Long-term risk of cancer in ulcerative colitis: a population-based cohort study from Copenhagen County

How the Western Diet Thwarts the Epigenetic Efforts of Gut Microbes in Ulcerative Colitis and Its Association with Colorectal Cancer

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the colon, leading to ulcer development, loss of colon function, and bloody diarrhea. The human gut ecosystem consists of almost 2000 different species of bacteria, forming a bioreactor fueled by dietary micronutrients to produce bioreactive compounds, which are absorbed by our body and signal to distant organs. Studies have shown that the Western diet, with fewer short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), can alter the gut microbiome composition and cause the host's epigenetic reprogramming. Additionally, overproduction of H2S from the gut microbiome due to changes in diet patterns can further activate pro-inflammatory signaling pathways in UC. This review discusses how the Western diet affects the microbiome's function and alters the host's physiological homeostasis and susceptibility to UC. This article also covers the epidemiology, prognosis, pathophysiology, and current treatment strategies for UC, and how they are linked to colorectal cancer.

The genomics of sporadic and hereditary colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Over the past three decades, extensive efforts have sought to elucidate the genomic landscape of CRC. These studies reveal that CRC is highly heterogeneous at the molecular level, with different subtypes characterised by distinct somatic mutational profiles, epigenetic aberrations and transcriptomic signatures. This review summarises our current understanding of the genomic and epigenomic alterations implicated in CRC development and progression. Particular focus is given to how characterisation of CRC genomes is leading to more personalised approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Risk of uterine cervical cancer in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

There are limited data on the association between uterine cervical cancer (UCC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the risk of UCC in patients with IBD. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, gray literature and conference proceedings for studies published before 21 January 2022. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data and assessed quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Subgroup analyses were based on IBD type, biologic era, immunosuppression status, study location and design, and publication status. Fifteen studies were included.

RESULTS

The pooled relative risk (RR) of UCC in IBD was 1.34 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-1.69; I2 = 53.4%). In subgroup analyses, the pooled RRs of UCC in CD and UC were 1.18 (95% CI, 0.97-1.42) and 1.50 (95% CI, 1.01-12.21), respectively. The pooled RRs of UCC in pre-biologic and biologic eras were 1.36 (95% CI, 0.83-2.23) and 1.99 (95% CI, 1.03-3.86), respectively. The pooled RR of UCC in immunomodulator users was 2.18 (95% CI, 0.81-5.87). The pooled RRs of UCC in Asia, Europe and North America were 5.65 (95% CI, 2.65-12.07), 1.13 (95% CI, 0.96-1.34) and 1.38 (95% CI, 1.10-1.73), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of UCC was significantly increased in IBD, particularly in UC but not in CD, suggesting that women with IBD should undergo regular UCC screening and consider vaccination.

Association between inflammatory bowel disease and risk of incident prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Numerous observational studies have been conducted to investigate the potential association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and prostate cancer (PCa). However, a definitive conclusion has yet to be established. We therefore performed a meta-analysis to explore the relationship between these two conditions.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify all relevant cohort studies that investigated the association between IBD and risk of incident PCa published from inception to February 2023. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated as effect size for the outcome based on random-effects model meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 18 cohort studies with 592,853 participants were included. The meta-analysis revealed that IBD was linked to an elevated risk of incident PCa (HR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06-1.37, P = 0.004). Further subgroup analyses revealed that ulcerative colitis (UC) was linked to an increased risk of incident PCa (HR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06-1.38, P = 0.006), while Crohn's disease (CD) is not significantly associated with a higher risk of PCa (HR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.91-1.17, P = 0.65). There was a significant correlation between IBD and an elevated risk of incident PCa in the European population, but such a correlation was not observed in the Asian and North American populations. Sensitivity analyses indicated that our results were robust.

CONCLUSIONS

Our latest evidence indicates that IBD was linked to an elevated risk of incident PCa, especially in UC patients and the European population.

Elevated risk of cervical cancer in elderly women with incident ulcerative colitis in South Korea

The association between ulcerative colitis (UC) and uterine cervical cancer is still unclear. To investigate cervical cancer risk in South Korean women with UC, we analyzed the Korean National Health Insurance claims data. UC was defined using both ICD-10 codes and UC-specific prescriptions. We analyzed incident cases of UC diagnosed between 2006 and 2015. Age-matched women without UC (control group) were randomly selected from the general population (1:3 ratio). Hazard ratios were calculated using multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression, and the event was defined as occurrence of cervical cancer. A total of 12,632 women with UC and 36,797 women without UC were enrolled. The incidence of cervical cancer was 38.8 per 100,000 women per year in UC patients and 25.7 per 100,000 women per year in controls, respectively. The adjusted HR for cervical cancer was 1.56 (95% CI 0.97-2.50) in the UC group with reference to the control group. When stratified by age, the adjusted HR for cervical cancer was 3.65 (95% CI 1.54-8.66) in elderly UC patients (≥ 60 years) compared to elderly control group (≥ 60 years). Within UC patients, increased age (≥ 40 years) and low socioeconomic status were associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. The incidence of cervical cancer was found to be higher among elderly patients (≥ 60 years) with newly diagnosed UC in South Korea, compared to age-matched controls. Therefore, regular cervical cancer screening is recommended for elderly patients who have recently been diagnosed with UC.

Colorectal Cancer-The "Parent" of Low Bowel Obstruction

Introduction: Despite the improvement of early diagnosis methods for multiple pathological entities belonging to the digestive tract, bowel obstruction determined by multiple etiologies represents an important percentage of surgical emergencies. General data: Although sometimes obstructive episodes are possible in the early stages of colorectal cancer, the most commonly installed intestinal obstruction has the significance of an advanced evolutionary stage of neoplastic disease. Development of Obstructive Mechanism: The spontaneous evolution of colorectal cancer is always burdened by complications. The most common complication is low bowel obstruction, found in approximately 20% of the cases of colorectal cancer, and it can occur either relatively abruptly, or is preceded by initially discrete premonitory symptoms, non-specific (until advanced evolutionary stages) and generally neglected or incorrectly interpreted. Success in the complex treatment of a low neoplastic obstruction is conditioned by a complete diagnosis, adequate pre-operative preparation, a surgical act adapted to the case (in one, two or three successive stages), and dynamic postoperative care. The moment of surgery should be chosen with great care and is the result of the experience of the anesthetic-surgical team. The operative act must be adapted to the case and has as its main objective the resolution of intestinal obstruction and only in a secondary way the resolution of the generating disease. Conclusions: The therapeutic measures adopted (medical-surgical) must have a dynamic character in accordance with the particular situation of the patient. Except for certain or probably benign etiologies, the possibility of colorectal neoplasia should always be considered, in low obstructions, regardless of the patient's age.

Risk of malignant lymphomas in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

DESIGN

We undertook a two-country population cohort study with all patients diagnosed with IBD in Norway and Sweden from 1987 and 1993 through 2015 and 2016, respectively, and analysed the risk of NHL and HL. In Sweden, we also analysed prescriptions of thiopurines and anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α therapy from 2005. We calculated standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) with 95% CIs using the general populations as reference.

RESULTS

Among 131 492 patients with IBD with a medium follow-up of 9.6 years, we identified 369 cases of NHL and 44 cases of HL. The SIR of NHL was 1.3 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.5) in ulcerative colitis and 1.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 1.7) in Crohn's disease. We found no compelling heterogeneity in analyses stratified by patient characteristics. We found a similar pattern and magnitude of excess risks for HL. At 10 years, cumulative incidence was 0.26% (95% CI 0.23% to 0.30%) and 0.06% (95% CI 0.04% to 0.08%) for NHL and HL, respectively. Higher excess risks were found among patients with NHL with concomitant primary sclerosing cholangitis (SIR 3.4; 95% CI 2.1 to 5.2) and in those prescribed thiopurines alone (SIR 2.8; 95% CI 1.4 to 5.7) or with anti-TNF-α agents (SIR 5.7; 95% CI 2.7 to 11.9).

CONCLUSION

Patients with IBD have a statistically significant increased risk of malignant lymphomas compared with the general population, but the absolute risk remains low.

Risk of Cancer in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Keys for Patient Management

Chronic inflammation in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) leads to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, small bowel cancer, intestinal lymphoma and cholangiocarcinoma. However, treatments for IBD have also been associated with an increased risk of neoplasms. Patients receiving Thiopurines (TPs) have an increased risk of hematologic malignancies, non-melanoma skin cancer, urinary tract neoplasms and cervical cancer. Anti-TNFs have been associated with a higher risk of neoplasms, mainly lymphomas and melanomas; however, the data are controversial, and some recent studies do not confirm the association. Nevertheless, other biologic agents, such as ustekinumab and vedolizumab, have not shown an increased risk of any neoplasm to date. The risk of malignancies with tofacitinib exists, but its magnitude and relationship with previous treatment with TPs is not defined, so more studies from daily clinical practice are needed. Although biologic therapy seems to be safe for patients with current cancer or a prior history of cancer, as has been demonstrated in other chronic inflammatory conditions, prospective studies in this specific population are needed. Until that time, it is crucial to manage such conditions via the combined clinical expertise of the gastroenterologist and oncologist.

Incidence of lymphomas in inflammatory bowel disease: report of an emblematic case, systematic review, and meta-analysis

Introduction

Over the past 20 years, the increasing use of combined therapy with immunosuppressants and biologic agents has markedly reduced the use of steroids in the management of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). However, medical therapy seems to promote, in the long run, carcinogenesis resulting in an increased risk of developing different types of malignancies, including lymphomas. The aim of this study was to systematically review the current incidence and prognosis of lymphoid neoplasms occurring in patients with IBD.

Methods

Studies analyzing the incidence of lymphomas in subjects of age >18 years affected by IBD were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Studies focusing on pediatric populations, not reporting person-years of follow-up, or with a duration < 1 year were excluded. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register were searched from inception through January 2022. Publication bias within studies was assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests and random effects model. Quantitative results were synthesized using relative-risk meta-analysis. PRISMA guidelines were used to carry out this systematic review (PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42023398348).

Results

A total of 345 studies published between 1985 and 2022, with a total of 6,17,386 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Substantial heterogeneity between studies prevented the pooling of estimates (I² = 97.19%). Evidence of publication bias was overall low (p = 0.1941). Patients affected by Crohn's disease (CD) were 1,86,074 (30.13%), while 2,78,876 (46.17%) were diagnosed with UC. The remaining 23.7% of cases were diagnosed with indeterminate colitis. Immunomodulators and biologic therapy were used in 24,520 (5.27%), and 17,972 (3.86%) patients, respectively. Reported incidence rates for lymphoma in IBD ranged from 0.0/100,000 person/years (py) (95% CI 0.0-3.7/100,000) to 89/100,000 py (95% CI 36-160/100,000). Reported incidence rates of lymphoma in CD ranged from 0.0/100,000 py (95% CI 0.0-3.7/100,000) to 91/100,000 py (95% CI 18-164/100,000). For UC, the incidence rate ranged from 0.0/100,000 py (95% CI 0.0-3.7/100,000) to 95/100,000 py (95% CI 0-226/100,000). Male-to-female ratio was ~4:1. Therapy with immunomodulators was directly associated with an increased incidence of lymphoma (p < 0.0001). Evidence of publication bias was overall low (p = 0 .1941).

Conclusions

The evidence arising from this study highlights a correlation between the use of immunomodulators and subsequent lymphoma development. Combined multidisciplinary approach and long-term follow-up are warranted in order to decrease mortality deriving from the coexistence of both conditions.

Systematic review registration

Identifier: CRD42023398348.

Chemoprevention of Colitis-Associated Dysplasia or Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The association between inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer is well known. Although the overall incidence of inflammatory bowel disease has declined recently, patients with this disease still have a 1.7-fold increased risk of colorectal cancer. The risk factors for developing colorectal cancer include extensive colitis, young age at diagnosis, disease duration, primary sclerosing cholangitis, chronic colonic mucosal inflammation, dysplasia lesion, and post-inflammatory polyps. In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, control of chronic inflammation and surveillance colonoscopies are important for the prevention of colorectal cancer. The 2017 guidelines from the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation suggest that colonoscopies to screen for colorectal cancer should be performed when inflammatory bowel disease symptoms have lasted for 8 years. Current evidence supports the use of chemoprevention therapy with mesalamine to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis. Other compounds, including thiopurine, folic acid, statin, and tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor, are controversial. Large surveillance cohort studies with longer follow-up duration are needed to evaluate the impact of drugs on colorectal cancer risks.

Recent advances in surveillance colonoscopy for dysplasia in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has a global presence with rapidly increasing incidence and prevalence. Patients with IBD including those with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to the general population. Risk factors for CRC in patients with IBD include long disease duration, extensive colitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, family history of CRC, stricture, and prior dysplasia. Surveillance colonoscopy for CRC in patients with IBD should be tailored to individualized risk factors and requires careful monitoring every year to every five years. The current surveillance techniques are based on several guidelines. Chromoendoscopy with targeted biopsy is being recommended increasingly, and high-definition colonoscopy is gradually replacing standard-definition colonoscopy. However, it remains unclear whether chromoendoscopy, virtual chromoendoscopy, or white-light endoscopy has better efficiency when a high-definition scope is used. With the development of new endoscopic instruments and techniques, the paradigm of surveillance strategy has gradually changed. In this review, we discuss cutting-edge surveillance colonoscopy in patients with IBD including a review of literature.

Effectiveness and Safety of Tofacitinib for Ulcerative Colitis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of tofacitinib in the treatment of moderate-severe ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central to identify articles and abstracts reporting efficacy or safety data on tofacitinib use in UC. Primary outcome assessed was remission. Secondary outcomes included clinical response, steroid free remission, and adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies were included. The rates of remission were 29.81% [95% confidence interval (CI): 22.37%-37.25%, I2 : 90%] at week 8, 32.27% (95% CI: 27.67%-36.88%, I2 : 42%) at 6 months and 38.03% (95% CI: 33.59%-42.48%, I2 : 0%) at 1-year. Clinical response rates were 59.41% (95% CI: 55.03%-63.94%, I2 : 61%) at week 8, 48.99% (95% CI: 36.92%-61.06%, I2 : 91%) at 6 months and 50.87% (95% CI: 42.16%-59.58%, I2 : 67%) at 1-year. Odds ratio of clinical response at week 8 in biologic naive versus biologic experienced patients was 1.59 (95% CI: 0.54-4.63). Pooled incidence rate for serious infections, major adverse cardiovascular events, and nonmelanotic squamous cell malignancies across all doses was 4.41 per 100-patient years (PYs) (95% CI: 2.32-8.38 per 100-PY, I2 : 78%), 0.91 per 100-PY (95% CI: 0.43-1.93 per 100-PY, I2 : 37%) and 0.91 per 100-PY (95% CI: 0.61-1.34 per 100-PY, I2 : 0%), respectively. Higher dose was associated with an increased frequency of AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

While the overall efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in moderate-severe UC is consistent with clinical trial data, the dose dependent increase in AEs highlights the significance of early dose de-escalation. Rate of clinical response after tofacitinb induction was similar in biologic naive and biologic experienced patients.

Colorectal Cancer in Childhood-onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Scandinavian Register-based Cohort Study, 1969-2017

Through linkage of data from Danish and Swedish national registers we identified 6937 patients with childhood (&lt;18 years)-onset Crohn disease (CD), 8514 patients with childhood-onset ulcerative colitis (UC) and up to 10 times as many matched (sex, age, residence) reference individuals 1969-2017. During follow-up to a median age of 27 (interquartile range = 21-39) years, 25 (0.36%) CD patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) versus 43 (0.06%) reference individuals, and 113 (1.33%) UC patients versus 45 (0.05%) reference individuals. The hazard ratio (HR) for CRC was 6.46 (95% CI = 3.95-10.6) in CD and 32.5 (95% CI = 23.0-45.9) in UC and increased with decreasing age at diagnosis. The HR for CRC was increased for all phenotypes, but with higher estimates for colonic CD [17.9 (95% CI = 7.43-43.3)] and UC with extensive/pancolitis [36.3 (95% CI = 22.8-57.8)]. The relative risk of CRC was increased for all phenotypes of childhood-onset inflammatory bowel disease. Age at onset may be considered an additional risk factor when implementing surveillance programs.

Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Epidemiology and Prevention: A Review

Simple Summary

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most serious potential complications of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). The aging of patients affected by IBDs makes this issue a challenge that will increasingly be faced by clinicians in clinical practice, especially in light of the poorer prognosis for CRC in this group of people when compared with the general population. In this review, we summarize the current epidemiology, risk factors and various prevention strategies proposed for CRC in patients with IBDs.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently the third most frequent form of malignancy and the second in terms of mortality. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are recognized risk factors for this type of cancer. Despite a worldwide increase in the incidence of CRC, the risk of CRC-related death in IBD patients has declined over time, probably because of successful surveillance strategies, the use of more effective drugs in the management of remission and improved indications to colectomy. This notwithstanding, CRC 5-year survival in patients with IBD is poorer than in the general population. This review provides a summary of the epidemiological features, risk factors and various prevention strategies proposed for CRC in IBD patients. Moreover, there is a special focus on reporting and highlighting the various prevention strategies proposed by the most important international scientific societies, both in terms of chemoprevention and endoscopic surveillance. Indeed, in conducting the analysis, we have given attention to the current primary, secondary and tertiary prevention guidelines, attempting to emphasize unresolved research and clinical problems related to this topic in order to improve diagnostic strategies and management.

Risks of Melanoma and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers Pre- and Post-Inflammatory Bowel Disease Diagnosis

BACKGROUND

We compared risks of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) and melanoma preceding and following a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to evaluate the effect of thiopurines and anti-tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNF-α) on skin cancer risk in IBD.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, historical cohort study using the population-based University of Manitoba IBD Epidemiology Database (11 228 IBD cases and 104 725 matched controls) linked to the Manitoba Cancer Registry. Logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed to calculate skin cancer risks prior to and after IBD diagnosis.

RESULTS

Persons with ulcerative colitis (UC) were more likely to have basal cell carcinoma (BCC) predating their UC diagnosis (odds ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08-1.60). Risks of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), other NMSCs, or melanoma prior to IBD diagnosis were not significantly increased. Post-IBD diagnosis, risks of BCC (hazard ratio, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.37-1.70) and SCC (hazard ratio, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.29-2.01) were significantly increased across all IBD groups except for SCC in UC. There was no significant association between melanoma and IBD post-IBD diagnosis. The risks of BCC and melanoma were increased in thiopurine and anti-TNF users, and risk of SCC was increased in only thiopurine users. Nested cohort analysis of persons with IBD with censoring at both thiopurines and anti-TNF use confirmed a higher baseline risk of BCC and no effect on SCC, comparable to pre-IBD diagnosis findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of BCC preceding a diagnosis of UC is higher than in non-UC controls, compared with a generally increased risk of all NMSCs post-IBD diagnosis. Thiopurine and anti-TNF therapy increase the risks for skin cancers in persons with IBD after their diagnoses.

High-Volume Colonic Lavage Is a Safe and Preferred Colonoscopy Preparation for Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background

Colonoscopies provide a crucial diagnostic and surveillance tool for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Accordingly, IBD patients undergo repeated and frequent colonoscopies. The oral purgative bowel prep (BP) is often burdensome on patients, resulting in delayed or missed colonoscopies due to patient noncompliance. Additionally, oral BP has been noted to possibly induce colon mucosal inflammatory changes in some patients, which may be misleading when assessing actual disease activity.

Methods

In this retrospective clinical study, we evaluated the use of an FDA cleared, defecation-inducing high-volume colon irrigation (>40 L) BP to prepare IBD patients for colonoscopy. Data were collected at 4 US Hygieacare centers from September 2016 to March 2021. The IBD patient population consisted of 314 patients that underwent 343 BPs. The BPs were prescribed by 65 physicians and performed by 16 nurses and technicians.

Results

Patient ages were 20-85 years old, 76% females, 24% males, and 97% of the patients were adequately prepared for their colonoscopy (n = 309). Patient satisfaction with the BP was very high, as reflected in postprocedure surveys and open-ended responses text analyses, and there were no serious adverse events.

Conclusions

We present data supporting that the defecation-inducing high-volume colon irrigation BP for colonoscopy is safe, effective, and preferred for IBD patients. Using this BP for IBD patients can allow earlier interventions, significantly impacting disease management and future outcomes.

Surgery, cancer and mortality among patients with ulcerative colitis diagnosed 1962-1987 and followed until 2017 in a Danish population-based inception cohort

BACKGROUND

Long-term data on the natural disease course of unselected patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are limited.

AIMS

To determine the long-term course and prognosis of UC, including patients' risks of surgery, cancer and mortality, in a population-based cohort followed for over 50 years METHODS: All incident patients with UC diagnosed between 1962 and 1987 in Copenhagen County, Denmark were included in a population-based cohort. We extracted information about IBD-related surgeries, cancers and mortality from patient files from 1962 to 1987, and from the Danish National Patient Registry, Cancer Registry, and Register of Causes of Death during 1988-2017. Patients were matched with up to 50 individuals from the general population.

RESULTS

We followed 1161 patients for a median of 34 years (range: 0.1-56.0). Median age at diagnosis was 33 years (range: 2-88). The cumulative probability of colectomy 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years after diagnosis was 22% (95% CI: 20%-25%), 27% (95% CI: 25%-30%), 31% (95% CI: 28%-34%), 34% (95% CI: 31%-37%), and 40% (95% CI: 36%-44%), respectively. The risk of small intestinal, colon, rectal and anal cancer was higher than among controls, as was cancer of the skin, pancreas and thyroid. All-cause mortality was lower than controls (adjusted RR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82-0.99).

CONCLUSION

In this population-based cohort of UC patients diagnosed between 1962 and 1987, 40% underwent colectomy within 50 years of diagnosis. Physicians need to be aware that UC patients are at increased risk of intestinal and extra-intestinal cancers. However, UC patients' risk of mortality is comparable to that of the background population.

Colorectal Cancer Surveillance in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Chromoendoscopy or Non-Chromoendoscopy, That Is the Question

Subjects affected by ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease with colonic localization have an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Surveillance colonoscopy is recommended by international guidelines as it can detect early-stage CRC. Based on previous evidence, in 2015 the Surveillance for Colorectal Endoscopic Neoplasia Detection and Management in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients International Consensus indicated dye chromoendoscopy (DCE) as the most effective technique for detecting dysplasia. However, advances in endoscopic technology such as high-definition colonoscopes and dye-less virtual chromoendoscopy (VCE) may change future practice. In this review, we summarize the available evidence on CRC surveillance in IBD, focusing on the emerging role of high-definition white light endoscopy (HD-WLE) and VCE over the standard DCE, and the current role of random biopsies.

Medical Therapy in Chronic Refractory Ulcerative Colitis: When Enough Is Enough

Despite significant improvements in the management of ulcerative colitis (UC) in parallel with the evolution of therapeutic targets and novel biologics and small molecules, a subset of medically refractory patients still requires colectomy. Recent population-based studies demonstrate a trend toward a decrease in the rates of surgery for UC patients in the biological era, although the potential of disease modification with these agents is still debated. As the concept of irreversible bowel damage is underexplored in UC, refractory patients can be exposed to multiple treatments losing optimal timing for surgery and further developing complications such as dysplasia/cancer, dysmotility, microcolon, and other functional abnormalities. This review aims to discuss the concept of disease progression in UC, explore the limitations of medical treatment in refractory UC patients, and propose the application of a three-step algorithm that allows timely indication for surgery in clinical practice.

Solid extraintestinal malignancies in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Malignancies constitute the second cause of death in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), after cardiovascular diseases. Although it has been postulated that IBD patients are at greater risk of colorectal cancer compared to the general population, lately there has been evidence supporting that this risk is diminishing over time as a result of better surveillance, while the incidence of extraintestinal cancers (EICs) is increasing. This could be attributed either to systemic inflammation caused by IBD or to long-lasting immunosuppression due to IBD treatments. It seems that the overall risk of EICs is higher for Crohn’s disease patients and it is mainly driven by skin cancers, and liver-biliary cancers in patients with IBD and primary sclerosing cholangitis. The aims of this review were first to evaluate the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of EICs in patients with IBD and second to raise awareness regarding a proper surveillance program resulting in early diagnosis, better prognosis and survival, especially in the era of new IBD treatments that are on the way.

Epidemiology of Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease - the Evolving Landscape

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To update changes in the epidemiology of colorectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease over the past decades.

RECENT FINDINGS

Since the mid twentieth century, studies have found that the incidence of colorectal cancer in patients with IBD has been greater than that of the general population, especially for patients with a family history of colorectal cancer, a diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis, and/or pancolitis. While Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are still associated with a risk of colorectal cancer, current treatment approaches and surveillance measures have markedly reduced the risk according to population-based cohort studies such that the risk is now more comparable to that of the general population. It is predicted that by 2025, more than two million patients will be living with inflammatory bowel disease in the United States. As advanced treatment options become available to achieve histologic remissions and as surveillance techniques to detect neoplasia improve, guidelines for surveillance will continue to evolve.

Inflammatory bowel diseases and the risk of adverse health outcomes: Umbrella review of meta-analyses of observational studies

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Accumulating evidence indicates a plausible association between inflammatory bowel diseases and the risk of adverse health outcomes. However, the conclusions are inconsistent. We aimed to perform an umbrella review of meta-analyses to appraise and grade the evidence of the association between inflammatory bowel diseases and the risk of adverse health outcomes.

METHODS

Meta-analyses of observational studies that examined the associations between inflammatory bowel disease and the risk of adverse health outcomes in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were screened.

RESULTS

This umbrella review identified 25 meta-analyses, which yielded 123 effect estimates for 60 unique putative health outcomes. Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases had a higher risk of adverse health outcomes, including multiple cancers, cardiovascular disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, adverse oral outcomes, and other adverse events. Moreover, inflammatory bowel diseases caused greater harm to health based on the presented evidence. However, none of the evidence was classified as "high" quality, only 15% was classified as "moderate," and 65% of outcomes were rated as "very low."

CONCLUSION

Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases had a higher risk of adverse health outcomes and further studies should be conducted to draw firmer conclusions.

Colorectal Cancer Epidemiology: Recent Trends and Impact on Outcomes

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the world with an estimated number of 1.8 million new cases and about 881,000 deaths worldwide in 2018. The epidemiology of CRC varies significantly between different regions in the world as well as between different age, gender and racial groups. Multiple factors are involved in this variation, including risk factor exposure, demographic variations in addition to genetic susceptibility and genetic mutations and their effect on the prognosis and treatment response. In this mini-review, we discuss the recent epidemiological trend including the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer worldwide and the factors affecting these trends.

The Risk of Extraintestinal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Population-based Cohort Studies

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are at increased risk of developing intestinal cancer. However, less is known about the risk of extraintestinal cancers (EICs). The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based cohorts assessing the risk of EICs in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.

METHODS

Only population-based studies reporting on the prevalence or incidence of EICs were included. In total, 884 studies were screened and those included were assessed for quality. Eligible studies were pooled for length of follow-up evaluation, events in the IBD population, and events or expected events in a control population for the meta-analyses.

RESULTS

In total, 40 studies were included in the systematic review and 15 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall risk of EICs was found to be increased in both CD (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 1.43 [CI, 1.26, 1.63]) and UC (IRR: 1.15 [1.02, 1.31]) patients. Both CD and UC patients presented with an increased risk of skin (IRR: CD, 2.22 [1.41-3.48]; UC, 1.38 [1.12-1.71]) and hepatobiliary (IRR: CD, 2.31 [1.25-4.28]; UC, 2.05 [1.52-2.76]) malignancies. Furthermore, CD patients showed an increased risk of hematologic (IRR, 2.40 [1.81-3.18]) and lung (IRR, 1.53 [1.23-1.91]) cancers. These increased risks were present despite treatment with immunosuppressives.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis shows that both CD and UC patients are at an increased risk of developing EICs, both overall and at specific sites. However, additional studies with longer follow-up evaluation are needed to assess the true risk of EICs posed by IBD.

[Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Elderly Patients - What Are Different and What Should We Know?]

As the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are increasing with an ageing population, the incidence and prevalence of IBD in the elderly continue to increase. Older IBD patients can be classified into two groups; elderly-onset IBD patients and elderly IBD patients who were diagnosed at a young age and transitioning into advanced age. Clinicians must consider elderly-onset specific phenotypes or prognosis and age-related concerns in the treatment of elderly IBD patients. There is a paucity of evidence whether there is a different disease process when IBD occurs in older age yet. Clinicians may expect similar therapeutic effects in older and younger patients in drug selection, but since older patients are often excluded from clinical trials, evidence to support this assumption is currently lacking. Also, the risk of side effects may be higher in elderly patients. Therefore, when making management decisions in the elderly, clinicians should assess an individual's frailty rather than only considering an individual's chronological and biological age. Knowing specific requirements for managing older IBD patients may help to make an appropriate therapeutic strategy for this patient group.

From inflammation to colitis-associated colorectal cancer in inflammatory bowel disease: Pathogenesis and impact of current therapies

The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Population-based data from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) estimate that the risk of CRC is approximately 2- to 3-fold that of the general population; patients with Crohn's disease appear to have a similar increased risk. However, the true extent of colitis-associated cancer (CAC) in undertreated IBD is unclear. Data suggest that the size (i.e., severity and extent) and persistence of the inflammatory process is largely responsible for the development of CRC in IBD. As patients with IBD and CRC have a worse prognosis than those without a history of IBD, the impact of current therapies for IBD on CAC is of importance. Chronic inflammation of the gut has been shown to increase the risk of developing CAC in both UC and CD. Therefore, control of inflammation is pivotal to the prevention of CAC. This review presents an overview of the current knowledge of CAC in IBD patients, focusing on the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of CAC and the potential for IBD drugs to interfere with the process of carcinogenesis by reducing the inflammatory process or by modulating pathways directly involved in carcinogenesis.

Endoscopic evaluation of surgically altered bowel in inflammatory bowel disease: a consensus guideline from the Global Interventional Inflammatory Bowel Disease Group

The majority of patients with Crohn's disease and a proportion of patients with ulcerative colitis will ultimately require surgical treatment despite advances in diagnosis, therapy, and endoscopic interventions. The surgical procedures that are most commonly done include bowel resection with anastomosis, strictureplasty, faecal diversion, and ileal pouch. These surgical treatment modalities result in substantial alterations in bowel anatomy. In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, endoscopy plays a key role in the assessment of disease activity, disease recurrence, treatment response, dysplasia surveillance, and delivery of endoscopic therapy. Endoscopic evaluation and management of surgically altered bowel can be challenging. This consensus guideline delineates anatomical landmarks and endoscopic assessment of these landmarks in diseased and surgically altered bowel.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for inflammatory bowel disease 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term for chronic or remitting/relapsing inflammatory diseases of the intestinal tract and generally refers to ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Since 1950, the number of patients with IBD in Japan has been increasing. The etiology of IBD remains unclear; however, recent research data indicate that the pathophysiology of IBD involves abnormalities in disease susceptibility genes, environmental factors and intestinal bacteria. The elucidation of the mechanism of IBD has facilitated therapeutic development. UC and CD display heterogeneity in inflammatory and symptomatic burden between patients and within individuals over time. Optimal management depends on the understanding and tailoring of evidence-based interventions by physicians. In 2020, seventeen IBD experts of the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology revised the previous guidelines for IBD management published in 2016. This English version was produced and modified based on the existing updated guidelines in Japanese. The Clinical Questions (CQs) of the previous guidelines were completely revised and categorized as follows: Background Questions (BQs), CQs, and Future Research Questions (FRQs). The guideline was composed of a total of 69 questions: 39 BQs, 15 CQs, and 15 FRQs. The overall quality of the evidence for each CQ was determined by assessing it with reference to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, and the strength of the recommendation was determined by the Delphi consensus process. Comprehensive up-to-date guidance for on-site physicians is provided regarding indications for proceeding with the diagnosis and treatment.

Risk of Colon Cancer and Recommended Surveillance Strategies in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis

Longstanding and extensive ulcerative colitis (UC) are associated with the subsequent development of colorectal cancer (CRC). This article summarizes key strategies for colonoscopic surveillance, the most widely used and evidence-based method of CRC prevention. As currently constituted and practiced, surveillance examinations every 1 to 3 years with lesion detection and removal using high-definition endoscopic systems with or without pancolonic spray-dye chromoendoscopy is the best method for mitigating the development of CRC morbidity and mortality. For patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis with UC, surveillance should begin at the time of diagnosis and colonoscopy should be performed annually.

Extracolonic Cancer Risk After Total Colectomy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Population-based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk of extracolonic cancers. Little is known regarding this risk following total colectomy [TC].

METHODS

Patients who underwent TC for inflammatory bowel disease in Denmark during 1977-2013 were identified from the Danish National Patient Registry. Incidence rates of extracolonic cancers were determined through record linkage to the Danish Cancer Registry and compared with expected incidence rates in the general population. Standardized incidence ratios [SIRs] were calculated as the observed vs expected cancer incidence.

RESULTS

In total, 4430 patients (3441 with ulcerative colitis [UC]; 989 with Crohn's disease [CD]) were followed for 54,183 person-years after TC. Following their surgery, 372 patients were diagnosed with extracolonic cancer compared to 331 expected [SIR = 1.1 (95% confidence interval {CI}: 1.0-1.2)]. The risk of extracolonic cancer overall was increased among patients with CD and TC (SIR = 1.5 [95% CI: 1.2-1.8]), but not among patients with UC and TC (SIR = 1.0 [95% CI: 0.9-1.2]). Patients with UC and TC had a higher risk of intestinal extracolonic cancer (SIR = 2.0 [95% CI: 1.4-2.7]). Patients with CD and TC had a higher risk of smoking-related cancers (SIR = 1.9 [95% CI: 1.2-2.9]), intestinal extracolonic cancer (SIR = 3.1 [95% CI: 1.6-5.5]) and immune-mediated cancers (SIR = 1.5 [95% CI: 1.0-2.1]).

CONCLUSION

Patients with CD and TC had a higher risk of extracolonic cancer overall compared to the general population, while patients with UC and TC did not. Site-specific cancer risk varied according to inflammatory bowel disease type.

Incidence of Prostate Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis

Background and objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer as well as some extra-intestinal tumors, but there are still limited data about the risk of prostate cancer (PC). To analyze if there is an increased risk of PC in patients affected by IBD, we performed a systematic review with meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: A Pubmed search of all studies comparing standardized incidence ratio (SIR) or odds ratio (OR) or relative risks (RR) of PC between IBD and non IBD groups, published until March 2020 was conducted. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO. Twelve studies, mostly population studies, were included. The quality score of these studies, evaluated by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, was 7. The heterogeneity was high among the studies in which ulcerative colitis (UC) was considered separate from Crohn's disease (CD) and in the studies that considered UC and CD together ("IBD-studies"), while it was low in the studies which considered CD separate from UC. Results: The relative risk of developing PC was 1.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-2.51, p = 0.007) in IBD, 1.10 (95%CI 0.98-1.25, p = 0.116) in CD, and 1.22 (95%CI 0.98-1.51, p = 0.07) in UC. Conclusions: Patients with IBD appear to have a slightly increased risk of PC compared to the general population.

Methylation patterns in dysplasia in inflammatory bowel disease patients

Background and aims: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) with colonic involvement increases colorectal cancer risk. However, the distinction between IBD related and sporadic dysplasia in IBD patients is difficult. Some data favors the importance of abnormal DNA methylation in IBD-related carcinogenesis. We aimed to define methylation patterns in patients with colonic cancer or dysplasia diagnosis following an IBD diagnosis.Methods: Multicentric cross-sectional study-91 samples from colonic mucosa with/without dysplasia from 9 patients with IBD-related dysplasia/cancer and 26 patients with IBD and sporadic dysplasia/cancer were included. Methylation patterns of CpG islands in the promoter regions of 67 genes were studied by Methylation-specific Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification.Results: Mean age at IBD diagnosis: 42 ± 16 years;at dysplasia diagnosis: 56 ± 14 years. Twenty-ninepatients had ulcerative colitis. Twenty-five patients had at least 1 lesion endoscopically described as adenoma-like, 4 at least 1 non-adenoma like, 3 had cancer and 3 had dysplasia in flat mucosa. No patient had both adenoma-like and non-adenoma-like lesions. Patients with an IBD-related lesion were significantly younger at IBD diagnosis (p = .003) and at dysplasia/cancer diagnosis (p = .039). Promoter methylation of IGF2, RARB, ESR1, CHFR, CDH13, WT1, GATA5, WIF1genes was significantly associated to dysplasia/cancer; methylation of MSH6, TIMP3 was significantly associated to IBD-related dysplasia/cancer. Promoter methylation of MSH6, MSH3, RUNX3, CRABP1, TP73, RARB, CDH13, PAX5, WT1, THBS1, TP53, SFRP1, WIF1, APAF1, BCL2 genes was significantly associated to active IBD.Conclusions: Methylation analysis, namely of MSH6, may contribute to the classification of dysplastic lesions in IBD- to be further tested in prospective studies.

Epidemiology, mortality and prevalence of colorectal cancer in ulcerative colitis patients between 2010-2016 in Hungary - a population-based study

Background

The incidence and prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) varies geographically. The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and possibly some other malignancies is increased among patients with UC. It is still debated if patients with UC are at a greater risk of dying compared with the general population. Our aim was to describe the epidemiology and mortality of the Hungarian UC population from 2010 to 2016 and to analyze the associated malignancies with a special focus on CRC.

Methods

This is an observational, descriptive, epidemiological study based on the National Health Insurance Fund social security databases from 2010 to 2016. All adult patients who had at least two events in outpatient care or at least two medication prescriptions, or at least one inpatient event with UC diagnosis were analyzed. Malignancies and CRC were defined using ICD-10 codes. We also evaluated the survival of patients suffering from UC compared with the general population using a 3 to 1 matched random sample (age, gender, geography) from the full population of Hungary.

Results

We found the annual prevalence of UC 0.24–0.34%. The incidence in 2015 was 21.7/100 000 inhabitants. Annual mortality rate was 0.019–0.023%. In this subpopulation, CRC was the most common cancer, followed by non-melanotic skin and prostate cancer. 8.5% of the UC incident subpopulation was diagnosed with CRC. 470 (33%) of the CRC patients died during the course of the study (25% of all deaths were due to CRC), the median survival was 9.6 years. UC patients had significantly worse survival than their matched controls (HR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.56–1.75).

Summary

This is the first population-based study from Eastern Europe to estimate the different malignancies and mortality data amongst Hungarian ulcerative colitis patients. Our results revealed a significantly worse survival of patients suffering from UC compared to the general population.

Diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease-associated neoplasia: considerations in the modern era

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of developing intestinal neoplasia-particularly colorectal neoplasia, including dysplasia and colorectal cancer (CRC)-as a primary consequence of chronic inflammation. While the current incidence of CRC in IBD is lower compared with prior decades, due, in large part, to more effective therapies and improved colonoscopic technologies, CRC still accounts for a significant proportion of IBD-related deaths. The focus of this review is on the pathogenesis; epidemiology, including disease- and patient-related risk factors; diagnosis; surveillance; and management of IBD-associated neoplasia.

Risk of colorectal cancer in a population-based study 20 years after diagnosis of ulcerative colitis: results from the IBSEN study

Objective

The association between ulcerative colitis (UC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) is widely accepted, although attenuated risk has been reported in recent years. Colonoscopic surveillance is recommended with intervals based on established clinical risk factors. Nevertheless, a significant number of patients develop interval cancers, indicating the need of improved individualised assessment. In the present study, we evaluated clinical risk factors associated with CRC during a prescheduled follow-up 20 years after diagnosis, the IBSEN study.

Design

A population-based inception cohort of patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease from 1 January 1990 until 31 December 1993, prospectively followed at 1, 5, 10 and 20 years after diagnosis. A total of 517 patients with UC were included; 264 (51 %) men; median age at inclusion 37.4 years (4–88).

Results

The overall incidence of CRC was 1.6% (8/517) at a 20-year follow-up. The total lifetime risk of CRC prior to or after UC diagnosis was 2.3%. (12/517). Patients older than 70 years at diagnosis had a 15-fold higher risk of CRC compared with those diagnosed when younger than 40 years, with HR 15.68 (95% CI: 1.31 to 187.92). Neither sex, first-degree relative with CRC, extent of colitis nor primary sclerosing cholangitis affected the risk of CRC.

Conclusion

The risk of CRC in UC was low and comparable with the risk of CRC in the background population of Norway.

Interval Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The Role of Guideline Adherence

BACKGROUND

Factors associated with interval colorectal cancer (CRC) development in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) population remain unclear.

AIMS

Among a cohort of patients with interval CRC, we aimed to evaluate IBD characteristics, colonoscopy quality indicators, and surveillance guideline adherence.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of IBD- and non-IBD-associated interval CRCs diagnosed between January 2007 and December 2014 within a large US healthcare system. We evaluated risk factors for CRC among patients with IBD. We assessed adherence to surveillance guidelines according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (IBD surveillance) and the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer (polyp surveillance). We compared colonoscopy quality measures between patients with and without IBD.

RESULTS

Among 5345 cases of colonic adenocarcinoma, we detected 15 IBD-associated cases of interval CRC and 230 non-IBD-associated cases of interval CRC. Compared to patients without IBD, IBD patients were younger (54.5 vs. 70.4 years; p < 0.0001) and experienced a shorter interval between index colonoscopy and CRC diagnosis (20.7 vs. 35.1 months; p = 0.0009). Fifty three percent (8/15) of interval CRCs in IBD patients were detected within surveillance guidelines. All IBD patients with interval CRC detected after guideline surveillance interval had high-risk features, including active inflammation, previous low-grade or indefinite dysplasia, multiple pseudopolyps on index colonoscopy, or a first-degree relative with CRC. There were no differences in colonoscopy quality measures between patients with and without IBD.

CONCLUSIONS

This study stresses the importance of strict short-interval surveillance for IBD patients with high-risk features, including active inflammation on index colonoscopy.

British Society of Gastroenterology consensus guidelines on the management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are the principal forms of inflammatory bowel disease. Both represent chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which displays heterogeneity in inflammatory and symptomatic burden between patients and within individuals over time. Optimal management relies on understanding and tailoring evidence-based interventions by clinicians in partnership with patients. This guideline for management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults over 16 years of age was developed by Stakeholders representing UK physicians (British Society of Gastroenterology), surgeons (Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland), specialist nurses (Royal College of Nursing), paediatricians (British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition), dietitians (British Dietetic Association), radiologists (British Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology), general practitioners (Primary Care Society for Gastroenterology) and patients (Crohn's and Colitis UK). A systematic review of 88 247 publications and a Delphi consensus process involving 81 multidisciplinary clinicians and patients was undertaken to develop 168 evidence- and expert opinion-based recommendations for pharmacological, non-pharmacological and surgical interventions, as well as optimal service delivery in the management of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Comprehensive up-to-date guidance is provided regarding indications for, initiation and monitoring of immunosuppressive therapies, nutrition interventions, pre-, peri- and postoperative management, as well as structure and function of the multidisciplinary team and integration between primary and secondary care. Twenty research priorities to inform future clinical management are presented, alongside objective measurement of priority importance, determined by 2379 electronic survey responses from individuals living with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, including patients, their families and friends.

British Society of Gastroenterology consensus guidelines on the management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are the principal forms of inflammatory bowel disease. Both represent chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which displays heterogeneity in inflammatory and symptomatic burden between patients and within individuals over time. Optimal management relies on understanding and tailoring evidence-based interventions by clinicians in partnership with patients. This guideline for management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults over 16 years of age was developed by Stakeholders representing UK physicians (British Society of Gastroenterology), surgeons (Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland), specialist nurses (Royal College of Nursing), paediatricians (British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition), dietitians (British Dietetic Association), radiologists (British Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology), general practitioners (Primary Care Society for Gastroenterology) and patients (Crohn's and Colitis UK). A systematic review of 88 247 publications and a Delphi consensus process involving 81 multidisciplinary clinicians and patients was undertaken to develop 168 evidence- and expert opinion-based recommendations for pharmacological, non-pharmacological and surgical interventions, as well as optimal service delivery in the management of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Comprehensive up-to-date guidance is provided regarding indications for, initiation and monitoring of immunosuppressive therapies, nutrition interventions, pre-, peri- and postoperative management, as well as structure and function of the multidisciplinary team and integration between primary and secondary care. Twenty research priorities to inform future clinical management are presented, alongside objective measurement of priority importance, determined by 2379 electronic survey responses from individuals living with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, including patients, their families and friends.

Risk of Malignant Cancers in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

OBJECTIVES

To explore the trends and the predictors of incident malignant cancer among patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD].

METHODS

We identified a cohort of all patients with incident IBD in Quebec, Canada, from 1998 to 2015, using provincial administrative health-care databases [RAMQ and Med-Echo]. Annual incidence rates [IRs] of cancer were calculated using Poisson regression and were compared with those of the Quebec population using standardized incidence ratios [SIRs ]. Temporal trends in these rates were evaluated by fitting generalized linear models. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios [ORs] for predictors associated with cancer development.

RESULTS

The cohort included 35 985 patients with IBD, of which 2275 developed cancers over a mean follow-up of 8 years (IR 785.6 per 100 000 persons per year; 95% confidence interval [CI] 754.0-818.5). The rate of colorectal cancer decreased significantly from 1998 to 2015 [p < 0.05 for linear trend], but the incidence remained higher than expected, compared with the Quebec population [SIR 1.39; 95% CI 1.19-1.60]. Rates of extraintestinal cancers increased non-significantly over time [p = 0.11 for linear trend]. In the IBD cohort, chronic kidney disease [OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.17-1.43], respiratory diseases [OR 1.07; 95% CI 1.02-1.12], and diabetes mellitus [OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.01-1.11] were associated with an increase in the incidence of cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The decreasing rates of colorectal cancer suggest improved management and care in IBD. Further studies are needed to explore the impact of comorbid conditions on the risk of cancer in IBD.

Colorectal carcinoma in the course of inflammatory bowel diseases

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are the most prevalent diseases of the digestive system, and their association is unequivocal. A long-standing inflammatory process is one of the causes of sporadic as well as inherited cancers as it impacts on malignant transformation in a wide variety of neoplastic diseases, including colorectal cancer.

Methods

An extensive publication search was performed in Medline and PubMed database. The keywords: colorectal carcinoma, inflammation, Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease were used.

Results

The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) and toll like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways are clearly involved in the inflammatory process and are therefore implicated in the transformation of normal colonic mucosa to premalignant and malignant disease. Focal sites of inflammation could significantly increase the risk of initiation and development of cancer. Altered inflammatory activity is likely to be a result of either a disturbance of intestinal bacterial flora or an inadequate cellular response to it. Additionally, increasing the level of inflammation-related factors may also interfere with the control of cellular proliferation.

Conclusions

This review shows an overview of the genetic and environmental factors that appear to influence both the occurrence of IBD and CRC with particular reference to NOD2 and TLRs as well as pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines associated with tumor initiation and progression (encompassing both tumor invasion and metastases), as they constitute potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

Immunomodulator-associated Epstein-Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer in a patient with refractory Crohn's disease

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive mucocutaneous ulcer is a B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder occurring in elderly or iatrogenic immunocompromised patients. We report a 27-year-old male patient with Crohn's disease (CD) who developed immunomodulator-associated lymphoproliferative disorder. The patient was diagnosed with CD at the age of 17 and was treated with maintenance therapy including high-dose infliximab and azathioprine. When he was admitted to our hospital with a diagnosis of intestinal obstruction, his abdominal computed tomography findings showed not only colonic wall thickening and narrowing of the descending colon but also multiple liver tumor lesions. His ileus symptom improved with conservative therapy, and a pathological evaluation of the tissue biopsy specimens from the descending colon and liver lesions indicated a morphological diagnosis of EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. This was a case of iatrogenic immunodeficiency-associated lymphoproliferative disorder due to an immunomodulator. The treatment was initiated with chemotherapy, but he died of disease progression 10 months after the diagnosis of lymphoma. Although cases of lymphoproliferative disorder due to treatment modalities used for CD are rare in Japan, an increase in the risk of lymphoproliferative diseases should be considered in patients with CD treated with immunomodulatory agents.

[Hodgkin's lymphoma associated with inflammatory bowel disease treated with thiopurines. A case report and review of the literature]

The risk of developing a lymphoproliferative disease associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been a controversial issue for decades; it is debatable whether the risk is associated with the chronic inflammation of IBD per se or its treatment, especially with thiopurine drugs (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) and anti-TNF-α agents. We present an unusual case of a 35-year-old man who had been diagnosed with Crohn's disease at age 17 and treated with azathioprine, presenting years later with an intestinal Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Risk factors for colorectal neoplasia in patients with underlying inflammatory bowel disease: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

This study sought to evaluate the risk factors for the development of colitis-associated neoplasia (CAN) in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

IBD patients who developed CAN between 1999 and 2016 were identified from eight medical centers. In addition to initial pathology evaluation, a CAN diagnosis was confirmed by two expert pathologists. Patients with CAN (n = 29) were compared with non-CAN controls (n = 87). Matching was performed for gender and IBD type with a ratio of three controls to one subject.

RESULTS

Of the 29 patients with CAN, 8 (27.6%) had colorectal cancer (CRC), 20 (69.0%) had a final diagnosis of low-grade dysplasia and 1 (3.4%) had high-grade dysplasia. Multivariate analysis revealed that an older age at the time of IBD diagnosis and a longer IBD duration were independent risk factors for the development of CAN, with odds ratios of 1.09 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-1.14, P < 0.001] and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.03-1.27, P = 0.013), respectively. Comparison between IBD patients with CRC and those with dysplasia indicated that the former were older at the time of IBD diagnosis (P = 0.012) and had longer IBD durations (P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

Older age at the time of IBD diagnosis and longer IBD duration were found to be associated with the development of CAN in IBD patients.

Natural Disease Course of Ulcerative Colitis During the First Five Years of Follow-up in a European Population-based Inception Cohort-An Epi-IBD Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Few population-based cohort studies have assessed the disease course of ulcerative colitis [UC] in the era of biological therapy and widespread use of immunomodulators. The aim of this study was to assess the 5-year outcome and disease course of patients with UC in the Epi-IBD cohort.

METHODS

In a prospective, population-based inception cohort of unselected patients with UC, patients were followed up from the time of their diagnosis, which included the collection of their clinical data, demographics, disease activity, medical therapy, and rates of surgery, cancers, and deaths. Associations between outcomes and multiple covariates were analysed by Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 717 patients were included in the study. During follow-up, 43 [6%] patients underwent a colectomy and 163 [23%] patients were hospitalised. Of patients with limited colitis [distal to the left flexure], 90 [21%] progressed to extensive colitis. In addition, 92 [27%] patients with extensive colitis experienced a regression in disease extent, which was associated with a reduced risk of hospitalisation (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.5 95% CI: 0.3-0.8]. Overall, patients were treated similarly in both geographical regions; 80 [11%] patients needed biological therapy and 210 [29%] patients received immunomodulators. Treatment with immunomodulators was found to reduce the risk of hospitalisation [HR: 0.5 95% CI: 0.3-0.8].

CONCLUSIONS

Although patients in this population-based cohort were treated more aggressively with immunomodulators and biological therapy than in cohorts from the previous two decades, their disease outcomes, including colectomy rates, were no different. However, treatment with immunomodulators was found to reduce the risk of hospitalisation.

Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), principally resulting from the pro-neoplastic effects of chronic intestinal inflammation. Epidemiologic studies continue to highlight the increased risk of CRC in IBD. However, the incidence has declined over the past 30 years, attributed to both successful CRC-surveillance programs and improved control of mucosal inflammation. Risk factors that further increase the risk of IBD-related CRC include disease duration, extent and severity, the presence of inflammatory pseudopolyps, coexistent primary sclerosing cholangitis, and a family history of CRC. All major professional societies agree that IBD-CRC surveillance should occur more frequently than in the general population. Yet, guidelines and consensus statements differ on the surveillance schedule and preferred method of surveillance. Improved sensitivity to previously "invisible" flat dysplastic lesions using high definition and chromoendoscopy methods has resulted in many guidelines abandoning requirements for random untargeted biopsies of the colon. While colonic dysplasia remains a worrisome finding, and several clinical scenarios remain best addressed by total proctocolectomy due to concerns of synchronous undetected lesions and the unpredictable tempo of progression to malignancy, better detection techniques have also increased opportunities for endoscopic resection of dysplastic lesions that can be clearly delineated. Finally, the expanding armamentarium of medical options in IBD, including anti-tumor necrosis factor and anti-adhesion biologic therapies, have substantially improved our ability to control severe inflammation and likely reduce the risk of CRC over time.