The prevalence of malnutrition in inflammatory bowel disease patients was high. We identified some predictive factors of malnutrition. Most of the patients had self-imposed food restrictions, based on their beliefs.
The incidence rate of inflammatory bowel disease relapse after anti-TNF discontinuation is relevant. Some predictive factors of relapse after anti-TNF withdrawal have been identified. Retreatment with the same anti-TNF drug was effective and safe.
Summary
Background
There are limited data of ustekinumab administered according to the doses recommended in the UNITI studies.
Aim
To assess the real‐world, short‐term effectiveness of ustekinumab in refractory Crohn's disease (CD)
Methods
Multicentre study of CD patients starting ustekinumab after June 2017 at the recommend dose (260, 390 or 520 mg based on weight ~6 mg/kg IV week 0 and 90 mg subcutaneously week 8). Values for Harvey‐Bradshaw Index (HBI), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and faecal calprotectin (FC) were recorded at baseline and at weeks 8 and 14. Demographic and clinical data, previous treatments, AEs and hospitalisations were documented. Possible predictors of clinical remission were examined.
Results
Three hundred and five patients were analysed (≥2 previous anti‐TNFα therapies 64% and vedolizumab 29%). At baseline, 217 (72%) had an HBI >4 points. Of these, 101 (47%) and 126 (58%) achieved clinical remission at weeks 8 and 14, respectively. FC levels returned to normal (<250 µg/g) in 46% and 54% of the patients at weeks 8 and 14 respectively. CRP returned to normal (<3 mg/L) in the 35% and 41% of the patients at week 8 and 14 respectively. AEs were recorded in 38, and 40 patients were hospitalised. Intolerance to the most recent anti‐TNF agent and fewer previous anti‐TNF agents were associated with clinical remission at week 14. Endoscopic severity was associated with poor response.
Conclusion
This is the first study to show the real‐world effectiveness and safety of ustekinumab administered according to the recommended induction regimen in a cohort of highly refractory CD patients.
Elderly onset IBD shows specific characteristics and they are managed differently, with a lower use of immunosuppressants and a higher rate of surgery in UC.
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