Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis as an Extraintestinal Manifestation of Crohn's Disease

Cutaneous involvement is one of the most common extraintestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). More commonly, pyoderma gangrenosum and erythema nodosum are noted, but psoriasis, aphthous stomatitis, Sweet's syndrome, and vasculitis may also occur. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is a rare cutaneous manifestation, characterized by the appearance of palpable purpura, urticaria, and ulcer-necrotic lesions predominantly in the lower extremities that improve with immunosuppressive therapy. In this case, we report a patient with CD and LCV. We also searched the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of LCV in patients with CD. Female, 31, presented with diarrhea containing mucus and blood, abdominal pain, arthralgia, and enanthematous plaques and ulcers with a hematinic background in the lower extremities. The results of the colonoscopy were compatible with CD and skin biopsy showed signs of LCV. Systemic autoimmune disease and primary vasculitis were ruled out. The patient received treatment with a systemic corticosteroid and the skin lesions improved. Outpatient treatment with antitumor necrosis factor therapy was initiated to promote skin healing and IBD clinical remission. As LCV is a rare manifestation of IBD, it is necessary to distinguish this dermatopathy from other systemic vasculitis. The engagement of a multidisciplinary team is essential for the correct diagnosis and management.

Herpetic Esophagitis and Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Potential Association

BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal reflux disease, infectious esophagitis, and eosinophilic esophagitis are the most frequent causes of esophagitis, the latter 2 etiologies being generally considered independently. However, the association between both entities has been suggested through case reports in immunocompetent patients. CASE REPORT We present the case of an immunocompetent 26-year-old man presenting with fever, adynamia, retrosternal pain, and dysphagia. Endoscopy was performed, showing whitish lesions in circular plates with erosions, and in some depressed areas in the middle and distal esophagus. Biopsies showed the presence of ulcerated foci covered by fibrinoleukocyte exudate in granulation tissue and nuclear inclusions with a viral appearance. The immunohistochemical study for herpes simplex virus (HSV) was positive. The patient was treated symptomatically and progressed favorably. The endoscopic control carried out at 3 months showed longitudinal grooves and trachealization, findings compatible with the diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis and with biopsies that confirmed the etiology by showing an increase in eosinophil count >20 per field, without isolating HSV. CONCLUSIONS This clinical case confirms the possible relationship between esophagitis caused by HSV and eosinophilic esophagitis. Alterations at the immune level and damage to the esophageal mucosa barrier may explain this relationship. In this scenario, an endoscopic follow-up should be considered.

Anal neoplasia and perianal Crohn's disease: myth or reality?

The association between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and anal canal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has a low prevalence and is mainly supported by articles that include a series of cases. We describe the clinical, endoscopic and histological findings of a patient with Crohn's disease (CD) who, while undergoing biological therapy and active disease, developed SCC.

Landscapes and bacterial signatures of mucosa-associated intestinal microbiota in Chilean and Spanish patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), which include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), cause chronic inflammation of the gut, affecting millions of people worldwide. IBDs have been frequently associated with an alteration of the gut microbiota, termed dysbiosis, which is generally characterized by an increase in abundance of Proteobacteria such as Escherichia coli, and a decrease in abundance of Firmicutes such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (an indicator of a healthy colonic microbiota). The mechanisms behind the development of IBDs and dysbiosis are incompletely understood. Using samples from colonic biopsies, we studied the mucosa-associated intestinal microbiota in Chilean and Spanish patients with IBD. In agreement with previous studies, microbiome comparison between IBD patients and non-IBD controls indicated that dysbiosis in these patients is characterized by an increase of pro-inflammatory bacteria (mostly Proteobacteria) and a decrease of commensal beneficial bacteria (mostly Firmicutes). Notably, bacteria typically residing on the mucosa of healthy individuals were mostly obligate anaerobes, whereas in the inflamed mucosa an increase of facultative anaerobe and aerobic bacteria was observed. We also identify potential co-occurring and mutually exclusive interactions between bacteria associated with the healthy and inflamed mucosa, which appear to be determined by the oxygen availability and the type of respiration. Finally, we identified a panel of bacterial biomarkers that allow the discrimination between eubiosis from dysbiosis with a high diagnostic performance (96% accurately), which could be used for the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods. Thus, this study is a step forward towards understanding the landscapes and alterations of mucosa-associated intestinal microbiota in patients with IBDs.

The Dilemma of Persistent Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms in Patients with Quiescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease differ in their natural evolution, etiopathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic approach. However, recent evidence has suggested some similarities in mechanisms underlying symptom development and progression. There is a relevant role for alterations in the microbiome-brain-gut axis in both diseases. The presence of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms in patients with quiescent inflammatory bowel disease is common in clinical practice. To determine the cause of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms in patients with quiescent inflammatory bowel disease is a clinical challenge. This review aims to illustrate possible causes and solutions for these patients.

Role of capsule endoscopy in inflammatory bowel disease: Anything new?

Capsule endoscopy (CE) is a recently developed diagnostic method for diseases of the small bowel that is non-invasive, safe, and highly tolerable. Its role in patients with inflammatory bowel disease has been widely validated in suspected and established Crohn’s disease (CD) due to its ability to assess superficial lesions not detected by cross-sectional imaging and proximal lesions of the small bowel not evaluable by ileocolonoscopy. Because CE is a highly sensitive but less specific technique, differential diagnoses that can simulate CD must be considered, and its interpretation should be supported by other clinical and laboratory indicators. The use of validated scoring systems to characterize and estimate lesion severity (Lewis score, Capsule Endoscopy Crohn’s Disease Activity Index), as well as the standardization of the language used to define the lesions (Delphi Consensus), have reduced the interobserver variability in CE reading observed in clinical practice, allowing for the optimization of diagnoses and clinical management strategies. The appearance of the panenteric CE, the incorporation of artificial intelligence, magnetically-guided capsules, and tissue biopsies are elements that contribute to CE being a promising, unique diagnostic tool in digestive tract diseases.

Gastrointestinal microbiome, what is behind faecal microbiota transplantation?

The intestinal microbiota is made up of billions of microorganisms that coexist in an organised ecosystem, where strict and facultative anaerobic bacteria predominate. The alteration or imbalance of these microorganisms, known as dysbiosis, can be associated with both gastrointestinal and extraintestinal diseases. Based on a review of the literature, the intestinal microbiota is described in its state of health, the changes associated with some gastrointestinal diseases and the potential role that faecal microbiota transplantation has in the reestablishment of an altered ecosystem. Undoubtedly, the information revealed makes us reflect on the indication of faecal microbiota transplantation in various pathologies of intestinal origin. However, to ensure the efficacy and safety of this therapy, more studies are needed to obtain more evidence.

Fecal microbiota transplant, its usefulness beyond Clostridioides difficile in gastrointestinal diseases

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is currently recommended for recurrent Clostridioidesdifficile infection. However, it is interesting to acknowledge the potential therapeutic role in other diseases associated with dysbiosis. This review will focus on the current and potential indications of FMT in gastrointestinal diseases, evaluating the available evidence and also exposing the necessary requirements to carry it out.

Evolving role of endoscopy in inflammatory bowel disease: Going beyond diagnosis

Inflammatory bowel disease, encompassing Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis, are chronic immune-mediated inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract with periods of activity and remission. Large body of evidence exist to strengthen the prognostic role of endoscopic evaluation for both disease activity and severity and it remains the gold standard for the assessment of mucosal healing. Mucosal healing has been associated with improved clinical outcomes with prolonged remission, decreased hospitalization, IBD-related surgeries and colorectal cancer risk. Therefore, endoscopic objectives in IBD have been incorporated as part of standard care. With the known increased risk of colorectal cancer in IBD, although prevention strategies continue to develop, regular surveillance for early detection of neoplasia continue to be paramount in IBD patients’ care. It is thanks to evolving technology and visualization techniques that surveillance strategies are continuously advancing. Therapeutic endoscopic options in IBD have also been expanding, from surgery sparing therapies such as balloon dilation of fibrostenotic strictures in CD to endoscopic mucosal resection of neoplastic lesions. In this review article, we discuss the current evidence on the use of endoscopy as part of standard of care of IBD, its role in surveillance of neoplasia, and the role of interventional endoscopic therapies.

Sexual Dysfunction in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: What the Specialist Should Know and Ask

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that globally affects the health of people who suffer from it, deteriorating their quality of life (QoL). An aspect rarely explored by healthcare providers is the influence of the disease on the sexual functioning of individuals. This discretion is mainly due to an unconscious resistance when asking our patients about their sexual functioning because of a lack of knowledge and skills to tackle this topic or disinterest on the part of professionals, and fear or shame on the part of patients. Sexual function is a constant concern in IBD patients that has been reflected in several studies, especially if we consider that the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) in IBD is higher than that reported in the general population. The etiology of SD in patients with IBD remains unclear but is likely to be multifactorial, where biological, psychosocial, and disease-specific factors are involved. Currently, there are no formal recommendations in the IBD clinical guidelines on how to manage SD in these patients. The use of validated clinical scales could improve the detection of SD and allow the treatment of the underlying causes in order to improve the QoL of patients with IBD. This review aims to illustrate the different aspects involved in SD in IBD patients and the importance of the participation of a multidisciplinary team in the early detection and treatment of SD at different stages of the disease.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Synergy in alterations of the gut-brain axis?

The presence of digestive symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in remission is a topic of growing interest. Although there is heterogeneity in clinical studies regarding the use of IBD remission criteria and the diagnosis of IBS, the available data indicate that the IBD-IBS overlap would affect up to one third of patients in remission, and they agree on the finding of a negative impact on the mental health and quality of life of the individuals who suffer from it. The pathophysiological bases that would explain this potential overlap are not completely elucidated; however, an alteration in the gut-brain axis associated with an increase in intestinal permeability, neuroimmune activation and dysbiosis would be common to both conditions. The hypothesis of a new clinical entity or syndrome of "Irritable Inflammatory Bowel Disease" or "Post-inflammatory IBS" is the subject of intense investigation. The clinical approach is based on certifying the remission of IBD activity and ruling out other non-inflammatory causes of potentially treatable persistent functional digestive symptoms. In the case of symptoms associated with IBS and in the absence of sufficient evidence, comprehensive and personalized management of the clinical picture (dietary, pharmacological and psychotherapeutic measures) should be carried out, similar to a genuine IBS.

Treatment of acute severe ulcerative colitis using accelerated infliximab regimen based on infliximab trough level: A case report

BACKGROUND

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a complication of ulcerative colitis associated with high levels of circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha, due to the intense inflammation and faster stool clearance of anti-tumor necrosis factor drugs. Dose-intensified infliximab treatment can be beneficial and is associated with lower rates of colectomy. The aim of the study was to present a case of a patient with ASUC and megacolon, treated with hydrocortisone and accelerated scheme of infliximab that was monitored by drug trough level.

CASE SUMMARY

A 22-year-old female patient diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, presented with diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, vomiting, and distended abdomen. During investigation, a positive toxin for Clostridium difficile and colonic dilatation of 7 cm consistent with megacolon were observed. She was treated with oral vancomycin for pseudomembranous colitis and intravenous hydrocortisone for severe colitis, which led to the resolution of megacolon. Due to the persistent severe colitis symptoms, infliximab 5 mg/kg was prescribed, monitored by drug trough level (8.8 μg/mL) and fecal calprotectin of 921 μg/g (< 30 μg/g). Based on the low infliximab trough level after one week from the first infliximab dose, the patient received a second infusion at week 1, consistent with the accelerated regimen (infusions at weeks 0, 1, 2 and 6). We achieved a positive clinical and endoscopic response after 6 mo of therapy, without the need for a colectomy.

CONCLUSION

Infliximab accelerated infusions can be beneficial in ASUC unresponsive to the treatment with intravenous corticosteroids. Longitudinal studies are necessary to define the best therapeutic drug monitoring and treatment regimen for these patients.

Leflunomide as a cause of collagenous colitis: an entity to consider

Leflunomide belongs to the group of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) used in the treatment of psoriatic, rheumatoid, and reactive arthritis. Approximately 20% of patients will experience some adverse event, highlighting weight loss, abdominal pain and diarrhea. We describe the clinical, endoscopic, and histological findings in a patient with psoriatic arthritis (PA) who developed severe chronic diarrhea after drug use.

Small Intestinal Hemangioma: A Case Report

Patient: Female, 46-year-old

Final Diagnosis: Hemangioma

Symptoms: Abdominal distension • abdominal pain • anemia

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: Colonoscopy • laparotomy

Specialty: Gastroenterology and Hepatology • Pathology

[DRESS syndrome induced by sulfasalazine. Report of one case]

DRESS syndrome (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms) is a severe, rare and potentially lethal idiosyncratic condition associated with the use of some drugs. Given its broad spectrum of presentation, clinical suspicion is essential for management, since it requires the immediate withdrawal of the culprit drug, support measures and the use of corticosteroids as the first line of treatment. We report a 24-year-old woman with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis with joint involvement despite the use of infliximab, who presented symptoms, signs and laboratory compatible with DRESS syndrome on the third week after indicating sulfasalazine for her baseline disease.

Are patients with inflammatory bowel disease receiving adequate immunisation?

INTRODUCTION

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) treatment may increase the risk of infections. Vaccines are part of the comprehensive IBD patient care. The aim of this study was to describe indications and adherence of immunizations in IBD and identify possible associated factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, analytic study was conducted in patients from an IBD Program of a tertiary center in Chile, between April - June 2019. Patients were asked to answer a vaccine survey and information also was obtained from the National Immunization Registry. Descriptive and association statistic were used (χ²; p<0.05).

RESULTS

A total of 243 patients were included (148 ulcerative colitis (UC), 86 Crohn's disease (CD) and 9 non-classifiable IBD). Only six patients (2%) of IBD patients received a complete immunization schedule. The highest vaccine rates were against influenza (67%), hepatitis B virus (40%), 13-valent pneumococcal (34%) and 23-polysaccharide pneumococcal (16%). The influenza vaccine rate has significantly increased, reaching 67% in 2019. The survey showed that 23% of patients have not been immunized with any vaccine, mainly due to lack of time, lack of medical prescription and high cost.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, although vaccination rates are higher than previously reported, adherence to IBD immunization program would be improved, being considered since diagnosis by the multidisciplinary team.

Pregnancy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Experience of a Chilean cohort

BACKGROUND

In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) a high percentage of women are diagnosed during their reproductive age. IBD in remission is the ideal scenario when planning a pregnancy.

AIMS

To describe the clinical characteristics of pregnancy/newborn and assess disease activity at the time of conception and throughout the pregnancy in patients with IBD treated at a tertiary centre in Chile.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed women diagnosed with IBD who were pregnant or delivered between 2017 and 2020. Demographic, clinical, obstetric and delivery data were obtained from the IBD registry, approved by the local IRB. Descriptive statistics and association tests were performed (χ2, p ≤ 0.05).

RESULTS

Sixty women with IBD were included. At the beginning of pregnancy, 21 (35%) had active disease and 39 (65%) were in remission. Of those with active disease, 16 (66%) remained active and 6 had spontaneous abortions. In those who were in remission, 26 (69%) remained in this condition. Nine patients (15%) discontinued treatment, and 6 of these had inflammatory activity during pregnancy. Preconception counselling was performed in 23 of the 60 patients, being higher in the group that remained in remission during pregnancy (65% vs. 35%, p = 0.02). Patients who had a flare during pregnancy had more probability of preterm birth (<37 weeks) and newborn with lower weight compared with the group that always remained in remission (89% vs. 74%, p = 0.161) and (2.885 vs 3.370 g; p = 0.0014).

CONCLUSION

Remission presents better outcomes in pregnancy and preconception counselling would allow a better IBD control during pregnancy.

Infliximab in inflammatory bowel disease. Is premedication necessary?

BACKGROUND

The use of infliximab (IFX) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been associated with a 1-6% risk of infusion reactions. The usefulness of premedication with corticosteroids, paracetamol and /or antihistamines is controversial.

AIM

The aim of this study is to assess, in IBD patients on IFX, whether there are differences in secondary reactions to the infusion between those who use premedication or not.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed identifying patients with a diagnosis of IBD who received IFX at our institution between January 2009 and July 2019. Acute reactions were defined as those that occurred in the first 24 hours postinfusion and late reactions for more than 24 hours. Infusion reactions were classified as mild, moderate and severe. Descriptive and association statistics were used (χ²; p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients were included with 1,263 infusions in total, 52% men. Median infusions per patient was 22 (2-66). All induction infusions were administered with premedication, and in maintenance in 57% of them. Premedication was given with hydrocortisone, chlorphenamine and paracetamol. Most of reactions were acute, mild or moderate in severity and no patient needed to discontinue IFX. In the maintenance group, there were 9/718 (1.2%) infusion reactions with premedication and 4/358 (1.1%) without it (p = 0.606). In the induction group, there were 8/187 (4.3%) infusion reactions, significantly higher when compared with both maintenance groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this group, premedication use during maintenance was not effective at reducing the rate of infusion reactions. These results suggest that premedication would not be necessary.