Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Are Not at Increased Risk of COVID-19: A Large Multinational Cohort Study. J Clin Med. 2020;9. [PMID: 33142843 PMCID: PMC7693947 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113533]

The impact of COVID-19 on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients under pharmacological immunosuppression is still not clearly understood. We investigated the incidence of COVID-19 and the impact of immunosuppression and containment measures on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a large IBD cohort, from a multicenter cohort from 21st of February to 30th of June, 2020. Ninety-seven patients with IBD (43 UC, 53 CD, one unclassified IBD) and concomitant COVID-19 over a total of 23,879 patients with IBD were enrolled in the study. The cumulative incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with IBD vs. the general population was 0.406% and 0.402% cases, respectively. Twenty-three patients (24%) were hospitalized, 21 (22%) had pneumonia, four (4%) were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, and one patient died. Lethality in our cohort was 1% compared to 9% in the general population. At multivariable analysis, age > 65 years was associated with increased risk of pneumonia and hospitalization (OR 11.6, 95% CI 2.18-62.60; OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.10-23.86, respectively), treatment with corticosteroids increased the risk of hospitalization (OR 7.6, 95% CI 1.48-40.05), whereas monoclonal antibodies were associated with reduced risk of pneumonia and hospitalization (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.04-0.52; OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.10-0.90, respectively). The risk of COVID-19 in patients with IBD is similar to the general population. National lockdown was effective in preventing infection in our cohort. Advanced age and treatment with corticosteroids impacted negatively on the outcome of COVID-19, whereas monoclonal antibodies did not seem to have a detrimental effect.

React, reset and restore: Adaptation of a large inflammatory bowel disease service during COVID-19 pandemic

INTRODUCTION

Healthcare organisations have had to make adaptations to reduce the impact of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This has necessitated urgent reconfiguration within inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) services to ensure safety of patients and staff and seamless continuity of care provision.

AIM

To describe the adaptations made by a large inflammatory bowel disease service, caring for over 3,500 IBD patients, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A diary record of responses to the pandemic were logged, and meeting minutes were reviewed. Data were recorded from IBD advice lines, multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting minutes, infusion unit attendances, and electronic referral systems for the 8-week period from 9 March 2020 until 2 May 2020. Descriptive analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The IBD service at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (IBD Hull) instituted rapid structural and functional changes to the service. Outpatient services were suspended and substituted by virtual consultations, and inpatient services were reduced and moved to ambulatory care where possible. The delivery of biologic and immunomodulatory therapies was significantly modified to ensure patient and staff safety. There was a substantial increase in IBD advice line calls.

CONCLUSION

The rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic required a prompt response, regular reassessment and planning, and continues to do so. We share our experience in of the successful adaptations made to our IBD service.

Organisational changes and challenges for inflammatory bowel disease services in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVE

To determine the challenges in diagnosis, monitoring, support provision in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients and explore the adaptations of IBD services.

METHODS

Internet-based survey by invitation of IBD services across the UK from 8 to 14 April 2020.

RESULTS

Respondents from 125 IBD services completed the survey. The number of whole-time equivalent gastroenterologists and IBD nurses providing elective outpatient care decreased significantly between baseline (median 4, IQR 4-7.5 and median 3, IQR 2-4) to the point of survey (median 2, IQR 1-4.8 and median 2, IQR 1-3) in the 6-week period following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (p<0.001 for both comparisons). Almost all (94%; 112/119) services reported an increase in IBD helpline activity. Face-to-face clinics were substituted for telephone consultation by 86% and video consultation by 11% of services. A variation in the provision of laboratory faecal calprotectin testing was noted with 27% of services reporting no access to faecal calprotectin, and a further 32% reduced access. There was also significant curtailment of IBD-specific endoscopy and elective surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

IBD services in the UK have implemented several adaptive strategies in order to continue to provide safe and high-quality care for patients. National Health Service organisations will need to consider the impact of these changes in current service delivery models and staffing levels when planning exit strategies for post-pandemic IBD care. Careful planning to manage the increased workload and to maintain IBD services is essential to ensure patient safety.

Safety of Drugs During Previous and Current Coronavirus Pandemics: Lessons for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The coronavirus 2019 [COVID-19] pandemic has posed challenges in the routine care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. One of the key challenges is quantification of the risks of immunosuppressive and biological therapies in IBD patients during the pandemic. The similarities and differences between previous coronavirus outbreaks and the pathobiology of the infections can give useful information in understanding the risks, and perhaps potential beneficial aspects of drugs used in IBD. Although clinical, immunological and pharmacological data from the experience with previous coronavirus outbreaks cannot be automatically translated to predict the safety of IBD therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic, the signals so far from these outbreaks on IBD patients who are on immunomodulators and biologics are reassuring to patients and clinicians alike.

Infliximab induction regimens in steroid-refractory acute severe colitis: a multicentre retrospective cohort study with propensity score analysis

BACKGROUND

Accelerated induction regimens of infliximab have been proposed to improve response rates in patients with steroid-refractory acute severe colitis.

AIM

To determine the differences in outcome for acute severe ulcerative colitis between accelerated and standard-dose infliximab METHODS: We collected data on hospitalised patients receiving differing regimens of rescue therapy for steroid-refractory acute severe ulcerative colitis. Our primary outcome was 30-day colectomy rate. Secondary outcomes were colectomy within index admission, and at 90 days and 12 months. We used propensity score analysis with optimal calliper matching using high risk covariates defined a priori to reduce potential provider selection bias.

RESULTS

We included 131 patients receiving infliximab rescue therapy; 102 received standard induction and 29 received accelerated induction. In the unmatched cohort, there was no difference by type of induction in the 30-day colectomy rates (18% vs 20%, P = .45), colectomy during index admission (13% vs 20%, P = .26) or overall colectomy (20% vs 24%, P = .38). In the propensity score-matched cohort of 52 patients, 30-day colectomy (57% vs 27%, P = .048) and index admission colectomy (53% vs 23%, P = .045) rates were higher in those receiving standard induction compared to accelerated induction but there was no difference in overall colectomy rates (57% vs 31%, P = .09). There was no significant difference in length of stay or in complication and infection rates.

CONCLUSION

In a propensity score-matched cohort, steroid-refractory acute severe ulcerative colitis patients, short-term, but not long-term, colectomy rates appear to be lower in those receiving an accelerated induction regimen.

Practice pattern variability in the management of acute severe colitis: a UK provider survey

INTRODUCTION

Lack of comparative trial data on dosing regimens of infliximab in patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) failing intravenous corticosteroids has resulted in variability of rescue regimes in ASUC with potential impact on clinical outcomes. We aimed to evaluate practice variability and physician perspectives in decision-making with rescue therapy.

METHODOLOGY

An internet-based survey of members of the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) section of the British Society of Gastroenterology was conducted. The survey evaluated provider characteristics and general practice in the setting of ASUC, followed by a vignette with linked questions.

RESULTS

The response rate of the survey was 31% (209/682 IBD section members). 134 (78%) reported they would use standard infliximab dose (5 mg/kg) while 37 (22%) favoured a higher front-loading dose of 10 mg/kg citing low albumin, high C-reactive protein as their reason for their preference. IBD specialists chose the higher front-loading dose more often compared with other gastroenterologists (p=0.01) In the specific case vignette, accelerated induction (AI) was favoured by 51% of the respondents while 25% used the standard induction regime and 19% favoured colectomy. IBD specialists more often favoured AI compared with other gastroenterologists (p=0.03) with the main reason being presence of predictors of low infliximab levels (74%). The reasons cited for favouring standard induction (n=57) included lack of evidence for AI (18), their usual practice (11), unlicensed regime (7), and safety concerns (4).

CONCLUSIONS

There are significant variations in practice in the use of infliximab rescue therapies with an urgent need for development of care pathways to standardise practice.

Budesonide treatment for microscopic colitis: systematic review and meta-analysis

Microscopic colitis (MC), encompassing lymphocytic and collagenous colitis, is a common cause for chronic nonbloody diarrhoea, which impacts significantly on the quality of life for patients. Despite increasing awareness of the condition and its treatment, there is considerable variation in therapeutic approaches. To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of budesonide in the treatment of MC. We searched Medline, Embase and Central databases using predefined search methodology for randomised trials using budesonide in the treatment of MC. We extracted data, on the efficacy and safety of budesonide, from studies identified that met the feasibility for analysis criteria. These data were pooled with a fixed effects model. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for analysis. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) for a response to budesonide therapy at induction and maintenance were 7.34 [95% confidence interval (CI): 4.08-13.19] and 8.35 (95% CI: 4.14-16.85) respectively. Histological response rates were superior in budesonide-treated patients compared to placebo following induction (OR: 11.52; 95% CI: 5.67-23.40) and maintenance treatment (OR: 5.88; 95% CI: 1.90-18.17). There was no difference in adverse events. Significant relapse rates (>50%) were observed following treatment cessation with no difference noted between the budesonide or the placebo-treated patients. Budesonide is an effective treatment option for MC for achieving induction and maintenance of both clinical and histological response. High relapse rates on treatment cessation were observed.

Systematic Review: Efficacy and Safety of Accelerated Induction Regimes in Infliximab Rescue Therapy for Hospitalized Patients with Acute Severe Colitis

BACKGROUND

Pharmacokinetic data suggest that standard induction dosing schedules may not be sufficient in patients with acute severe colitis (ASUC). Hence, intensified induction regimes are increasingly used in the rescue treatment of hospitalized patients with ASUC to avoid the need for colectomy although the evidence for this is uncertain.

AIM

To conduct a systematic review of short- and long-term efficacy outcomes from accelerated infliximab induction studies.

METHODS

Systematic search of relevant databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) and relevant conference proceedings (Digestive Diseases Week, European Colitis and Crohn's Organisation Congress, United European Gastroenterology Week) was done.

RESULTS

We identified ten relevant studies with a total of 705 patients, of whom 308 received an intensified infliximab regime. Pooled analysis showed no difference in short-term or long-term colectomy rates in those receiving accelerated induction regimes when compared to standard induction. No significant differences in complication rates were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

The available uncontrolled studies so far do not suggest short-term or long-term benefit in using accelerated induction in hospitalized ASUC. The overall poor quality of available studies with confounding variables indicates the need for a randomized controlled trial with personalized risk stratification.

Practical guidance for the management of inflammatory bowel disease in patients with cancer. Which treatment?

Clinicians involved in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increasingly come across patients with current or previous history of malignancies. With increasing and earlier use of immunosuppression and biologics in IBD patients, the question arises whether these treatments further increase the risk of new or recurrent cancers. A number of population-based observational studies have now reported the odds of development of new or recurrent cancers with thiopurines and antitumour necrosis factors (anti-TNFs). These data combined with data arising from treatment registries from other immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis are providing evidence of relative risks and safety profiles of these agents in the setting of active or prior cancer. Data from transplant literature give an indication for providing a drug-holiday period in patients with treated cancers. The risks of the treatment should be considered alongside the risk associated with withholding these effective treatments in patients with active IBD. In this review, we aim to summarize the current evidence in this area and provide a practical guidance.

The role of multimodal treatment in Crohn's disease patients with perianal fistula: a multicentre retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Treatment paradigms for Crohn's disease with perianal fistulae (CD-pAF) are evolving.

AIMS

To study the impact of multimodality treatment in CD-pAF on recurrence rates and the need for re-interventions and to identify predictive factors for these outcomes.

METHODS

This was a multinational multicentre retrospective cohort study. Multimodality approach was defined as using a combination of medical treatments (anti-TNFs ± immunomodulators ± antibiotics) along with surgical approach (examination under anaesthesia (EUA) ± seton drainage) at diagnosis of CD-pAF. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed for variables indicative of the need for reintervention.

RESULTS

A total of 253 patients were included. 65% of patients received multimodality approach. Multimodality treatment resulted in complete fistula healing in 52% of patients. Re-intervention was needed in 27% of patients with simple and in 40.3% of those with complex fistula. On multivariable analysis multimodality treatment (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.17-0.57, P = 0.001), seton removal (OR: 0.090, 95% CI: 0.027-0.30, P = 0.0001, therapy with infliximab (OR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06-0.64, P = 0.007), and therapy with adalimumab (OR: 0.12, "95% CI: 0.026-0.56, P = 0.007) were predictive of avoiding repeat surgery. Proctitis (OR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.09-12.96, P = 0.03) was predictive of the need for radical surgery (proctectomy, diverting stoma) while multimodality treatment reduced the need for radical surgery (OR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05-0.81, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Multimodality treatment, anti-TNFs use, and removal of setons after multimodality treatment can result in improved outcomes in CD patients with perianal fistulae and reduce the need for repeat surgery and radical surgery.

Outcome of elective withdrawal of anti-tumour necrosis factor-α therapy in patients with Crohn's disease in established remission

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Outcomes of cessation of anti-TNF therapy for Crohn's disease (CD) in clinical and/or endoscopic remission in routine clinical practice is uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes and factors associated with relapse in CD patients following formal disease assessment and elective anti-TNF withdrawal.

METHODS

Prospective observational study of CD patients in whom anti-TNF therapy was stopped electively after ≥12months and follow-up of ≥6months. Investigations at assessment prior to cessation included ≥1 of clinical assessment, endoscopic and/or imaging. Relapse was defined as recurrent symptoms of CD requiring medical or surgical therapy.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients received anti-TNF for a median duration of 23 (12-80) months for severe active luminal (70%), fistulating perianal (25.5%) and other fistulating disease (4.5%). Relapse rates at 90,180 and 365days were 4.7%, 18.6% and 36%, respectively. If anti-TNF dose escalation occurred 6months prior to withdrawal, 88% (7/8) relapsed. Based on multivariate analysis, risk factors for relapse include ileocolonic disease at diagnosis and previous anti-TNF therapy. An elevated faecal calprotectin (FC) is likely to predict relapse (p=0.02), with a PPV of 66.7% at >50μg/g. Of 36 patients who relapsed, 31 were retreated with anti-TNF, with an overall recapture rate of 93%.

CONCLUSION

Relapse rates at 1year following elective withdrawal of anti-TNF are 36%, with high retreatment response rate. Predictors of relapse include ileocolonic involvement, previous anti-TNF therapy and raised FC. Endoscopic/radiologic assessment prior to cessation of therapy does not appear to predict those at lower risk of relapse.

Evaluation of Outcomes in Adolescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Following Transfer From Pediatric to Adult Health Care Services: Case for Transition

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the impact of a transition service on clinical and developmental outcomes in adolescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients on transfer to adult health care services.

METHODS

We reviewed the records of IBD patients diagnosed in pediatric care following their transfer/attendance to the adult IBD service. The data on patients who attended the transition service were compared with those who did not pass through the transition service.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients were included in the study 41M and 31F. Forty-four patients went through the transition system (Group A), and 28 had no formalized transition arrangement before transfer (Group B). A significantly higher number of Group B patients needed surgery within 2 years of transfer when compared with patients in Group A (46% vs. 25%, p = .01). Sixty-one percent of patients in Group B needed at least one admission within 2 years of transfer when compared with 29% of Group A patients (p = .002). Nonattendance at clinics was higher in Group B patients with 78% having at least one nonattendance, whereas 29% of Group A failed to attend at least one appointment (p = .001). In addition, drug compliance rates were higher in the transition group when compared with Group B (89% and 46%, respectively; p = .002). A higher proportion of transitioned patients achieved their estimated maximum growth potential when completing adolescence. There was a trend toward higher dependence on opiates and smoking in Group B patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In adolescent IBD patients, transition care is associated with better disease specific and developmental outcomes. Prospective studies of different models of transition care in IBD are needed.

Colorectal cancer in inflammatory bowel disease: results of the 3rd ECCO pathogenesis scientific workshop (I)

Epidemiological studies demonstrate an increased risk of colorectal cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A detailed literature review was conducted on epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, chemoprevention and outcomes of colorectal cancer (CRC) in IBD as part of the 3rd ECCO scientific pathogenesis workshop.

The requirements and barriers to successful transition of adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease: differing perceptions from a survey of adult and paediatric gastroenterologists

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Preliminary data highlight the importance of appropriate transition for successful transfer of adolescents with IBD from paediatric to adult care. The aim of this study was to identify both the perceived needs of adolescent IBD patients and the barriers to successful transition from the perspective of professionals involved in their care.

METHODS

A postal questionnaire was distributed to UK adult and paediatric gastroenterologists with an interest in IBD. The questionnaire utilised closed questions as well as ranked items on the importance of the various competencies of adolescents with IBD required for successful transition.

RESULTS

Response rate of 62% and 49% for paediatric and adult gastroenterologists respectively was achieved. A structured transition service was perceived as very important by 80% paediatric compared to 47% adult gastroenterologists (p=0.001). A higher proportion of adult than paediatric gastroenterologists identified inadequacies in the preparation of adolescents for transfer (79% and 42%, p=0.001). The main areas of perceived deficiency in preparation identified were patient lack of knowledge about the condition and treatment, lack of self advocacy and co-ordination of care. Lack of resources, clinical time, and a critical mass of patients were the factors ranked highest by both groups as barriers to transition care. Both adult (65%) and paediatric gastroenterologists (62%) highlighted suboptimal training in adolescent medicine for adult gastroenterologists.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey highlights differences in the perception of adult and paediatric gastroenterologists in the management of transition care and perceived competencies for adolescents with IBD. Lack of training and inadequate resources are the main barriers identified for development of a successful transition service.

Anti-TNF therapy induced immune neutropenia in Crohns disease- report of 2 cases and review of literature

Transient neutropenia is reported in some patients on biologic therapy. We report two cases of severe neutropenia in patients with Crohn`s disease following treatment with anti-TNF therapy. In both cases neutrophil specific granulocyte autoantibodies were detected during period of neutropenia and disappeared on cessation of anti-TNF therapy. These may indicate that anti-TNF agents may produce autoimmune agranulocytosis by triggering production granulocyte autoantibodies. The long term management strategy for patients with anti-TNF therapy induced autoimmune neutropenia is uncertain.