Risk of Primary Gastrointestinal Lymphoma in Patients With Inflammatory Conditions Exposed to Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitors and Immunomodulators: A Case-Control Study.

Introduction: The aim of this case-control study was to determine if exposure to tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors (TNFIs) or immunomodulators (thiopurines or methotrexate) was associated with development of primary gastrointestinal lymphoma (PGIL) in patients with chronic inflammatory conditions. Methods: Patients with PGIL and controls evaluated at a tertiary care center over 20 years were matched 1:3 using a medical record informatics search engine based on their chronic inflammatory condition (Crohn's disease [CD], ulcerative colitis [UC], rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis) and duration of follow-up. Patients who started on TNFI within 3 months of PGIL diagnosis were excluded. We extracted demographics, medical history, and medications used. Univariate models using conditional logistic regression were used due to the small number of matched pairs. Results: Twenty PGIL cases matched with 60 controls were followed for a mean 9.9 ±â€…6.9 and 9.7 ±â€…8.6 years, respectively. Mean age at time of PGIL diagnosis was 47.5 ±â€…22.0 (standard deviation) years and the majority (75%) were males. The most common inflammatory diagnosis was inflammatory bowel disease (80% of cases; 45% with UC and 35% with CD). Development of PGIL was not associated with TNFI (odds ratio [OR] = 2.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69-11.01; P = .18), but with use of TNFI in combination with thiopurines (OR = 8.93; 95% CI 1.43-80.25; P = .014). Risk of PGIL increased with every additional TNFI (2.277 (1.002-5.713); P = .0494). All cases exposed to multiple TNFI were also exposed to thiopurines. Use of thiopurines (alone or in combination) was the greatest risk factor (OR = 6.32; 95% CI 1.55-37.05; P = 0.006) to develop PGIL. Conclusions: TNFI therapy was not associated with increased risk for PGIL unless used in combination with thiopurines and with every switch to a different TNFI.

Measuring the concordance between endoscopic and histologic inflammation and its effect on IBD-associated dysplasia.

Background and study aims Chronically inflamed colonic mucosa is primed to develop dysplasia identified at surveillance colonoscopy by targeted or random biopsies. We aimed to explore the effect of mucosal inflammation on detection of visible and "invisible" dysplasia and the concordance between the degree of endoscopic and histologic inflammation. Patients and methods This was a 6-year cross-sectional analysis of endoscopic and histologic data from IBD. A multinomial model was created to estimate the odds for a specific lesion type as well as the odds of random dysplasia relative to the degree of inflammation. Kappa statistics were used to measure concordance between endoscopic and histologic inflammation. Results A total of 3437 IBD surveillance colonoscopies between 2016-2021 were reviewed with 970 procedures from 721 patients containing 1603 visible lesions. Kappa agreement between histologic and endoscopic degree of inflammation was low at 0.4. There was a positive association between increased endoscopic inflammation and presence of tubulovillous adenomas (TVAs) (odds ratio [OR] 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-4.62; P =0.04). Among cases with visible lesions, the yield of concomitant random dysplasia was 2.7% and 1.9% for random indefinite dysplasia. The odds of random dysplasia significantly increased as the degree of endoscopic and histologic inflammation increased (OR 2.18, 95%CI 1.46-3.26; P <0.001 and OR 2.75; 95%CI 1.65-4.57, P <0.001, respectively. The odds of indefinite random dysplasia also significantly increased as endoscopic and histologic inflammation increased (OR 2.90; 95%CI 1.85, 4.55, P <0.001 and OR 1.98; 95%CI 1.08, 3.62, P <0.035, respectively. Conclusions Endoscopic and histologic inflammation are associated with higher odds of finding TVAs and random low-grade, high-grade, and indefinite dysplasia. Concordance between histologic and endoscopic inflammation severity is low.

The Incidence of Pouch Neoplasia Following Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

BACKGROUND: Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the standard restorative procedure following proctocolectomy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who require colectomy. However, removal of the diseased colon does not eliminate the risk of pouch neoplasia. We aimed to assess the incidence of pouch neoplasia in IBD patients following IPAA. METHODS: All patients at a large tertiary center with International Classification of Diseases-Ninth Revision/International Classification of Diseases-Tenth Revision codes for IBD who underwent IPAA and had subsequent pouchoscopy were identified using a clinical notes search from January 1981 to February 2020. Relevant demographic, clinical, endoscopic, and histologic data were abstracted. RESULTS: In total, 1319 patients were included (43.9% women). Most had ulcerative colitis (95.2%). Out of 1319 patients, 10 (0.8%) developed neoplasia following IPAA. Neoplasia of the pouch was seen in 4 cases with neoplasia of the cuff or rectum seen in 5 cases. One patient had neoplasia of the prepouch, pouch, and cuff. Types of neoplasia included low-grade dysplasia (n = 7), high-grade dysplasia (n = 1), colorectal cancer (n = 1), and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (n = 1). Presence of extensive colitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, backwash ileitis, and rectal dysplasia at the time of IPAA were significantly associated with increased risk of pouch neoplasia. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of pouch neoplasia in IBD patients who have undergone IPAA is relatively low. Extensive colitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and backwash ileitis prior to IPAA and rectal dysplasia at the time of IPAA raise the risk of pouch neoplasia significantly. A limited surveillance program might be appropriate for patients with IPAA even with a history of colorectal neoplasia.

The incidence of pouch neoplasia in inflammatory bowel disease patients who have undergone ileal pouch­anal anastomosis (IPAA) is low. Extensive colitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and backwash ileitis prior to IPAA as well as rectal dysplasia at time of IPAA raise the risk of pouch neoplasia significantly.

Baseline Clinical Factors Are Associated With Risk of Complications in Crohn's Disease: Appraisal of the American Gastroenterological Association Clinical Care Pathway.

INTRODUCTION: The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has compiled risk factors that may be predictive of disease complications in Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of the AGA risk factors for risk stratification in UC and CD. METHODS: We included participants of 2 cohorts: the Ocean State Crohn's and Colitis Area Registry cohort and the Mayo Clinic cohort. Baseline clinical risk factors were extracted according to the AGA pathway. Our primary end point was defined as follows: (i) any inflammatory bowel disease related-hospitalization, (ii) any inflammatory bowel disease-related bowel surgery, or (iii) any progression of disease. We analyzed the association of the number of AGA risk factors with our end point. Statistical multivariable modeling was performed with Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS: A total of 412 patients with CD were included. Comparing ≥3 risk factors with 0-1 risk factor, we found a significantly increased risk of complications in both the Ocean State Crohn's and Colitis Area Registry cohort (hazard ratio [HR] 2.75, 95% confidence interval 1.71-4.41) and Mayo Clinic cohort (HR 2.07, 95% confidence interval 1.11-3.84). Diagnosis at younger age (HR 2.07), perianal disease (HR 1.99), and B2/B3 behavior (HR 1.92) were significantly associated with disease complications. We did not observe a consistent association between number of risk factors nor any specific individual risk factors and risk of disease complications in the 265 patients with UC included. DISCUSSION: We found a significant association between the number of AGA risk factors and the risk of disease complication in CD; this association was not significant in UC. The presence of ≥ 3 risk factors in CD leads to the highest risk of complications. The AGA care pathway is a useful tool to stratify patients who are at higher risk of disease complications in patients with CD.

AGA Clinical Practice Guideline on the Management of Pouchitis and Inflammatory Pouch Disorders.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Pouchitis is the most common complication after restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis. This American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) guideline is intended to support practitioners in the management of pouchitis and inflammatory pouch disorders. METHODS: A multidisciplinary panel of content experts and guideline methodologists used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework to prioritize clinical questions, identify patient-centered outcomes, conduct an evidence synthesis, and develop recommendations for the prevention and treatment of pouchitis, Crohn's-like disease of the pouch, and cuffitis. RESULTS: The AGA guideline panel made 9 conditional recommendations. In patients with ulcerative colitis who have undergone ileal pouch-anal anastomosis and experience intermittent symptoms of pouchitis, the AGA suggests using antibiotics for the treatment of pouchitis. In patients who experience recurrent episodes of pouchitis that respond to antibiotics, the AGA suggests using probiotics for the prevention of recurrent pouchitis. In patients who experience recurrent pouchitis that responds to antibiotics but relapses shortly after stopping antibiotics (also known as "chronic antibiotic-dependent pouchitis"), the AGA suggests using chronic antibiotic therapy to prevent recurrent pouchitis; however, in patients who are intolerant to antibiotics or who are concerned about the risks of long-term antibiotic therapy, the AGA suggests using advanced immunosuppressive therapies (eg, biologics and/or oral small molecule drugs) approved for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. In patients who experience recurrent pouchitis with inadequate response to antibiotics (also known as "chronic antibiotic-refractory pouchitis"), the AGA suggests using advanced immunosuppressive therapies; corticosteroids can also be considered in these patients. In patients who develop symptoms due to Crohn's-like disease of the pouch, the AGA suggests using corticosteroids and advanced immunosuppressive therapies. In patients who experience symptoms due to cuffitis, the AGA suggests using therapies that have been approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, starting with topical mesalamine or topical corticosteroids. The panel also proposed key implementation considerations for optimal management of pouchitis and Crohn's-like disease of the pouch and identified several knowledge gaps and areas for future research. CONCLUSIONS: This guideline provides a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to the management of patients with pouchitis and other inflammatory conditions of the pouch.

Polygenic risk score predicts risk of primary sclerosing cholangitis in inflammatory bowel disease.

BACKGROUND: Forty distinct primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) genomic loci have been identified through multiancestry meta-analyses. The polygenic risk score (PRS) could serve as a promising tool to discover unique disease behaviour, like PSC, underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). AIM: To test whether PRS indicates PSC risk in patients with IBD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mayo Clinic and Washington University at St Louis IBD cohorts were used to test our hypothesis. PRS was modelled through the published PSC loci and weighted with their corresponding effect size. Logistic regression was applied to predict the PSC risk. RESULTS: In total, 63 (5.6%) among 1130 patients with IBD of European ancestry had PSC. Among 381 ulcerative colitis (UC), 12% had PSC; in contrast to 1.4% in 761 Crohn disease (CD). Compared with IBD alone, IBD-PSC had significantly higher PRS (PSC risk: 3.0% at the lowest PRS quartile vs 7.2% at the highest PRS quartile, Ptrend =.03). In IBD subphenotypes subgroup analysis, multivariate analysis shows that UC-PSC is associated with more extensive UC disease (OR, 5.60; p=0.002) and younger age at diagnosis (p=0.02). In CD, multivariate analysis suggests that CD-PSC is associated with colorectal cancer (OR, 50; p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS: We found evidence that patients with IBD with PSC presented with a clinical course difference from that of patients with IBD alone. PRS can influence PSC risk in patients with IBD. Once validated in an independent cohort, this may help identify patients with the highest likelihood of developing PSC.

Novel Genetic Risk Variants and Clinical Predictors Associated With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who are likely to have primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) should be identified because PSC can influence UC clinical behavior and outcomes.The aim of this study was to establish a model incorporating clinical and genetic risk predictors that identifies patients with UC at risk of developing PSC. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective case-control study. Inflammatory bowel disease cohorts from multiple institutions were used as discovery and replicate datasets. Quality control criteria, including minor allele frequency, call rates, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, cryptic relatedness, and population stratification (through principal components), were used. Discriminative accuracy was evaluated with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: Fifty-seven of 581 patients (9.8%) with UC had PSC. Multivariate analysis showed that patients with UC-PSC had more extensive disease (odds ratio [OR], 5.42; P = 1.57E-04), younger diagnosis age (younger than 20 years; OR, 2.22; P = 0.02), and less smoking (OR, 0.42; P = 0.02) than those with UC. After linkage disequilibrium pruning and multivariate analyses, 3 SNPs (rs3131621 at 6p21.33; rs9275596 and rs11244 at 6p21.32) at the HLA region were found associated with a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of PSC. Our model demonstrated good discriminatory power (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 88%). DISCUSSION: Three variants in HLA (6p21.3) region significantly distinguished patients with UC-PSC from patients with UC alone. Once further validated in an independent large cohort, our model could be used to identify patients with UC at risk of PSC, and it could also help guide disease management.

Classification and Management of Disorders of the J Pouch.

Total abdominal proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC) is associated with substantial complications despite the benefits of managing refractory and/or neoplasia-associated disease. For the purpose of this review, we focused on the diagnosis of some of the most common inflammatory and structural pouch disorders and their respective management. Pouchitis is the most common complication, and it is typically responsive to antibiotics. However, chronic antibiotic refractory pouchitis (CARP) has been increasingly recognized, and biologic therapies have emerged as the mainstay of therapy. Crohn's-like disease of the pouch (CLDP) can affect up to 10% of patients with UC after IPAA. Medical options are similar to CARP therapies, including biologics with immunomodulators. Studies have shown higher efficacy rates of biologics for CLDP when compared with those for CARP. In addition, managing stricturing and fistulizing CLDP is challenging and often requires interventional endoscopy (balloon dilation and/or stricturotomy) and/or surgery. The implementation of standardized diagnostic criteria for inflammatory pouch disorders will help in advancing future therapeutic options. Structural pouch disorders are commonly related to surgical complications after IPAA. We focused on the diagnosis and management of anastomotic leaks, strictures, and floppy pouch complex. Anastomotic leaks and anastomotic strictures occur in approximately 15% and 11% of patients with UC after IPAA, respectively. Further complications from pouch leaks include the development of sinuses, fistulas, and pouch sepsis requiring excision. Novel endoscopic interventions and less invasive surgical procedures have emerged as options for the management of these disorders.

Management of Acute and Chronic Pouchitis.

BACKGROUND: Restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA is the procedure of choice when colectomy is needed for medically refractory ulcerative colitis. Pouchitis is one of the most common complications among patients who have undergone IPAA and represents a spectrum of disease varying in both phenotype and clinical course. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assist clinicians and surgeons in the treatment of both acute and chronic pouchitis, including newer therapies and future directions. DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT: Diagnosis is made by endoscopy of the pouch with biopsy because other conditions may produce similar symptoms such as increased stool frequency, abdominal cramps, and urgency. Pouchitis is classified by duration (acute versus chronic), disease pattern (infrequent, relapsing, and continuous), and response to antibiotics (responsive, dependent, and refractory). The Pouchitis Disease Activity Index may be used to measure disease activity. The management of pouchitis is guided by the disease phenotype. Acute episodes are treated with an initial 2-week course of antibiotics (typically ciprofloxacin or metronidazole), although patients with relapsing or chronic pouchitis may require long-term antibiotic treatment or the cycling of different antibiotics. Certain probiotics may also be used for maintenance therapy in those with chronic symptoms. For patients with chronic antibiotic refractory pouchitis, oral budesonide, immunosuppressive agents (azathioprine), or biologic therapy (infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, and ustekinumab) may be required for both induction and maintenance with close monitoring for potential side effects. In rare cases, diverting ileostomy or pouch excision may be required. CONCLUSION: Pouchitis represents a spectrum of disease phenotypes, ranging from acute antibiotic responsive pouchitis to chronic antibiotic refractory pouchitis. The management of pouchitis is primarily directed by the disease phenotype.

Recommendations on the Appropriate Management of Steroids and Discharge Planning During and After Hospital Admission for Moderate-Severe Ulcerative Colitis: Results of a RAND Appropriateness Panel.

INTRODUCTION: Limited guidance exists for the postdischarge care of patients with ulcerative colitis hospitalized for moderate-severe flares. METHODS: RAND methodology was used to establish appropriateness of inpatient and postdischarge steroid dosing, discharge criteria, follow-up, and postdischarge biologic or small molecule initiation. A literature review informed on the panel's voting, which occurred anonymously during 2 rounds before and after a moderated virtual session. RESULTS: Methylprednisolone 40-60 mg intravenous every 24 hours or hydrocortisone 100 mg intravenous 3 times daily is appropriate for inpatient management, with methylprednisolone 40 mg being appropriate if intolerant of higher doses. It is appropriate to discharge patients once rectal bleeding has resolved (Mayo subscore 0-1) and/or stool frequency has returned to baseline frequency and form (Mayo subscore 0-1). It is appropriate to discharge patients on 40 mg of prednisone after observing patients for 24 hours in hospital to ensure stability before discharge. For patients being discharged on steroids without in-hospital biologic or small molecule therapy initiation, it is appropriate to start antitumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy after discharge for anti-TNF-naive patients. For anti-TNF-exposed patients, it is appropriate to start vedolizumab or ustekinumab for all patients and tofacitinib for those with a low risk of adverse events. It is appropriate to follow up patients clinically within 2 weeks and with lower endoscopy within 4-6 months after discharge. DISCUSSION: We provide recommendations on the inpatient and postdischarge management of patients with ulcerative colitis hospitalized for moderate-severe flares.

Appropriateness of Medical and Surgical Treatments for Chronic Pouchitis Using RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Methodology.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The treatment of chronic pouchitis remains a challenge due to the paucity of high-quality studies. We aimed to provide guidance for clinicians on the appropriateness of medical and surgical treatments in chronic pouchitis. METHODS: Appropriateness of medical and surgical treatments in patients with chronic pouchitis was considered in 16 scenarios incorporating presence/absence of four variables: pouchitis symptoms, response to antibiotics, significant prepouch ileitis, and Crohn's disease (CD)-like complications (i.e., stricture or fistula). Appropriateness of permanent ileostomy in patients refractory to medical treatments was considered in eight additional scenarios. Using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method, international IBD expert panelists rated appropriateness of treatments in each scenario on a 1-9 scale. RESULTS: Chronic antibiotic therapy was rated appropriate only in asymptomatic antibiotic-dependent patients with no CD-like complications and inappropriate in all other scenarios. Ileal-release budesonide was rated appropriate in 6/16 scenarios including patients with significant prepouch ileitis but no CD-like complications. Probiotics were considered either inappropriate (14/16) or uncertain (2/16). Biologic therapy was considered appropriate in most scenarios (14/16) and uncertain in situations where significant prepouch ileitis or CD-like complications were absent (2/16). In patients who are refractory to all medications, permanent ileostomy was considered appropriate in all scenarios (7/8) except in asymptomatic patients with no CD-like complications. CONCLUSIONS: In the presence of significant prepouch ileitis or CD-like complications, chronic antibiotics and probiotics are inappropriate. Biologics are appropriate in all patients except in asymptomatic patients with no evidence of complications. Permanent ileostomy is appropriate in most medically refractory patients.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis-Associated Pouchitis: A Distinct Clinical Phenotype.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) commonly undergo ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for medically-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC) or colorectal dysplasia. Pouchitis develops more frequently in patients with PSC, potentially leading to increased morbidity. We aimed to assess clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes for pouchitis in patients with PSC compared to a matched, non-PSC cohort. METHODS: All patients with PSC who underwent IPAA and were diagnosed with pouchitis (PSC-pouchitis) were identified. A matched cohort composed of non-PSC patients who underwent IPAA for UC and subsequently developed pouchitis (UC-pouchitis) was developed. Relevant demographic, clinical, endoscopic, histologic, and treatment data were collected and compared between groups. RESULTS: Of those with PSC-pouchitis (n=182), 53.9% and 46.1% underwent IPAA for medically-refractory disease and dysplasia, respectively, compared to 88.7% and 11.3% in the UC-pouchitis group (P < .001). Patients with PSC-pouchitis were more likely to develop chronic pouchitis (68.1% vs 34.1%; P < .001), have moderate-to-severe pouch inflammation (54.9% vs 32.4%; P < .001), and prepouch ileitis (34.1% vs 11.5%; P < .001) compared to UC-pouchitis. Of those with PSC-pouchitis, 50.6% and 17.6% developed chronic antibiotic-dependent or antibiotic-refractory pouchitis, respectively, compared to 25.8% and 7.7% with UC-pouchitis. There was no difference in treatment response between the two groups with use of thiopurines, anti-tumor necrosis factor agents, and newer biologics. CONCLUSIONS: PSC-associated pouchitis presents with a unique clinical phenotype, characterized by increased risk of chronic pouchitis, moderate-to-severe pouch inflammation, prepouch ileitis, and less response to conventional antimicrobial therapy.

The Development and Initial Findings of A Study of a Prospective Adult Research Cohort with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (SPARC IBD).

BACKGROUND: Clinical and molecular subcategories of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are needed to discover mechanisms of disease and predictors of response and disease relapse. We aimed to develop a study of a prospective adult research cohort with IBD (SPARC IBD) including longitudinal clinical and patient-reported data and biosamples. METHODS: We established a cohort of adults with IBD from a geographically diverse sample of patients across the United States with standardized data and biosample collection methods and sample processing techniques. At enrollment and at time of lower endoscopy, patient-reported outcomes (PRO), clinical data, and endoscopy scoring indices are captured. Patient-reported outcomes are collected quarterly. The quality of clinical data entry after the first year of the study was assessed. RESULTS: Through January 2020, 3029 patients were enrolled in SPARC, of whom 66.1% have Crohn's disease (CD), 32.2% have ulcerative colitis (UC), and 1.7% have IBD-unclassified. Among patients enrolled, 990 underwent colonoscopy. Remission rates were 63.9% in the CD group and 80.6% in the UC group. In the quality study of the cohort, there was 96% agreement on year of diagnosis and 97% agreement on IBD subtype. There was 91% overall agreement describing UC extent as left-sided vs extensive or pancolitis. The overall agreement for CD behavior was 83%. CONCLUSION: The SPARC IBD is an ongoing large prospective cohort with longitudinal standardized collection of clinical data, biosamples, and PROs representing a unique resource aimed to drive discovery of clinical and molecular markers that will meet the needs of precision medicine in IBD.

Emergent and Urgent Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis in the United States in the Minimally Invasive and Biologic Era.

BACKGROUND: Although the overall adoption of minimally invasive surgery in the nonemergent management of ulcerative colitis is established, little is known about its utilization in emergency settings. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to assess rates of urgent and emergent surgery over time in the era of emerging biologic therapies and to highlight the current practice in the United States regarding the utilization of minimally invasive surgery for urgent and emergent indications for ulcerative colitis. DESIGN: This was a retrospective analysis study. SETTINGS: Data were collected from the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program database. PATIENTS: All adult patients who underwent emergent or urgent colectomy for ulcerative colitis were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Rates of emergency operations over time and utilization trends of minimally invasive surgery in urgent and emergent settings were assessed. Unadjusted and adjusted overall, surgical, and medical 30-day complication rates were compared between open and minimally invasive surgery. RESULTS: A total of 2219 patients were identified. Of those, 1515 patients (68.3%) underwent surgery in an urgent setting and 704 (31.7%) as an emergency. Emergent cases decreased over time (21% in 2006 to 8% in 2018; p < 0.0001). However, the rate of urgent surgeries has not significantly changed (42% in 2011 to 46% in 2018; p = 0.44). Minimally invasive surgery was offered to 70% of patients in the urgent group (1058/1515) and 22.6% of emergent indications (159/704). Overall, minimally invasive surgery was increasingly utilized over the study period in urgent (38% in 2011 to 71% in 2018; p < 0.0001) and emergent (0% in 2005 to 42% in 2018; p < 0.0001) groups. Compared to minimally invasive surgery, open surgery was associated with a higher risk of surgical, septic, and overall complications, and prolonged hospitalization. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature of the analysis. CONCLUSION: Based on a nationwide analysis from the United States, minimally invasive surgery has been increasingly and safely implemented for emergent and urgent indications for ulcerative colitis. Although the sum of emergent and urgent cases remained the same over the study period, emergency cases decreased significantly over the study period, which may be related to improved medical treatment options and a collaborative, specialized team approach. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B847 . CIRUGA DE URGENCIA Y EMERGENCIA PARA LA COLITIS ULCEROSA EN LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS EN LA ERA MNIMAMENTE INVASIVA Y DE TERAPIA BIOLGICA: ANTECEDENTES:Si bien se ha establecido la adopción generalizada de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva en el tratamiento electivo de la colitis ulcerosa, se sabe poco sobre su utilización en situaciones de emergencia.OBJETIVO:Evaluar las tasas de cirugía de urgencia a lo largo del tiempo en la era de las terapias biológicas emergentes y destacar la práctica actual en los Estados Unidos con respecto a la utilización de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva para las indicaciones de urgencia y emergencia de la colitis ulcerosa.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Base de datos del Programa Nacional de Mejoramiento de la Calidad del Colegio Americano de Cirujanos.PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes adultos que se sometieron a colectomía de emergencia o urgencia por colitis ulcerosa.MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se evaluaron las tasas de operaciones de emergencia a lo largo del tiempo y las tendencias de utilización de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva en entornos de urgencia y emergencia. Se compararon las tasas de complicaciones generales, quirúrgicas y médicas de 30 días no ajustadas y ajustadas entre la cirugía abierta y la mínimamente invasiva.RESULTADOS:Se identificaron un total de 2.219 pacientes. De ellos, 1.515 pacientes (68,3%) fueron intervenidos de urgencia y 704 (31,7%) de emergencia. Los casos emergentes disminuyeron con el tiempo (21% en 2006 a 8% en 2018; p <0,0001). Sin embargo, la tasa de cirugías urgentes no ha cambiado significativamente (42% en 2011 a 46% en 2018, p = 0,44). Se ofreció cirugía mínimamente invasiva al 70% de los pacientes del grupo urgente (1.058 / 1.515) y al 22,6% de las emergencias (159/704). En general, la cirugía mínimamente invasiva se utilizó cada vez más durante el período de estudio en grupos urgentes (38% en 2011 a 71% en 2018; p <0,0001) y emergentes (0% en 2005 a 42% en 2018; p <0,0001). En comparación con la cirugía mínimamente invasiva, la cirugía abierta se asoció con un mayor riesgo de complicaciones generales, quirúrgicas, sépticas y hospitalización prolongada.LIMITACIONES:Carácter retrospectivo del análisis.CONCLUSIÓNES:Basado en un análisis nacional de los Estados Unidos, la cirugía mínimamente invasiva se ha implementado de manera creciente y segura para las indicaciones emergentes y urgentes de la colitis ulcerosa. Si bien la suma de casos emergentes y urgentes permaneció igual durante el período de estudio, los casos de emergencia disminuyeron significativamente, lo que puede estar relacionado con mejores opciones de tratamiento médico y un enfoque de equipo colaborativo y especializado. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B847 . (Traducción-Dr. Felipe Bellolio ).

Clinical Course and Impact of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Colitis Resembling Microscopic Colitis.

Background: Microscopic colitis (MC) is suspected to result from increased immune activity in gut mucosa. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) treat cancer by activating the immune system, and further investigation is needed regarding their role in the development of MC. Methods: A retrospective case series investigated cases of endoscopically and histologically confirmed MC developing after administration of ICIs. Clinical notes and medication administration records were reviewed for demographics, symptom duration, and treatment response. Results: Nineteen cases of de novo MC were identified, with 95% of cases requiring steroid treatment, 53% presenting with hospitalization, and colitis-related mortality in 1 individual. Symptom onset occurred a median of 160 days after initiation of ICI therapy and 53 days after their most recent dose of therapy. Patients had a median of 125 days of symptoms, and ICI therapy was held in 70% of individuals due for treatment. Conclusions: MC can develop after ICI administration, and presents with severe symptoms, often requiring hospitalization and steroid treatment. In certain individuals this can require a prolonged treatment course of steroid therapy or immunomodulators. Individuals developing diarrhea after ICI therapy warrant thorough workup including endoscopy and rapid treatment initiation given the disease severity observed in this series.

Vulvar Crohn's Disease: Clinical Features and Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Vulvar involvement is a rare complication of Crohn's disease (CD). The optimal treatment of vulvar CD is unknown. METHODS: We conducted a 25-year retrospective cohort study of vulvar CD from 3 referral centers. Clinical features and outcomes were studied. RESULTS: Fifty patients were identified. The most common vulvar symptoms were pain (74%), edema (60%), ulcerations (46%), nodules (36%), and abscess (34%). Medical management leading to symptomatic improvement varied, and 5 patients ultimately required surgery. DISCUSSION: Vulvar CD manifests with a broad spectrum of symptoms. Aggressive medical management was frequently effective, although surgery was required in 10% of cases.

The extent of colorectal resection and short-term outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis.

OBJECTIVE: There is limited literature on the impact of the extent of resection on short-term outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in an elective setting. The aim of this study was to better understand the impact of approach and extent of resection on short-term outcomes for patients undergoing total proctocolectomy (TPC) and subtotal colectomy (STC) for UC. METHODS: Patients with UC who underwent elective TPC or STC were captured from the ACS-NSQIP® 2011-2018 database and divided into four cohorts: Open TPC (O-TPC), Laparoscopic TPC (L-STC), Open STC (O-STC), and Laparoscopic STC (L-STC). Baseline and perioperative variables were compared between the four groups alongside 30-day mortality and 30-day complication rates. RESULTS: Of 3387 patients, 368 (10.9%) underwent O-STC, 406 (12%) underwent O-TPC, 1958 (58%) underwent L-STC, and 655 (19%) underwent L-TPC. Overall rate of prolonged length of stay (LOS) was 27% and 9% needed a blood transfusion. There was no difference in the risk of complications between open TPC and open STC. Those who had open surgery had a higher risk of complications and prolonged LOS. Patients who had L-TPC had prolonged LOS compared to patients who had L-STC, but less compared to those who had O-STC. CONCLUSION: Elective surgery for UC is associated with high rates of prolonged LOS and blood transfusion despite MIS approaches. Short-term outcomes and LOS are more impacted by the operative approach than the extent of resection. Despite this laparoscopic TPC has higher rates of prolonged LOS when compared to laparoscopic STC.

Novel Genetic Variant Predicts Surgical Recurrence Risk in Crohn's Disease Patients.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to identify a model of clinical and genetic risk factors through hypothesis-free search across genome that can predict the surgical recurrence risk after the first abdominal surgery in CD patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two independent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cohort studies were used to derive and validate the genetic risk profile. The study subjects were genotyped using Illumina Immunochip custom genotyping array. Surgical recurrence was defined as having the second or more abdominal bowel resections after the first abdominal surgery at the time of study enrollment; nonsurgical recurrence was defined as having no further abdominal resection after the first abdominal surgery. RESULTS: Among 372 CD patients who had at least 1 abdominal surgery at the study enrollment, 132 (35.5%) had subsequent surgical recurrence after their first abdominal surgery, and 240 (64.5%) required no subsequent abdominal surgery at the end of follow up. Among clinical factors, multivariable analysis showed that history of immunomodulatory use (odds ratio [OR], 3.96; P = 0.002) and early era of CD first surgery (OR, 1.12; P = 1.01E-04) remained significant. Genotypic association tests identified a genome-wide significant locus rs2060886 in TCF4 at chr18q21.2 associated with surgical recurrence risk (OR, dom, 4.10 [2.37-7.11]; P = 4.58E-08). CONCLUSIONS: Novel genetic locus rs2060886 in TCF4 was associated with surgical recurrence risk at genome-wide significance level among CD patients after their first abdominal surgery. Early era of CD first intestinal surgery predicts higher surgical recurrence risk. These results suggest that genetic variants may help guide the CD management strategy in patients at the highest risk of repeated abdominal surgeries.