1
|
Tagliamonte G, Santagata F, Fraquelli M. Current Developments and Role of Intestinal Ultrasound including the Advent of AI. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:759. [PMID: 38611672 PMCID: PMC11011653 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Intestinal ultrasound is a non-invasive, safe, and cost-effective technique to study the small and large intestines. In addition to conventional B-mode and color doppler imaging, new US tools have been developed in more recent years that provide auxiliary data on many GI conditions, improving the diagnosis and assessment of relevant outcomes. We have reviewed the more recent literature (from 2010 onwards) on auxiliary tools in bowel ultrasound such as elastography techniques, CEUS, SICUS, and the potential contribution by artificial intelligence (AI) to overcome current intestinal ultrasound limitations. For this scoping review, we performed an extensive literature search on PubMed and EMBASE to identify studies published until December 2023 and investigating the application of elastography techniques, CEUS, SICUS, and AI in the ultrasonographic assessment of the small and large intestines. Multiparametric intestinal ultrasound shows promising capabilities in Crohn's disease, while less is known about the role in ulcerative colitis. Despite some evidence, the CEUS role as a point-of-care examination tool for rare conditions such as intestinal GvHD and ischemic small bowel disease seems promising, possibly avoiding the need to perform further cross-sectional imaging. The use of AI in intestinal ultrasound is still anecdotical and limited to acute appendicitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Tagliamonte
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.T.); (F.S.)
| | - Fabrizio Santagata
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.T.); (F.S.)
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- Division of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Komatsu H, Morikubo H, Kimura Y, Moue C, Yonezawa H, Matsuura M, Miyoshi J, Hisamatsu T. A combination of bowel wall thickness and submucosa index is useful for estimating endoscopic improvement in ulcerative colitis: external validation of the Kyorin Ultrasound Criterion. J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:209-215. [PMID: 38245879 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-024-02077-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endoscopic improvement (EI; a Mayo endoscopic subscore of 0 or 1) is considered a therapeutic target in ulcerative colitis (UC) treatment. The potential to estimate EI non-invasively is an advantage of intestinal ultrasound (IUS). In a previous study, we developed a new sonographic parameter, the submucosa index (SMI), calculated as the ratio of the submucosal thickness to bowel wall thickness (BWT), and reported that combining BWT and SMI results in a practical and promising criterion for estimating EI without color Doppler assessment. This study aimed to validate the EI estimation ability of our B mode-based criterion, the 'Kyorin Ultrasound Criterion for UC' (KUC-UC; BWT < 3.8 mm and SMI < 50%), using an external cohort. METHODS Patients with UC who underwent IUS and colonoscopy within 15 days without a treatment change between examinations were included. IUS findings, including BWT, SMI, and modified Limberg score for vascularity of the colon, were assessed. RESULTS Forty-four test pairs of IUS and colonoscopy examinations in a total of 122 colonic segments were analyzed. The KUC-UC showed positive predictive value (PPV) of 94.6% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 80.0% for EI. In comparison, PPV and NPV were 85.4% and 79.0%, respectively, for the common criterion BWT of < 3 mm, and 83.0% and 82.7% for the validated Milan Ultrasound Criteria (a score of ≤ 6.2). CONCLUSIONS External validation showed that the KUC-UC using only B mode findings without complicated calculations is a feasible and accurate sonographic criterion for estimating the EI of UC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haruka Komatsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromu Morikubo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chihiro Moue
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yonezawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Matsuura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Miyoshi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Tadakazu Hisamatsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Shinkawa 6-20-2, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chavannes M, Hart L, Hayati Rezvan P, Dillman JR, Polk DB. Bedside Intestinal Ultrasound Predicts Disease Severity and the Disease Distribution of Pediatric Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Pilot Cross-sectional Study. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2024; 30:402-409. [PMID: 37229656 PMCID: PMC10906360 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a noninvasive tool to assess bowel inflammation. There is a paucity of data on its accuracy in pediatric patients. AIM The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of bowel wall thickness (BWT) measured using IUS compared with endoscopic disease activity in children suspected of having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). METHODS We conducted a single-center cross-sectional pilot study of pediatric patients suspected to have previously undiagnosed IBD. Endoscopic inflammation was graded using segmental scores of the Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease (SES-CD) and the Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity (UCEIS) and classified as having healthy, mild, or moderate/severe disease activity. Association between BWT and endoscopic severity was assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The diagnostic performance of BWT to detect active disease at endoscopy was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve; sensitivity and specificity were calculated. RESULTS In all, 174 bowel segments in 33 children were assessed by IUS and ileocolonoscopy. An elevated median BWT was associated with increased bowel segment disease severity, classified by the SES-CD (P < .001) and the UCEIS (P < .01). Using a cutoff value of 1.9 mm, we found that the BWT had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.743 (95% CI, 0.67-0.82), a sensitivity of 64% (95% CI, 53%-73%), and a specificity of 76% (95% CI, 65%-85%) to detect inflamed bowel. CONCLUSION Increasing BWT is associated with increasing endoscopic activity in pediatric IBD. Our study suggests that the optimal BWT cutoff value for detecting active disease may be less than that seen in adults. Additional pediatric studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallory Chavannes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lara Hart
- Division of Gastroenterology, Montreal Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Panteha Hayati Rezvan
- Biostatistics Core, The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jonathan R Dillman
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - D Brent Polk
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, University of California, San Diego, and Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
Intestinal ultrasound is an emerging technique for diagnosing and monitoring patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is a simple, non-invasive, inexpensive, safe and reliable tool for monitoring patients with IBD. This technique has good diagnostic accuracy in the assessment of the extent and severity of IBD and its complications. The most commonly used parameters are bowel wall thickness, color Doppler flow, bowel wall stratification and peri-bowel inflammation. Various scoring systems have been developed utilizing the above parameters to monitor patients with IBD. It is a good tool to monitor response to therapy and follow-up for post-operative recurrence. Early response on intestinal ultrasound (IUS) predicts long-term clinical remission and mucosal healing in patients with Crohn's disease. In patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), the response to IUS can be assessed as early as two weeks. Recent data has emerged to predict the response to corticosteroids and colectomy in patients with acute severe UC. Point of care IUS in the outpatient clinic is an excellent tool to follow-up patients and guide clinical decision-making and has good acceptability among patients. It is an underutilized technique in spite of its appeal and the availability of evidence. Underutilization can be attributed to the lack of awareness, expertise and training centres. This review discusses the technical details and the evidence to support the use of IUS in IBD. We aim to increase awareness and use of intestinal ultrasound and build local expertise and data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayal Vizhi Nagarajan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, 560 092, India.
| | - Naresh Bhat
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, 560 092, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Goodsall TM, Day AS, Andrews JM, Ruszkiewicz A, Ma C, Bryant RV. Composite Assessment Using Intestinal Ultrasound and Calprotectin Is Accurate in Predicting Histological Activity in Ulcerative Colitis: A Cohort Study. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2024; 30:190-195. [PMID: 36928672 PMCID: PMC10834160 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beyond endoscopic remission, histological remission in ulcerative colitis (UC) is predictive of clinical outcomes. Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) may offer a noninvasive surrogate marker for histological activity; however, there are limited data correlating validated ultrasound and histological indices. AIM Our aim was to determine the correlation of IUS activity in UC with a validated histological activity index. METHODS Twenty-nine prospective, paired, same-day IUS/endoscopy/histology/fecal calprotectin (FC) cases were included. Intestinal ultrasound activity was determined using the Milan Ultrasound Criteria, histological activity using the Nancy Histological Index, endoscopic activity using Mayo endoscopic subscore and Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity, and clinical activity using the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Score. RESULTS Histological activity demonstrated a significant linear association with overall IUS activity (coefficient 0.14; 95% CI, 0.03-0.25; P = .011). Intestinal ultrasound activity was also significantly associated with endoscopic activity (0.32; 95% CI, 0.14-0.49; P < 0.001), total Mayo score (0.31; 95% CI, 0.02-0.60; P = .036) but not FC (0.10; 95% CI, -0.01 to 0.21; P = .064) or clinical disease activity (0.04; 95% CI, -0.21 to 0.28; P = .768). A composite of IUS and FC showed the greatest association (1.31; 95% CI, 0.43-2.18; P = .003) and accurately predicted histological activity in 88% of cases (P = .007), with sensitivity of 88%, specificity 80%, positive predictive value 95%, and negative predictive value 57%. CONCLUSIONS Intestinal ultrasound is an accurate noninvasive marker of histological disease activity in UC, the accuracy of which is further enhanced when used in composite with FC. This can reduce the need for colonoscopy in routine care by supporting accurate point-of-care decision-making in patients with UC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Goodsall
- IBD Service, Department of Gastroenterology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alice S Day
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- IBD Service, Department of Gastroenterology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jane M Andrews
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- IBD Service, Department of Gastroenterology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Christopher Ma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert V Bryant
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- IBD Service, Department of Gastroenterology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dolinger MT, Aronskyy I, Kellar A, Gao M, Spencer EA, Pittman N, Dubinsky MC. Determining the Accuracy of Intestinal Ultrasound Scores as a Prescreening Tool in Crohn's Disease Clinical Trials. Am J Gastroenterol 2024:00000434-990000000-00961. [PMID: 38131626 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High rates of screen failure for the minimum Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease (SES-CD) plague Crohn's disease (CD) clinical trials. We aimed to determine the accuracy of segmental intestinal ultrasound (IUS) parameters and scores to detect segmental SES-CD activity. METHODS A single-center, blinded, cross-sectional cohort study of children and young adult patients with CD undergoing IUS and ileocolonoscopy, comparing segmental IUS bowel wall thickness (BWT), hyperemia (modified Limberg score [MLS]), and scores to detect segmental SES-CD activity: (i) SES-CD ≤2, (ii) SES-CD ≥6, and (iii) SES-CD ≥4 in the terminal ileum (TI) only. Primary outcome was accuracy of BWT, MLS, and IUS scores to detect SES-CD ≤2 and SES-CD ≥6. Secondary outcomes were accuracy of TI BWT, MLS, and IUS scores to detect SES-CD ≥4 and correlation with the SES-CD. RESULTS Eighty-two patients (median [interquartile range] age 16.5 [12.9-20.0] years) underwent IUS and ileocolonoscopy of 323 bowel segments. Segmental BWT ≤3.1 mm had a similar high accuracy to detect SES-CD ≤2 as IUS scores (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC] 0.833 [95% confidence interval 0.76-0.91], 94% sensitivity, and 73% specificity). Segmental BWT ≥3.6 mm and ≥4.3 mm had similar high accuracy to detect SES-CD ≥6 (AUROC 0.950 [95% confidence interval 0.92-0.98], 89% sensitivity, 93% specificity) in the colon and an SES-CD ≥4 in the TI (AUROC 0.874 [0.79-0.96], 80% sensitivity, and 91% specificity) as IUS scores. Segmental IUS scores strongly correlated with the SES-CD. DISCUSSION Segmental IUS BWT is highly accurate to detect moderate-to-severe endoscopic inflammation. IUS may be the ideal prescreening tool to reduce unnecessary trial screen failures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Dolinger
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Illya Aronskyy
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Amelia Kellar
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michael Gao
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Spencer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nanci Pittman
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marla C Dubinsky
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Srinivasan AR. Treat to target in Crohn's disease: A practical guide for clinicians. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:50-69. [PMID: 38293329 PMCID: PMC10823901 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i1.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
A treat-to-target (T2T) approach applies the principles of early intervention and tight disease control to optimise long-term outcomes in Crohn's disease. The Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE)-II guidelines specify short, intermediate, and long-term treatment goals, documenting specific treatment targets to be achieved at each of these timepoints. Scheduled appraisal of Crohn's disease activity against pre-defined treatment targets at these timepoints remains central to determining whether current therapy should be continued or modified. Consensus treatment targets in Crohn's disease comprise combination clinical and patient-reported outcome remission, in conjunction with biomarker normalisation and endoscopic healing. Although the STRIDE-II guidelines endorse the pursuit of endoscopic healing, clinicians must consider that this may not always be appropriate, acceptable, or achievable in all patients. This underscores the need to engage patients at the outset in an effort to personalise care and individualise treatment targets. The use of non-invasive biomarkers such as faecal calprotectin in conjunction with cross-sectional imaging techniques, particularly intestinal ultrasound, holds great promise; as do emerging treatment targets such as transmural healing. Two randomised clinical trials, namely, CALM and STARDUST, have evaluated the efficacy of a T2T approach in achieving endoscopic endpoints in patients with Crohn's disease. Findings from these studies reflect that patient subgroups and Crohn's disease characteristics likely to benefit most from a T2T approach, remain to be clarified. Moreover, outside of clinical trials, data pertaining to the real-world effectiveness of a T2T approach remains scare, highlighting the need for pragmatic real-world studies. Despite the obvious promise of a T2T approach, a lack of guidance to support its integration into real-world clinical practice has the potential to limit its uptake. This highlights the need to describe strategies, processes, and models of care capable of supporting the integration and execution of a T2T approach in real-world clinical practice. Hence, this review seeks to examine the current and emerging literature to provide clinicians with practical guidance on how to incorporate the principles of T2T into routine clinical practice for the management of Crohn's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish R Srinivasan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Austin Health, Victoria, Melbourne 3083, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Victoria, Melbourne 3128, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Melbourne 3052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huang Z, Cheng W, Chao K, Tang J, Li M, Guo Q, Liu G, Gao X. Baseline and Postinduction Intestinal Ultrasound Findings Predict Long-term Transmural and Mucosal Healing in Patients With Crohn's Disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2023:izad251. [PMID: 37889843 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is becoming a standard assessment tool in Crohn's disease (CD), but limited data exist on its ability to predict long-term objective outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the predictive value of IUS findings for long-term transmural healing (TH) and mucosal healing (MH) in CD. METHODS We prospectively included consecutive CD patients with active endoscopic disease and bowel wall thickness (BWT) >3.0 mm, initiating infliximab. Intestinal ultrasound parameters (ie, BWT, inflammatory mesenteric fat [i-fat], bowel blood flow and stratification) and International Bowel Ultrasound Segmental Activity Score (IBUS-SAS) were collected at baseline, after 14 to 26 weeks (visit 1, postinduction) and 44 to 56 weeks (visit 2). Transmural healing (normalization of all IUS parameters) and MH (SES-CD ≤2) were assessed at visit 2. RESULTS One hundred twenty-nine patients were evaluated. At visit 2, 38.0% and 48.1% of patients achieved TH and MH, respectively. All the IUS parameters and IBUS-SAS showed improvement at visit 1 and visit 2 compared with the baseline (all P < .001). Multivariable analysis found that presence of i-fat at baseline (odds ratio [OR], 0.57; P = .008) and greater postinduction BWT (OR, 0.24; P < .001) were negative predictors for TH, while higher baseline (OR, 0.98; P = .013) and postinduction (OR, 0.94; P < .001) IBUS-SAS predicted negatively for MH. Postinduction BWT <4.5mm best predicted TH (AUC 0.85; P < .001), while postinduction IBUS-SAS <25.0 best predicted MH (AUC 0.82; P < .001). Moreover, colonic disease was associated with higher risk of TH (OR, 2.55; P = .027), and disease duration >24 months with lower risk of MH (OR, 0.27; P = .006). CONCLUSIONS Baseline and postinduction IUS findings reliably predict long-term TH and MH in patients with CD receiving infliximab.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zicheng Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wenjie Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Departments of Medical Ultrasonics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Kang Chao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jian Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Miao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qin Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - GuangJian Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Departments of Medical Ultrasonics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dragoni G, Gottin M, Innocenti T, Lynch EN, Bagnoli S, Macrì G, Bonanomi AG, Orlandini B, Rogai F, Milani S, Galli A, Milla M, Biagini MR. Correlation of Ultrasound Scores with Endoscopic Activity in Crohn's Disease: A Prospective Exploratory Study. J Crohns Colitis 2023; 17:1387-1394. [PMID: 37023010 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Intestinal ultrasound [IUS] is widely accepted as a reliable tool to monitor Crohn's disease [CD]. Several IUS scores have been proposed, but none has been formally accepted by international organizations. Our aim here was to compare the available scores regarding their correlation with endoscopic activity. METHODS Consenting CD patients undergoing ileocolonoscopy at our Unit between September 2021 and February 2023 were included. Endoscopic activity was defined as SES-CD ≥ 3 or Rutgeerts score ≥ i2b for operated patients. IUS was performed within 6 weeks of endoscopy and scored with IBUS-SAS, BUSS, Simple-US and SUS-CD scores. All correlations were performed using Spearman's rank coefficient [rho = ρ]. Receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curves were compared with the Hanley and McNeil method. RESULTS Of 73 CD patients, 45 [61.6%] presented endoscopic activity, of whom 22 were severe [30.1%]. All IUS scores showed a significant positive correlation with endoscopy [p < 0.0001], with IBUS-SAS ranking the highest [ρ = 0.87]. Similarly, IBUS-SAS was the most highly correlated with clinical activity [ρ = 0.58]. ROC analysis of IBUS-SAS for any endoscopic activity showed the highest area under the curve (0.95 [95% confidence interval 0.87-0.99]), with sensitivity of 82.2% and specificity of 100% for a cut-off value of 25.2. IBUS-SAS was statistically superior to all the other scores in detecting severe endoscopic activity [SES-CD ≥ 9 or Rutgeerts i4]. CONCLUSIONS All IUS scores provided solid correlation with endoscopy and clinical symptoms. IBUS-SAS outperformed the others due to a more granular description that might help in stratifying different levels of disease activity. Therefore, the use of IBUS-SAS in centres with well-founded expertise in IUS can be suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Dragoni
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Gottin
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Tommaso Innocenti
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Nicola Lynch
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Siro Bagnoli
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Macrì
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Orlandini
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Rogai
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Milani
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Galli
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Milla
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Biagini
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IBD Referral Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
West J, Tan K, Devi J, Macrae F, Christensen B, Segal JP. Benefits and Challenges of Treat-to-Target in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6292. [PMID: 37834936 PMCID: PMC10573216 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There is notable disparity between symptomatology and disease activity in a significant proportion of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and escalation of treatment based on symptoms alone can fail to significantly alter the course of disease. The STRIDE-II position statement, published in 2021 by the Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE) initiative of the International Organisation for the Study of IBD (IOIBD) provides the most current recommendations for a treat-to-target (T2T) approach in IBD. Despite the benefits offered by a T2T approach in IBD, there are numerous drawbacks and current limitations to its widespread implementation in real-world clinical practice. Owing to the lack of a standardised definition of MH, outcome data are heterogeneous and limit the comparability of existing data. Further, studies investigating the likelihood of achieving MH with a T2T approach are limited and largely retrospective. Evidence of the real-world feasibility of tight monitoring is currently minimal and demonstrates sub-optimal adherence among patients. Further, the few studies on the acceptability and uptake of a T2T approach in real-world practice demonstrate the need for increased acceptability on both patients' and clinicians' behalf. Real-world applicability is further limited by the need for repeated endoscopic assessments of MH as well as a lack of guidance on how to incorporate the various treatment targets into therapeutic decision-making. We aim to review the benefits and challenges of the T2T approach and to discuss potential solutions to further patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack West
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
| | - Katrina Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Northern Health, Epping, Melbourne 3076, Australia
| | - Jalpa Devi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MI 63110, USA
| | - Finlay Macrae
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Britt Christensen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Jonathan P. Segal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wessling J, Kucharzik T, Bettenworth D, Luegering A, Maaser C, Grenacher L, Juchems MS, Ringe KI, Lauenstein T, Schreyer AG. Intestinal MRI in Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Literature and Survey-Based Recommendations regarding Reporting by the German Radiological Society (DRG) and the German Competence Network for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2023; 195:675-690. [PMID: 37137321 DOI: 10.1055/a-2036-7190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MR-enterography/enteroclysis (MRE) is increasingly used for primary diagnosis, detection of complications, and monitoring of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Standardization of reporting is relevant to ensure quality of the methodology and to improve communication between different faculties. The current manuscript describes the features that are required for optimized reporting of MRE in IBD. METHODS An expert consensus panel of radiologists and gastroenterologists conducted a systematic search of the literature. In a Delphi process, members of the German Radiological Society (DRG) and members of the Competence Network for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases voted on relevant criteria for the reporting of findings in MRE. Based on the voting results, statements were developed by the expert consensus panel. RESULTS Clinically relevant aspects of MRE findings have been defined to optimize reporting and to standardize terminology. Minimal requirements for standardized reporting are suggested. The statements focus on the description of disease activity as well as on complications of IBD. Attributes of intestinal inflammation are described and illustrated by exemplary images. CONCLUSION The current manuscript provides standardized parameters and gives practical recommendations on how to report and how to characterize MRE findings in patients with IBD. KEY POINTS · Systematic overview provides practice-oriented recommendations and names and evaluates the decisive criteria for reporting and interpretation of MRI in inflammatory bowel disease.. · Standardized terminology and reporting criteria for MRI in IBD improves interdisciplinary communication.. · Standardized collection and documentation of MRI findings in IBD helps to further establish the method and to improve care for IBD patients.. CITATION FORMAT · Wessling J, Kucharzik T, Bettenworth D et al. Intestinal MRI in Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Literature and Survey-Based Recommendations regarding Reporting by the German Radiological Society (DRG) and the German Competence Network for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 675 - 690.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Torsten Kucharzik
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lüneburg Municipal Hospital Clinic for General Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Bettenworth
- Department for CED, praxis for internal medicine and CED, Himmelreichallee 37-41, Muenster, Germany
| | - Andreas Luegering
- center for gastrointestinal diseases, mvz portal 10 Muenster, Germany
| | - Christian Maaser
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lüneburg Municipal Hospital Clinic for General Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Lars Grenacher
- Imaging and Prevention Center, Conradia Radiology Munich, Germany
| | - Markus S Juchems
- Department of interventional and diagnostic radiology, Schmieder Hospitals - Hospital Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Lauenstein
- Department of Radiology, Evangelical Hospital Düsseldorf Medical Clinic, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andreas G Schreyer
- Institute of diagnostic and interventional radiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Brandenburg a. d. Havel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang L, Xu C, Zhang Y, Jiang W, Ma J, Zhang H. External validation and comparison of simple ultrasound activity score and international bowel ultrasound segmental activity score for Crohn's disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:883-889. [PMID: 36825305 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2181038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non-invasive tool for monitoring Crohn's disease (CD) activity. Recently, sonographic activity scores, including the International Bowel Ultrasound Segmental Activity Score (IBUS-SAS) and Simple Ultrasound Activity Score for CD (SUS-CD), were developed. This study aimed to assess their clinical application value. METHODS This retrospective study enrolled patients with CD from March 2021 to June 2022. The diagnostic performance of the ultrasound scores was evaluated using the simplified endoscopic score for CD (SES-CD). Correlations of ultrasound scores with SES-CD, CD activity index (CDAI), and inflammatory biomarkers were assessed. Inter-rater reliability was compared. RESULTS In total, 140 patients were included. The IBUS-SAS for evaluating disease activity had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.895, sensitivity of 85.4%, and specificity of 82.4% for the cut-off value of 48.7. The SUS-CD revealed an AUC of 0.835, sensitivity of 92.7%, and specificity of 64.7% for the cut-off value of 2.5. The IBUS-SAS and SUS-CD were positively correlated with SES-CD (r = 0.511 and 0.534, respectively). The scores correlated significantly with the CDAI and inflammatory biomarkers (all p < 0.01). The IBUS-SAS was more strongly correlated with CDAI (r = 0.666 vs 0.486) and C-reactive protein (r = 0.645 vs 0.434) than the SUS-CD. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the IBUS-SAS and SUS-CD between the two sonologists was excellent (ICC = 0.96 and 0.78, respectively). CONCLUSION Both the IBUS-SAS and SUS-CD can evaluate disease activity in CD and exhibited a significant correlation with activity indices and inflammatory biomarkers. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2200055221.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Chenjing Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonography, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Wenyu Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Jingjing Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Barchi A, D'Amico F, Zilli A, Furfaro F, Parigi TL, Fiorino G, Peyrin-Biroulet L, Danese S, Dal Buono A, Allocca M. Recent advances in the use of ultrasound in Crohn's disease. Expert Rev Med Devices 2023; 20:1119-1129. [PMID: 37961790 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2023.2283166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A clear consensus exists on the role of IUS for the assessment and monitoring of Crohn's disease (CD) in the 'treat-to-target' strategy. AREAS COVERED IUS is an accurate tool for the management of CD. It is noninvasive and well tolerated. IUS has good-to-optimal inter-operator reliability either for assessing disease activity or for evaluating treatment response, especially combining Bowel Wall Thickness (BWT) and Color Doppler Signals (CDS). IUS is able to evaluate transmural remission (TR), the ultimate goal of the 'treat-to-target' strategy. Several studies confirmed its accuracy in the assessment of the post-operative recurrence (POR). Thanks to recent advances in trans-perineal ultrasound technique (TPUS), it allows to characterize peri-anal disease and its complications. Small intestine contrast ultrasound (SICUS) and contrast-enhancement ultrasound (CEUS) may improve IUS performance, particularly in stricturing or penetrating CD. Ultrasound elastography (USE) is raising interest for its accuracy in differentiating CD phenotypes (fibrotic versus inflamed). EXPERT OPINION IUS is a pivotal step in the management of CD, in early assessment as in therapeutic monitoring, with advantages of evaluating transmural response. Development and validation of novel ultrasound biomarkers of activity and fibrosis, especially those linked to advanced ultrasound techniques, are expected in the coming years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Barchi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferdinando D'Amico
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zilli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Furfaro
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Tommaso Lorenzo Parigi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Gionata Fiorino
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Inserm NGERE U1256, University Hospital of Nancy, University of Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nancy University Hospital, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- INFINY Institute, Nancy University Hospital, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- FHU-CURE, Nancy University Hospital, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- Groupe Hospitalier privé Ambroise Paré - Hartmann, Paris IBD center, Neuilly sur Seine, France
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Silvio Danese
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Dal Buono
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- IBD Center, Humanitas Research Hospital - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariangela Allocca
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hameed M, Taylor SA. Small bowel imaging in inflammatory bowel disease: updates for 2023. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:1117-1134. [PMID: 37902040 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2274926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cross-sectional imaging techniques including MR and CT enterography and ultrasound are integral to Crohn's disease management, accurate, responsive, and well tolerated. They assess the full thickness of the bowel wall, perienteric environment, and distant complications. As we strive toward tighter disease control, imaging's role will expand further with transmural healing becoming an increasingly important therapeutic target. AREAS COVERED MEDLINE and Web of Science were searched from 2012 to 2023 inclusive. We review the evidence for cross-sectional imaging in assessing disease activity, phenotyping, and therapeutic response assessment. Emerging novel imaging applications such as quantifying enteric motility and fibrosis, prognostication, and potential utility of artificial intelligence will be covered. Recent international consensus statements highlight the need for standardized imaging reporting and definitions of transmural healing and remission. We will discuss how recent advances may be best integrated into patient care and highlight key outstanding research questions. EXPERT OPINION Cross-sectional imaging is established in Crohn's disease management. Research emphasis should be placed on optimal integration of imaging modalities in clinical care pathways, workforce training, definitions, and evidence for use of imaging based therapeutic targets such as transmural healing, better phenotyping of stricturing disease, and developing novel techniques, including integration of artificial intelligence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maira Hameed
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, United Kingdom
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University College Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart A Taylor
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, United Kingdom
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University College Hospital, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dolinger MT, Kayal M. Intestinal ultrasound as a non-invasive tool to monitor inflammatory bowel disease activity and guide clinical decision making. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:2272-2282. [PMID: 37124889 PMCID: PMC10134421 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i15.2272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non-invasive, real-time, cross-sectional imaging tool that can be used at the point-of-care to assess disease activity in patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. IUS promotes quick and impactful treatment decisions that can modify disease progression and enhance patient compliance. This review will summarize the technical aspects of IUS, the evidence to support the use of IUS in disease activity monitoring, the comparison of IUS to current standard of care monitoring modalities such as colonoscopy and calprotectin, and the optimal positioning of IUS in a tight-control monitoring strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Dolinger
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Maia Kayal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lin WC, Chang CW, Chen MJ, Wang HY. Intestinal Ultrasound in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Novel and Increasingly Important Tool. J Med Ultrasound 2023; 31:86-91. [PMID: 37576427 PMCID: PMC10413392 DOI: 10.4103/jmu.jmu_84_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
New and efficacious medical therapies have become available that have greatly enhanced clinicians' ability to manage inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). IBD activity should be assessed regularly in scheduled examinations as the part of a treat-to-target strategy for IBD care. The gold-standard approach to investigating IBD is colonoscopy, but this is an invasive procedure. Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) has played a crucial role in recent years regarding the assessment of IBD activity because it is noninvasive, safe, reproducible, and inexpensive. IUS findings could inform changes in therapeutic interventions for IBDs; this would necessitate fewer endoscopies and enable faster decision-making processes. Furthermore, patients are accepting and tolerant of IUS examinations. This review outlines the current evidence and gives indication regarding the use of IUS in the management of IBDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chen Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Wang Chang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jen Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Horng-Yuan Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nancey S, Fumery M, Faure M, Boschetti G, Gay C, Milot L, Roblin X. Use of imaging modalities for decision-making in inflammatory bowel disease. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2023; 16:17562848231151293. [PMID: 36777362 PMCID: PMC9912556 DOI: 10.1177/17562848231151293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cross-sectional magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and intestinal ultrasonography (IUS) provide valuable and noninvasive information to accurately assess disease activity, severity, and extent; detect complications; and monitor the response to treatment, as well as predict the postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease and a negative disease course. Therefore, both imaging modalities are emerging as pivotal diagnostic tools to achieve the emerging therapeutic target of transmural healing associated with better disease outcomes. Despite its numerous potential advantages over endoscopy and even MRE and its good availability, IUS is still widely underused to monitor and manage inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients and help in making clinical decisions in routine practice. This situation is clearly due to the absence of validated, reliable, and responsive indices, as well as the lack of trained gastroenterologists and radiologists, as IUS is a component of radiologist expertise in several countries but not yet integrated into the training program of gastroenterologists. However, there is an increasing body of evidence in the literature that IUS and MRE are both becoming essential imaging resources to help clinicians in making reliable decisions. Here, we discuss the up-to-date evidence about the usefulness and performance of cross-sectional imaging, focusing on the ability of bowel US and MRE to aid clinical decision-making for the optimal management and monitoring of IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mathurin Fumery
- Department of Gastroenterology, University
Hospital of Amiens, Amiens, France
| | | | - Gilles Boschetti
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lyon Sud
Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1,
Pierre-Bénite, France,INSERM U1111, CIRI, Lyon, France
| | - Claire Gay
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lyon Sud
Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1,
Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Laurent Milot
- Department of Radiology, Hospices Civils de
Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Xavier Roblin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Immunology,
University Hospital of Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Boccatonda A, D’Ardes D, Tallarico V, Vicari S, Bartoli E, Vidili G, Guagnano MT, Cocco G, Cipollone F, Schiavone C, Accogli E. Gastrointestinal Ultrasound in Emergency Setting. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12030799. [PMID: 36769448 PMCID: PMC9917741 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12030799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute bowel diseases are responsible for more than one third of subjects who were referred to the emergency department for acute abdominal pain and gastrointestinal evaluation. Gastrointestinal ultrasound (GIUS) is often employed as the first imaging method, with a good diagnostic accuracy in the setting of acute abdomen, and it can be an optimal diagnostic strategy in young females due to the radiation exposure related to X-ray and computed tomography methods. The physician can examine the gastrointestinal system in the area with the greatest tenderness by ultrasound, thus obtaining more information and data on the pathology than the standard physical examination. In this comprehensive review, we have reported the most relevant indications and advantages to using ultrasound in the investigation of abdominal acute pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Boccatonda
- Internal Medicine, Bentivoglio Hospital, AUSL Bologna, Bentivoglio (BO), 40010 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-664-4111
| | - Damiano D’Ardes
- Department of Medicine and Aging Science, Institute of “Clinica Medica”, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Viola Tallarico
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bologna University, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Susanna Vicari
- Internal Medicine, Bentivoglio Hospital, AUSL Bologna, Bentivoglio (BO), 40010 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Bartoli
- Internal Medicine, Bentivoglio Hospital, AUSL Bologna, Bentivoglio (BO), 40010 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Vidili
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Guagnano
- Department of Medicine and Aging Science, Institute of “Clinica Medica”, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulio Cocco
- Internistic Ultrasound Unit, SS Annunziata Hospital, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesco Cipollone
- Department of Medicine and Aging Science, Institute of “Clinica Medica”, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Cosima Schiavone
- Internistic Ultrasound Unit, SS Annunziata Hospital, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Esterita Accogli
- Internal Medicine, Centre of Research and Learning in Ultrasound, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rimola J, Torres J, Kumar S, Taylor SA, Kucharzik T. Recent advances in clinical practice: advances in cross-sectional imaging in inflammatory bowel disease. Gut 2022; 71:2587-2597. [PMID: 35927032 PMCID: PMC9664122 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Endoscopy remains the reference standard for the diagnosis and assessment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but it has several important limitations. Cross-sectional imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and intestinal ultrasound (IUS) are better tolerated and safer. Moreover, they can examine the entire bowel, even in patients with stenoses and/or severe inflammation. A variety of cross-sectional imaging activity scores strongly correlate with endoscopic measures of mucosal inflammation in the colon and terminal ileum. Unlike endoscopy, cross-sectional techniques allow complete visualisation of the small-bowel and assess for extraintestinal disease, which occurs in nearly half of patients with IBD. Extramural findings may predict outcomes better than endoscopic mucosal assessment, so cross-sectional techniques might help identify more relevant therapeutic targets. Coupled with their high sensitivity, these advantages have made MRE and IUS the primary non-invasive options for diagnosing and monitoring Crohn's disease; they are appropriate first-line investigations, and have become viable alternatives to colonoscopy. This review discusses cross-sectional imaging in IBD in current clinical practice as well as research lines that will define the future role of these techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Rimola
- IBD Unit, Radiology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain .,IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joana Torres
- Gastroenterology Division, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal,Gastroenterology Division, Hospital da Luz, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Shankar Kumar
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stuart A Taylor
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Torsten Kucharzik
- Department of Gastroenterology, Stadtisches Klinikum Luneburg gGmbH, Luneburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Expert guidelines now recommend regular objective assessments as part of a treat-to-target approach. Intestinal ultrasound provides a noninvasive, patient-friendly modality for assessing Crohn’s disease without the risk of radiation exposure and does not require fasting or bowel preparation. Enhancement techniques, including oral and intravenous contrast, can improve disease-activity and complication detection. Due to its acceptability, intestinal ultrasound can be performed frequently, allowing for closer disease-activity monitoring and treatment adjustments. There have been significant advances in the utility of intestinal ultrasound; particularly for assessing disease activity during pregnancy and fibrosis detection utilising elastography. This review provides a comprehensive overview of performing intestinal ultrasound, the diagnostic accuracy, role in disease-activity monitoring, and recent advances in utilising ultrasound for the assessment of luminal Crohn’s disease.
Collapse
|
21
|
Puca P, Del Vecchio LE, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Scaldaferri F, Zocco MA. Role of Multiparametric Intestinal Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Response to Biologic Therapy in Adults with Crohn’s Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:1991. [PMID: 36010341 PMCID: PMC9407413 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Crohn’s disease is one of the two most common types of inflammatory bowel disease. Current medical therapies are based on the use of glucocorticoids, exclusive enteral nutrition, immunosuppressors such as azathioprine and methotrexate, and biological agents such as infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, or ustekinumab. International guidelines suggest regular disease assessment and surveillance through objective instruments to adjust and personalize the therapy, reducing the overall rates of hospitalization and surgery. Although endoscopy represents the gold-standard for surveillance, its frequent use is strongly bordered by associated risks and costs. Consequently, alternative non-invasive tools to objectify disease activity and rule active inflammation out are emerging. Alongside laboratory exams and computed tomography or magnetic resonance enterography, intestinal ultrasonography (IUS) shows to be a valid choice to assess transmural inflammation and to detect transmural healing, defined as bowel wall thickness normalization, no hypervascularization, normal stratification, and no creeping fat. Compared to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography, CT scan, IUS is cheaper and more widespread, with very similar accuracy. Furthermore, share wave elastography, color Doppler, and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) succeed in amplifying the capacity to determine the disease location, disease activity, and complications. This review aimed to discuss the role of standard and novel ultrasound techniques such as CEUS, SICUS, or share wave elastography in adults with Crohn’s disease, mainly for therapeutic monitoring and follow-up.
Collapse
|
22
|
Elhag DA, Kumar M, Saadaoui M, Akobeng AK, Al-Mudahka F, Elawad M, Al Khodor S. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatments and Predictive Biomarkers of Therapeutic Response. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136966. [PMID: 35805965 PMCID: PMC9266456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract with a highly heterogeneous presentation. It has a relapsing and remitting clinical course that necessitates lifelong monitoring and treatment. Although the availability of a variety of effective therapeutic options including immunomodulators and biologics (such as TNF, CAM inhibitors) has led to a paradigm shift in the treatment outcomes and clinical management of IBD patients, some patients still either fail to respond or lose their responsiveness to therapy over time. Therefore, according to the recent Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE-II) recommendations, continuous disease monitoring from symptomatic relief to endoscopic healing along with short- and long-term therapeutic responses are critical for providing IBD patients with a tailored therapy algorithm. Moreover, considering the high unmet need for novel therapeutic approaches for IBD patients, various new modulators of cytokine signaling events (for example, JAK/TYK inhibitors), inhibitors of cytokines (for example IL-12/IL-23, IL-22, IL-36, and IL-6 inhibitors), anti-adhesion and migration strategies (for example, β7 integrin, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors, and stem cells), as well as microbial-based therapeutics to decolonize the bed buds (for example, fecal microbiota transplantation and bacterial inhibitors) are currently being evaluated in different phases of controlled clinical trials. This review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of available treatment options and emerging therapeutic approaches for IBD patients. Furthermore, predictive biomarkers for monitoring the therapeutic response to different IBD therapies are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duaa Ahmed Elhag
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (D.A.E.); (M.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (D.A.E.); (M.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Marwa Saadaoui
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (D.A.E.); (M.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Anthony K. Akobeng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (A.K.A.); (F.A.-M.); (M.E.)
| | - Fatma Al-Mudahka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (A.K.A.); (F.A.-M.); (M.E.)
| | - Mamoun Elawad
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (A.K.A.); (F.A.-M.); (M.E.)
| | - Souhaila Al Khodor
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar; (D.A.E.); (M.K.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kucharzik T, Atreya R, Bachmann O, Baumgart DC, Daebritz J, Helwig U, Janschek J, Kienle P, Langhorst J, Mudter J, Schmidt C, Schreyer AG, Vieth M, Wessling J, Maaser C. [Position paper on reporting of intestinal ultrasound findings in patients with inflammatory bowel disease]. Z Gastroenterol 2022; 60:978-990. [PMID: 35671995 DOI: 10.1055/a-1801-0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal ultrasound is increasingly used for primary diagnosis, detection of complications and monitoring of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Standardization of reporting is relevant to ensure quality of the methodology and to improve communication between different specialties. The current manuscript describes the features required for optimized reporting of intestinal ultrasound findings in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). METHODS An expert consensus panel of gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, paediatric gastroenterologists and surgeons conducted a systematic literature search. In a Delphi- process members of the Kompetenznetz Darmerkrankungen in collaboration with members of the German Society for Radiology (DRG) voted on relevant criteria for reporting of findings in intestinal ultrasound. Based on the voting results statements were agreed by expert consensus. RESULTS Clinically relevant aspects of intestinal ultrasound (IUS) findings have been defined to optimize reporting and to standardize terminology. Minimal requirements for standardized reporting are suggested. The statements focus on description of disease activity as well as on complications of IBD. Attributes of intestinal inflammation are described and illustrated by exemplary images. CONCLUSION The current manuscript provides practical recommendations on how to standardize documentation and reporting from intestinal ultrasound findings in patients with IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Kucharzik
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Gastroenterologie, Klinikum Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Bachmann
- Klinik für Innere Medizin 1, Siloah St. Trudpert Klinikum, Pforzheim, Germany
| | - Daniel C Baumgart
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jan Daebritz
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ulf Helwig
- Internistische Praxengemeinschaft Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.,1. Med. Klinik, Universität Kiel, UKSH Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Peter Kienle
- Allgemein-und Viszeralchirurgie, Theresienkrankenhaus und St. Hedwig-Klinik GmbH, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jost Langhorst
- Klinik für Integrative Medizin und Naturheilkunde, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, Klinikum am Bruderwald, Bamberg, Germany
| | - Jonas Mudter
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carsten Schmidt
- Medizinische Klinik II, Universitätsmedizin Marburg-Campus Fulda, Klinikum Fulda AG, Fulda, Germany
| | - Andreas G Schreyer
- Institut für diagnostische und interventionelle Radiologie, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg, Universitätsklinikum Brandenburg a.d. Havel, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Michael Vieth
- Institut für Pathologie, Klinikum Bayreuth, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Johannes Wessling
- Zentrum für Radiologie, Neuroradiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Clemenshospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Maaser
- Ambulanzzentrum Gastroenterologie, Klinik für Geriatrie, Klinikum Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
de Voogd F, Bots S, Gecse K, Gilja OH, D’Haens G, Nylund K. Intestinal Ultrasound Early on in Treatment Follow-up Predicts Endoscopic Response to Anti-TNFα Treatment in Crohn's Disease. J Crohns Colitis 2022; 16:1598-1608. [PMID: 35639823 PMCID: PMC9624292 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess treatment response, objective measures are superior to clinical improvement in Crohn's disease [CD]. Intestinal ultrasound [IUS] is an attractive, non-invasive alternative to endoscopy, demonstrating early transmural changes after treatment initiation. Therefore, we investigated IUS and contrast-enhanced ultrasound [CEUS] to predict [early] endoscopic treatment response. METHODS Consecutive patients with endoscopically active CD, starting anti-TNFα therapy, were included. Clinical, biochemical, IUS, and CEUS parameters at baseline [T0], after 4-8 weeks [T1] and 12-34 weeks [T2] were collected. The most severely inflamed segment at endoscopy (highest segmental Simplified Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease [SES-CD]) and IUS (highest segmental bowel wall thickness [BWT]) was identified. At T2, endoscopic response [decrease in SES-CD ≥ 50%] and remission [SES-CD = 0] were scored. RESULTS A total of 40 patients were included: 14 reached endoscopic remission and 17 endoscopic response. At T1 (3.1 mm [1.9-4.2] vs 5.3 mm [3.8-6.9], p = 0.005) and T2 (2.0 mm [1.8-3.1] vs 5.1 [3.0-6.3] mm, p = 0.002) BWT was lower in patients with endoscopic remission. At T1 and T2, 18% (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC]: 0.77; odds ratio [OR]: 10.80, p = 0.012) and 29% [AUROC: 0.833; OR: 37.50, p = 0.006] BWT decrease predicted endoscopic response, respectively. To determine endoscopic remission, BWT 3.2 mm was most accurate [AUROC: 0.94; OR: 39.42, p < 0.0001] at T2. In addition, absence of colour Doppler signal [OR: 13.76, p = 0.03] and the CEUS parameter wash-out rate [OR: 0.76, p = 0.019] improved the prediction model. CONCLUSIONS Reduction in BWT, already after 4-8 weeks of follow-up, predicted endoscopic response and remission. CEUS parameters were of limited value. Furthermore, we have provided accurate cut-offs for BWT reflecting endoscopic response and remission at different time points.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F de Voogd
- Corresponding author: Floris de Voogd, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | | | - K Gecse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - O H Gilja
- National Centre of Ultrasound in Gastroenterology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - G D’Haens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K Nylund
- National Centre of Ultrasound in Gastroenterology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kucharzik T, Tielbeek J, Carter D, Taylor SA, Tolan D, Wilkens R, Bryant RV, Hoeffel C, De Kock I, Maaser C, Maconi G, Novak K, Rafaelsen SR, Scharitzer M, Spinelli A, Rimola J. ECCO-ESGAR Topical Review on Optimizing Reporting for Cross-Sectional Imaging in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. J Crohns Colitis 2022; 16:523-543. [PMID: 34628504 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjab180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The diagnosis and follow up of patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] requires cross-sectional imaging modalities, such as intestinal ultrasound [IUS], magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and computed tomography [CT]. The quality and homogeneity of medical reporting are crucial to ensure effective communication between specialists and to improve patient care. The current topical review addresses optimized reporting requirements for cross-sectional imaging in IBD. METHODS An expert consensus panel consisting of gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons convened by the ECCO in collaboration with ESGAR performed a systematic literature review covering the reporting aspects of MRI, CT, IUS, endoanal ultrasonography and transperineal ultrasonography in IBD. Practice position statements were developed utilizing a Delphi methodology incorporating two consecutive rounds. Current practice positions were set when ≥80% of the participants agreed on a recommendation. RESULTS Twenty-five practice positions were developed, establishing standard terminology for optimal reporting in cross-sectional imaging. Assessment of inflammation, complications and imaging of perianal CD are outlined. The minimum requirements of a standardized report, including a list of essential reporting items, have been defined. CONCLUSIONS This topical review offers practice recommendations to optimize and homogenize reporting in cross-sectional imaging in IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Kucharzik
- Department of Gastroenterology, Klinikum Lüneburg, University of Hamburg, Bögelstr. 1, 21339 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Jeroen Tielbeek
- Department of Radiology, Spaarne Gasthuis, Boerhaavelaan 22, Haarlem, the Netherlands; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dan Carter
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hasomher, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Stuart A Taylor
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Damian Tolan
- Radiology Department, St James's University Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett Street, Leeds, UK
| | - Rune Wilkens
- Gastrounit, Division of Medicine, Hvidovre University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Copenhagen Centre for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents and Adults, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert V Bryant
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Christine Hoeffel
- Department of Abdominal Radiology, CHU Reims and CRESTIC, URCA, 51100 Reims, France
| | - Isabelle De Kock
- Department of Radiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian Maaser
- Outpatient Department of Gastroenterology, Department of Geriatrics, Klinikum Lüneburg, University of Hamburg, Bögelstr. 1, 21339 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit, 'Luigi Sacco' University Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Kerri Novak
- Department of Radiology and Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Søren R Rafaelsen
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Martina Scharitzer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Antonino Spinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jordi Rimola
- IBD unit, Radiology Department, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wilkens R, Dolinger M, Burisch J, Maaser C. Point-of-Care Testing and Home Testing: Pragmatic Considerations for Widespread Incorporation of Stool Tests, Serum Tests, and Intestinal Ultrasound. Gastroenterology 2022; 162:1476-1492. [PMID: 34995530 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.10.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breaking through the biologic therapy efficacy plateau for inflammatory bowel disease requires the strategic development of personalized biomarkers in the tight control model. After risk stratification early in the disease course, targeted serial monitoring consistently to assess clinical outcomes in response to therapy allows for quick therapeutic adjustments before bowel damage can occur. Point-of-care intestinal ultrasound performed by the treating gastroenterologist is an accurate cross- sectional biomarker that monitors intestinal inflammation in real-time, enhances patient care, and increases shared understanding to help achieve common treatment goals. Combining intestinal ultrasound during a clinic visit with existing serum and stool biomarkers in a home testing setup with electronic health monitoring allows for an optimized, patient-centered personalized treatment algorithm that may improve treatment outcomes. Here, we review the current state, pragmatic considerations, and future implications of point-of-care testing and home testing for noninvasive inflammatory bowel disease monitoring in the tight control model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Wilkens
- Gastrounit, Division of Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark; Copenhagen Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents and Adults, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark; Digestive Disease Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Michael Dolinger
- Susan and Leonard Feinstein Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Johan Burisch
- Gastrounit, Division of Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark; Copenhagen Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents and Adults, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark
| | - Christian Maaser
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Outpatient Unit, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University Teaching Hospital Lueneburg, Lueneburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Christian M, Giovanni M, Torsten K, Mariangela A. Ultrasonography in inflammatory bowel disease - So far we are? United European Gastroenterol J 2022; 10:225-232. [PMID: 35132795 PMCID: PMC8911535 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non‐invasive and accurate tool to assess inflammatory bowel disease. The ECCO‐ESGAR guideline recommends the use of IUS for the assessment of disease activity and complications in Crohn's disease (CD). In addition, an increasing body of evidence suggests the use of IUS as alternative to colonoscopy in monitoring CD and in assessing disease activity of ulcerative colitis. Early responsiveness of IUS findings by the first weeks of treatment and the advantage to perform the procedure in real time may dramatically change frequency of the assessment of treatment response in the future and speed up the clinical decision‐making process. Development of validated and reproducible sonographic scores to measure disease activity and therapeutic response and spread of knowledge of IUS remain relevant issues for the future in which current researchers and the International Bowel Ultrasound (IBUS) Group are actively engaged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maaser Christian
- Outpatients' Clinic of Gastroenterology, University Teaching Hospital Lueneburg, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Maconi Giovanni
- Gastroenterology Unit - Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science - 'L.Sacco' University Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Kucharzik Torsten
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Teaching Hospital Lueneburg, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Allocca Mariangela
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Miyoshi J, Ozaki R, Yonezawa H, Mori H, Kawamura N, Matsuura M, Hisamatsu T. Ratio of submucosal thickness to total bowel wall thickness as a new sonographic parameter to estimate endoscopic remission of ulcerative colitis. J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:82-9. [PMID: 35072789 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-021-01847-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of feasible, reliable parameters and criteria for intestinal ultrasound (IUS) to estimate endoscopic remission of ulcerative colitis (UC) is a crucial clinical challenge. Such parameters must be simple, objective, and reproducible so that IUS can be widely used in daily practice. We developed a new parameter called the submucosa index (SMI), defined as a percentage of the submucosal thickness (SMT) in the total bowel wall thickness (BWT), and investigated its clinical potential. METHODS The inclusion criteria were performance of both IUS and endoscopy (sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) for UC and a ≤ 15-day time interval between IUS and endoscopy. Loss of stratification was defined as inability to identify the submucosa even with a BWT of > 3 mm. The vascularity of the colon was assessed by the modified Limberg score (mLS) and evaluated as bowel wall flow (BWF) ( -) or ( +) using color Doppler mode. A Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) of 0 or 1 was defined as endoscopic remission. RESULTS Seventy-four colonic segments were analyzed. The SMI, mLS, and BWF could distinguish an MES of 1 versus 2 (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and adjusted p < 0.001, respectively). The criteria using the BWT and SMI and using the BWT and BWF had the same estimating ability for endoscopic remission (sensitivity, 70.0%; specificity, 97.7%; positive predictive value, 95.5%; and negative predictive value, 82.7%). CONCLUSION The SMI is a practical, quantitative parameter based on the bowel wall structure and may be used to estimate endoscopic remission of UC.
Collapse
|
29
|
Goodsall TM, Bryant RV. Editorial: an accurate, reliable and responsive ultrasound activity score for Crohn's disease? Sounds good to US. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:360-361. [PMID: 35040169 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T M Goodsall
- Department of Health Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - R V Bryant
- Department of Health Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Frias-Gomes C, Torres J, Palmela C. Intestinal Ultrasound in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Valuable and Increasingly Important Tool. GE Port J Gastroenterol 2021; 29:223-239. [PMID: 35979252 PMCID: PMC9275009 DOI: 10.1159/000520212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Intestinal ultrasound is emerging as a non-invasive tool for monitoring disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease patients due to its low cost, excellent safety profile, and availability. Herein, we comprehensively review the role of intestinal ultrasound in the management of these patients. Summary Intestinal ultrasound has a good accuracy in the diagnosis of Crohn's disease, as well as in the assessment of disease activity, extent, and evaluating disease-related complications, namely strictures, fistulae, and abscesses. Even though not fully validated, several scores have been developed to assess disease activity using ultrasound. Importantly, intestinal ultrasound can also be used to assess response to treatment. Changes in ultrasonographic parameters are observed as early as 4 weeks after treatment initiation and persist during short- and long-term follow-up. Additionally, Crohn's disease patients with no ultrasound improvement seem to be at a higher risk of therapy intensification, need for steroids, hospitalisation, or even surgery. Similarly to Crohn's disease, intestinal ultrasound has a good performance in the diagnosis, activity, and disease extent assessment in ulcerative colitis patients. In fact, in patients with severe acute colitis, higher bowel wall thickness at admission is associated with the need for salvage therapy and the absence of a significant decrease in this parameter may predict the need for colectomy. Short-term data also evidence the role of intestinal ultrasound in evaluating therapy response, with ultrasound changes observed after 2 weeks of treatment and significant improvement after 12 weeks of follow-up in ulcerative colitis. Key Messages Intestinal ultrasound is a valuable tool to assess disease activity and complications, and to monitor response to therapy. Even though longer prospective data are warranted, intestinal ultrasound may lead to a change in the paradigm of inflammatory bowel disease management as it can be used in a point-of-care setting, enabling earlier intervention if needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Frias-Gomes
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Joana Torres
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carolina Palmela
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
- *Carolina Palmela,
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bots S, De Voogd F, De Jong M, Ligtvoet V, Löwenberg M, Duijvestein M, Ponsioen CY, D’Haens G, Gecse KB. Point-of-care Intestinal Ultrasound in IBD Patients: Disease Management and Diagnostic Yield in a Real-world Cohort and Proposal of a Point-of-care Algorithm. J Crohns Colitis 2021; 16:606-615. [PMID: 34636839 PMCID: PMC9089417 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjab175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intestinal ultrasound [IUS] is useful for assessment of inflammation, complications, and treatment follow-up in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] patients. We aimed to study outcomes and impact on disease management for point-of-care [POC] IUS in IBD patients. METHODS Two patient cohorts undergoing POC IUS [January 2016-July 2018 and October 2019-December 2019] were included retrospectively. Disease management after IUS was analysed and IUS outcomes were compared with symptoms, biomarkers, and additional imaging within 8 weeks from IUS. To study differences in use of IUS over time, cohorts were compared. RESULTS In total, 345 examinations (280 in Crohn's disease [CD]/65 in ulcerative colitis [UC]) were performed. Present inflammation on IUS was comparable between symptomatic and asymptomatic CD [67.6% vs 60.5%; p = 0.291]. In 60%, IUS had impact on disease management with change in medication in 47.8%. Additional endoscopy/magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] was planned after 32.8% examinations, showing good correlation with IUS in 86.3% [ρ = 0.70, p <0.0001] and 80.0% [ρ = 0.75, p <0.0001] of cases, respectively. Faecal calprotectin was higher in active versus inactive disease on IUS [664 µg/g vs 79 µg/g; p <0.001]. Over the years, IUS was performed more frequently to monitor treatment response and the use of MRI was reduced within the cohort. CONCLUSIONS POC IUS affects clinical decision making and could detect preclinical relapse in CD patients, with potential to reduce additional endoscopy or MRI. In addition, the paradigm expands towards monitoring treatment and close follow-up for IUS. Based on our results, we propose a POC IUS algorithm for follow-up of IBD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M De Jong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V Ligtvoet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Löwenberg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Duijvestein
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Y Ponsioen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G D’Haens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K B Gecse
- Corresponding author: Dr. K.B. Gecse, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 20 5664401; fax: +31 20 6917033;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Delisle M, Wilkens R, Novak KL. Keeping It Simple: Using Intestinal Ultrasound to Assess Ulcerative Colitis with a Novel UC-Ultrasound Index. J Crohns Colitis 2021; 15:1250-1252. [PMID: 34224568 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Delisle
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rune Wilkens
- Division of Medicine, Gastro Unit, Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Copenhagen Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents and Adults, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark
| | - Kerri L Novak
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Jauregui-Amezaga A, Rimola J. Role of Intestinal Ultrasound in the Management of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:603. [PMID: 34201630 DOI: 10.3390/life11070603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) has gained popularity as a first line technique for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) due to its many advantages. It is a non-invasive imaging technique with non-ionizing radiation exposure. It can be easily performed not only by radiologists but also by trained gastroenterologists at outpatient clinics. In addition, the cost of IUS equipment is low when compared with other imaging techniques. IUS is an accurate technique to detect inflammatory lesions and complications in the bowel in patients with suspected or already known Crohn’s disease (CD). Recent evidence indicates that IUS is a convenient and accurate technique to assess extension and activity in the colon in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), and can be a non-invasive alternative to endoscopy. In patients with IBD, several non-specific pathological ultrasonographic signs can be identified: bowel wall thickening, alteration of the bowel wall echo-pattern, loss of bowel stratification, increased vascularization, decreased bowel peristalsis, fibro-fatty proliferation, enlarged lymph nodes, and/or abdominal free fluid. Considering the transmural CD inflammation, CD complications such as presence of strictures, fistulae, or abscesses can be detected. In patients with UC, where inflammation is limited to mucosa, luminal inflammatory ultrasonographic changes are similar to those of CD. As the technique is related to the operator’s experience, adequate IUS training, performance in daily practice, and a generalized use of standardized parameters will help to increase its reproducibility.
Collapse
|
34
|
Ferretti F, Cannatelli R, Ardizzone S, Maier JA, Maconi G. Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Intestinal Fibrosis and Inflammation in Crohn's Disease. The State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:679924. [PMID: 33981246 PMCID: PMC8107820 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.679924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of the degree of inflammation and fibrosis, intrinsic elements in intestinal wall damage of Crohn’s disease, is essential to individuate the extent of the lesions and the presence of strictures. This information will contribute to the choice of the appropriate therapeutic approach, the prediction of the response to therapy and the course of the disease. The accurate evaluation of the extent and severity of inflammation and/or fibrosis in Crohn’s disease currently requires histopathological analysis of the intestinal wall. However, in clinical practice and research, transmural assessment of the intestinal wall with cross sectional imaging is increasingly used for this purpose. The B-mode ultrasonograhic characteristics of the intestinal wall, the assessment of its vascularization by color Doppler and I.V. contrast agents, and the evaluation of the mechanical and elastic properties by sonoelastography, may provide useful and accurate information on the severity and extent of inflammation and intestinal fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on current sonographic methods to discriminate inflammation and fibrosis in Crohn’s disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ferretti
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosanna Cannatelli
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Ardizzone
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jeanette A Maier
- General Pathology-Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wilkens R, Novak KL, Maaser C, Panaccione R, Kucharzik T. Relevance of monitoring transmural disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease: current status and future perspectives. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2021; 14:17562848211006672. [PMID: 33948115 PMCID: PMC8053830 DOI: 10.1177/17562848211006672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment targets of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) have evolved over the last decade. Goals of therapy consisting of symptom control and steroid sparing have shifted to control of disease activity with endoscopic remission being an important endpoint. Unfortunately, this requires ileocolonoscopy, an invasive procedure. Biomarkers [C-reactive protein (CRP) and fecal calprotectin (FCP)] have emerged as surrogates for endoscopic remission and disease activity, but also have limitations. Despite this evolution, we must not lose sight that CD involves transmural inflammation, not fully appreciated with ileocolonoscopy. Therefore, transmural assessment of disease activity by cross-sectional imaging, in particular with magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and intestinal ultrasonography (IUS), is vital to fully understand disease control. Bowel-wall thickness (BWT) is the cornerstone in assessment of transmural inflammation and BWT normalization, with or without bloodflow normalization, the key element demonstrating resolution of transmural inflammation, namely transmural healing (TH) or transmural remission (TR). In small studies, achievement of TR has been associated with improved long-term clinical outcomes, including reduced hospitalization, surgery, escalation of treatment, and a decrease in clinical relapse over endoscopic remission alone. This review will focus on the existing literature investigating the concept of TR or residual transmural disease and its relation to other existing treatment targets. Current data suggest that TR may be the next logical step in the evolution of treatment targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Wilkens
- Gastrounit, Division of Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents and Adults, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark
| | - Kerri L. Novak
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Christian Maaser
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Outpatient Unit, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University Teaching Hospital Lueneburg, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Remo Panaccione
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Torsten Kucharzik
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Teaching Hospital Lueneburg, Bögelstraße 1, Lueneburg 21339, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Affiliation(s)
- Floris A E de Voogd
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Verstockt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing, TARGID-IBD, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christian Maaser
- Outpatients Department of Gastroenterology, IBD Center, Städtisches Klinikum Lüneburg GmbH, Luneburg, Niedersachsen, Germany
| | - Krisztina B Gecse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|