1
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Kim YZ, Kang B, Kim ES, Kwon Y, Choe YH, Kim MJ. Efficacy of Combined Initial Treatment of Methotrexate with Infliximab in Pediatric Crohn's Disease: A Pilot Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2575. [PMID: 37761016 PMCID: PMC10526834 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The combination of antitumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) agents with immunomodulators (IMMs) is a common treatment for pediatric Crohn's disease (CD). Although methotrexate (MTX) can be a first-line medication as an IMM, most clinicians in real-life practice, especially in South Korea, are more familiar with thiopurines. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and immunogenicity of MTX and azathioprine (AZA) as concurrent therapies for pediatric CD. METHODS In this pilot study, 29 newly diagnosed pediatric patients with moderate-to-severe CD were randomized to receive either MTX (n = 15) (15 mg/body surface area (BSA) per week) or oral AZA (n = 14) (0.5 mg/kg per day) in combination with Infliximab (IFX). The primary outcomes were the proportion of patients in endoscopic, biochemical, and transmural remission after 14 and 54 weeks of IFX therapy. The trough levels (TLs) of IFX and anti-drug antibody (ADA) levels were also compared. RESULTS Among the 29 patients, there were no significant differences in the biochemical (p = 1.0 at week 14, p = 0.45 at week 54), endoscopic (p = 0.968 at week 14, p = 0.05 at week 54), or transmural (p = 0.103 at week 54) remission rates between the two medications during the concurrent therapy. Additionally, the trends in the IFX trough and ADA levels over time during the treatments were similar for both medications, with no significant differences (p = 0.686, p = 0.389, respectively). CONCLUSION The MTX showed comparable efficacy to the AZA in pediatric CD patients with moderate-to-severe disease. This effectively maintained adequate IFX levels and reduced ADA production. Therefore, although additional large-scale clinical trials are needed, this study demonstrated that either MTX or AZA can be selected as IMMs in the concurrent treatment of pediatric CD, depending on individual medical institutions' circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Zi Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Ben Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Sil Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Kangbuk Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Republic of Korea
| | - Yiyoung Kwon
- Department of Pediatrics, Inha University Hospital, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22188, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yon-Ho Choe
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Jin Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
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Baldwin K, Grossi V, Hyams JS. Managing pediatric Crohn's disease: recent insights. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:949-958. [PMID: 37794692 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2267431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children and adolescents with Crohn's disease present unique challenges due to extensive disease at diagnosis and the effect of bowel inflammation on growth. Historical approaches with corticosteroids and immunomodulators are far less effective than early treatment with anti-TNF biologics. AREAS COVERED This review covers recent literature delineating the crucial role of early anti-TNF therapy in the treatment of moderate- to- severe Crohn's disease in children and adolescents. The potential risks and benefits of concomitant immunomodulators are discussed, along with therapeutic anti-TNF drug monitoring, and reassessment by endoscopy and cross-sectional imaging to evaluate success beyond symptom control. EXPERT OPINION Standard of care therapy for moderate-to-severe pediatric Crohn's disease now entails precision dosing of anti-TNF therapy with periodic reassessment of bowel inflammation. The role of dietary modification continues to evolve. Current and future efforts need to be directed to elucidating ways to predict response to anti-TNF therapy and quickly changing to agents with other mechanisms of action when needed. Inordinate regulatory delays in approval of new therapies approved for adults continue to handicap pediatric clinicians and frequently limits their treatment choices, or forces them to give medications "off label." Only a concerted effort by clinicians, pharma, and regulators will improve this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Baldwin
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Victoria Grossi
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Hyams
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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Verburgt CM, Dunn KA, Otley A, Heyman MB, Verstraete S, Sunseri W, Sylvester F, de Meij T, Comeau A, Langille M, de Jonge WJ, Benninga MA, Van Limbergen JE. Personalised azithromycin+metronidazole (PAZAZ), in combination with standard induction therapy, to achieve a faecal microbiome community structure and metagenome changes associated with sustained remission in paediatric Crohn's disease (CD): protocol of a pilot study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e064944. [PMID: 36725090 PMCID: PMC9896212 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early relapse in Crohn's disease (CD) is associated with a more severe disease course. The microbiome plays a crucial role, yet strategies targeting the microbiome are underrepresented in current guidelines. We hypothesise that early manipulation of the microbiome will improve clinical response to standard-of-care (SOC) induction therapy in patients with a relapse-associated microbiome profile. We describe the protocol of a pilot study assessing feasibility of treatment allocation based on baseline faecal microbiome profiles. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a 52-week, multicentre, randomised, controlled, open-label, add-on pilot study to test the feasibility of a larger multicontinent trial evaluating the efficacy of adjuvant antibiotic therapy in 20 paediatric patients with mild-to-moderate-CD (10<PCDAI≤37.5; PCDAI, Pediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index). SOC induction treatment will be Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet+Partial Enteral Nutrition (CDED+PEN). Relapse-associated microbiome signatures will be evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and a previously generated Bayesian predictive model (BioMiCo) based on baseline stool. At week 4, patients in remission with relapse-associated signatures (group A) will be randomised to CDED+antibiotics (A2) or CDED+PEN alone (A1). Patients in remission without this signature will continue CDED+PEN alone (B). Patients not in remission will receive CDED+antibiotics regardless of their microbiome signature (C). Subjects in group A2 or C will receive a combination of azithromycin 7.5 mg/kg (weeks 4-8: 5 days/week; weeks 9-12: 3 days/week) with metronidazole 20 mg/kg/day (weeks 4-12). Primary outcomes will assess feasibility of treatment allocation and possible efficacy to sustain remission (PCDAI≤10, no need for reinduction). Exploratory outcomes will include changes in PCDAI, inflammatory markers and patient-reported outcomes. We will additionally explore changes in faecal microbiome taxonomic composition between groups. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by METC-AMC and CCMO (Netherlands) and IWK Health Centre (Canada). The first version of this protocol was approved by North Carolina Children's Hospital (USA), Wolfson Medical Centre (Israel). The FDA (USA), Health Canada and Ministry of Health (Israel) have reviewed and approved the protocol. Results will be published in international peer-reviewed journals and summaries will be provided to the funders and participants. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04186247.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M Verburgt
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Paediatric Gastroenterology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katherine A Dunn
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Hematology & Oncology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Institute for Comparative Genomics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Anthony Otley
- Department of Paediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Melvin B Heyman
- Department of Paediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sofia Verstraete
- Department of Paediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Withney Sunseri
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francisco Sylvester
- Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology, UNC Children's Hospital, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tim de Meij
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andre Comeau
- Integrated Microbiome Resource (IMR) and Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Morgan Langille
- Integrated Microbiome Resource (IMR) and Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Wouter J de Jonge
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, University of Bonn, Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johan E Van Limbergen
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Methotrexate for Primary Maintenance Therapy in Mild-to-Moderate Crohn Disease in Children. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2022; 75:320-324. [PMID: 35758420 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite limited data, methotrexate (MTX) is often used as primary maintenance therapy in pediatric Crohn disease (CD). We sought to assess the effectiveness of MTX as "initial" primary maintenance therapy in newly diagnosed mild/moderate pediatric CD and ascertain baseline predictive factors. METHODS Single-center 10-year retrospective review of newly diagnosed CD patients treated with MTX as primary maintenance therapy. We compared baseline characteristics of those patients with sustained response/clinical remission to those patients who escalated to anti-TNF therapy within 1 year. Pediatric Crohn Disease Activity Index (PCDAI) ≤ 10 defined remission. RESULTS We identified 65 patients (mean age, 11.8 years; 72 % male; mean ± SD PCDAI, 17.8 ± 10.5) who started MTX ≤4 months of diagnosis as their primary maintenance therapy. Initial therapy prior to MTX was corticosteroids (CS) (54/65), defined diet (4/65), and combination CS/diet (6/65). Oral dosing was used in 55%; mean dose was 11.4 mg/m 2 orally and 12.5 mg/m 2 subcutaneously. At 1 year, 36 of 65 (55%) were on MTX monotherapy, and of those, 32 of 36 were in clinical remission; 81% were in steroid-free remission for the year following induction. For the 36 patients on MTX at 1 year, 14 (39%) had gross mucosal healing (22% of the original cohort). Ten additional patients had mucosal improvement (37% of total healed/improved). Fifteen patients (23%) were early failures, transitioning to anti-TNF ≤4 months. Baseline PCDAI, hemoglobin, ESR, albumin, and route of administration were not predictive of outcome. MTX was well tolerated in our cohort, with only 1 patient stopping due to elevated aminotransferases. No patient required CD surgery in the 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS MTX may have a primary maintenance role in mild/moderate CD.
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Park J, Cheon JH. Updates on conventional therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases: 5-aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and anti-TNF-α. Korean J Intern Med 2022; 37:895-905. [PMID: 35882566 PMCID: PMC9449200 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2022.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are rapidly increasing worldwide. IBDs are considered an emerging problem not only in Western countries but also in developing counties. The relapses and complications of active IBD mandate various medications. Nevertheless, hospitalization, emergency room visits, or surgery may be required, resulting in a socioeconomic burden. Great advances have been made in the development of new therapeutic options for IBD to achieve induction and maintenance remission. Nevertheless, conventional therapy is still the mainstay in the treatment of IBD. This review article provides an update on recent advances in conventional therapies, including 5-aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and anti-tumor necrosis factor-α agents to treat IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Jae Hee Cheon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
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6
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Revisiting Methotrexate Therapy for Pediatric Crohn Disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2022; 75:229-230. [PMID: 35984455 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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7
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van Rheenen PF, Aloi M, Assa A, Bronsky J, Escher JC, Fagerberg UL, Gasparetto M, Gerasimidis K, Griffiths A, Henderson P, Koletzko S, Kolho KL, Levine A, van Limbergen J, Martin de Carpi FJ, Navas-López VM, Oliva S, de Ridder L, Russell RK, Shouval D, Spinelli A, Turner D, Wilson D, Wine E, Ruemmele FM. The Medical Management of Paediatric Crohn's Disease: an ECCO-ESPGHAN Guideline Update. J Crohns Colitis 2020; 15:jjaa161. [PMID: 33026087 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjaa161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to provide an evidence-supported update of the ECCO-ESPGHAN guideline on the medical management of paediatric Crohn's disease [CD]. METHODS We formed 10 working groups and formulated 17 PICO-structured clinical questions [Patients, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome]. A systematic literature search from January 1, 1991 to March 19, 2019 was conducted by a medical librarian using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central databases. A shortlist of 30 provisional statements were further refined during a consensus meeting in Barcelona in October 2019 and subjected to a vote. In total 22 statements reached ≥ 80% agreement and were retained. RESULTS We established that it was key to identify patients at high risk of a complicated disease course at the earliest opportunity, to reduce bowel damage. Patients with perianal disease, stricturing or penetrating behaviour, or severe growth retardation should be considered for up-front anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] agents in combination with an immunomodulator. Therapeutic drug monitoring to guide treatment changes is recommended over empirically escalating anti-TNF dose or switching therapies. Patients with low-risk luminal CD should be induced with exclusive enteral nutrition [EEN], or with corticosteroids when EEN is not an option, and require immunomodulator-based maintenance therapy. Favourable outcomes rely on close monitoring of treatment response, with timely adjustments in therapy when treatment targets are not met. Serial faecal calprotectin measurements or small bowel imaging [ultrasound or magnetic resonance enterography] are more reliable markers of treatment response than clinical scores alone. CONCLUSIONS We present state-of-the-art guidance on the medical treatment and long-term management of children and adolescents with CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick F van Rheenen
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Beatrix Children's Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marina Aloi
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Sapienza - University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Amit Assa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nutrition and Liver Diseases, Schneider Children's Medical Center, Petach Tikvah, Affiliated to the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Jiri Bronsky
- Paediatric Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Johanna C Escher
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrika L Fagerberg
- Department of Pediatrics/Centre for Clinical Research, Västmanland Hospital, Västeras and Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marco Gasparetto
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Barts Health Trust, The Royal London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Anne Griffiths
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Paul Henderson
- Child Life and Health, University Of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sibylle Koletzko
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, School of Medicine Collegium Medicum University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kaija-Leena Kolho
- Department of Paediatrics, Children´s Hospital, University of Helsinki and Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Arie Levine
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Wolfson Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Johan van Limbergen
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam UMC - location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Víctor Manuel Navas-López
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, IBIMA, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Salvatore Oliva
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Sapienza - University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lissy de Ridder
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard K Russell
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dror Shouval
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Unit, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Antonino Spinelli
- Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano Milano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Dan Turner
- Paediatric Gastroenterology, Shaare Zedek Medical Centre, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David Wilson
- Child Life and Health, University Of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Eytan Wine
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Edmonton Pediatric IBD Clinic (EPIC), Departments of Pediatrics & Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Frank M Ruemmele
- Assistance Publique- Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Paris, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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Higher Mucosal Healing with Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors in Combination with Thiopurines Compared to Methotrexate in Crohn's Disease. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:1622-1631. [PMID: 30560332 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5422-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The differential impact of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy with methotrexate versus thiopurine co-therapy on endoscopic remission remains uncertain. AIMS To compare rates of endoscopic remission based on methotrexate or thiopurine co-therapy used with anti-TNF therapy in Crohn's disease. METHODS A retrospective observational study at two tertiary centers between 2010 and 2016 compared endoscopic remission rates and persistence on anti-TNF therapy in combination with methotrexate versus thiopurines for at least 3 months. RESULTS Of 412 patients on anti-TNF therapy, 278 (67%) received immunomodulator co-therapy for ≥ 3 months and 269 (65%) had complete data for analysis. Methotrexate was used in 77 (29%) and thiopurines in 192 (71%) patients plus either infliximab (156, 58%) or adalimumab (113, 42%), with median follow-up of 2.8 years. The methotrexate group had greater prior immunomodulator intolerance (62% vs 20%, p < 0.01). Endoscopic remission rates were higher in those treated with thiopurine compared to methotrexate co-therapy at 12 m (58% vs 17%, p < 0.01) and at last review (59% vs 40%, p = 0.03). Endoscopic remission rates were higher with thiopurines than methotrexate when combined with adalimumab (49% vs 6%, p < 0.01) but not with infliximab (65% vs 54%, p = 0.09). In multivariate analysis, thiopurine co-therapy, elevated baseline CRP, and therapeutic anti-TNF drug levels were each associated with longer persistence of co-therapy (each p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in adverse events, malignancy or infection rates. CONCLUSION In this cohort, anti-TNF and thiopurine co-therapy resulted in higher rates of mucosal healing than methotrexate, the difference is most pronounced with adalimumab and conversely with low-dose methotrexate.
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Colman RJ, Lawton RC, Dubinsky MC, Rubin DT. Methotrexate for the Treatment of Pediatric Crohn's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2018; 24:2135-2141. [PMID: 29688409 PMCID: PMC6994018 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izy078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) is an immunomodulator used for the treatment of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There are currently no RCTs that assess the treatment efficacy of methotrexate within the pediatric IBD patient population. This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the efficacy of MTX therapy among the existing pediatric literature. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE and the Cochrane library from inception until March 2016. Synonyms for 'pediatric', 'methotrexate' and 'IBD' were utilized as both free text and MESH search terms. The studies included contained clinical remission (CR) rates for MTX treatment of pediatric IBD patients 18 yrs old, as mono- or combination therapy. Case studies with <10 patients were excluded. Quality assessment was performed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis calculated pooled CR rates. A random-effects meta-analysis with forest plots was performed using R. RESULTS Fourteen (11 monotherapy, 1 combination therapy, 2 both; n = 886 patients) observational studies were eligible out of 202 studies. No interventional studies were identified. The pooled achieved CR rate for pediatric CD patients on monotherapy within 3-6 months was 57.7% (95% CI 48.2-66.6%), (P =0.22; I2 = 29.8%). The CR was 37.1% (95% CI 29.5-45.5%), (P = 0.20; I2 = 37.4%) for maintenance therapy at 12 months. Sub-analysis could not identify CR differences between MTX administration types, thiopurine exposure. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis demonstrated that, over 50% of pediatric Crohn's disease patients induced with methotrexate achieved clinical remission, while 12-month remission rate was only 37%. Prospective controlled interventional trials should assess treatment efficacy among patient subgroups. 10.1093/ibd/izy078_video1izy078.video15774883936001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben J Colman
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois,Pediatrics, SBH Health System, Bronx, New York
| | | | | | - David T Rubin
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois,Address correspondence to: David T. Rubin, MD, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., MC 4076, Chicago, IL 60637 ()
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Djurić Z, Šaranac L, Budić I, Pavlović V, Djordjević J. Therapeutic role of methotrexate in pediatric Crohn's disease. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2018; 18:211-216. [PMID: 29338679 DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2018.2792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The main role of therapy in Crohn's disease (CD) is to achieve long-term clinical remission, and to allow for normal growth and development of children. The immunomodulatory drugs used for the maintenance of remission in CD include thiopurines (azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine) and methotrexate (MTX). Development of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma in some patients with inflammatory bowel disease, treated with thiopurines only or in combination with anti-tumor necrosis factor agents, resulted in a growing interest in the therapeutic application of MTX in children suffering from CD. This review summarizes the literature on the therapeutic role of MTX in children with CD. MTX is often administered as a second-line immunomodulator, and 1-year clinical remission was reported in 25-69% of children with CD after excluding for the use of thiopurines. Initial data on MTX effectiveness in mucosal healing, and as a first-line immunomodulator in pediatric patients with CD, are promising. A definite conclusion, however, may only be made on the basis of additional research with a larger number of subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zlatko Djurić
- Division of Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Niš, Serbia.
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Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic autoimmune conditions of the gut affecting both pediatric and adult patients. Medical therapy is often successful at inducing and maintaining remission and preventing disease complications. The mainstays of treatment are medications and other therapies that reduce inflammation and suppress the overactive immune system. Here we review current medical therapies for pediatric IBD, discuss future therapeutics, and present current treatment goals and approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Baldwin
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jess L Kaplan
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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Less Anti-infliximab Antibody Formation in Paediatric Crohn Patients on Concomitant Immunomodulators. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2017; 65:425-429. [PMID: 28945207 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of immunomodulators on formation of antibodies to infliximab (ATI) in paediatric patients with Crohn disease (CD) and the association of ATI and loss of response. METHODS Retrospective multicentre observational study (January 2009-December 2014) among Dutch children with CD treated with infliximab (IFX). ATI formation was analysed with Chi-square test and time-to-ATI formation with Kaplan-Meier and log-rank test. RESULTS A total of 229 children were identified. ATIs were measured in 162 patients (70.7%) and 25 (15%) developed ATIs: 6 of 62 (10%) on continuous combined immunosuppression (CCI), 11 of 81 (14%) on early combined immunosuppression (ECI), and 8 of 19 (42%) on IFX monotherapy. ATI formation was higher in patients on IFX monotherapy compared to CCI (P = 0.003) and ECI (P = 0.008), whereas no significant difference was found between CCI and ECI. Sixteen out of 25 patients (64%) with ATIs had loss of response, compared with 32 of 137 patients (19%) without ATIs (P < 0.00002, log rank 0.02). Among patients treated with ECI, 10 of 55 (18%) developed ATIs within the first 12 months, compared to 1 of 26 (4%) after more than 12 months. CONCLUSIONS In children with CD combination therapy is associated with significant reduction of antibody formation and prolonged effectivity compared to IFX monotherapy. ECI for at least 12 months, followed by IFX monotherapy, may be an equally effective alternative to CCI.
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Abstract
Methotrexate is commonly used in rheumatoid arthritis but randomised controlled trials demonstrated its efficacy also in Crohn's disease. Methotrexate, although marginally used in clinical practice, is considered an appropriate immunomodulator particularly in patients refractory or intolerant to thiopurines. Areas covered: A literature search using 'methotrexate', 'Crohn's disease' and 'Inflammatory Bowel Disease' as key words, identified randomised controlled trials, meta-analyses and observational studies. The aim of this review is to summarise and critically discuss the available evidence concerning the efficacy and safety of methotrexate in the treatment of Crohn's disease. Expert commentary: Methotrexate is effective in inducing and maintaining remission in steroid-dependent CD at a dose of 25 mg/week and 15 mg/week, respectively. Data from observational studies suggest that methotrexate may be as efficacious as thiopurines with a similar safety profile. In specific clinical settings, (patients with a history of malignancy or young Epstein-Barr Virus-seronegative patients), methotrexate compete favourably with thiopurines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cesarini
- a Department of Internal Medicine , University of Rome La Sapienza , Rome , Italy
| | - Stefano Festa
- b IBD Unit , San Filippo Neri Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Claudio Papi
- b IBD Unit , San Filippo Neri Hospital , Rome , Italy
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14
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European experience with methotrexate treatment in Crohn's disease: a multicenter retrospective analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 28:802-6. [PMID: 26894634 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Methotrexate (MTX) has been utilized for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD) for decades. Nevertheless, current data provide equivocal evidence on the efficacy of MTX in CD.The aims of this study were to describe the efficacy of MTX for maintenance of remission in CD and to identify the factors associated with the probability of steroid-free clinical remission in a multicenter European referral center cohort. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a retrospective cohort analysis. Consecutive patients treated with MTX for CD were included from 11 referral centers. Patients receiving concomitant treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors or thiopurines were excluded. The main outcome was steroid-free clinical remission; the secondary outcomes included the rate of complications leading to MTX discontinuation and duration of relapse-free survival in patients achieving the main outcome. RESULTS Between July 1992 and January 2012, 118 patients were identified for inclusion. MTX administration route was oral for induction in 31.4% and for maintenance in 49.1% of the patients. Steroid-free remission was achieved in 44/118 (37.2%) patients and was maintained relapse free by 28/44 (63.6%) for a median of 12 (3.5-18.5) months. At least one adverse effect was reported by 28.9% of the patients. No clinical or demographic factors were associated with either likelihood of achieving a clinical response or duration of relapse-free survival. CONCLUSION MTX treatment induced steroid-free clinical remission in over a third of CD patients and maintained it for a year in almost two-thirds of the responders. MTX should be considered a viable therapeutic option in CD patients refractory to other therapies.
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Wong SC, Dobie R, Altowati MA, Werther GA, Farquharson C, Ahmed SF. Growth and the Growth Hormone-Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 Axis in Children With Chronic Inflammation: Current Evidence, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions. Endocr Rev 2016; 37:62-110. [PMID: 26720129 DOI: 10.1210/er.2015-1026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Growth failure is frequently encountered in children with chronic inflammatory conditions like juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cystic fibrosis. Delayed puberty and attenuated pubertal growth spurt are often seen during adolescence. The underlying inflammatory state mediated by proinflammatory cytokines, prolonged use of glucocorticoid, and suboptimal nutrition contribute to growth failure and pubertal abnormalities. These factors can impair growth by their effects on the GH-IGF axis and also directly at the level of the growth plate via alterations in chondrogenesis and local growth factor signaling. Recent studies on the impact of cytokines and glucocorticoid on the growth plate further advanced our understanding of growth failure in chronic disease and provided a biological rationale of growth promotion. Targeting cytokines using biological therapy may lead to improvement of growth in some of these children, but approximately one-third continue to grow slowly. There is increasing evidence that the use of relatively high-dose recombinant human GH may lead to partial catch-up growth in chronic inflammatory conditions, although long-term follow-up data are currently limited. In this review, we comprehensively review the growth abnormalities in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cystic fibrosis, systemic abnormalities of the GH-IGF axis, and growth plate perturbations. We also systematically reviewed all the current published studies of recombinant human GH in these conditions and discussed the role of recombinant human IGF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Wong
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - R Dobie
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - M A Altowati
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - G A Werther
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - C Farquharson
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - S F Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group (S.C.W., M.A.A., S.F.A.), University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom; Division of Developmental Biology (R.D., C.F.), Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; and Hormone Research (G.A.W.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
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Abstract
Low-dose methotrexate (MTX) therapy is a well-recognized therapy for many inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis. More than 20 years ago, the clinical efficacy of MTX was also established for steroid dependent Crohn's disease, but it was never broadly adapted as a treatment modality. More recently, MTX is being increasingly used in the pediatric population with Crohn's disease, both as a single agent as well as a concomitant therapy with anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha treatment. This review outlines important pharmacological aspects for the therapeutic application of MTX and the current status of MTX as mono- or combination-therapy in both pediatric and adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease including new results of MTX monotherapy in steroid dependent ulcerative colitis.
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Scherkenbach LA, Stumpf JL. Methotrexate for the Management of Crohn's Disease in Children. Ann Pharmacother 2015; 50:60-9. [PMID: 26511908 DOI: 10.1177/1060028015613527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the literature evaluating methotrexate as a treatment option for Crohn's disease (CD) in pediatric patients. DATA SOURCES A search of PubMed electronic database (1966 to August 2015) and secondary resources was performed using the terms methotrexate, Crohn's, and inflammatory bowel disease. Other relevant articles cited within identified articles were also utilized. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Data sources were limited to English-language studies that included children less than 18 years of age. In total, 10 clinical studies met the criteria. DATA SYNTHESIS Awareness of the risk of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma associated with anti-tumor necrosis factor and thiopurine therapies has renewed interest in methotrexate to treat CD in children. According to data from 10 predominantly retrospective studies, children treated with oral or subcutaneous methotrexate once weekly had remission rates of 25% to 53% at 1 year. Adverse effects most often included nausea and vomiting, elevated liver function tests, headache, and hematological toxicity. The evidence to support methotrexate is limited by inconsistent study design and poorly described dosage regimens. It has been most frequently evaluated in patients with prior thiopurine exposure and has not been thoroughly evaluated as first-line therapy. CONCLUSIONS Based on results of retrospective studies, methotrexate is useful in the treatment of pediatric CD in those who fail thiopurine therapy. Remission rates with methotrexate are similar to those for thiopurine therapy, although no studies directly compare these agents. Although preliminary results are promising, prospective studies are needed to assess the use of methotrexate as initial first-line therapy in the pediatric CD population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Scherkenbach
- University of Michigan Health System and College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Janice L Stumpf
- University of Michigan Health System and College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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