The London Position Statement of the World Congress of Gastroenterology on Biological Therapy for IBD with the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation: pregnancy and pediatrics

Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α therapy may not be safe during pregnancy in women with inflammatory bowel disease: an updated meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) affects reproductive-aged women. Active disease can lead to decreased fertility. Although the vast majority of international guidelines recommend for the continuation of anti-TNF-α during pregnancy, recent studies have raised concerns about the safety of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) therapy during pregnancy, both for patients and for physicians.

METHODS

Studies that evaluate the safety of anti-TNF-α therapy in pregnant women with IBD were identified using bibliographical searches. An updated meta-analysis was performed for pregnancy outcomes, such as live birth, abortion, still birth, preterm birth, low birth weight, congenital abnormalities, and neonatal infection. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) are reported. Data on disease activity, timing of anti-TNF-α therapy were collected for further analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 11 studies were screened from on-line databases and international meeting abstracts. An increased risk of abortion (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.02-1.74; P = 0.04) and preterm birth (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.05-1.28; P = 0.004), and a decreased risk of live birth (OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74-0.94; P = 0.002]) were found in the anti-TNF-α therapy group compared with the control group (no use of anti-TNF-α therapy). The subgroup analyses based on the disease activity showed there is no significant association between the use of anti-TNF-α therapy during pregnancy on adverse pregnancy outcomes of abortion, preterm birth, and live birth. The rates of still birth, low birth weight, and congenital abnormalities in the anti-TNF-α therapy group were not significantly different from those in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-TNF-α therapy does not increase the risks of still birth, low birth weight, and congenital abnormalities; however it may be assicated with increased risks of abortion and preterm birth, which are accompanied by a lower rate of live birth. Although these findings may be confounding by potential disease activity, they offer some opposite viewpoints with biologic agent use. Therefore, more studies are required to further confirm the safety of anti-TNF-α therapy in pregnancy with IBD.

Decreased Risk of Preeclampsia in Women with Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that upregulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) plays a role in immune dysregulation in both preeclampsia and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIMS

We aimed to investigate whether anti-TNF therapy during pregnancy decreases the risk of preeclampsia in women with IBD.

METHODS

The study population included women with IBD and pregnancies who were followed at a tertiary care center from 2007 to 2021. Cases of preeclampsia were compared with controls with a normotensive pregnancy. Data on patient demographics, disease type and activity, pregnancy complications, and additional risk factors for preeclampsia were collected. The association between anti-TNF therapy and preeclampsia was analyzed using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Women with preeclampsia were more likely to have a preterm delivery (44% vs. 12%, p < 0.001). More women without preeclampsia were exposed to anti-TNF therapy during pregnancy than women with preeclampsia (55% vs. 30%, p = 0.029). The majority of women (32/44) on anti-TNF therapy, either adalimumab or infliximab, continued to have some degree of exposure during the third trimester. Though not significant, multivariate analysis showed a trend towards a protective effect of anti-TNF therapy against developing preeclampsia if exposed during the third trimester (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.14-1.12, p = 0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, anti-TNF therapy exposure was higher in IBD patients who did not develop preeclampsia than in those who did. While not significant, there was a trend towards a protective effect of anti-TNF therapy against preeclampsia if exposed during the third trimester.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Childbearing Adult and Newborn

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often affects people in their childbearing years and has implications for pregnancy outcomes, particularly as related to increased risk of preterm delivery and effects of immunosuppressive medications on the fetus. Ideally, people with IBD should attempt conception at a time when their disease is in remission to optimize pregnancy outcomes and reduce risks of flares. Generally, pregnant individuals should continue immunosuppressive medications throughout gestation in an attempt to control the disease. Maternal risks of IBD in pregnancy include exacerbated anemia, disease flare, cesarean delivery, and treatment risks. Fetal and neonatal risks include preterm birth, low birthweight, and medication exposures. There are too few clinical trials that include pregnant or breastfeeding patients to analyze the risk/benefit profile of immunosuppressive medications for IBD treatment during pregnancy, limiting the amount of data available to guide medical treatment in this population. More studies are needed on IBD therapies, particularly as more biologics are developed and become the mainstay of treatment. Neonatal clinicians should be aware of in utero medication exposure to help guide decisions regarding newborn care.

Management of biologics in pregnant, lactating patients with inflammatory bowel disease and the impact on neonatal vaccination: A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

The management of biological agents during pregnancy poses challenges as maternal and infant safety must be addressed. This study aims to compare the recommendations of existing guidelines on managing the use of biologics during pregnancy, lactation for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, and the influence on neonatal vaccination.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, China Science and Technology Journal Database and China Biomedical Database were systematically searched from the inception date to 11 May 2022, to screen all relevant guidelines. Quality assessment was performed using the guideline methodology reporting tool AGREE II.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Fourteen guidelines and consensus statements with detailed recommendations were included. All guidance documents cover management comments during pregnancy, and most consider that biologics can be given safely during pregnancy but require suspension at the right time to protect the foetus. However, the roles of vedolizumab and ustekinumab are disputed. Five documents guide lactation and the use of most biologics during lactation is safe, but no guidelines recommend vedolizumab. Six papers provide recommendations for newborns' vaccination, suggesting a delay in infants' live vaccination schedule if their mothers are treated with biologics.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Our study concluded that future guidelines could consider incorporating newer, more robust evidence to update recommendations. The development of future guidelines needs to consider the involvement of multidisciplinary experts, adequately report on the evidence retrieval process, and provide strategies for implementation. Besides, more research is needed to explore the use of biologics during pregnancy and lactation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Contribution of the ex vivo placental perfusion model in understanding transplacental immunoglobulin G transfer

INTRODUCTION

The acquisition of humoral immunity in utero is essential for the fetus. The crucial protein, which is responsible for this part of immunity, is immunoglobulin-G (IgG). Immune functions of IgGs are mediated via the interaction of the crystallizable fragment (Fc) region of IgG with specific Fc γ receptors (FcγRs). However, an atypical FcγR, the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), is a key regulator of IgG transfer across the human placenta. During the last four decades ex vivo placental perfusion studies have contributed significantly to the study of mechanisms of IgG transfer across the multicellular placental barrier.

METHOD

A PubMed search was conducted by using specific keywords: placenta, perfusion and IgG to review manuscripts using human placental perfusion to study the transplacental transfer of IgG. Relevant studies found in reference lists of these manuscripts were also added to the review, and references were included that supported or gave nuance to the discussion of the mechanisms of IgG kinetics in the placenta.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

We found twenty publications on the study of transplacental transfer of IgG using human ex vivo placental perfusion, by research groups with partly different settings. This review summarizes knowledge about placental IgG transfer, with a strong focus on the contributions from ex vivo placental perfusion studies.

Vedolizumab Antagonizes MAdCAM-1-Dependent Human Placental Cytotrophoblast Adhesion and Invasion In Vitro

BACKGROUND

Anti-α4β7 (Vedolizumab) treats inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by blocking the interaction between integrin α4β7 on leukocytes and mucosal addressin cell-adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1) on the gut endothelium. Women with IBD often require continuing biologic therapy during pregnancy to avoid disease flare. To date, there have been no reports of an increase in adverse events with Vedolizumab use during pregnancy. Notably, integrins play a major role in human placental development during pregnancy. It is unknown whether Vedolizumab disrupts placental cell (cytotrophoblast) invasion and/or adhesion by blocking interactions with MAdCAM-1. We therefore investigated human placental expression of MAdCAM-1, the role of MAdCAM-1/α4β7 interactions in cytotrophoblast invasion/adhesion in vitro, and whether Vedolizumab administration in vivo alters the placental structure.

METHODS

Histological sections of placentas from normal pregnancies were evaluated for MAdCAM-1 expression by immunofluorescence. The impacts of Vedolizumab or anti-integrin β7 on human cytotrophoblast invasion and adhesion were assessed. Histology results from term placentas of 2 patients with IBD receiving Vedolizumab were compared to those of untreated healthy controls.

RESULTS

Placental MAdCAM-1 expression was predominantly associated with invading extravillous cytotrophoblasts at the maternal-fetal interface. Treatment of isolated primary cytotrophoblasts with Vedolizumab or anti-integrin β7 significantly reduced Matrigel invasion, adherence to a MAdCAM-1-coated substrate, and interactions with HuT-78 cells. Placentas from 2 Vedolizumab-treated patients with IBD exhibited pronounced pathologic features as compared to healthy control specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed a previously unrecognized role for α4β7 and MAdCAM-1 in human placentation. More clinical and histological data from Vedolizumab-treated pregnant patients will be necessary to determine whether this medication poses any risk to the mother and fetus.

Therapeutic drug monitoring in inflammatory bowel disease: At the right time in the right place

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was one of most sought-after objective tools to determine therapeutic efficiency of different biologics and its role in the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) was regarded with great anticipation. But implementation of the TDM in clinical practice was challenged by several factors including uncertainty of the optimal cut-off values, assay variable sensitivity in detecting drug levels and antibodies and, most importantly, individual pharmacokinetics. While reactive TDM was embraced in clinical practice as a useful tool in assessing lack of response to therapy, the utility of proactive TDM in managing IBD therapy is still challenged by the lack of consistency between evidence. Described here, there are four groups of IBD patients for whom proactive TDM has the potential to greatly impact their therapeutic outcomes: Patients with perianal Crohn’s disease, patients with severe ulcerative colitis, pregnant women with IBD and children. As the future of IBD management moves towards personalizing treatment, TDM will be an important decision node in a machine learning based algorithm predicting the best strategy to maximize treatment results while minimizing the loss of response to therapy.

Management of inflammatory bowel disease and serum level of infliximab in newborn exposed to anti-TNF therapy during pregnancy: Case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Heightened inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) activity during pregnancy is associated with higher rates of preterm birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight. Therefore, its adequate treatment is essential, considering the risk-benefit of medication use. Although previous literature has described the management of IBD during pregnancy, few studies have assessed the pharmacokinetics of IBD drugs in the newborn. In this case report, we describe the management of ulcerative colitis during pregnancy and discuss the benefits of checking serum levels of infliximab in newborns exposed to the medication during pregnancy.

PATIENT CONCERN

A 37-year-old patient with ulcerative colitis in clinical and endoscopic remission had been undergoing treated with infliximab since 2008. The patient became pregnant in 2018.

DIAGNOSIS AND INTERVENTION

Infliximab medication was discontinued at the 29th week of pregnancy.

OUTCOMES

The pregnancy was uneventful, and the levels of infliximab in the umbilical cord were >20 μg/dL. Live vaccinations were postponed until the baby was 6 months old, when a new serum drug level proved to be undetectable.

LESSONS

Our case suggests that the use of infliximab is safe in pregnancy, and drug discontinuation could be considered from the 24th week of pregnancy onward to reduce placental transfer to the newborn in patients at low risk of relapse. Vaccines with live attenuated organisms should be delayed for at least 6 months or until the serum level of the medication is undetectable.

Safety of anti-TNF agents in pregnancy

Inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Active maternal disease during pregnancy is associated with additional negative outcomes. Anti-TNF agents are effective treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis. These agents cross the placenta starting in the second trimester, with levels detected for several months after birth. This has led to safety concerns, with continued therapy during pregnancy for both the mother and the infant. This review covers retrospective and prospective data published from various cohorts of pregnant women exposed to anti-TNF agents during pregnancy. It highlights the safety of anti-TNF drugs in pregnancy, breast-feeding, and during the first year of life of the infant.

Safety of New Biologics (Vedolizumab and Ustekinumab) and Small Molecules (Tofacitinib) During Pregnancy: A Review

Two new biological drugs (vedolizumab and ustekinumab) and one small molecule (tofacitinib) have been recently approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Therefore, we must be familiar with the safety of these "new" drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In the present article, we critically review available data on the safety of new biologics (vedolizumab and ustekinumab) and small molecules (tofacitinib) during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with special focus on women with inflammatory bowel disease. Bibliographical searches (MEDLINE) up to April 2020 were performed. The timing and mechanisms of placental transfer of vedolizumab and ustekinumab are expected to be similar to anti-TNF agents. Animal studies show no evidence of adverse effects on pre- or post-natal development after administration of vedolizumab and ustekinumab. Just a few studies including patients treated with vedolizumab or ustekinumab during pregnancy have been published, reporting uneventful pregnancies in most cases. The clinical programme of both drugs and post-marketing studies showed no new safety concerns. Due to the expected safety of vedolizumab and ustekinumab during pregnancy, it may be recommended to plan the final pregnancy dose approximately 8 or 12 weeks, respectively, before the estimated date of delivery. Live vaccines should be avoided for up to a year in children exposed in utero to vedolizumab or ustekinumab unless drug elimination has been documented. Miniscule amounts of vedolizumab and ustekinumab are transferred to breast milk, so breastfeeding is probably safe. There is no evidence of adverse effect of vedolizumab or ustekinumab paternal exposure. Regarding tofacitinib, it is reasonable to assume that this molecule crosses the placenta from the beginning of pregnancy. In animal studies, tofacitinib was feticidal and teratogenic in rats and rabbits, although at exposures many times greater than the standard human dose. Reported outcomes of pregnancy cases identified from tofacitinib randomised controlled trials, post-approval and non-interventional studies, and spontaneous adverse-event reporting appear similar to those observed in the general population. Nevertheless, at present, the use of tofacitinib during pregnancy should be avoided. Although no human studies have reported outcomes of breastfeeding with small molecules such as tofacitinib, this drug is present in lactating rat milk so, at present, breastfeeding should be avoided. Pregnancy among patients with paternal exposure to tofacitinib appears to be safe. In summary, we can conclude that new biologic agents (vedolizumab and ustekinumab) and small molecules (tofacitinib) should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the mother and unborn child.

Biologics During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Among Women With Rheumatic Diseases: Safety Clinical Evidence on the Road

Females are generally more affected by autoimmune diseases, a fact that underlines the relationship with pregnancy and the safety of anti-rheumatic drugs in pregnancy and lactation. Biologic therapies are increasingly prescribed to treat and maintain remission in a significant number of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The experience with the use of biologics during gestation is extremely lacking because of the observational nature of the available studies and the difficulty in designing proper clinical trials in pregnancy. Among the studied biologics, more information was published on TNFα inhibitors and, in particular, on their potential passage through the placenta and impact on the fetus. Currently, a fragment of anti-TNFα monoclonal IgG, certolizumab pegol, is considered safe with almost no placental transfer. Subsequent observations are suggesting a comparable safety for the soluble TNFα receptor etanercept. Another biologic, eculizumab, the anti-C5a antibody used to treat complement-mediated microangiopathies, is also considered safe due to the unique engineered IgG2/4κ formulation that limits its passage through the placental barrier. Still, long-term data about children born to women treated with biologics in pregnancy are not attainable. Data on breastfeeding are currently available for several biologics. This article reviews the literature available about which drugs are considered safe during pregnancy and lactation, which are not, and on future prospects.

Rheumatology-led pregnancy clinic: enhancing the care of women with rheumatic diseases during pregnancy

The autoimmune rheumatic diseases have a clear predilection for women. Consequently, issues regarding family planning and pregnancy are a vital component of the management of these patients. Not only does pregnancy by itself causes physiologic/immunologic changes that impact disease activity but also women living with inflammatory arthritic conditions face the additional challenges of reduced fecundity and worsened pregnancy outcomes. Many women struggle to find adequate information to guide them on pregnancy planning, lactation and early parenting in relation to their chronic condition. This article discusses the gaps in the care provided to women living with inflammatory arthritis in standard practice and how a rheumatology nurse-led pregnancy clinic would fill such gap, consequently enhance the care provided and ensure appropriate education is provided to these individuals who represent the majority of the patients attending the rheumatology outpatient clinics. Such specialist care is expected to cover the whole journey as it is expected to provide high-quality care before, during and after pregnancy.

Management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in Special Populations: Obese, Old, or Obstetric

The epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is progressively evolving impacting the type of patients with IBD we will see in clinical practice. In this review, we discuss specific challenges and solutions in the management of (1) obese, (2) older and (3) obstetric (pregnant) patients with IBD. With the global obesity epidemic, almost 1 in 3 patients with IBD are obese. Obesity is associated with greater difficulty in achieving remission, higher risk of disease relapse and higher burden and costs of hospitalization in patients with IBD. Obese patients also have inferior response to biologic therapy related to altered pharmacokinetics and obesity-mediated chronic inflammation. Surgical management of obese patients with IBD is also challenging. Similar to obesity, the prevalence of IBD in older patients is rising and it is anticipated that almost one-third of patients with IBD will be older than 60 years within the next decade. Older patients present unique diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas, and management of these individuals warrants careful consideration of the risks of disease-related versus treatment-related complications, non-IBD-related extra-intestinal complications (eg, cardiovascular disease, malignancy), in the context of individual values, preferences, functional status and comorbidities. With evolving therapeutics, medical management of IBD surrounding pregnancy continues to be challenging. Overall, the management of pregnant patients requires a pro-active, multidisciplinary approach, with an emphasis on optimal disease control not just during, but prior to pregnancy. This often involves continuation of highly effective therapies, of which the vast majority are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, resulting in a reduction of risk of adverse maternal fetal outcomes.

The impact of pregnancy on biologic therapies for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Active inflammatory bowel disease during conception and pregnancy has been associated with adverse materno-fetal outcomes. Patients are often unduly concerned about the adverse effects of biologic medications on the growing fetus, however, continuing therapy is advised, with potential risks of therapy outweighed by the risks of active maternal disease. A number of physiological changes associated with pregnancy can alter the absorption, distribution and elimination of these therapies, which may impact on their safety and efficacy. We review the current evidence regarding the effects of pregnancy on the pharmacokinetics of biologic therapies, as well as drug concentration measurements during pregnancy and at time of delivery. A greater understanding of the impact of pregnancy on the pharmacokinetics of biologic therapies and the emerging utilisation of drug concentration monitoring during pregnancy may lead to improved materno-fetal outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Efficacy of Tumour Necrosis Factor-alpha therapy in paediatric Crohn's disease patients with perianal lesions: a systematic review

Introduction: Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) therapy, primarily infliximab and adalimumab, are now increasingly used to induce and maintain disease remission in the pediatric perianal Crohn's disease (CD) population, however, their optimal use has not yet been defined in the pediatric setting.Areas covered: In accordance with a published protocol (PROSPERO no. CRD42019118838), we systematically and critically evaluated all published evidence on the efficacy and safety of anti-TNF-α in children with perianal CD, in the PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane and clinicalTrials.gov databases until October, 18^th, 2018. We included in our systematic review 29 articles yielding a total of 565 perianal CD patients aged between 9 months to 18 years.Expert opinion: According to low-quality evidence from small, uncontrolled and heterogeneous descriptive studies, and very few randomized controlled trial, nearly three-fifths children with perianal CD achieved remission with anti-TNF-α treatment and in approximately 40% remission was maintained after 12 months, with practically low discontinuation rate due to serious adverse events. More than half of the patients achieved complete fistula closure. There is still a need for more robust evidence adequately assessing the efficacy and safety of anti-TNF-α therapy in pediatric perianal CD, as well as in comparison with other therapies.

Effect of biologicals and JAK inhibitors during pregnancy on health-related outcomes in children of women with inflammatory bowel disease

Current guidelines advise to maintain immunomodulators and biologicals in pregnant patients because relapse of inflammatory bowel is associated with unfavourable pregnancy outcome. With the exception of Methotrexate, IBD therapy seems not to be related to an increase of congenital malformations or infections requiring hospitalisation of the babies, although the effect the on the developing immune system of the exposed infants remains unknown. In this review we will focus on the effect of IBD drugs on health-related outcomes in children taking into account possible long-term effects of biologicals and immunomodulators, which are transferred across the placenta.

A Pharmacological Approach to Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease During Conception, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Biologic and Oral Small Molecule Therapy

The inflammatory bowel diseases commonly affect individuals during their peak reproductive years. Patients are often concerned about the impact of medical therapies on their ability to conceive, effect on the fetus, as well as the ability to breastfeed, which has led to poor medical adherence during pregnancy. However, most medications are safe, and discontinuation may lead to active disease, which is associated with adverse materno-fetal outcomes. The anti-TNF biologic therapies, infliximab and adalimumab have been extensively studied in the context of pregnancy. They are actively transferred to the placenta during the second and third trimesters; these have not been associated with an increased rate of congenital abnormalities or fetal death. The minimal amounts of drug that are transferred to breast milk are proteolyzed by the infant's digestive system with no reported short- or long-term adverse effects. There is a paucity of clinical data for the other approved anti-TNF agents or newer anti-integrin (vedolizumab) and anti-interleukin (ustekinumab) therapies used in the management of inflammatory bowel disease; however, no significant safety signals have been documented thus far. The new oral small molecule therapy, tofacitinib is teratogenic in animal models and is contra-indicated in patients attempting pregnancy. It is important that patients, as well as physicians managing patients with these conditions, be aware of the impact of these medical therapies during pregnancy.

2019 update of EULAR recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases

To update the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) published in 2011. Four systematic literature reviews were performed regarding the incidence/prevalence of vaccine-preventable infections among patients with AIIRD; efficacy, immunogenicity and safety of vaccines; effect of anti-rheumatic drugs on the response to vaccines; effect of vaccination of household of AIIRDs patients. Subsequently, recommendations were formulated based on the evidence and expert opinion. The updated recommendations comprise six overarching principles and nine recommendations. The former address the need for an annual vaccination status assessment, shared decision-making and timing of vaccination, favouring vaccination during quiescent disease, preferably prior to the initiation of immunosuppression. Non-live vaccines can be safely provided to AIIRD patients regardless of underlying therapy, whereas live-attenuated vaccines may be considered with caution. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination should be strongly considered for the majority of patients with AIIRD. Tetanus toxoid and human papilloma virus vaccination should be provided to AIIRD patients as recommended for the general population. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B and herpes zoster vaccination should be administered to AIIRD patients at risk. Immunocompetent household members of patients with AIIRD should receive vaccines according to national guidelines, except for the oral poliomyelitis vaccine. Live-attenuated vaccines should be avoided during the first 6 months of life in newborns of mothers treated with biologics during the second half of pregnancy. These 2019 EULAR recommendations provide an up-to-date guidance on the management of vaccinations in patients with AIIRD.

Evaluation of the Developmental Toxicity of Vedolizumab, an α4β7 Receptor Antagonist, in Rabbit and Nonhuman Primate

Vedolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease, targets α₄β₇ integrin and selectively blocks gut-specific lymphocyte trafficking. The potential effects of vedolizumab on development were assessed by standard preclinical toxicity studies in rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys. A single infusion of vedolizumab (0, 10, 30, or 100 mg/kg) was administered intravenously to pregnant rabbits on gestational day 7; rabbits were monitored to gestational day 29. Vedolizumab (0, 10, or 100 mg/kg) was administered intravenously every 2 weeks to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys beginning on gestational day 20 with the last dose on gestational day 132 (9 doses total). In rabbits, vedolizumab did not affect maternal net body weight or net gains, gravid uterine weights, or mean maternal food consumption, nor did it affect intrauterine growth or fetal survival. There were also no vedolizumab effects on embryo–fetal development compared to controls. In cynomolgus monkeys, there was no increase in prenatal loss/death or stillbirth and no maternal toxicity associated with vedolizumab. On day 28 postpartum, low levels of vedolizumab were detected in the breast milk of 3 of 11 monkeys in the 100 mg/kg group. No vedolizumab-related effects on the number of infants born, infant development, or animal hematology or clinical chemistry were noted. Administration of vedolizumab to pregnant rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys did not show any potential for maternal or developmental effects.

Inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy: management of a disease flare or remission

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Roughly half of the nearly 1.6 million people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are women of reproductive age. Caring for women with IBD who are also pregnant can be challenging, particularly if with a disease flare or in remission, as there are special considerations needed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite older studies concluding potential risks associated with IBD medical therapies, more recent literature reports healthier maternal and birth outcomes associated with disease control and reduction in the inflammatory burden. Most IBD therapies should generally be continued throughout all three trimesters without interruption as this is associated with better outcomes.

SUMMARY

Active IBD increases risk of pregnancy complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Most medications have a favorable safety profile for use during pregnancy, regardless if in disease flare or remission. Short course corticosteroids for induction and management of flare is permitted. Thiopurines should not be started during pregnancy for a disease flare, but may be continued during pregnancy if previously on monotherapy. Biologics should be continued throughout pregnancy without interruption and timing of third trimester dosing made based on drug levels and estimated date of delivery. Risks/benefit assessment of therapies and disease control is important and should be individualized.

The Risk of Elective Abortion in Women With Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUD

Women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) might have an increased tendency to choose an elective abortion due to a fear that their fetus could be harmed by use of medications, disease flares during pregnancy, or for genetic reasons. We examined the risk of elective abortions in women with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) compared with women without IBD.

METHODS

This nationwide cohort study, based on Danish health registries, comprises all registered pregnancies from 1996 through 2015. The 2 exposed groups constituted pregnancies of women with UC or CD, and the unexposed group constituted all pregnancies of women without IBD. Our outcome was elective abortion by maternal request up until the end of the 12th completed week of gestation. We used logistic regression models and calculated the odds ratio (OR) for an elective abortion, controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence rates of elective abortions in women with UC and CD and without IBD were 12.4% (898 elective abortions/7250 pregnancies), 14.9% (978 elective abortions/6559 pregnancies), and 16.9% (285,251 elective abortions/1,691,857 pregnancies), respectively. In women with UC and CD, the adjusted ORs for an elective abortion (95% confidence interval) were 0.80 (0.74-0.86) and 0.96 (0.89-1.04), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with IBD are not more likely to choose an elective abortion compared with women without IBD. These results are reassuring as they suggest that women with IBD are not so worried about a negative impact of their disease, disease activity, or medications that they would choose to terminate a pregnancy.

Influence of anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha therapy to pregnant inflammatory bowel disease women and their children's immunity

Background/Aims

The onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) usually occurs at young age, and therefore, women IBD patients experience pregnancy during their disease progression. Recently, the use of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (anti-TNF-α) has been rapidly increasing. The aim of this study was to evaluate pregnancy related outcomes in women with IBD who were treated with anti-TNF-α during pregnancy and immunity of their children.

Methods

Korean women with IBD who had been treated with anti-TNF-α during pregnancy had been enrolled. Medical records were reviewed and a survey was performed for each patient. For the patients who agreed on additional examination for their children, children’s growth, medical history and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) titer were checked.

Results

All 18 patients had been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. There was not any case of preterm delivery, low birth-weight infant, congenital anomaly, nor stillbirth. All 12 children had followed the regular vaccination schedule for hepatitis B and 4 of them showed negative results for anti-HBs. After the 1 booster vaccination, all children demonstrated seroconversion. Regarding live vaccines, 4 children had bacillus Calmette-Guerin and 4 had rotavirus vaccine before 6 months, without any specific side effects.

Conclusions

This was the first study of immunity of the children born from IBD women who had been treated with anti-TNF-α medication during their pregnancy. IBD women had comparable pregnancy outcomes with the general women population, suggesting that the disease activity rather than the administered medication would be more important in healthy pregnancy. Considering the history of vaccination and anti-HBs titers, immunity seems to be intact in the children.

From mother to baby: antenatal exposure to monoclonal antibody biologics

INTRODUCTION

More women with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions are being treated with monoclonal antibody biologics (mAbs) during their pregnancy, to maintain clinical remission. The use of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha agents in pregnancy appears to be safe but less is known regarding other mAbs, such as anti-integrins and anti-cytokine agents. There are currently no comprehensive guidelines on how to manage the exposed infants. Areas covered: We review recent literature to assess the impact of mAbs on birth and early infant outcomes, including what is currently known about maternal and infant drug levels at birth and drug clearance in the infant. We describe the potential risks of infections and reported hematological and immunological effects of antenatal mAbs exposure on the infant and provide guidance on the management of the exposed infant. Expert opinion: Exposed infants should be monitored closely. Certain mAb exposures require specific testing and management. Safety monitoring should be done in a multidisciplinary approach and should include pediatric care providers. The current clinical experience with anti-tumor necrosis factor agents in pregnancy cannot be extrapolated to other mAbs. Long-term observational studies and a multicenter international registry are needed to better appreciate the impact of exposure, especially to newer mAbs.

Immunosuppressives and biologics during pregnancy and lactation : A consensus report issued by the Austrian Societies of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Rheumatology and Rehabilitation

An increasing and early-onset use of immunosuppressives and biologics has become more frequently seen among patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and rheumatic disorders. Many women in their childbearing years currently receive such medications, and some of them in an interdisciplinary setting. Many questions arise in women already pregnant or wishing to conceive with respect to continuing or discontinuing treatment, the risks borne by the newborns and their mothers and long-term safety. Together with the Austrian Society of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, the IBD working group of the Austrian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology has elaborated consensus statements on the use of immunosuppressives and biologics in pregnancy and lactation. This is the first Austrian interdisciplinary consensus on this topic. It is intended to serve as a basis and support for providing advice to our patients and their treating physicians.

Japanese guidelines for the management and treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis: The new pathogenesis and treatment of GPP

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare disease characterized by recurrent fever and systemic flushing accompanied by extensive sterile pustules. The committee of the guidelines was founded as a collaborative project between the Japanese Dermatological Association and the Study Group for Rare Intractable Skin Diseases under the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare Research Project on Overcoming Intractable Diseases. The aim of the guidelines was to provide current information to aid in the treatment of patients with GPP in Japan. Its contents include the diagnostic and severity classification criteria for GPP, its pathogenesis, and recommendations for the treatment of GPP. Since there are few clinical trial data with high levels of evidence for this rare disease, recommendations by the committee are described in the present guidelines.

Pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease: the effects of biologicals on pregnancy, outcome of infants, and the developing immune system

Relapse of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) during conception and pregnancy has been associated with a negative pregnancy outcome. Therefore, it is advised to maintain drugs in order to prevent relapse. The effect of drugs, which cross the placenta, on children who have been exposed during pregnancy will be discussed in this review. Areas covered: A literature search was performed using the following search terms: inflammatory bowel disease, pregnancy, infant, antitumor necrosis factor alpha, infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, certolizumab, anti-integrins, vedolizumab, anti-interleukin (IL)-12/23 ustekinumab, placenta, vaccination. Other studies were identified by using references from articles identified through our original literature search. The occurrence of unfavorable pregnancy outcome and congenital malformations does not seem to be increased after exposure to anti-TNFα, but the effects on the developing immune system are largely unknown. For anti-integrins and anti IL-12/23, the numbers of exposed pregnancies are too small to draw any conclusions. Expert commentary: Follow-up of the developing immune system in children exposed to these drugs seems warranted, preferably in a prospective study design.

Anti-TNF Therapy in Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease (CD) accounts for a variety of clinical manifestations or phenotypes that stem from chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Its worldwide incidence is increasing including younger or childhood-onset of disease. The natural history of Crohn’s disease is characterized by a remitting and relapsing course that progresses to complications and surgery in most patients. The goals of treatment are to achieve clinical and endoscopic remission, to avoid disease progression and minimise surgical resections. Medical treatment usually features antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunomodulators (thiopurines, methotrexate). Anti-TNF (tumour necrosis factor) therapy was approved for use in Crohn’s disease in 1998, and has changed the paradigm of treatment, leading to improved rates of response and remission in patients. There are significant considerations that need to be borne in mind, when treating patients including immunogenicity, safety profile and duration of treatment.

Ustekinumab Drug Levels in Maternal and Cord Blood in a Woman With Crohn's Disease Treated Until 33 Weeks of Gestation

A 35-year old woman with ileocolonic, perianal, and vulval Crohn's disease was treated with subcutaneous ustekinuamb [USK] throughout pregnancy. Dose intervals were shortened from 6-weekly to 4-weekly to maintain clinical remission. The last dose of USK was administered at 33 weeks of gestation, and a healthy baby boy was delivered by caesarean section at 37 weeks. Maternal trough USK levels remained stable during pregnancy. Cord blood USK levels were nearly 2-fold higher than contemporaneous maternal serum levels. To our knowledge, this is the first report of maternal and cord USK levels in a patient with Crohn's disease.

Lack of placental transfer of certolizumab pegol during pregnancy: results from CRIB, a prospective, postmarketing, pharmacokinetic study

OBJECTIVES

There is a need for effective and safe treatment during pregnancy in women with chronic inflammatory diseases. This study evaluated placental transfer of certolizumab pegol (CZP), an Fc-free anti-tumour necrosis factor drug, from CZP-treated pregnant women to their infants.

METHODS

CRIB was a pharmacokinetic (PK) study of women ≥30 weeks pregnant receiving commercial CZP for a locally approved indication (last dose ≤35 days prior to delivery). Blood samples were collected from mothers, umbilical cords and infants at delivery, and infants again at weeks 4 and 8 post-delivery. CZP plasma concentrations were measured with a highly sensitive and CZP-specific electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (lower limit of quantification 0.032 μg/mL).

RESULTS

Sixteen women entered and completed the study. Maternal CZP plasma levels at delivery were within the expected therapeutic range (median [range] 24.4 [5.0-49.4] μg/mL). Of the 16 infants, 2 were excluded from the per-protocol set: 1 due to missing data at birth and 1 due to implausible PK data. Of the remaining 14 infants, 13 had no quantifiable CZP levels at birth (<0.032 μg/mL), and 1 had a minimal CZP level of 0.042 μg/mL (infant/mother plasma ratio 0.0009); no infants had quantifiable CZP levels at weeks 4 and 8. Of 16 umbilical cord samples, 1 was excluded due to missing data; 3/15 had quantifiable CZP levels (maximum 0.048 μg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no to minimal placental transfer of CZP from mothers to infants, suggesting lack of in utero foetal exposure during the third trimester. These results support continuation of CZP treatment during pregnancy, when considered necessary.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02019602; Results.

Exposure to biological therapies during conception and pregnancy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Biological therapies are effective treatments for psoriasis and are often prescribed to women of child-bearing age.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety of biological therapy in conception and/or pregnancy.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases for multivariate-adjusted studies of women exposed to biologics relevant to the treatment of psoriasis during conception and/or pregnancy.

RESULTS

We identified four population-based cohort studies involving 1300 women exposed to tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors (TNFi) 3 months prior to or during the first 3 months of pregnancy. These studies showed a trend towards drug-specific harm with TNFi exposure in women with different inflammatory diseases, with an increased risk of congenital malformations [three studies; odds ratio (OR) range 1·32-1·64] and preterm birth (one study; OR 1·69, 95% confidence interval 1·10-2·60). This trend did not reach statistical significance in all studies; study heterogeneity, variation across comparator cohorts, inadequate adjustment for important confounding variables such as co-therapy, and an absence of a common constellation of malformations means there is uncertainty about the causal role of TNFi. No studies specifically addressed the effect of TNFi exposure in psoriasis during conception and/or pregnancy, or of interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-12/23 antagonists in any indication.

CONCLUSIONS

When counselling women these findings must be balanced against the potential impact of untreated severe psoriasis on conception and/or pregnancy and maternal wellbeing; ongoing pharmacovigilance via registries remains essential to address this evidence gap.

IL-35 recombinant protein reverses inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis through regulation of inflammatory cytokines and immune cells

Interleukin‐35 (IL‐35), a member of the IL‐12 family, functions as a new anti‐inflammatory factor involved in arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other immune diseases. Although IL‐35 can significantly prevent the development of inflammation in many diseases, there have been no early studies accounting for the role of IL‐35 recombinant protein in IBD and psoriasis. In this study, we assessed the therapeutic potential of IL‐35 recombinant protein in three well‐known mouse models: the dextransulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis mouse model, the keratin14 (K14)‐vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A)‐transgenic (Tg) psoriasis mouse model and the imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis mouse model. Our results indicated that IL‐35 recombinant protein can slow down the pathologic process in DSS‐induced acute colitis mouse model by decreasing the infiltrations of macrophages, CD4⁺T and CD8⁺T cells and by promoting the infiltration of Treg cells. Further analysis demonstrated that IL‐35 recombinant protein may regulate inflammation through promoting the secretion of IL‐10 and inhibiting the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐17 in acute colitis model. In addition, lower dose of IL‐35 recombinant protein could achieve long‐term treatment effects as TNF‐α monoclonal antibody did in the psoriasis mouse. In summary, the remarkable therapeutic effects of IL‐35 recombinant protein in acute colitis and psoriasis mouse models indicated that IL‐35 recombinant protein had a variety of anti‐inflammatory effects and was expected to become an effective candidate drug for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Not all TNF inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis are created equal: important clinical differences

INTRODUCTION

Anti-TNF therapy has dramatically changed how we manage rheumatoid arthritis. There are many similarities among the five approved agents but also some important differences. Rheumatologists have 5 different options to choose from when they are ready to commence anti-TNF therapy. Although all block the TNF cytokine, there are important critical differences among them that affect their safety profile and clinical utility in certain scenarios. Unfortunately, there are no head to head trials to compare the different anti-TNF agents and none appear to be in the horizon. Areas covered: This article reviews the various clinical situations where it may be important to use a particular anti-TNF agent. The authors also give their expert opinion and future perspectives on the area. Expert opinion: Although there are many similarities among the five different TNFi that are clinically available, there are important clinical niches, where the limited data that are available, that clearly support the preferential use of a particular agent or class of agents. Assays or tests that allow us to find the 'sweet spot' of TNF inhibition at the level of each patient are long overdue.

Anti-TNF-α Use During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy in Women with Moderate-severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease and the Risk of Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight

BACKGROUND

Little knowledge exists about the association between anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF-α) therapy for inflammatory bowel disease during late pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes. We aimed to examine whether treatment with anti-TNF-α during the third trimester affected preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW), compared with women who discontinued anti-TNF-α therapy before the third trimester.

METHODS

We identified a nationwide cohort of 219 women treated with anti-TNF-α during the pregnancy period and reviewed the medical records to extract clinical details. The exposed cohort (n = 113, 51.6%) constituted pregnancies exposed to anti-TNF-α during the third trimester, and the unexposed cohort (n = 106, 48.4%) constituted pregnancies with no anti-TNF-α during the third trimester. The association between anti-TNF-α therapy in the third trimester and adverse birth outcomes was studied (1) in those women who had clinical disease activity during pregnancy and (2) in women who had no clinical disease activity during pregnancy.

RESULTS

In women with disease activity, treated with anti-TNF-α during the third trimester, we found an adjusted odds ratio of 2.23 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80-6.20) for preterm birth and 1.16 (95% CI, 0.26-5.23) for LBW. Among women without disease activity, treated with anti-TNF-α therapy during the third trimester, we found an adjusted odds ratio of 3.36 (95% CI, 0.31-36.46) for preterm birth and 0.86 (95% CI, 0.05-14.95) for LBW.

CONCLUSIONS

For anti-TNF-α therapy in the third trimester, we found no statistically significant increased risk of either LBW or preterm birth.

Risk Factors for Rescue Therapy in Crohn's Patients Maintained on Infliximab After Withdrawal of the Immunomodulator: A Long-Term Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Usefulness of thiopurine and scheduled infliximab combination therapy in non-immunomodulator (IM)-naïve Crohn's disease (CD) patients and the optimal length of dual therapy are still debated.

AIMS

To determine proportion of patients developing disease flare requiring rescue therapy and risk factors associated with disease flare after de-escalation of IM from combination therapy.

METHODS

Adult CD patients in clinical remission on combination therapy were identified from a large single-center database between 2002 and 2009. Patients who had their IM stopped in the absence of adverse events were included. Association between clinical and demographic variables and time until rescue therapy was analyzed using Cox-proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Forty-three CD patients on combination therapy in clinical remission at time of IM de-escalation were identified and followed up for a median duration of 61.6 months (range 5.4-129.5). Median duration of remission on combination therapy prior to IM de-escalation was 12.0 months (range 4-74). Thirty-one patients (72.1%) required rescue therapy during follow-up. On multivariable analysis, age at diagnosis < 16 years versus > 40 years (HR 4.55, 95% CI 1.18-17.62, p = 0.028), using methotrexate instead of azathioprine in combination with infliximab (HR 3.37, 95% CI 1.14, 9.96, p = 0.028), and duration of combination therapy < 6 months (HR 5.68, 95% CI 1.58, 20.36, p = 0.007) increased risk for rescue therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of CD patients on combination therapy experienced a flare following IM withdrawal. Young age at diagnosis, short duration of combination therapy, and methotrexate use were independent predictors of the need for rescue therapy.

Factors associated with pregnancy-related knowledge in women of reproductive age with inflammatory bowel disease

OBJECTIVE

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) usually develops at a young age, and many women experience marriage, pregnancy, and delivery during the disease course. We aimed to evaluate the pregnancy-related knowledge of women with IBD in Korea and investigate the associated factors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 270 women with IBD, aged 19-45 years, from four tertiary hospitals in Korea were administered a questionnaire comprising 17 questions from the validated Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge Score (CCPKnow) that were translated into Korean.

RESULTS

The average CCPKnow score of the 270 patients was 7.47 ± 3.07; and most of the patients (51.5%) exhibited a poor knowledge level. Younger age at diagnosis, Crohn's disease rather than ulcerative colitis, longer disease duration, anti-TNF-α medication history, higher household income, and delivery after diagnosis were associated with an appropriate level of pregnancy-related knowledge. Younger age at diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 1.87; p = .036), anti-TNF-α therapy (OR, 1.87; p = .047), and delivery while suffering from IBD (OR, 3.07; p = .002) were independent factors affecting the pregnancy-related knowledge level. Approximately 69.6% of patients acquired related knowledge from their gastroenterology doctor, whereas 19.4% of patients intended to remain childless.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the pregnancy-related knowledge of women of reproductive-age with IBD and their perceptions by using a questionnaire in Asia. As more than half of the patients showed a poor knowledge level of IBD, a general education program should be conducted by gastroenterology doctors.

Understanding the Cautions and Contraindications of Immunomodulator and Biologic Therapies for Use in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are chronic inflammatory bowel diseases for which there are no cures. These diseases are immunopathogenic, and medical treatment is centered on the temperance of a dysregulated immune response to allow mucosal healing and prevent the sequelae of fistulation and stenosis. Accordingly, the armamentarium of medications, which has expanded immensely in recent history, is not without significant infectious and neoplastic risks. Many of these untoward effects can be mitigated by screening and avoidance of contraindicated medications. This review seeks to highlight the cautions for use of immunomodulators, anticytokine, and α4-integrin antagonists. The potential adverse events are further complicated by substantial heterogeneity in disease phenotype in the inflammatory bowel disease population. Large patient registries and databases provide considerable experience and knowledge to calculate the incidence of safety outcomes. To identify rarer outcomes after prolonged therapy, more prospective studies and continued adverse event reporting will aid safe application and minimize potential harms.

Psoriasis in those planning a family, pregnant or breast-feeding. The Australasian Psoriasis Collaboration

The Australasian Psoriasis Collaboration has reviewed the evidence for managing moderate to severe psoriasis in those who are pregnant or are breast-feeding, or planning a family. The severity of the psoriasis, associated comorbidities and specific anti-psoriasis treatment, along with other exposures, can have a deleterious effect on pregnancy outcomes. Psoriasis itself increases the risk of preterm and low birthweight babies, along with spontaneous and induced abortions, but no specific birth defects have been otherwise demonstrated. The baseline risk for a live born baby to have a major birth defect is 3%, and significant neuro-developmental problem is 5%. In Australia, pregnant women with psoriasis are more likely to be overweight or obese, depressed, or smoke in their first trimester, and are also less likely to take prenatal vitamins or supplements. Preconception counselling to improve maternal, pregnancy and baby health is therefore strongly encouraged. The topical and systemic therapies commonly used in psoriasis are each discussed separately, with regards to pregnancy exposure, breast-feeding and effects on male fertility and mutagenicity. The systemic therapies included are acitretin, adalimumab, apremilast, certolizumab, ciclosporin, etanercept, infliximab, ixekizumab, methotrexate, NBUVB, prednisone, PUVA, secukinumab and ustekinumab. The topical therapies include dithranol (anthralin), calcipotriol, coal tar, corticosteroids (weak, potent and super-potent), moisturisers, salicylic acid, tacrolimus, and tazarotene. As a general recommendation, effective drugs that have been widely used for years are preferable to newer alternatives with less foetal safety data. It is equally important to evaluate the risks of not treating, as severe untreated disease may negatively impact both mother and the foetus.

Primary Care Evaluation and Management of Gastroenterologic Issues in Women

Gastrointestinal disorders often present to the primary care setting where initial preventive, diagnostic, and treatment strategies are implemented. This article reviews the presentation and diagnosis of common gastrointestinal disorders, including colorectal cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer disease, gallbladder disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, gastroesophageal reflux, and Barrett's esophagus. We focus on the evaluation and management of these diseases in women.

Vedolizumab exposure in pregnancy: outcomes from clinical studies in inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Vedolizumab is a gut-selective immunoglobulin G₁ monoclonal antibody to α₄ β₇ integrin for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Prospective clinical studies of vedolizumab in pregnancy have not been conducted; therefore, existing safety data of vedolizumab in pregnancy were examined.

AIM

To assess pregnancy outcomes in females and partners of males who received vedolizumab.

METHODS

All pregnancy data collected during the clinical programme (from 14 May 2007 to 27 June 2013) and in the post-marketing setting (to 19 November 2015) were analysed.

RESULTS

Across six studies, there were 27 pregnancies in female participants and 19 pregnancies in partners of male participants. Among 24 vedolizumab-treated females (23 with CD/UC, one healthy volunteer), there were 11 live births, five elective terminations, four spontaneous abortions and four undocumented outcomes. A congenital corpus callosum agenesis anomaly was reported in one live birth from a healthy volunteer with extensive obstetric history exposed to single-dose vedolizumab 79 days before estimated conception. Of 19 pregnancies in partners of male participants, there were 11 live births, two spontaneous abortions, three elective terminations and three undocumented outcomes. Post-marketing reports recorded 81 pregnancies, resulting in four live births, 11 spontaneous abortions and 66 pregnancies that were on-going or reported undocumented outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial analysis, limited by sample size and follow-up, identified no new safety concerns for pregnancy outcomes in females directly or indirectly exposed to vedolizumab. However, vedolizumab should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the mother/unborn child.

Drug Safety and Risk of Adverse Outcomes for Pregnant Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The management of the pregnant patient with inflammatory bowel disease is complicated by multiple providers, misinformation, and a disease entity that, particularly when active, can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. This article seeks to frame the debate on medication safety in pregnancy and lactation using the US Food and Drug Administration's new Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule and the most up-to-date safety information to discuss the risks and benefits of using each class of inflammatory bowel disease medication.

Biological Therapy in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased steadily worldwide, both in adult and in children; approximately 25% of IBD patients are diagnosed before the age of 18. The natural history of IBD is usually more severe in children than in adults, and can be associated with linear growth impairment, delayed puberty onset, reduced bone mass index, malnutrition, and the need for surgery. Biological therapies, especially blocking tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), have radically modified the treatment strategies and disease course of IBD in children. In particular, drugs such as Infliximab and Adalimumab are routinely used in the treatment of pediatric IBD. The role of Infliximab and Adalimumab in the management of pediatric IBD has been recently updated in the Consensus guidelines of ECCO/ESPGHAN. Data regarding short-term and long-term efficacy and safety of these drugs in children, and the effects of "top-down" and "step-up" strategies, are lacking. In this paper, the authors will review current indications, efficacy, and safety of biological therapy in pediatric IBD patients, evaluating all articles published after ECCO/ESPGHAN guidelines publication. The authors carried out a systematic search through MEDLINE through PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/) Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and gray literature, from January 2013 to January 2016. Anti-TNFα has been shown to be effective and safe to maintain remission and to achieve mucosal healing. Multicenter trials based on large sample size cohorts are needed to better clarify long-term efficacy of anti-TNFα and the real incidence of treatment-related complications in pediatric IBD.

Treatment of pregnant women with a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease

The frequency of diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased in younger populations. For this reason, pregnancy in patients with IBD is a topic of interest, warranting additional focus on disease management during this period. The main objective of this article is to summarize the latest findings and guidelines on the management of potential problems from pregnancy to the breastfeeding stage. Fertility is decreased in patients with active IBD. Disease remission prior to conception will likely decrease the rate of pregnancy-related complications. Most of the drugs used for IBD treatment are safe during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. Two exceptions are methotrexate and thalidomide, which are contraindicated in pregnancy. Anti-tumor necrosis factor agents are not advised during the third trimester as they exhibit increased transplacental transmission and potentially cause immunosuppression in the fetus. Radiological and endoscopic examinations and surgical interventions should be performed only when absolutely necessary. Surgery increases the fetal mortality rate. The delivery method should be determined with consideration of the disease site and presence of progression or flare up. Treatment planning should be a collaborative effort among the gastroenterologist, obstetrician, colorectal surgeon and patient.

Anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor α Therapies and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pregnancy Outcomes: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) commonly affects women during their reproductive years, leading to concerns regarding pregnancy outcomes and therapeutic safety. The aim of this study was to assess the risks associated with anti-tumour necrosis factor α (anti-TNFα) therapy for pregnancy outcomes, including rates of congenital abnormality, based on published studies.

METHODS

Published studies were screened from on-line databases and international meeting abstracts. A meta-analysis was performed for adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), congenital abnormalities (CAs), preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). The prevalence of CAs was compared with whole-population pooled registry data.

RESULTS

In women exposed to anti-TNFα the pooled odds ratio for APOs was 1.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73-1.78; p = 0.55) compared with disease-matched controls. The pooled odds ratios for CAs, PTB and LBW were 0.89 (0.37-2.13; p = 0.79), 1.21 (0.74-2.00; p = 0.45) and 1.36 (0.77-2.38; p = 0.29) respectively. The rate of CAs in TNFα-exposed women was not statistically different from that in population-wide registries (difference 0.4%, 95% CI -2.0 to +2.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-TNFα therapy does not increase the risk of APOs, CAs, PTB or LBW compared with disease-matched controls. Furthermore, the risk of CAs is not increased when published prevalence data are compared with data for the general population. These findings may offer some reassurance for women and physicians regarding the safety profile of anti-TNFα during pregnancy in IBD.

Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease During Pregnancy

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) usually affects women during their reproductive years and many concerns arise among these young patients. Pre-pregnancy consultation with a multi-disciplinary team is very important. The team should make patients aware of the critical importance of ensuring that conception occurs during a period of disease remission. Conception during an IBD flare-up results in disease activity or even exacerbates disease in two-thirds of women. Exacerbation of the disease is associated with increased frequency of maternal and fetal complications. Drug therapy constitutes a considerable source of patient anxiety but most drugs used for treating IBD are considered safe. Therefore, continuing pharmacological therapy during pregnancy is necessary to maintain disease control. Optimization of pre-conception nutritional status and smoking cessation are also emphasized. The general guideline for most patients, except for active perianal disease patients, is to aim for vaginal delivery in the absence of obstetric contraindications. Consistent, ongoing follow-up, as detailed in this review, should allay the anxieties and fears surrounding continuing immunosuppressive drugs during pregnancy, allowing each patient to attain the optimal conditions for achieving her goal of holding a healthy baby.

[Guidelines for vaccination of immunocompromised individuals]

Immunosuppression of various origins is associated with an increased risk of infection; therefore the prevention of infectious diseases by vaccination is especially important in immunocompromised patients. However, the response to vaccinations is often reduced in these risk groups and the application of live vaccines is contraindicated during immunosuppression.In the following expert statement, recommendations for vaccination were created on the basis of current evidence and theoretical/immunological considerations. A first, general part elaborates on efficacy and safety of vaccinations during immunosuppression, modes of action of immunosuppressive medications and recommended time intervals between immunosuppressive treatments and vaccinations. A core piece of this part is a graduation of immunosuppression into three stages, i. e. no relevant immunosuppression, mild to moderate and severe immunosuppression and the assignment of various medications (including biologicals) to one of those stages; this is followed by an overview of possible and necessary vaccinations in each of those stages.The second part gives detailed vaccination guidelines for common diseases and therapies associated with immunosuppression. Primary immune deficiencies, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, solid and hematological tumors, hematopoetic stem cell transplantation, transplantation of solid organs, aspenia, rheumatological-, gastroenterologic-, dermatologic-, neurologic diseases, biologicals during pregnancy and HIV infection are dealt with.These vaccination guidelines, compiled for the first time in Austria, aim to be of practical help for physicians to facilitate and improve vaccination coverage in immunocompromised patients and their household members and contact persons.

Biological agents for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: Research progress and associated risks

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases with unknown etiology, which makes it difficult to reach an ideal treatment. Fortunately, with advances in the research of pathogenesis of IBD, several biological agents aiming diverse targets have been developed, bringing good news to patients with IBD. However, these new drugs carry some new risks, which should draw the attention of clinicians. The following review discusses the research progress in biological agents utilized in IBD and the related risks, with an aim to offer a new direction for the clinical treatment of IBD in the future.

Concentrations of Adalimumab and Infliximab in Mothers and Newborns, and Effects on Infection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Little is known about in utero exposure to and postnatal clearance of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents in neonates. We investigated the concentrations of adalimumab and infliximab in umbilical cord blood of newborns and rates of clearance after birth, and how these correlated with drug concentrations in mothers at birth and risk of infection during the first year of life.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of 80 pregnant women with inflammatory bowel diseases at tertiary hospitals in Denmark, Australia, and New Zealand from March 2012 through November 2014: 36 received adalimumab and 44 received infliximab; 39 received concomitant thiopurines during pregnancy. Data were collected from medical records on disease activity and treatment before, during, and after pregnancy. Concentrations of anti-TNF agents were measured in blood samples from women at delivery and in umbilical cords, and in infants for every 3 months until the drug was no longer detected.

RESULTS

The time from last exposure to anti-TNF agent during pregnancy correlated inversely with the concentration of the drugs in the umbilical cord (adalimumab: r = -0.64, P = .0003; infliximab: r = -0.77, P < .0001) and in mothers at time of birth (adalimumab, r = -0.80; infliximab, r = -0.80; P < .0001 for both). The median ratio of infant:mother drug concentration at birth was 1.21 for adalimumab (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-1.49) and 1.97 for infliximab (95% CI, 1.50-2.43). The mean time to drug clearance in infants was 4.0 months for adalimumab (95% CI, 2.9-5.0) and 7.3 months for infliximab (95% CI, 6.2-8.3; P < .0001). Drugs were not detected in infants after 12 months of age. Bacterial infections developed in 4 infants (5%) and viral infections developed in 16 (20%), all with benign courses. The relative risk for infection was 2.7 in infants whose mothers received the combination of an anti-TNF agent and thiopurine, compared with anti-TNF monotherapy (95% CI, 1.09-6.78; P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

In a prospective study of infants born to mothers who received anti-TNF agents during pregnancy, we detected the drugs until 12 months of age. There was an inverse correlation between the time from last exposure during pregnancy and drug concentration in the umbilical cord. Infliximab was cleared more slowly than adalimumab from the infants. The combination of an anti-TNF agent and thiopurine therapy during pregnancy increased the relative risk for infant infections almost 3-fold compared with anti-TNF monotherapy. Live vaccines therefore should be avoided for up to 1 year unless drug clearance is documented, and pregnant women should be educated on the risks of anti-TNF use.

Review article: acute severe ulcerative colitis - evidence-based consensus statements

BACKGROUND

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a potentially life-threatening complication of ulcerative colitis.

AIM

To develop consensus statements based on a systematic review of the literature of the management of ASUC to improve patient outcome.

METHODS

Following a literature review, the Delphi method was used to develop the consensus statements. A steering committee, based in Australia, generated the statements of interest. Three rounds of anonymous voting were carried out to achieve the final results. Acceptance of statements was pre-determined by ≥80% votes in 'complete agreement' or 'agreement with minor reservation'.

RESULTS

Key recommendations include that patients with ASUC should be: hospitalised, undergo unprepared flexible sigmoidoscopy to assess severity and to exclude cytomegalovirus colitis, and be provided with venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and intravenous hydrocortisone 100 mg three or four times daily with close monitoring by a multidisciplinary team. Rescue therapy such as infliximab or ciclosporin should be started if insufficient response by day 3, and colectomy considered if no response to 7 days of rescue therapy or earlier if deterioration. With such an approach, it is expected that colectomy rate during admission will be below 30% and mortality less than 1% in specialist centres.

CONCLUSION

These evidenced-based consensus statements on acute severe ulcerative colitis, developed by a multidisciplinary group, provide up-to-date best practice recommendations that improve and harmonise management as well as provide auditable quality assessments.