RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Infliximab (IFX) is effective in treating ulcerative colitis (UC) and in achieving mucosal healing (MH). Little is known about the role of mucosal healing (MH) in the subsequent evolution of the disease and the consequences of discontinuing treatment. AIMS: To evaluate the characteristics and evolution of patients with UC treated with IFX who discontinued treatment after disease remission. METHODS: Observational, prospective study of patients with moderate to severe UC, corticosteroid-resistant/corticosteroid-dependent, naïve to anti-TNF. IFX administration regimen: 5 mg/kg at 0-2-6 weeks and every 8 weeks thereafter until week 54. In patients achieving MH, IFX was discontinued and the patients were followed-up for at least 20 months. Clinical remission (CR): mayo score <2; Clinical response: decrease in mayo score of 3 points; MH: mayo score 0-1; Deep remission: patient with CR and MH. RESULTS: Of the 21 patients enrolled, 19 completed the study (colectomy, n = 1; non-responder, n = 1). Mean age: 47.8 years. UC: severe (n = 13) and moderate (n = 6); most patients (n = 11) were steroid-resistant; 57.8% received combined treatment with immunosuppressants, and 31.5% intensified treatment. Week 54: 16 patients (84.2%) showed clinical response, 13 (68.4%) showed CR, and 12 (63.2%) deep remission. Of these, 6 (25%) presented a new episode of UC, and in 3 (25%) IFX was restarted within 12 weeks of discontinuation, with all patients responding. Of the total sample, 91.7% remained IFX-free at week 8, and 75% at week 12, with no remission during follow-up. None of the patients required hospitalization or surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Half of patients with deep remission of UC with IFX therapy presented a new episode after treatment discontinuation, and in 25% IFX therapy was restarted.