Risk factors for malignancy and serious infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at increased risk of malignancy and infection compared to the general population. AIMS: We aim to identify risk factors for malignancy or serious infection in our IBD cohort. METHODS: Patients with IBD from a single tertiary referral centre were included. Demographic and clinical details, including immunosuppressant exposure, were collected and medical records retrospectively screened for adverse events, including malignancy or infection requiring hospitalisation. Logistic regression was used to evaluate risk factors for adverse events. RESULTS: Five hundred and forty-nine patients with IBD (340 Crohn disease (CD) and 209 ulcerative colitis (UC)) were studied. Forty-eight malignancies, including 39 (81.3%) non-melanoma skin cancers, 3 (6.3%) haematologic malignancies and 6 (15.4%) solid-organ malignancies, were identified, and 92 cases of serious infection were detected. IBD duration (odds ratio (OR) = 1.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03-1.13) and ileocolonic CD (OR = 4.96; 95% CI = 1.13-21.71) were associated with increased odds of overall cancer. Compared with patients not previously exposed to the given class of immunosuppression assessed, the development of overall malignancy was not higher with thiopurine exposure (OR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.50-2.24) or anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) exposure (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.37-1.64). Similarly, compared with patients not exposed, infection risk was not affected by thiopurine (OR = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.46-1.20) or anti-TNF exposure (OR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.38-0.95). CONCLUSIONS: Factors including ileocolonic CD and increasing IBD duration were associated with higher malignancy risk in this cohort. Compared with non-exposure, patients exposed to thiopurines were not at increased risk of malignancy or serious infection. Similarly, patients exposed to anti-TNF treatment did not experience increased rates of malignancy or serious infection compared to patients not exposed to this treatment.

Review of long-term complications and functional outcomes of ileoanal pouch procedures in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

BACKGROUND: In medically refractory Ulcerative Colitis (UC), proctocolectomy with ileoanal pouch procedure (IAPP) is the preferred continence-preserving surgical option. Functional outcomes post-surgery and long-term complication rates in the biologic era remain ambiguous. This review primarily aims to provide an update on these outcomes. Secondarily, risk factors associated with chronic pouchitis and pouch failure are explored. METHODS: Two online databases (MEDLINE and EMBASE) were searched on 4 October 2022 for English studies from 2011-present relating to long-term outcomes of IAPP in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Adult patients with 12 month follow-up were included. Studies focused on 30-day post-operative outcomes, non-IBD patients or studies including less than 30 patients were excluded. RESULTS: Following screening and full-text review of 1094 studies, 49 were included. Median sample size was n = 282 (IQR: 116-519). Median incidences for chronic pouchitis and pouch failure were 17.1% (IQR: 12-23.6%) and 6.9% (IQR: 4.8-10.8%), respectively. Upon multivariate analysis, chronic pouchitis development was most significantly associated with pre-operative steroid use, pancolitis and extra-intestinal IBD manifestations, whilst pouch failure was most significantly associated with pre-operative diagnosis of Crohn's disease (compared to UC), peri-operative pelvic sepsis and anastomotic leak. Overall patient satisfaction was very high with four included studies reporting greater than 90% satisfaction rates. CONCLUSION: Long-term complications for IAPP were common. However, despite this, patient satisfaction post-IAPP was high. Up-to-date knowledge of complication rates and their risk factors improves pre-operative counselling, management planning and patient outcomes.

Relationship Between Serum Ustekinumab Trough Concentration and Clinical and Biochemical Disease Activity: A Real-World Study in Adult Patients with Crohn's Disease.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The role of therapeutic drug monitoring for ustekinumab in the treatment of Crohn's disease has not been defined. This study aimed to explore the relationship of serum ustekinumab trough concentration (UTC) with clinical and biochemical disease outcomes in a real-world setting. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of Crohn's disease patients treated at a single tertiary centre. Ustekinumab was given as a single intravenous induction dose, followed by maintenance subcutaneous injections every 4 to 8 weeks. Rates of clinical remission (Harvey-Bradshaw Index ≤ 4), biochemical remission (C-reactive protein < 5 mg/l and faecal calprotectin < 150 µg/g) and complete remission were assessed at baseline and at the time of UTC testing during maintenance therapy. The association between baseline variables and UTC was tested using linear regression. We also performed an external validation analysis of UTC cut-offs established in four previously published studies. RESULTS: This study included 43 patients. Compared to 8-weekly dosing, a 2.49- and 2.65-fold increase in UTC was associated with 6-weekly and 4-weekly dosing respectively. However, there was no significant difference in clinical, biochemical or complete remission among the dosing groups. An external validation of previously published optimal UTC cut-offs found low predictive value for our patient population. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, dosing interval was the only determinant significantly associated with a higher UTC for patients on maintenance ustekinumab therapy. While a higher UTC may be achieved with dose escalation, it was not associated with improved rates of clinical or biochemical response in our cohort.

Systematic Review: The Impact and Importance of Body Composition in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Alterations in body composition are common in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] and have been associated with differences in patient outcomes. We sought to consolidate knowledge on the impact and importance of body composition in IBD. METHODS: We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and conference proceedings by combining two key research themes: inflammatory bowel disease and body composition. RESULTS: Fifty-five studies were included in this review. Thirty-one focused on the impact of IBD on body composition with a total of 2279 patients with a mean age 38.4 years. Of these, 1071 [47%] were male. In total, 1470 [64.5%] patients had Crohn's disease and 809 [35.5%] had ulcerative colitis. Notably, fat mass and fat-free mass were reduced, and higher rates of sarcopaenia were observed in those with active IBD compared with those in clinical remission and healthy controls. Twenty-four additional studies focused on the impact of derangements in body composition on IBD outcomes. Alterations in body composition in IBD are associated with poorer prognoses including higher rates of surgical intervention, post-operative complications and reduced muscle strength. In addition, higher rates of early treatment failure and primary non-response are seen in patients with myopaenia. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IBD have alterations in body composition parameters in active disease and clinical remission. The impacts of body composition on disease outcome and therapy are broad and require further investigation. The augmentation of body composition parameters in the clinical setting has the potential to improve IBD outcomes in the future.

Systematic review: efficacy of escalated maintenance anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy in Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND: Loss of response to anti-TNF agents is a common clinical problem. Dose escalation may be effective for reestablishing clinical response in Crohn's disease (CD). AIMS: To perform a systematic review assessing the efficacy of escalated maintenance anti-TNF therapy in CD. METHODS: EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and CENTRAL databases were searched for English language publications through to April 25, 2021. Full-text articles evaluating escalated maintenance treatment (infliximab or adalimumab) in adult CD patients were included. RESULTS: A total of 4733 records were identified, and 68 articles met eligibility criteria. Rates of clinical response (33%-100%) and remission (15%-83%) after empiric dose escalation for loss of response to standard anti-TNF therapy were high but varied across studies. Dose intensification strategies (doubling the dose versus shortening the therapeutic interval) were similarly efficacious. Dose-escalated patients tended to have higher serum drug levels compared to those on standard dosing. An exposure-response relationship following dose escalation was found in a number of observational studies. Randomised controlled trials comparing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) to empiric treatment intensification have failed to reach their primary end-points. Strategies including Bayesian dashboard-dosing and early treatment escalation targeting biomarker normalisation were found to be associated with improved long-term outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Empiric escalation of maintenance anti-TNF therapy can recapture clinical response in a majority of patients with secondary loss of response to standard maintenance doses. Proactive optimisation of maintenance dosing might prolong time to loss of response in some patients.

A Single Educational Intervention Improves Pregnancy-Related Knowledge and Emotional Health Among Women With IBD Who Are Pregnant or Wish to Conceive.

BACKGROUND: There is considerable interest in improving the education and care of women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to improve pregnancy outcomes. Despite increased awareness, not all women with IBD have access to pregnancy-related education and the quality of counseling is variable. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of a simple educational intervention for improving pregnancy-related knowledge and to evaluate the effect of education on patient outcomes including anxiety, depression, and quality of life in women with IBD. METHODS: This prospective study of women with IBD who were pregnant or planning a pregnancy evaluated the effectiveness of a single gastroenterologist-led educational intervention in improving pregnancy-related knowledge, measured using the Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge score 1 month postintervention. Secondary outcomes included the effect on anxiety and depression, quality of life, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: One hundred women with IBD were recruited. Fifty percent were pregnant at the time of the intervention. Baseline knowledge scores were similar independent of the patients' pregnancy status or whether they had previously received counseling from their gastroenterologist. Median Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge scores postintervention (n = 82) were higher than preintervention scores (14/17 vs 10/17; P < 0.001). In addition, 32% of patients had poor knowledge at baseline (score ≤7/17), compared to only 5% after the intervention (P < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in total anxiety and depression and quality of life scores postintervention. Medication adherence and patient satisfaction were excellent. CONCLUSIONS: Uptake of this gastroenterologist-led educational intervention has the potential to improve pregnancy knowledge, promote medication adherence, and enhance quality of life for women with IBD globally.

Maternal thiopurine metabolism during pregnancy in inflammatory bowel disease and clearance of thiopurine metabolites and outcomes in exposed neonates.

BACKGROUND: Azathioprine and mercaptopurine are considered safe during pregnancy. However, the pharmacokinetic effects of pregnancy on thiopurine metabolism are undefined. AIMS: To characterise thiopurine metabolism in pregnancy and measure infant metabolite levels and outcomes. METHODS: Women with IBD who were taking a thiopurine and pregnant or trying to conceive were recruited. Maternal thiopurine metabolites were measured pre-conception, in each trimester, at delivery and post-partum. Infant metabolite levels, full blood examination and liver function testing were performed at birth, and repeated until levels undetectable and haematological and biochemical abnormalities resolved. RESULTS: Forty patients were included with measurements on at least two occasions, and two with only mother-baby levels at delivery. The median maternal 6-TGN level dropped in the second trimester compared with post-partum (179.0 vs 323.5 pmol/8 × 108 RBCs, P < 0.001) and the median 6-MMP level increased in the second trimester compared with post-partum (1103.0 vs 329.5 pmol/8 × 108 RBCs, P < 0.01). At delivery, the median 6-TGN level was lower in infants (n = 20) than mothers (78.5 vs 217 pmol/8 × 108 RBCs) (P < 0.001). Metabolites were not detected at 6 weeks in any infants. Anaemia was not seen, but thrombocytosis and abnormal liver biochemistry were detected in 80% of infants from 6 weeks, which gradually improved. CONCLUSIONS: 6-TGN levels decrease and 6-MMP levels increase in the second trimester of pregnancy. Infants are exposed to thiopurine metabolites at low levels with clearance by 6 weeks and no anaemia. The cause of infant thrombocytosis and abnormal liver biochemistry in the absence of metabolites is unclear.

Accuracy of point-of-care intestinal ultrasound for Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), performed by a gastroenterologist, provides safe and convenient imaging allowing for immediate clinical decision in Crohn's disease. The minimum training required to gain competency, its accuracy and clinical utility requires evaluation. METHODS: In this pilot study, Crohn's disease activity and extent were assessed using POCUS (performed by a single gastroenterologist following the completion of 200 supervised scans), magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and ileo-colonoscopy. The presence of complications was assessed by POCUS and MRE. Accuracy of POCUS was analysed with respect to MRE and ileo-colonoscopy. Agreement between modalities was assessed using kappa coefficient. RESULTS: Forty-two patients had a POCUS paired with MRE. Thirty-eight patients had a POCUS paired with ileo-colonoscopy. When compared to MRE, POCUS was accurate in the assessment of disease activity (sensitivity 87.5%, specificity 61.1%, ROC 0.74), extent (sensitivity 77.8%, specificity 83.3%, ROC 0.81) and complications (sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 94.3%, ROC 0.90). Agreement between POCUS and MRE was moderate (kappa estimates 0.50, P < 0.001, 0.61, P < 0.001 and 0.76, P < 0.001) for disease activity, extent and complications, respectively. When compared to ileo-colonoscopy, POCUS was accurate in the assessment of disease activity (sensitivity 72%, specificity 86%, ROC 0.79) and extent (sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 86%, ROC 0.86). For POCUS and ileo-colonoscopy, kappa estimates were 0.55, P < 0.001 for disease activity and 0.62, P < 0.001 for disease extent. CONCLUSION: POCUS performed by a gastroenterologist after completion of limited training is accurate for assessing Crohn's disease activity, extent and the presence of complications.

Anti-TNF Therapy in Pregnant Women With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Effects of Therapeutic Strategies on Disease Behavior and Birth Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) adversely affects pregnancy outcomes. Little is known about the risk of relapse after stopping anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) treatment during pregnancy. We assessed the risk of relapse before delivery in women who discontinued anti-TNF treatment before gestational week (GW) 30, predictors of reduced infant birth weight, a marker associated with long-term adverse outcomes, and rates and satisfaction with counseling. METHODS: Pregnant women with IBD receiving anti-TNF treatment were prospectively invited to participate in an electronic questionnaire carried out in 22 hospitals in Denmark, Australia, and New Zealand from 2011 to 2015. Risk estimates were calculated, and birth weight was investigated using t tests and linear regression. RESULTS: Of 175 women invited, 153 (87%) responded. In women in remission, the relapse rate did not differ significantly between those who discontinued anti-TNF before GW 30 (1/46, 2%) compared with those who continued treatment (8/74, 11%; relative risk, 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02 to 1.56; P = 0.08). Relapse (P = 0.001) and continuation of anti-TNF therapy after GW 30 (P = 0.007) were independently associated with reduced mean birth weight by 367 g (95% CI, 145 to 589 g; relapse) and 274 g (95% CI, 77 to 471 g; anti-TNF exposure after GW 30). Of 134 (88%) women who received counseling, 116 (87%) were satisfied with the information provided. CONCLUSIONS: To minimize fetal exposure in women in remission, discontinuation of anti-TNF before GW 30 seems safe. Relapse and continuation of anti-TNF therapy after GW 30 were each independently associated with lower birth weight, although without an increased risk for birth weight <2500 g. Most women received and were satisfied with counseling.

Anti-TNF Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Postoperative Crohn's Disease.

BACKGROUND: Anti-TNF prevents postoperative Crohn's disease recurrence in most patients but not all. This study aimed to define the relationship between adalimumab pharmacokinetics, maintenance of remission and recurrence. METHODS: As part of a study of postoperative Crohn's disease management, some patients undergoing resection received prophylactic postoperative adalimumab. In these patients, serum and fecal adalimumab concentration and serum anti-adalimumab antibodies [AAAs] were measured at 6, 12 and 18 months postoperatively. Levels of Crohn's disease activity index [CDAI], C-reactive protein [CRP] and fecal calprotectin [FC] were assessed at 6 and 18 months postoperatively. Body mass index and smoking status were recorded. A colonoscopy was performed at 6 and/or 18 months. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients [32 on monotherapy and 20 on combination therapy with thiopurine] were studied. Adalimumab concentration did not differ significantly between patients in endoscopic remission vs recurrence [Rutgeerts ≥ i2] [9.98µg/mL vs 8.43 µg/mL, p = 0.387]. Patients on adalimumab monotherapy had a significantly lower adalimumab concentration [7.89 µg/mL] than patients on combination therapy [11.725 µg/mL] [p = 0.001], and were significantly more likely to have measurable AAA [31% vs 17%, p = 0.001]. Adalimumab concentrations were lower in patients with detectable AAA compared with those without [3.59 µg/mL vs 12.0 µg/mL, p < 0.001]. Adalimumab was not detected in fecal samples. Adalimumab serum concentrations were lower in obese patients compared with in non-obese patients [p = 0.046]. CONCLUSION: Adalimumab concentration in patients treated with adalimumab to prevent symptomatic endoscopic recurrence postoperatively is, for most patients, well within the therapeutic window, and is not significantly lower in patients who develop recurrence compared with in those who remain in remission. Mechanisms of anti-TNF failure to prevent postoperative recurrence remain to be determined in these patients.

Predicting response after infliximab salvage in acute severe ulcerative colitis.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a medical emergency requiring prompt therapeutic intervention. Although infliximab has been used as salvage therapy for over 15 years, clinical predictors of treatment success are lacking. We performed a retrospective analysis to identify factors that predict colectomy and may guide dose intensification. METHODS: Fifty-four hospitalized patients received infliximab for ASUC at seven Australian centers (April 2014-May 2015). Follow-up was over 12 months. The data were primarily analyzed for predictors of colectomy. Accelerated (AI) versus standard (SI) infliximab induction strategies were also compared. RESULTS: Of 54 patients identified, the overall colectomy rate was 15.38% (8/52) at 3 months and 26.92% (14/52) at 12 months. Two patients were lost to follow-up. There was a numerically higher colectomy rate in those treated with AI compared with SI (P = 0.3); however, those treated with AI had more severe biochemical disease. A C-reactive protein (CRP)/albumin ratio cut-off of 0.37 post-commencement of infliximab and before discharge was a significant predictor of colectomy with an area under receiver operating curve of 0.73. Pretreatment CRP and albumin levels were not predictive of colectomy. A Mayo Endoscopic Score of 2 had a 94% PPV for avoidance of colectomy following infliximab salvage. CONCLUSIONS: The baseline Mayo Endoscopic Score and the CRP/albumin ratio following infliximab salvage are significant predictors of treatment response for ASUC and identify patients at high risk of colectomy. Whether this risk can be mitigated using infliximab dose intensification requires prospective evaluation before the CRP/albumin ratio can be integrated into ASUC management algorithms.

Examining maintenance care following infliximab salvage therapy for acute severe ulcerative colitis.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Data supporting the optimal maintenance drug therapy and strategy to monitor ongoing response following successful infliximab (IFX) induction, for acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC), are limited. We aimed to evaluate maintenance and monitoring strategies employed in patients post-IFX induction therapy. METHODS: Patients in six Australian tertiary centers treated with IFX for steroid-refractory ASUC between April 2014 and May 2015 were identified via hospital IBD and pharmacy databases. Patients were followed up for 1 year with clinical data over 12 months recorded. Analysis was limited to patient outcomes beyond 3 months. RESULTS: Forty one patients were identified. Five of the 41 (12%) patients underwent colectomy within 3 months, and one patient was lost to follow-up. Six of 35 (17%) of the remaining patients progressed to colectomy by 12 months. Maintenance therapy: Patients maintained on thiopurine monotherapy (14/35) versus IFX/thiopurine therapy (15/35) were followed up. Two of 15 (13%) patients who received combination maintenance therapy underwent a colectomy at 12 months, compared with 1/14 (7%) patients receiving thiopurine monotherapy (P = 0.610). Monitoring during maintenance: Post-discharge, thiopurine metabolites were monitored in 15/27 (56%); fecal calprotectin in 11/32 (34%); and serum IFX levels in 4/20 (20%). Twenty of 32 (63%) patients had an endoscopic evaluation after IFX salvage with median time to first endoscopy of 109 days (interquartile range 113-230). CONCLUSION: Following IFX induction therapy for ASUC, the uptake of maintenance therapy in this cohort and strategies to monitor ongoing response were variable. These data suggest that the optimal maintenance and monitoring strategy post-IFX salvage therapy remains to be defined.

Exploration of Health Status, Illness Perceptions, Coping Strategies, Psychological Morbidity, and Quality of Life in Individuals With Fecal Ostomies.

PURPOSE: In a previous paper focusing on the common sense model (CSM) for ostomies in people with inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, and diverticular disease, we reported that (1) illness perceptions were directly related to illness status, and both illness perceptions and coping strategies (maladaptive coping) directly influenced anxiety and depression; (2) self-efficacy and emotion-focused coping style ameliorated depression but not anxiety; and (3) time since surgery was associated with improved health status, a reduction in negative illness perceptions, and increased emotional-focused coping. The purpose of this article was to perform a secondary analysis with the addition of a stoma quality-of-life measure. SUBJECTS AND SETTING: One hundred fifty adults with ostomies (54 males, and 96 females; mean age = 44 years) completed an online survey. DESIGN: Descriptive, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study. METHODS: Participants completed the Health Perceptions Questionnaire, Brief Illness Perceptions Questionnaire, Carver Brief Coping Questionnaire, Stoma Self-efficacy Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Stoma Quality-of-Life Scale. RESULTS: Using structural equation modeling, the final model provided an excellent fit to the data (χ27 = 19.20, P = .37, χ/N = 1.08, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) <0.03, Steiger-Lind Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) <0.03, Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) >0.98). Extending upon our previous paper, self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression were found to have a significant direct influence on stoma-specific quality of life (ß= .47, P < .001, ß=-.25, P < .001, and ß=-.35, P < .001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this secondary analysis extends our previous report by identifying that, consistent with the CSM, illness status, illness perceptions, and coping influence health-related quality of life via self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression. The results suggest that to improve an individual's quality of life, psychological interventions should target the psychological processes underpinning mental illness and also help develop and maintain an individual's self-efficacy in relation to ostomy care.

Serologic antibodies in relation to outcome in postoperative Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Disease recurs frequently after Crohn's disease resection. The role of serological antimicrobial antibodies in predicting recurrence or as a marker of recurrence has not been well defined. METHODS: A total of 169 patients (523 samples) were prospectively studied, with testing peri-operatively, and 6, 12 and 18 months postoperatively. Colonoscopy was performed at 18 months postoperatively. Serologic antibody presence (perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody [pANCA], anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies [ASCA] IgA/IgG, anti-OmpC, anti-CBir1, anti-A4-Fla2, anti-Fla-X) and titer were tested. Quartile sum score (range 6-24), logistic regression analysis, and correlation with phenotype, smoking status, and endoscopic outcome were assessed. RESULTS: Patients with ≥ 2 previous resections were more likely to be anti-OmpC positive (94% vs 55%, ≥ 2 vs < 2, P = 0.001). Recurrence at 18 months was associated with anti-Fla-X positivity at baseline (49% vs 29%; positive vs negative, P = 0.033) and 12 months (52% vs 31%, P = 0.04). Patients positive (n = 28) for all four antibacterial antibodies (anti-CBir1, anti-OmpC, anti-A4-Fla2, and anti-Fla-X) at baseline were more likely to experience recurrence at 18 months than patients negative (n = 32) for all four antibodies (82% vs 18%, P = 0.034; odds ratio 6.4, 95% confidence interval 1.16-34.9). The baseline quartile sum score for all six antimicrobial antibodies was higher in patients with severe recurrence (Rutgeert's i3-i4) at 18 months, adjusted for clinical risk factors (odds ratio 1.16, 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.34, P = 0.039). Smoking affected antibody status. CONCLUSIONS: Anti-Fla-X and presence of all anti-bacterial antibodies identifies patients at higher risk of early postoperative Crohn's disease recurrence. Serologic screening pre-operatively may help identify patients at increased risk of recurrence.

Concentrations of Adalimumab and Infliximab in Mothers and Newborns, and Effects on Infection.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Little is known about in utero exposure to and postnatal clearance of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents in neonates. We investigated the concentrations of adalimumab and infliximab in umbilical cord blood of newborns and rates of clearance after birth, and how these correlated with drug concentrations in mothers at birth and risk of infection during the first year of life. METHODS: We performed a prospective study of 80 pregnant women with inflammatory bowel diseases at tertiary hospitals in Denmark, Australia, and New Zealand from March 2012 through November 2014: 36 received adalimumab and 44 received infliximab; 39 received concomitant thiopurines during pregnancy. Data were collected from medical records on disease activity and treatment before, during, and after pregnancy. Concentrations of anti-TNF agents were measured in blood samples from women at delivery and in umbilical cords, and in infants for every 3 months until the drug was no longer detected. RESULTS: The time from last exposure to anti-TNF agent during pregnancy correlated inversely with the concentration of the drugs in the umbilical cord (adalimumab: r = -0.64, P = .0003; infliximab: r = -0.77, P < .0001) and in mothers at time of birth (adalimumab, r = -0.80; infliximab, r = -0.80; P < .0001 for both). The median ratio of infant:mother drug concentration at birth was 1.21 for adalimumab (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-1.49) and 1.97 for infliximab (95% CI, 1.50-2.43). The mean time to drug clearance in infants was 4.0 months for adalimumab (95% CI, 2.9-5.0) and 7.3 months for infliximab (95% CI, 6.2-8.3; P < .0001). Drugs were not detected in infants after 12 months of age. Bacterial infections developed in 4 infants (5%) and viral infections developed in 16 (20%), all with benign courses. The relative risk for infection was 2.7 in infants whose mothers received the combination of an anti-TNF agent and thiopurine, compared with anti-TNF monotherapy (95% CI, 1.09-6.78; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: In a prospective study of infants born to mothers who received anti-TNF agents during pregnancy, we detected the drugs until 12 months of age. There was an inverse correlation between the time from last exposure during pregnancy and drug concentration in the umbilical cord. Infliximab was cleared more slowly than adalimumab from the infants. The combination of an anti-TNF agent and thiopurine therapy during pregnancy increased the relative risk for infant infections almost 3-fold compared with anti-TNF monotherapy. Live vaccines therefore should be avoided for up to 1 year unless drug clearance is documented, and pregnant women should be educated on the risks of anti-TNF use.

Cost-effectiveness of Crohn's disease post-operative care.

AIM: To define the cost-effectiveness of strategies, including endoscopy and immunosuppression, to prevent endoscopic recurrence of Crohn's disease following intestinal resection. METHODS: In the "POCER" study patients undergoing intestinal resection were treated with post-operative drug therapy. Two thirds were randomized to active care (6 mo colonoscopy and drug intensification for endoscopic recurrence) and one third to drug therapy without early endoscopy. Colonoscopy at 18 mo and faecal calprotectin (FC) measurement were used to assess disease recurrence. Administrative data, chart review and patient questionnaires were collected prospectively over 18 mo. RESULTS: Sixty patients (active care n = 43, standard care n = 17) were included from one health service. Median total health care cost was $6440 per patient. Active care cost $4824 more than standard care over 18 mo. Medication accounted for 78% of total cost, of which 90% was for adalimumab. Median health care cost was higher for those with endoscopic recurrence compared to those in remission [$26347 (IQR 25045-27485) vs $2729 (IQR 1182-5215), P < 0.001]. FC to select patients for colonoscopy could reduce cost by $1010 per patient over 18 mo. Active care was associated with 18% decreased endoscopic recurrence, costing $861 for each recurrence prevented. CONCLUSION: Post-operative management strategies are associated with high cost, primarily medication related. Calprotectin use reduces costs. The long term cost-benefit of these strategies remains to be evaluated.

Prevalence of mental health disorders in inflammatory bowel disease: an Australian outpatient cohort.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to characterize prevalence of anxiety and depressive conditions and uptake of mental health services in an Australian inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) outpatient setting. METHODS: Eighty-one IBD patients (39 males, mean age 35 years) attending a tertiary hospital IBD outpatient clinic participated in this study. Disease severity was evaluated according to the Manitoba Index. Diagnosis of an anxiety or depressive condition was based upon the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. RESULTS: Based on Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale subscale scores >8 and meeting Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview criteria, 16 (19.8%) participants had at least one anxiety condition, while nine (11.1%) had a depressive disorder present. Active IBD status was associated with higher prevalence rates across all anxiety and depressive conditions. Generalized anxiety was the most common (12 participants, 14.8%) anxiety condition, and major depressive disorder (recurrent) was the most common depressive condition reported (five participants, 6.2%). Seventeen participants (21%) reported currently seeking help for mental health issues while 12.4% were identified has having at least one psychological condition but not seeking treatment. CONCLUSION: We conclude that rates of anxiety and depression are high in this cohort, and that IBD-focused psychological services should be a key component of any holistic IBD service, especially for those identified as having active IBD.

Effect of intestinal resection on quality of life in Crohn's disease.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with Crohn's disease have poorer health-related quality of life [HRQoL] than healthy individuals, even when in remission. Although HRQoL improves in patients who achieve drug-induced or surgically induced remission, the effects of surgery overall have not been well characterised. METHODS: In a randomised trial, patients undergoing intestinal resection of all macroscopically diseased bowel were treated with postoperative drug therapy to prevent disease recurrence. All patients were followed prospectively for 18 months. C-reactive protein [CRP], Crohn's Disease Activity Index [CDAI], and faecal calprotectin [FC] were measured preoperatively and at 6, 12, and 18 months. HRQoL was assessed with a general [SF36] and disease-specific [IBDQ] questionnaires at the same time points. RESULTS: A total of 174 patients were included. HRQoL was poor preoperatively but improved significantly [p < 0.001] at 6 months postoperatively. This improvement was sustained at 18 months. Females and smokers had a poorer HRQoL when compared with males and non-smokers, respectively. Persistent endoscopic remission, intensification of drug treatment at 6 months, and anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy were not associated with HRQoL outcomes different from those when these factors were not present. There was a significant inverse correlation between CDAI, [but not endoscopic recurrence, CRP, or FC] on HRQoL. CONCLUSION: Intestinal resection of all macroscopic Crohn's disease in patients treated with postoperative prophylactic drug therapy is associated with significant and sustained improvement in HRQoL irrespective of type of drug treatment or endoscopic recurrence. HRQoL is lower in female patients and smokers. A higher CDAI, but not direct measures of active disease or type of drug therapy, is associated with a lower HRQoL.

Measurement of fecal calprotectin improves monitoring and detection of recurrence of Crohn's disease after surgery.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Crohn's disease (CD) usually recurs after intestinal resection; postoperative endoscopic monitoring and tailored treatment can reduce the chance of recurrence. We investigated whether monitoring levels of fecal calprotectin (FC) can substitute for endoscopic analysis of the mucosa. METHODS: We analyzed data collected from 135 participants in a prospective, randomized, controlled trial, performed at 17 hospitals in Australia and 1 hospital in New Zealand, that assessed the ability of endoscopic evaluations and step-up treatment to prevent CD recurrence after surgery. Levels of FC, serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), and Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) scores were measured before surgery and then at 6, 12, and 18 months after resection of all macroscopic Crohn's disease. Ileocolonoscopies were performed at 6 months after surgery in 90 patients and at 18 months after surgery in all patients. RESULTS: Levels of FC were measured in 319 samples from 135 patients. The median FC level decreased from 1347 µg/g before surgery to 166 µg/g at 6 months after surgery, but was higher in patients with disease recurrence (based on endoscopic analysis; Rutgeerts score, ≥i2) than in patients in remission (275 vs 72 µg/g, respectively; P < .001). Combined 6- and 18-month levels of FC correlated with the presence (r = 0.42; P < .001) and severity (r = 0.44; P < .001) of CD recurrence, but the CRP level and CDAI score did not. Levels of FC greater than 100 µg/g indicated endoscopic recurrence with 89% sensitivity and 58% specificity, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 91%; this means that colonoscopy could have been avoided in 47% of patients. Six months after surgery, FC levels less than 51 µg/g in patients in endoscopic remission predicted maintenance of remission (NPV, 79%). In patients with endoscopic recurrence at 6 months who stepped-up treatment, FC levels decreased from 324 µg/g at 6 months to 180 µg/g at 12 months and 109 µg/g at 18 months. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis of data from a prospective clinical trial, FC measurement has sufficient sensitivity and NPV values to monitor for CD recurrence after intestinal resection. Its predictive value might be used to identify patients most likely to relapse. After treatment for recurrence, the FC level can be used to monitor response to treatment. It predicts which patients will have disease recurrence with greater accuracy than CRP level or CDAI score.