included: 46.5% were males and mean age was 31 (range 17-84) years. Median follow-up was 43 (range 0.2-289) months. Overall, 147 patients (38%) experienced TF. Median cumulative survival time of AZA was 126 (95% CI 105-147) months. Proportion of patients with AZA TF increased along time: 7 patients in 1990-1995 (4.7% of all TF); 8 in 1996-2000 (5.4%); 22 in 2001-2005(15%); 41 in 2006-2010 (28%); 69 in 2011-2014 (47%) (p = 0.04). 7%, 21%, 4%, 45%, and 33.3% of patients moved to biologics in each period, respectively (χ² = 13.07; p < 0.05). Seventy-four patients (18.4%) stopped AZA due to AE, and 73(19%) due to lack of efficacy. Regarding AZA indication, prevention of postoperative recurrence obtained better results than steroid dependency (p = 0.001); perianal fistulizing CD predicted poorer outcomes (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

An important proportion of CD patients under AZA monotherapy experienced TF in our experience. Although AZA monotherapy remains useful for CD in the era of biologics, current clinical practice is shifting to anti-TNFα biologic drugs in an increasing proportion of patients.

Evaluation of de-escalation of anti-TNF-α therapy in inflammatory bowel disease

Anti-tumour necrosis factor α therapy in inflammatory bowel disease has been shown to be effective in clinical practice. After more than a decade using these therapies the question arises about whether there is an appropriate time to suspend these therapies, and how this should be done. This review aims to evaluate the current evidence on these topics concerning anti-tumour necrosis factor α therapies, and eventually identify conditions and subgroups of patients that could potentially be candidates for withdrawal.

Malignancies in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Frequency, Incidence and Risk Factors-Results from the Swiss IBD Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Malignancy may occur as long-term complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) due to different risk factors. We assessed prevalence and incidence of malignancy, and predictive factors in the Swiss IBD Cohort Study (SIBDCS).

METHODS

All IBD patients in the SIBDCS were analyzed from a cross-sectional and longitudinal perspective. Patients with malignancies were compared to controls. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) were calculated based on age-specific and sex-specific background rates.

RESULTS

Malignancies were identified in 122 of 3119 patients (3.9%). In a logistic regression model, age (OR 1.04 per year), intestinal surgery (OR 3.34), and treatment with steroids (OR 2.10) were the main predictors for the presence of malignancy, while treatment with 5-ASA (OR 0.57) and biologics (OR 0.38) were protective. From a longitudinal perspective, 67 out of 2580 patients (2.6%) were newly diagnosed with malignancy during a follow-up of 12,420.8 years (median 4.9 years). While there was no increased risk for malignancy overall (SIR 0.93, 95% CI 0.72-1.18) and colorectal cancer (SIR 1.55, 95% CI 0.71-2.95), IBD patients had an increased risk for lymphoma (SIR 2.98, 95% CI 1.36-5.66) and biliary cancer (SIR 6.3, 95% CI 1.27-18.41). In a Cox regression model, age and recent use of immunomodulators were the main predictors for development of malignancies, while 5-ASA, biologics were protective.

CONCLUSIONS

IBD patients showed increased risk for lymphoma and biliary cancer, but not colorectal cancer and cancer overall. Age and recent use of immunomodulators were the main risk factors for malignancy, while aminosalicylates and biologics appear to be protective.

The current state of the art for biological therapies and new small molecules in inflammatory bowel disease

The emergence of biologic therapies is arguably the greatest therapeutic advance in the care of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to date, allowing directed treatments targeted at highly specific molecules shown to play critical roles in disease pathogenesis, with advantages in potency and selectivity. Furthermore, a large number of new biologic and small-molecule therapies in IBD targeting a variety of pathways are at various stages of development that should soon lead to a dramatic expansion in our therapeutic armamentarium. Additionally, since the initial introduction of biologics, there have been substantial advances in our understanding as to how biologics work, the practical realities of their administration, and how to enhance their efficacy and safety in the clinical setting. In this review, we will summarize the current state of the art for biological therapies in IBD, both in terms of agents available and their optimal use, as well as preview future advances in biologics and highly targeted small molecules in the IBD field.

Trends of Medication Usage and Associated Outcomes for Taiwanese Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease from 2001 to 2015

BACKGROUND

No nationwide, long-term follow-up study has assessed medication-associated outcomes for Asian patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study examined medication-associated outcomes for Taiwanese patients with IBD.

METHODS

In this nationwide cohort study, 3806 patients who had received catastrophic illness registration for IBD from 2001 to 2015 were enrolled.

RESULTS

A higher accumulated dosage of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) was associated with decreased risks of hospitalization (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.6) and operation (HR = 0.5). Thiopurine was associated with increased risks of hospitalization (HR = 2.1 in the high-dosage group) and tuberculosis (TB; HR = 3.6) reactivation but not with operation risk. A higher accumulated dosage of anti-TNF-α agents was associated with increased risks of hospitalization (HR = 3.3), operation (HR = 2.9), hepatitis B (HR = 4.3), and TB (HR = 5.1) reactivation. Corticosteroids were associated with increased risks of hospitalization (HR = 3.5 in the high-dosage group), risk of operation, hepatitis B (HR = 2.8) and TB (HR = 2.8) reactivation.

CONCLUSIONS

5-ASA usage is associated with decreased risks of hospitalization and operation for patients with IBD, whereas thiopurine, corticosteroids, and anti-TNF-α agents are associated with increased risks of hospitalization and hepatitis B and TB reactivation.

Impact of Epstein-Barr virus serological status on clinical outcomes in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the impact of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection on clinical outcomes in adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIM

To evaluate seroprevalence, seroconversion rate and complications associated with EBV infection in an adult IBD cohort attending a tertiary care hospital in Spain between 2006 and 2016.

METHODS

EBV serological status was determined. In seronegative patients, the seroconversion rate was evaluated. The complications associated with primary and latent EBV infection are described.

RESULTS

One thousand four hundred and eighty-three patients over the age of 17 were included in the study (mean age at EBV serological status determination was 48.3). Overall seroprevalence of EBV was 97.4% (95% CI: 96.6%-98.2%). The seroconversion rate was 29.7% (95% CI: 16.2-45.9) after a mean of 47.5 months. There were no differences in seroconversion rates between patients 35 years or younger and patients older than 35 years. A 66-year-old man, on treatment with thiopurines, developed lymphoma and a hemophagocytic syndrome during a primary EBV infection. Overall, six patients (one with primary infection and five with prior EBV infection) developed lymphoma. In three of five patients with lymphoma and thiopurine use, EBV was associated to the development of lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a small percentage of adults with IBD at risk of primary EBV infection. The risks of seroconversion and its complications remain through adulthood. Our results suggest that, when considering the use of thiopurines in IBD, the information on EBV serological status should be taken into account at any age.

Positioning of old and new biologicals and small molecules in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases

The past decade has brought substantial advances in the management of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The introduction of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, evidence for the value of combination therapy, the recognition of targeting lymphocyte trafficking and activation as a viable treatment, and the need for early treatment of high-risk patients are all fundamental concepts for current modern IBD treatment algorithms. In this article, authors review the existing data on approved biologicals and small molecules as well as provide insight on the current positioning of approved therapies. Patient stratification for the selection of specific therapies, therapeutic targets and patient monitoring will be discussed as well. The therapeutic armamentarium for IBD is expanding as novel and more targeted therapies become available. In the absence of comparative trials, positioning these agents is becoming difficult. Emerging concepts for the future will include an emphasis on the development of algorithms which will facilitate a greater understanding of the positioning of novel biological drugs and small molecules in order to best tailor therapy to the patient. In the interim, anti-TNF therapy remains an important component of IBD therapy with the most real-life evidence and should be considered as first-line therapy in patients with complicated Crohn’s disease and in acute-severe ulcerative colitis. The safety and efficacy of these ‘older’ anti-TNF therapies can be optimized by adhering to therapeutic algorithms which combine clinical and objective markers of disease severity and response to therapy.

Women with inflammatory bowel diseases have a suboptimal cervical cancer screening rate and are not aware of the recommended human papilloma virus vaccine

The aim of the study was to assess the self-reported cervical cancer screening rate among patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and patient attitude towards human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination. A self-designed survey was conducted in hospitalized IBD patients. The survey comprised demographic data, questions regarding cervical smear test frequency and vaccinations recommended for an IBD patient. Randomly, patients completed the survey with a physician present to determine question comprehension. In order to provide test-retest reliability a group of 10 patients completed it twice. Survey data from 150 IBD patients (mean age: 36 years, SD ± 13; mean IBD duration: 10 years, SD ± 6.5) were analyzed. Fifteen percent of the patients reported irregular cervical testing and 15% do not remember when having had a previous cervical testing performed. Only 69% of the patients undergo testing regularly; 30% annually, 32% every 2-3 years; 7% every 5 years. The mean age of patients tested regularly was 22 years, vs. 32 years tested irregularly (p < .001). Only 10% of women claimed that HPV vaccine is recommended for an IBD patient. There is a low adherence to the recommendations regarding cervical cancer screening and prophylaxis. Better multi-disciplinary cooperation between patients and physicians is required to improve patient education and outcomes.

Can we move directly from 5-ASA to a biologic agent in ulcerative colitis?

European consensus guidelines and reimbursement policies position biologic drugs for ulcerative colitis (UC) as a third-line treatment, after failure of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and corticosteroids/thiopurines. While 5-ASA have a very favorable safety profile, (prolonged) use of corticosteroids and thiopurines is associated with potentially serious adverse events. The therapeutic landscape of UC is rapidly evolving and selective biologic drugs with improved safety are being introduced. The first biosimilars have entered the market, leading to improved cost-effectiveness of older biologic drugs. In addition, new insights have been gained in the importance of stringent therapeutic targets such as mucosal and histological healing to improve the long-term outcome of UC patients, and in the role of therapeutic drug monitoring and treatment optimization in this regard. In this manuscript we tackle the question of whether we should move directly from 5-ASA treatment to biologic drugs to offer better and/or safer care to UC patients.