Systematic review with meta-analysis: inflammatory bowel disease in the elderly

Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease with steroid-sparing medications is age-dependent - Results from a Danish nationwide cohort study, 2000-2018

BACKGROUND

Paediatric-onset and elderly-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) present unique treatment challenges.

AIMS

We investigated treatment patterns following a first and second course of systemic steroids in paediatric- and elderly-onset IBD and compared them to adult-onset IBD.

METHODS

All patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) between 2000 and 2018 were identified through the Danish healthcare registries. Patients were divided into groups based on their age at diagnosis. Kaplan-Meier plots were prepared for medications and surgeries after diagnosis and after the first and second courses of systemic steroids. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multivariate Cox regression analysis for steroid-sparing medications.

RESULTS

1851 CD (13%) and 1687 (6%) UC patients were paediatric-onset, while 2952 (20%) CD and 5812 (23%) UC patients were elderly-onset. Paediatric-onset more frequently received immunomodulators [CD: HR: 1.64, CI: 1.52-1.77, UC: HR: 2.29, CI: 2.02-2.61] and biologics [CD: HR: 1.43, CI: 1.25-1.65, UC: HR: 1.27, CI: 0.99-1.64], while elderly-onset less frequently received immunomodulators [CD: HR: 0.39, CI: 0.35-0.44, UC: HR: 0.58, CI: 0.50-0.67] and biologics [CD: HR: 0.19, CI: 0.14-0.25, UC: HR: 0.36, CI: 0.27-0.48] compared to adult-onset age groups. After two courses of systemic steroids, elderly-onset still received less steroid-sparing medications. High frailty was associated with lower usage of medications for elderly-onset.

CONCLUSION

There are significant differences in the use of steroid-sparing medication between age of onset, even after two courses with systemic steroids. High frailty could account for some of these differences in elderly-onset IBD.

Sarcopenia as a Preoperative Risk Stratification Tool among Older Adults with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Sarcopenia, defined as a loss of muscle mass and function, is a physiologic factor that has been implicated as a predictor of adverse postoperative outcomes in many older adult populations. However, data related to sarcopenia in older adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain limited. Older adults with IBD are particularly vulnerable to adverse postoperative outcomes, in part, due to muscle depletion from systemic inflammation, malnutrition, and reduced physical activity. However, few patients undergo routine muscle evaluation as a part of preoperative assessment. Moreover, cut-off values for measures of sarcopenia in the literature are modeled after non-IBD populations. The lack of standardized measures and values for sarcopenia in the IBD patient population has led to heterogenous findings and a paucity of preoperative risk stratification tools. Therefore, we aim to explore the scope of sarcopenia as a preoperative risk stratification tool among older adults with IBD.

Detailed survey of an in vitro intestinal epithelium model by single-cell transcriptomics

The co-culture of two adult human colorectal cancer cell lines, Caco-2 and HT29, on Transwell is commonly used as an in vitro gut mimic, yet the translatability of insights from such a system to adult human physiological contexts is not fully characterized. Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing on the co-culture to obtain a detailed survey of cell type heterogeneity in the system and conducted a holistic comparison with human physiology. We identified the intestinal stem cell-, transit amplifying-, enterocyte-, goblet cell-, and enteroendocrine-like cells in the system. In general, the co-culture was fetal intestine-like, with less variety of gene expression compared to the adult human gut. Transporters for major types of nutrients were found in the majority of the enterocytes-like cells in the system. TLR 4 was not expressed in the sample, indicating that the co-culture model is incapable of mimicking the innate immune aspect of the human epithelium.

Safety of full bowel preparation and colonoscopy in elderly patients with ulcerative colitis: A real-world multicenter retrospective cohort study

Background

The number of elderly patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) has been increasing worldwide. Complications are common in elderly patients who undergo colonoscopy, raising doubts about whether colonoscopy should be performed in the same way in this age group as in younger patients. The aim of this study was to determine the safety of full bowel preparation and colonoscopy in elderly patients with UC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of patients with UC who had visited any of the 12 hospitals and were registered in our inflammatory bowel disease database. We compared complications associated with colonoscopy and bowel preparation and relapse of UC after colonoscopy in 133 patients aged ≥65 years with UC (the elderly group) and 116 randomly selected patients aged <65 years with UC (the non-elderly group).

Results

Nine elderly patients were not referred for colonoscopy by their physicians because of poor performance status or advanced age. There was no significant between-group difference in the complication rate (p = 0.57) or frequency of relapse of UC after colonoscopy (p = 0.67).

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that colonoscopy can be performed as safely in elderly patients with UC as in their younger counterparts. However, our results also indicate that colonoscopy is often avoided in elderly patients, possibly because of concerns about safety.

Efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in older adults with ulcerative colitis: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) has been increasing, also in older adults. Here, we retrospectively compared the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus (TAC) in older and younger patients with UC.

METHODS

We included younger (age < 65 years; n = 116) and older patients (age ≥ 65 years; n = 21) with UC who received TAC from April 2009 through December 2022(mean follow-up, 1230 ± 175 days) and achieved remission. Evaluations included age at onset, laboratory values, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), use of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), biological experience, colonoscopy scores, remission at 1 month after treatment initiation, and adverse events. Treatment duration and renal function were assessed in patients with follow-up data (younger patients, n = 110; older patients, n = 19).

RESULTS

Older patients had a higher age at onset and treatment initiation but less 5-ASA use and biological experience. Before treatment, hemoglobin, albumin, and eGFR were significantly lower in the older group and CRP was significantly higher. The remission rate was 80.1% in the younger group and 66.6% in the older group (P = 0.1862). Adverse events were similar in both groups. The older group had a shorter treatment duration and significantly less change in renal function at all time points.

DISCUSSION

Rates of TAC-induced remission and adverse events were similar in older and younger adults with UC.

CONCLUSION

TAC can be used safely in elderly patients with moderate to severe UC with careful monitoring.

Does Elderly-Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease Increase Risk of Colorectal Cancer? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Although younger adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are known to have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), the impact of IBD on CRC risk in elderly patients is not yet fully understood. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to address this knowledge gap.

METHODS

We thoroughly searched Embase, PubMed, and Scopus, covering the literature from inception to 31 August 2023, in any language. We enrolled population-based cohort studies that appraised the risk of CRC development in elderly patients (≥60 years) with IBD as compared to the non-IBD population. Our meta-analysis provided pooled relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effect model.

RESULTS

Out of 3904 citations, 3 eligible cohort studies were ultimately included, reporting 694 CRC events in 35,187 patients with IBD. According to analysis, the risk of developing CRC did not increase in patients with elderly-onset IBD (RR = 1.17 [95% CI: 0.86-1.47]; I2 = 62.6%). This lack of a significant association was observed in both patients with Crohn's disease (RR = 1.28 [95% CI: 0.88-1.69]) and ulcerative colitis (RR = 0.99 [95% CI: 0.90-1.09]) (p for interaction = 0.166).

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed no significant increase in the risk of incident CRC in patients with elderly-onset IBD, suggesting that intense screening of these patients for CRC may not be necessary.

Unmet Needs in Real-World Advanced Therapy-Naïve and -Experienced Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Ulcerative Colitis in the United States

INTRODUCTION

Despite availability of advanced therapies (ATs) for ulcerative colitis (UC), many patients fail to respond to treatment. This study examined real-world clinical and humanistic outcomes associated with current treatments in patients with UC.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used US data from the Adelphi Real World Disease Specific Programme for inflammatory bowel disease from before (2017-2018) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021). Physicians (gastroenterologists) seeing > 5 patients/month reported patients' disease characteristics, current symptoms and treatments, and reasons for treatment choices for their next seven consecutive patients aged ≥ 18 years with moderately to severely active UC before current treatment. Patients were asked to complete the EQ-5D-5L health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measure. ATs included tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis), integrin receptor antagonists, interleukin-12/23 antagonists, and Janus kinase inhibitors. Patients were classified as AT-naïve or AT-experienced based on current treatment received for ≥ 8 weeks and further classified as responders or non-responders based on symptoms, disease flare status, and remission. Descriptive analyses are presented.

RESULTS

The 2017-2018 cohort included 92 physicians and 539 patients (208 [38.6%] AT-experienced). The 2020-2021 cohort included 73 physicians and 448 patients (349 [77.9%] AT-experienced). TNFis were the most common ATs. In 2017-2018, 195 (58.9%) AT-naïve and 113 (54.3%) AT-experienced patients were non-responders; in 2020-2021 this was 57 (57.6%) and 182 (52.1%). Efficacy and induction of remission were physicians' most common reasons for AT choice. Dislike of injections/infusions was the most common reason for eligible patients not receiving biologic therapy. Numerically, non-responders (both AT-naïve and AT-experienced) had more symptoms, overall pain and fatigue, and lower HRQoL scores than responders.

CONCLUSIONS

Before (2017-2018) and during the pandemic (2020-2021), over half of patients with UC did not respond to AT. Non-responders carried a high burden of disease. Alternative therapies are urgently needed to treat UC.

Comparison of Disease Phenotype and Course among Elderly- and Early-Onset Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in the Middle East

BACKGROUND

It is unknown if the clinical manifestations and phenotype of disease are comparable between early- and elderly-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to seek differences in disease phenotype, course, complications, and treatment between early- and elderly-onset IBD patients.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study on registered IBD patients in the Iranian Registry of Crohn's and Colitis (IRCC) compared demographics, disease phenotype, disease activity, IBD-related surgery and medications between early- and elderly-onset IBD. A generalized linear regression model was used to investigate the relative risk of age at diagnosis adjusted for gender and disease duration for the outcomes.

RESULTS

From 10048 IBD patients, 749 with early-onset (7.5%), and 472 (4.7%) elderly-onset IBD were enrolled: 855 (63.1%) ulcerative colitis (UC) and 366 (26.9%) Crohn's disease (CD). Left-sided colitis was more frequent among elderly-onset UC patients (P<0.001). Ileum and ileocolonic locations were the most common types in elderly-onset and early-onset CD patients, respectively. In comparison with elderly-onset UC, early-onset cases more often used prednisolone (22.1% vs. 11.4%, P=0.001), immunomodulators (44.9% vs 25.2%, P<0.001) and anti-tumor necrosis factors (TNF) (20.1% vs 11.9%, P=0.002). Elderly-onset UC patients had 0.7 times lower risk of aggressive phenotype (95%CI:0.6‒0.9, P=0.005). Early-onset CD was associated with higher use of prednisolone (27.7% vs 8.1%, P<0.001), immunomodulators (58.7% vs 41.8%, P=0.005) and anti-TNF (49.6% vs 35.4%, P=0.006).

CONCLUSION

Early-onset IBD was associated with a more aggressive phenotype and higher prednisolone, immunomodulators, and anti-TNF use.

Management of inflammatory bowel disease in the elderly: A review

The burden of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is increasing worldwide, with a particular increase in the prevalence in the elderly population, due to the ageing of young-onset IBD as well as to the increasing incidence in elderly patients. Elderly IBD patients present specific challenges to the treating physician, as they have comorbidities, lower functional reserves, and higher risk of treatment-related complications. The diagnosis of IBD in the elderly may be difficult due to a more subtle disease presentation and to a wide range of differential diagnosis. Moreover, as these patients are often excluded from clinical trials, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to inform on the most appropriate management. Despite an increasing prevalence, the management of IBD in the elderly is still hindered by frequent misconceptions by physicians treating these patients. Due to a erroneous notion of a milder disease course and fear of adverse events, elderly IBD-patients are managed with frequent and continuous use of steroids and undertreated with effective medical therapies. In this review, we describe the principles of management of IBD in the elderly, which is a topic of increasing importance to IBD clinics, that will have to progressively adapt to care for an ageing population.

Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Persian version of inflammatory bowel disease-fatigue (IBD-F) self-assessment questionnaire

BACKGROUND

This study appraises the psychometrics properties of the Inflammatory bowel disease-fatigue (IBD-F) Persian version questionnaire.

METHODS

The original IBD-F questionnaire was translated into the Persian version in a standard forward-back manner. The validation was performed through the face, content, and construct validity. Fifteen experts scored each item's necessity on an ordinal Likert scale of three; then, the content validity ratio was calculated using the Lawshe formula. Eight judges from pre-defined panel rated each item on an ordinal 4-point Likert scale concerning its relevancy, clarity, and simplicity for individual-CVI calculation. The mean individual-CVI was considered as the Scale-CVI for each domain. Twenty lay experts (selected from the target population) were asked to express their opinion on each item's importance by scoring on a 5-point Likert scale; subsequently, face validity was determined by the impact score formula. The questions that had minimum values of CVR, CVI, and impact score were retained in the final version of the questionnaire for reliability evaluation. Construct validity was evaluated via Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were checked using Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Fifty-four patients recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria to participate in the reliability analysis.

RESULTS

All the questions received the qualified values of CVR (exceeding 0.49 points) and impact score (more than 1.5 points) and were retained in the questionnaire; however, revisions were made for questions with a CVI 0.7-0.9 for clarity and simplicity. The result demonstrated relative goodness CFA and proper internal consistency, as Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.964 for the test (0.845 and 0.963 for the first and second part of the questionnaire, respectively (and 0.888 for the re-test (0.793 and 0.876 for the first and second section of the questionnaire, respectively). The ICC values between test and re-test for the first and second part and the whole questionnaire were obtained as 0.904, 0.922, and 0.921, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The Persian version of the IBD-F questionnaire was valid and reliable; thus, an appropriate scale was deemed to measure fatigue (severity, frequency, and impact on daily activities).

Older patients benefit more from sequential courses of washed microbiota transplantation than younger population with ulcerative colitis

OBJECTIVES

The short-term efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for ulcerative colitis (UC) has increasingly been evaluated. However, few studies have examined the long-term efficacy and its predictors. This study aimed to assess the clinical factors affecting the long-term efficacy of FMT for patients with UC.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospective trial (NCT01790061) for patients with UC undergoing washed microbiota transplantation (WMT), which is the improved methodology of FMT. The long-term clinical efficacy of WMT and the factors affecting efficacy were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 259 patients were included for analysis. Of 70.7% (183/259) of patients achieved a clinical response at 1 month after WMT and 29.7% (77/259) achieved steroid-free clinical remission 6 months after WMT. Total 44 patients maintained a clinical response for ≥24 months, and 33 (17.1%, 33/193) achieved steroid-free clinical remission for ≥24 months with WMT monotherapy. Patients with age at UC onset of ≥60 years, mild disease severity and undergoing ≥2 courses of WMT during the response within 6 months were more likely to achieve steroid-free clinical remission 6 months after WMT. Besides, independent factors associated with the long-term response of WMT for UC were age at onset of ≥60 years and ≥2 courses of WMT during the response.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated WMT could induce short-term steroid-free clinical remission and maintain long-term response in UC, especially for older patients and patients undergoing sequential courses.

Synthesis, characterization, and molecular modeling of phenylenediamine-phenylhydrazine-formaldehyde terpolymer (PPHF) as potent anti-inflammatory agent

Inflammation, a characteristic physiological response to infections and tissue damage, commences with processes involving tissue repair and pathogen elimination, contributing to the restoration of homeostasis at affected sites. Hence, this study presents a comprehensive analysis addressing diverse aspects associated with this phenomenon. The investigation encompasses the synthesis, spectral characterizations (FT-IR, ¹H NMR, and ¹³C NMR), and molecular modeling of p-phenylenediamine-phenylhydrazine-formaldehyde terpolymer (PPHF), a potent agent in promoting inflammation. To explore the reactivity, bonding nature, and spectroscopy, as well as perform molecular docking for in-silico biological evaluation, density functional theory (DFT) utilizing the def2svp/B3LYP-D3BJ method was employed. The results reveal significant biological activity of the tested compound in relation to anti-inflammatory proteins, specifically 6JD8, 5TKB, and 4CYF. Notably, upon interaction between PPHF and 6JD8, a binding affinity of -4.5 kcal/mol was observed. Likewise, the interaction with 5TKB demonstrated an affinity of -7.8 kcal/mol. Furthermore, a bonding affinity of -8.1 kcal/mol was observed for the interaction with 4CYF. Importantly, these values closely correspond to those obtained from the interaction between the proteins and the standard drug ibuprofen (IBF), which exhibited binding affinities of -5.9 kcal/mol, -7.0 kcal/mol, and -6.1 kcal/mol, respectively. Thus, these results provide compelling evidence affirming the tremendous potential of p-phenylenediamine-phenylhydrazine-formaldehyde (PPHF) as a highly promising anti-inflammatory agent, owing to the presence of nitrogen-a heteroatom within the compound.

Older adults with acute severe ulcerative colitis have similar steroid non-response and colectomy rates as younger adults

BACKGROUND

There is paucity of data on outcomes of acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) in older adults (≥ 60 years of age).

AIM

To assess steroid non-response rates during the index admission for ASUC in older adults. Secondary outcomes were response to medical rescue therapy and colectomy rates; at index admission, 3 and 12 mo.

METHODS

This retrospective multicentre cohort study included ASUC admissions who received intravenous steroids between January 2013 and July 2020 at two tertiary hospitals. Electronic medical records were reviewed to collect clinical, biochemical, and endoscopic data. A modified Poisson regression model was used for analysis.

RESULTS

Of 226 ASUC episodes, 45 (19.9%) occurred in patients ≥ 60 years of age. Steroid non-response rates were comparable in older adults and patients < 60 years of age [19 (42.2%) vs 85 (47%), P = 0.618, crude risk ratio (RR) = 0.89 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.61-1.30], adjusted RR = 0.99 (0.44-2.21). Rates of response to medical rescue therapy in older adults was comparable to the younger cohort [76.5% vs 85.7%, P = 0.46, crude RR = 0.89 (0.67-1.17)]. Index admission colectomy [13.3% vs 10.5%, P = 0.598, crude RR = 1.27 (0.53-2.99), adjusted RR = 1.43 (0.34-6.06)], colectomy at 3 mo [20% vs 16.6%, P = 0.66, crude RR = 1.18 (0.61-2.3), adjusted RR = 1.31 (0.32-0.53)] and colectomy at 12 mo [20% vs 23.2%, P = 0.682, crude RR = 0.85 (0.45-1.57), adjusted RR = 1.21 (0.29-4.97)], were similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

In older adults with ASUC, the steroid non-response rate, response to medical rescue therapy, and colectomy rate at index admission, 3 and 12 mo is similar to patients less than 60 years of age.

Effectiveness and Safety of Ustekinumab in Elderly Patients with Crohn's Disease: Real World Evidence From the ENEIDA Registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Clinical trials and real-life studies with ustekinumab in Crohn's disease [CD] have revealed a good efficacy and safety profile. However, these data are scarcely available in elderly patients. Therefore, we aim to assess the effectiveness and safety of ustekinumab in elderly patients with CD.

METHODS

Elderly patients [>60 years old] from the prospectively maintained ENEIDA registry treated with ustekinumab due to CD were included. Every patient was matched with two controls under 60 years of age, according to anti-tumour necrosis factor use and smoking habit. Values for the Harvey-Bradshaw Index [HBI], endoscopic activity, C-reactive protein [CRP] and faecal calprotectin [FC] were recorded at baseline and at weeks 16, 32 and 54.

RESULTS

In total, 648 patients were included, 212 of whom were elderly. Effectiveness was similar between young and elderly patients during the follow-up. Steroid-free remission was similar at week 16 [54.6 vs 51.4%, p = 0.20], 32 [53.0% vs 54.5%, p = 0.26] and 54 [57.8% vs 51.1%, p = 0.21]. Persistence of ustekinumab as maintenance therapy was similar in both age groups [log-rank test; p = 0.91]. There was no difference in the rate of adverse effects [14.2% vs 11.2%, p = 0.350], including severe infections [7.1% vs 7.3%, p = 1.00], except for the occurrence of de novo neoplasms, which was higher in older patients [0.7% vs 4.3%, p = 0.003].

CONCLUSIONS

Ustekinumab is as effective in elderly patients with CD as it is in non-elderly patients. The safety profile also seems to be similar except for a higher rate of de novo neoplasms, probably related to the age of the elderly patients.

Effectiveness, safety, and drug sustainability of biologics in elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Biologic therapy resulted in a significant positive impact on the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) however data on the efficacy and side effects of these therapies in the elderly is scant.

AIM

To evaluate retrospectively the drug sustainability, effectiveness, and safety of the biologic therapies in the elderly IBD population.

METHODS

Consecutive elderly (≥ 60 years old) IBD patients, treated with biologics [infliximab (IFX), adalimumab (ADAL), vedolizumab (VDZ), ustekinumab (UST)] followed at the McGill University Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Center were included between January 2000 and 2020. Efficacy was measured by clinical scores at 3, 6-9 and 12-18 mo after initiation of the biologic therapy. Patients completing induction therapy were included. Adverse events (AEs) or serious AE were collected during and within three months of stopping of the biologic therapy.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 147 elderly patients with IBD treated with biologicals during the study period, including 109 with Crohn’s disease and 38 with ulcerative colitis. Patients received the following biologicals: IFX (28.5%), ADAL (38.7%), VDZ (15.6%), UST (17%). The mean duration of biologic treatment was 157.5 (SD = 148) wk. Parallel steroid therapy was given in 34% at baseline, 19% at 3 mo, 16.3% at 6-9 mo and 6.5% at 12-18 mo. The remission rates at 3, 6-9 and 12-18 mo were not significantly different among biological therapies. Kaplan-Meyer analysis did not show statistical difference for drug sustainability (P = 0.195), time to adverse event (P = 0.158) or infection rates (P = 0.973) between the four biologics studied. The most common AEs that led to drug discontinuation were loss of response, infusion/injection reaction and infection.

CONCLUSION

Current biologics were not different regarding drug sustainability, effectiveness, and safety in the elderly IBD population. Therefore, we are not able to suggest a preferred sequencing order among biologicals.

Safety of Biological Therapies in Elderly Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Aim: Newer biologics appeared safer in landmark clinical trials, but their safety is understudied in vulnerable populations. The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the safety of available biologicals in the elderly IBD population. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed/Medline and conference proceedings between 1 April 1969 and 1 June 2021 to identify eligible studies that examined the safety of biologics in elderly patients with IBD. Of the 2885 articles and 12 congress abstracts identified, 12 peer reviewed papers and 3 abstracts were included after independent evaluation by two reviewers. The identified studies collected safety data on anti-TNF, vedolizumab (VDZ) and ustekinumab (UST). Results: Rates of AE and infections were not different among the biologics (AE mean rate: 11.3 (CI 95% 9.9–12.7)/100 pts-years; p = 0.11, infection mean rate: 9.5 (CI 95% 8.4–10.6)/100 pts-years; p = 0.56) in elderly IBD patients on anti-TNF, VDZ or UST. Infusion/injection reaction rates were more common on anti-TNFs (mean rate: 2.51 (CI 95% 1.7–3.4/100 pts-years; p = 0.02). and malignancy rates were higher on VDZ/UST (mean rate: 2.14 (CI 95% 1.6–2.8)/100 pts-years; p = 0.01). Conclusions: Rates of AEs and infections were not different among biologicals. Infusion/injection reactions were more common on anti-TNFs. Current data are insufficient to suggest the sequencing of biologicals in elderly patients based on safety.

Safety and Efficacy of Vedolizumab Versus Tumor Necrosis Factor α Antagonists in an Elderly IBD Population: A Single Institution Retrospective Experience

BACKGROUND

Vedolizumab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is little known about the safety and comparative efficacy of this agent in the elderly population.

AIMS

Here, we present data on the safety and comparative efficacy of vedolizumab versus tumor necrosis factor α antagonists (anti-TNF) in elderly patients with IBD.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included IBD patients started on vedolizumab or anti-TNF at age 60 or older at a single tertiary IBD center. Safety was evaluated by assessing for the development of serious infection. The comparative needs for IBD-related surgery, IBD-related hospitalization, and drug discontinuation for any reason were obtained. Efficacy was assessed by comparing changes in endoscopic, histologic, and patient-report outcomes.

RESULTS

212 cases were identified-108 patients treated with vedolizumab and 104 patients treated with anti-TNF. There were no significant differences between cohorts in serious infection, surgical intervention, or IBD-hospitalization-free survival (p = NS). Drug discontinuation survival was different between anti-TNF and vedolizumab (p = 0.02) with more patients remaining on vedolizumab at the time of last follow-up (51.9% vs. 25.9%). Endoscopic remission and response rates were higher in the vedolizumab versus anti-TNF group (65.7% vs. 45.2%, p = 0.02; 80.0% vs. 59.3%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of IBD patients over age 60, vedolizumab showed no statistically significant differences in infection, hospitalization, or surgical intervention-free survival as compared to anti-TNF. Vedolizumab was discontinued less frequently than anti-TNF. Patients on vedolizumab had higher rates of endoscopic remission and response.

High Rates of Mortality in Geriatric Patients Admitted for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Management

GOAL

The goal of this study was to evaluate the inpatient mortality risk among geriatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

BACKGROUND

The challenges of caring for elderly patients with IBD will increase with the aging of the US population. Given the complications of hospitalization, we set to examine if elderly patients age older than 65 were at higher risk of mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn's disease (CD) in the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 and 2017 as the primary diagnosis or secondary diagnosis with an IBD-related cause of admission were included. Outcomes for patients aged above 65 were compared with below 65 using multivariable survey-adjusted regression. CD and UC were analyzed separately.

RESULTS

In 2016-2017, there were an estimated 162,800 admissions for CD and related complications compared with 96,450 for UC. In total, 30% of UC and 20% of CD admissions were geriatric. Geriatric status was associated with higher odds of mortality for CD [odds ratio (OR)=3.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.72-4.44] and UC (OR=2.75, 95% CI: 2.16-3.49) after adjustment for comorbidities, admission type, hospital type, inpatient surgery, and IBD subtype. The cause of death was ∼80% infectious in both CD and UC in all groups. An average of 0.19 days (95% CI: 0.05-0.34) and $2467 (95% CI: 545-4388) increase was seen for geriatric CD patients. No significant change was seen for UC.

CONCLUSIONS

Age over 65 was independently associated with higher odds of death in both UC and CD patients, even after appropriate adjustment. Further research is needed to optimize care for this growing patient population.

The Incidence Rate and Risk Factors of Malignancy in Elderly-Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Chinese Cohort Study From 1998 to 2020

Background

Patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of cancer. However, the risk of malignancy in patients with elderly-onset IBD (≥60 years) remains controversial. Hence, we aimed to identify and compare the dissimilarities in morbidity and related risk factors between patients with elderly-onset and adult-onset (18–59 years) IBD in a Chinese cohort.

Methods

Patients with confirmed IBD, diagnosed at age ≥18 years, between January 1998 and December 2020 at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital were enrolled. The yearly incidence rates (IRs) for cancer were calculated, and the characteristics were analyzed in these patients.

Results

A total of 1,480 patients suffering from adult-onset IBD and 129 patients suffering from elderly-onset IBD with a median follow-up period of 4.9 years and 4.8 years, respectively, were included. Patients in the elderly-onset IBD group demonstrated an increased overall incidence of cancer than that demonstrated by patients in the adult-onset group (IR 26.9 versus 9.51, respectively, per 1,000 person-years; relative risk [RR], 2.83). Colorectal cancer was the most common malignancy in the two groups, and patients suffering from elderly-onset IBD demonstrated a higher incidence of the malignancy (IR, 7.07 versus 3.34, respectively, per 1,000 person-years; RR, 2.12). Among the extraintestinal cancers, hematological malignancies and urinary tract cancers (including renal and urinary bladder carcinoma) were common in the elderly-onset group (IR, 4.24 and 4.24 per 1,000 person-years, respectively), whereas thyroid cancer was more common in the adult-onset group (IR, 1.36 per 1,000 person-years). Analysis of clinical characteristics revealed that patients with elderly-onset IBD who developed cancer were more likely to have diabetes and urinary lithiasis (p = 0.041 and 0.035, respectively). In addition, patients in the elderly-onset group had a shorter course from IBD to cancer, less exposure to immunosuppressants, less extraintestinal manifestations, and higher cancer-related mortality. Cox proportional risk regression analysis in the elderly-onset IBD group revealed that diabetes was an independent risk factor for the progression to cancer (hazard ratio [HR], 12.53 [2.379–65.994], P = 0.003).

Conclusion

The risk of malignancy in patients suffering from elderly-onset IBD increased significantly as compared with those with adult-onset disease. Therefore, cancer monitoring should be initiated earlier for patients in the elderly-onset group.

The risk of revision following total hip arthroplasty in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, a registry based study

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract and is associated with decreased bone mineral density. IBD patients are at higher risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis and fracture compared to non-IBD patients. The impact of IBD on the performance of orthopedic implants has not been well studied. We hypothesized that a history of IBD at the time of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) would increase the risk of subsequent failure as assessed by revision surgery. A retrospective implant survival analysis was completed using the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Registry and the Sweden National Patient Register. A total of 150,073 patients undergoing THA for osteoarthritis within an 18-year period were included in the study. THA patients with (n = 2,604) and without (n = 147,469) a history of IBD at the time of THA were compared with primary revision as the main endpoint and adjusted using sex, age category and comorbidity (Elixhauser scores) as covariates. We found that patients with a history of IBD had a relatively higher risk of revision surgery for septic causes while the non-IBD patients had a relatively higher risk of revision for aseptic causes (p = 0.004). Our findings suggest there may be an association between gut health and THA performance.

Frailty Is Independently Associated with Mortality and Readmission in Hospitalized Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Old age must be considered in weighing the risks of complications vs benefits of treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). We conducted a nationally representative cohort study to estimate the independent effects of frailty on burden, costs, and causes for hospitalization in patients with IBD.

METHODS

We searched the Nationwide Readmissions Database to identify 47,402 patients with IBD, hospitalized from January through June 2013 and followed for readmission through December 31, 2013. Based on a validated hospital frailty risk scoring system, 15,507 patients were considered frail and 31,895 were considered non-frail at index admission. We evaluated the independent effect of frailty on longitudinal burden and costs of hospitalization, inpatient mortality, risk of readmission and surgery, and reasons for readmission.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up time of 10 months, adjusting for age, sex, income, comorbidity index, depression, obesity, severity, and indication for index hospitalization, frailty was independently associated with 57% higher risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.57; 95% CI, 1.34-1.83), 21% higher risk of all-cause readmission (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.21; 95% CI, 1.17-1.25), and 22% higher risk of readmission for severe IBD (aHR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.16-1.29). Frail patients with IBD spent more days in the hospital annually (median 9 days; interquartile range, 4-18 days vs median 5 days for non-frail patients; interquartile range, 3-10 days; P < .01) with higher costs of hospitalization ($17,791; interquartile range, $8368-$38,942 vs $10,924 for non-frail patients, interquartile range, $5571-$22,632; P < .01). Infections, rather than IBD, were the leading cause of hospitalization for frail patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is independently associated with higher mortality and burden of hospitalization in patients with IBD; infections are the leading cause of hospitalization. Frailty should be considered in treatment approach, especially in older patients with IBD.

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Despite good overall outcomes in most patients undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), there is still hesitation about performing an IPAA in older patients due to the comorbidity burden and concern about incontinence. The aim of this work was to identify short- and long-term outcomes in older patinets undergoing IPAA to determine the perioperative safety and long-term functional success of IPAA in older patients.

METHOD

A literature search was performed for all publications on IPAA in adults aged ≥50 years that reported short- and long-term outcomes. Data extraction included demographics, 30-day outcomes, long-term functional outcomes and pouch failure. Data were further separated by age group (50-65 and ≥65 years). Outcomes were compared between age groups. Study quality and risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

Of 1053 publications reviewed, 13 full papers were included in the analysis. The overall 30-day morbidity and mortality rates were 47.3% and 1.3%, respectively. Thirty-day postoperative rates of small bowel obstruction and pelvic sepsis were 7.6% and 9.9%, respectively. After a median follow-up time of 62 months, rates of pouchitis, incontinence and pouch failure were 13.9%, 17.5% and 7.5%, respectively. There was no statically significant difference in rates of short- or long-term functional outcomes based on age 50-65 versus ≥65 years.

CONCLUSION

Increasing age did not increase the rate of short- or long-term outcomes, including pouch failure. These data suggest that the decision for IPAA construction should not be based on age alone.

Who are the patients with Crohn's disease unsuitable to receive an anti-TNFα therapy? Results from a survey of Italian physicians and literature review

OBJECTIVES

Anti-TNFα agents have been a staple of Crohn's disease treatment for 20 years, but they have weaknesses. New treatments have more recently become available. The aim of this paper is to examine the Crohn's disease patient population for whom anti-TNF treatments are not preferred and where new mechanisms of action should be considered.

METHODS

A representative sample of 100 Italian physicians with documented expertise with biological treatment of moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease were interviewed. A literature review on Crohn's disease treatment was also conducted to identify patient populations for whom anti-TNFs are unsuitable.

RESULTS

On the basis of the interviewed physicians, about 9% of moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease patients were noneligible to anti-TNFα due to contraindication or possible risk of intolerance, while 11% had discontinued anti-TNFα treatment due to complications or intolerance/hypersensitivity. Patients with severe heart disease and at high risk of infections were more frequently considered unsuitable. The proportion of patients considered unsuitable among elderly patients and in those with recurrent infections, cancer, and other comorbidities ranged between 40 and 60%.

CONCLUSIONS

We provided additional quantitative and qualitative information to help identify patients who are less suitable to anti-TNF agents, who could benefit from newer biologic agents with different mechanisms of action.

The elderly IBD patient in the modern era: changing paradigms in risk stratification and therapeutic management

The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rising in the elderly population. Compared with patients with onset during their younger years, patients with elderly onset IBD have a distinct clinical presentation, disease phenotype, and natural history. Genetics contribute less to pathogenesis of disease, whereas biological changes associated with aging including immunosenescence, dysbiosis, and frailty have a greater impact on disease outcomes. With the advent of an increasingly wider array of biologic and small-molecule therapeutic options, data regarding efficacy and safety of these agents in elderly IBD patients specifically are paramount, given the unique characteristics of this population.

Safety and Efficacy of Tumor Necrosis Factor Antagonists in Older Patients With Ulcerative Colitis: Patient-Level Pooled Analysis of Data From Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Treatment of older patients (more than 60 years) with ulcerative colitis (UC) can be a challenge, because they might be more vulnerable to adverse events (AEs). We determined the effects of age on the safety and efficacy of anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy in a pooled analysis of data from randomized trials.

METHODS

We obtained individual patient-level data from 4 trials of anti-TNF therapy for patients with UC from the Yale Open Data Access Project. Participants were assigned to groups of older age (60 years or older) and younger age (younger than 60 years). The primary outcome was difference in serious AEs (SAEs), defined as death, life-threatening event, hospitalization, and/or significant disability. Secondary outcomes were severe infections, non-severe infections, neoplasms, and achievement of clinical remission, defined by trial investigators as Mayo score ≤ 2 with no sub-score >1 at the end of induction or maintenance therapy. A random effects logistic regression model was fitted to estimate the effect of anti-TNF therapy on safety and efficacy by age, adjusting for confounders and trial-level effects.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 2257 patients (231 60 years or older). Higher proportions of older patients receiving anti-TNF therapy had SAEs (20%) and hospitalizations (14.4%), compared with younger patients (10.2% had SAEs and 5.2% were hospitalized); there were no significant differences between groups in proportions with severe or non-severe infections. Compared with placebo, there was no significant difference in safety risks associated with anti-TNF therapy (SAEs reduced by 5.4% in older patients vs reduction of 2.4% in younger patients; hospitalizations reduced by 6.7% in older patients vs reduction of 2.5% in younger patients; severe infections reduced by 3.1% vs increase of 0.7% in younger patients). There was no significant difference in between older vs younger patients in efficacy of anti-TNF therapy in inducing remission (odds risk ratio, 1.05, 95% CI, 0.33-3.39) or in maintaining remission (odds risk ratio, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.18-1.33).

CONCLUSIONS

In a pooled analysis of data from randomized trials, we found that older patients with UC have an increased baseline increased risk of SAEs, but no increase in risk can be attributed to anti-TNF therapy in older vs younger patients.

Epidemiology and Natural History of Elderly-onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Results From a Territory-wide Hong Kong IBD Registry

BACKGROUND

Elderly-onset inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], defined as age ≥60 at diagnosis, is increasing worldwide. We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and natural history of elderly-onset IBD patients with those of adult-onset IBD patients.

METHODS

Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of IBD from 1981 to 2016 were identified from a territory-wide Hong Kong IBD registry involving 13 hospitals. Demographics, comorbidities, clinical features, and outcomes of elderly-onset IBD patients were compared with those of adult-onset IBD patients.

RESULTS

A total of 2413 patients were identified, of whom 270 [11.2%] had elderly-onset IBD. Median follow-up duration was 111 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 68-165 months). Ratio of ulcerative colitis [UC]: Crohn's disease [CD] was higher in elderly-onset IBD than in adult-onset IBD patients [3.82:1 vs 1.39:1; p <0.001]. Elderly-onset CD had less perianal involvement [5.4% vs 25.4%; p <0.001] than adult-onset CD. Elderly-onset IBD patients had significantly lower cumulative use of immunomodulators [p = 0.001] and biologics [p = 0.04]. Elderly-onset IBD was associated with higher risks of: cytomegalovirus colitis (odds ratio [OR]: 3.07; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.92-4.89; p <0.001); herpes zoster [OR: 2.42; 95% CI 1.22-4.80; p = 0.12]; and all cancer development [hazard ratio: 2.97; 95% CI 1.84-4.79; p <0.001]. They also had increased number of overall hospitalisations [OR: 1.14; 95% CI 1.09-1.20; p <0.001], infections-related hospitalisation [OR: 1.87; 95% CI 1.47-2.38; p <0.001], and IBD-related hospitalisation [OR: 1.09; 95% CI 1.04- 1.15; p = 0.001] compared with adult-onset IBD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly-onset IBD was associated with increased risk of infections and cancer development, and increased infection- and IBD-related hospitalisations. Specific therapeutic strategies to target this special population are needed.

The effect of aging on infliximab exposure and response in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases

AIMS

Controversies regarding infliximab treatment in elderly patients with inflammatory bowel diseases remain. We evaluated the effect of patient's age on infliximab exposure, efficacy and safety.

METHODS

Retrospective case-control data of patients receiving infliximab induction treatment were analysed. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed to estimate individual pharmacokinetic parameters. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the effect of exposure on endoscopic remission. Repeated time-to-event models were developed to describe the hazard of safety events over time.

RESULTS

A total of 104 patients (46 elderly, ≥65 years) were included. A two-compartment population pharmacokinetic model with linear elimination adequately described the data. Infliximab clearance decreased with older age, higher serum albumin, lower fat-free mass, lower C-reactive protein and absence of immunogenicity. Yet, infliximab exposure was not significantly different between elderly and nonelderly. Regardless of age, an infliximab trough concentration at week (w)14 of 15.6 mg/L was associated with a 50% probability of attaining endoscopic remission between w6 and w22. Infliximab exposure during induction treatment was not a risk factor of (severe) adverse events. The hazard of severe adverse events and malignancy increased by 2% and 7%, respectively, with increasing year of age. Concomitant immunomodulator use increased the hazard of infection by 958%, regardless of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly patients attained infliximab exposure and endoscopic remission similarly to nonelderly patients. Therefore, the same infliximab trough concentration target can be used in therapeutic drug monitoring. The hazards of severe adverse events and malignancy increased with age, but not with infliximab exposure.

Clinical Characteristics and Long-term Prognosis of Elderly-Onset Ulcerative Colitis in a Population-Based Cohort in the Songpa- Kangdong District of Seoul, Korea

Background/Aims

We aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and long-term prognosis of elderly-onset ulcerative colitis (EOUC) in Korean patients over a 30-year period using a well-established population-based cohort in the Songpa-Kangdong district of Seoul, Korea.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and prognosis were compared between two groups EOUC, defined as UC diagnosed in individuals aged ≥60 years and non-EOUC (N-EOUC), defined as UC diagnosed in individuals aged 18 to 59 years.

Results

We identified 99 patients with EOUC (10.3%) and 866 patients with N-EOUC (89.7%) between 1986 and 2015. During the median follow-up of 104.5 months, the overall exposure to medications was comparable between patients with EOUC and N-EOUC (p=0.091 for corticosteroids, p=0.794 for thiopurines, and p=0.095 for anti-tumor necrosis factor agents). The cumulative risks of disease outcomes were also comparable between patients with EOUC and N-EOUC (22.4% vs 30.4% for proximal disease extension [p=0.351], 11.9% vs 18.1% for hospitalization [p=0.240], and 2.3% vs 1.8% for colectomy [p=0.977]) at 10 years after diagnosis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that corticosteroid use at diagnosis was an independent predictor of proximal disease extension (hazard ratio [HR], 6.216; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.314 to 28.826) and hospitalization (HR, 11.241; 95% CI, 3.027 to 41.742) in patients with EOUC.

Conclusions

In this population-based study from Korea, the pattern of medication use seemed comparable between the EOUC and N-EOUC groups. Moreover, patients with EOUC and those with N-EOUC have a similar disease course in terms of proximal disease extension, hospitalization, and colectomy. (Gut Liver 2021;15-751)

The Natural History, Treatments, and Outcomes of Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a poorly described complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We sought to better characterize presentations, compare treatments, and assess outcomes in IBD-related PVT.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective investigation of IBD-related PVT at our institution. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios across treatments.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients with IBD-related PVT (26 with Crohn disease, 37 with ulcerative colitis) were followed for a median 21 months (interquartile ratio [IQR] = 9-52). Major risk factors included intra-abdominal surgery (60%), IBD flare (33%), and intra-abdominal infection (13%). Primary hematologic thrombophilias were rare and did not impact management. Presentations were generally nonspecific, and diagnosis was incidental. Ninety-two percent of patients (58/63) received anticoagulation (AC), including 23 who received direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), 22 who received warfarin, and 13 who received enoxaparin. All anticoagulated patients started AC within 3 days of diagnosis. Complete radiographic resolution (CRR) of PVT occurred in 71% of patients. We found that DOACs were associated with higher CRR rates (22/23; 96%) relative to warfarin (12/22; 55%): the hazard ratio of DOACs to warfarin was 4.04 (1.83-8.93; P = 0.0006)). Patients receiving DOACs required shorter courses of AC (median 3.9 months; IQR = 2.7-6.1) than those receiving warfarin (median 8.5 months; IQR = 3.9-NA; P = 0.0190). Incidence of gut ischemia (n = 3), symptomatic portal hypertension (n = 3), major bleeding (n = 4), and death (n = 2) were rare, and no patients receiving DOACs experienced these adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that early and aggressive use of AC can lead to excellent outcomes in IBD-associated PVT and that DOACs are associated with particularly favorable outcomes in this setting.

Cognitive Impairment in Adult Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

People living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are exposed to multiple risk factors for cognitive impairment and frequently report cognitive difficulties. However, the presence of cognitive impairment in IBD has not been systematically reviewed.

METHODS

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we performed a systematic multidatabase search for cross-sectional and longitudinal studies comparing adults with IBD versus healthy controls for domain-specific cognitive function or scores on multidomain cognitive screening tools. For any domain reported by 3 or more studies, we conducted random-effects meta-analysis to calculate the standardized mean difference between groups; lower scores reflected poorer performance. Between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic and study quality assessed using an IBD-modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

RESULTS

Of 8302 articles screened, 12 studies (n = 687) were included in the qualitative synthesis and 11 in meta-analyses. All studies were cross-sectional. Studies generally excluded people with active IBD and older adults. Despite no significant differences on multidomain screening tools such as the Mini Mental State Examination (-0.27 [95% confidence interval -0.68, 0.08], P = 0.14), people with IBD showed significant deficits compared with healthy controls in attention (standardized mean difference -0.36 [-0.60, -0.12], P = 0.003, I² = 0%), executive function (standardized mean difference -0.45 [-0.77, -0.13, P = 0.005, I² = 42.5%), and specifically in working memory (standardized mean difference -0.58 [-0.85, -0.30], P < 0.001, I² = 0%). Deficits in learning and recall were nonsignificant (P = 0.089) and other domains insufficient for meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

People with IBD show deficits in attention and executive function, particularly in working memory, suggesting that cognitive impairment is a potential extraintestinal manifestation of IBD.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for inflammatory bowel disease 2020

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

Disease- and Treatment-related Complications in Older Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Comparison of Adult-onset vs Elderly-onset Disease

BACKGROUND

The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in older adults are rising. There is a limited comparative assessment of risk of disease- and treatment-related complications in older patients (older than 60 years) with adult-onset (age at disease onset, 18-59 years; AO-IBD) vs elderly-onset IBD (age at disease onset, older than 60 years; EO-IBD). We compared clinical outcomes in older patients with IBD with AO-IBD vs EO-IBD.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study comparing risk of disease-related complications (IBD-related surgery, hospitalization, treatment escalation, clinical flare, or disease complication) and treatment-related complications (serious infection, malignancy, or death) in older patients with AO-IBD vs EO-IBD through Cox proportional hazard analysis, adjusting for age at cohort entry, disease phenotype, disease duration, prior surgery and/or hospitalization, medication use, disease activity at cohort entry, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

We included 356 older patients with IBD (AO-IBD, 191 patients, 67 ± 5 y at cohort entry; EO-IBD, 165 patients, 72 ± 8 y at cohort entry). No significant differences were observed in the risk of disease-related complications in older patients with prevalent vs incident IBD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.58-1.25), although risk of IBD-related surgery was lower in older patients with prevalent IBD (aHR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25-0.89). Older patients with prevalent IBD were significantly less likely to experience treatment-related complications (aHR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.39-0.87).

CONCLUSION

Patients with AO-IBD have lower risk of treatment-related complications as they age compared with patients with EO-IBD, without a significant difference in risk of disease-related complications.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Older Adult

Although management of inflammatory bowel disease follows a similar approach for all adults, there are certain characteristics making its treatment more challenging in older patients. The advent of novel medical treatments has changed the paradigm of inflammatory bowel disease, with an increasing focus on preventing disease progression in addition to controlling symptoms. The safety of these therapies in the elderly needs to be considered. Management of inflammatory bowel disease in the elderly is confounded by comorbidities that can increase the risk of medication or surgical complications; polypharmacy and altered pharmacokinetics also increase the risk of drug-drug interactions and adverse events.

Progression of Elderly Onset Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Cohort Studies

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) in older adults is increasing. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate progression of elderly onset (EO) IBD in population-based cohorts and compared it with adult onset (AO) IBD.

METHODS

In a systematic review through June 1, 2019, we identified population-based cohort studies of EO IBD reporting the cumulative risk of hospitalization, surgery, mortality, treatment patterns, escalation, and/or malignancy. Data were synthesized using random-effects meta-analysis as cumulative risk of events at 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years, and compared with data from patients with AO IBD in the same cohorts.

RESULTS

We identified 9 studies, comprising 14,765 patients with EO IBD. In patients with EO Crohn's disease (CD), the cumulative 5-year risk of surgery was 22.6% (95% CI, 18.7-27.2) and was similar to that of patients with AO CD (relative risk [RR], 1.04; 95% CI, 0.80-1.34). Overall exposure to corticosteroids was comparable between patients with EO CD vs AO CD (5-year risk: 55.4%; 95% CI, 53.4-57.4; RR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.78-1.00), but exposure to immunomodulators (31.5%; 95% CI, 29.7-33.4; RR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.51-0.77) or biologic agents (6.5%; 95% CI, 5.6-7.6; RR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.25-0.52) was significantly lower for patients with EO CD than for patients with AO CD. Similarly, in patients with EO ulcerative colitis (UC), the cumulative 5-year risk of surgery was 7.8% (95% CI, 5.0-12.0), similar to the risk for patients with AO UC (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 0.79-2.11). Overall exposure to corticosteroids was comparable between patients with EO UC vs AO UC (5-year risk: 57.2%; 95% CI, 55.6-58.7; RR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.91-1.06), but exposure to immunomodulators (16.1%; 95% CI, 15.0-17.2; RR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.54-0.62) or biologic agents (2.0%; 95% CI, 1.6-2.5; RR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.24-0.52) was significantly lower for patients with EO UC than for patients with AO UC. Patients with EO IBD appeared to have increased mortality, but not malignancy, compared with the general population. There were few data on comorbidities or adverse effects of medications.

CONCLUSIONS

In a systematic review and meta-analysis, we found that patients with EO IBD have a similar risk of surgery as patients with AO IBD. However, patients with EO IBD are less likely to receive treatment with immunomodulators or biologic agents.

Gastroenterologists' preference and risk perception on the use of immunomodulators and biological therapies in elderly patients with ulcerative colitis: an international survey

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Comorbidities, polypharmacy, malignancies, and infections complicate management of elderly patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). This study assessed gastroenterologists' preference in the prescription of medications or surgery to elderly patients with IBD, and the factors associated with their choices.

METHODS

An international case-based survey was conducted that presented three cases of steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis assessing young-age versus elderly-age patients, with and without comorbidity. Physician characteristics and practice demographics were collected. Factors associated with selection of different choices of therapy were determined by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 424 respondents from 41 countries were included. Vedolizumab (53.2%) and thiopurines (19.4%) were the top treatment preferences for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (P < 0.0001). Comorbidity and older age were independently associated with more frequent use of vedolizumab (P < 0.0001), and less frequent use of immunomodulators and anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF; P < 0.0001). Comorbidity was the only independent predictor for selecting colectomy (P < 0.0001). A history of lymphoma (94%) and opportunistic infection (78.3%) were the most frequent conditions precluding the use of thiopurine and anti-TNF in elderly patients with IBD. Only 6.1% of respondents considered patient age a limit for vedolizumab, while 37.9% considered age as a limiting factor in prescribing thiopurines (P < 0.001). Geographical heterogeneity was identified with significantly more physicians from Oceania and North America favouring the use of vedolizumab.

CONCLUSION

Vedolizumab was the preferred first-line agent in the treatment of elderly patients with IBD with steroid-dependent moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. Older age and presence of comorbidity influenced the selection of medication. Comorbidity was the main predictor of colectomy. Geographical heterogeneity in prescribing habits may relate to medication reimbursement in individual countries.

Increased Discontinuation Rates of Anti-TNF Therapy in Elderly Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

There is paucity of data on safety and efficacy of anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] in elderly inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] patients. We aimed to compare the long-term treatment failure rates and safety of a first anti-TNF agent in IBD patients between different age groups [<40 years/40-59 years/≥60 years].

METHODS

IBD patients who started a first anti-TNF agent were identified through IBDREAM, a multicentre prospective IBD registry. Competing risk regression was used to study treatment failure, defined as time to drug discontinuation due to adverse events [AEs] or lack of effectiveness, with discontinuation due to remission as a competing risk.

RESULTS

A total of 895 IBD patients were included; 546 started anti-TNF at age <40 [61.0%], 268 at age 40-59 [29.9%], and 81 at age ≥60 [9.1%]. Treatment failure rate was higher in the two older groups (subhazard rate [SHR] age ≥60 1.46, SHR age 40-59 1.21; p = 0.03). The SHR in the elderly [>60] was 1.52 for discontinuation due to AEs and 1.11 for lack of effectiveness. Concomitant thiopurine use was associated with a lower treatment failure rate (SHR 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62-0.98, p = 0.031). Serious adverse event [SAE] rate, as well as serious infection rate, were significantly higher in elderly IBD patients [61.2 versus 16.0 and 12.4 per 1000 patient-years, respectively] whereas the malignancy rate was low in all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly IBD patients starting a first anti-TNF agent showed higher treatment failure rates, but concomitant thiopurine use at baseline was associated with lower failure rates. Elderly IBD patients demonstrated higher rates of SAEs and serious infections.

Elderly-onset vs adult-onset ulcerative colitis: a different natural history?

Background

Incidence of ulcerative colitis (UC) in elderly population is increasing because of ageing and because of its minimal impact on life span. Data on natural history, outcomes and therapeutic strategies are limited.

Our aim is to characterize UC in elderly-onset patients followed at our Inflammatory Bowel Disease outpatient clinic and compare with adult-onset UC.

Methods

From January 2000 to June 2019, 94 patients with UC diagnosed after the age of 65 years (elderly group, E-O) were identified and matched 1–1 according to gender and calendar year of diagnosis with patients diagnosed with UC at age between 40 and 64 years (adult age, A-O).

Results

Comorbidity Index (3.8 vs 1.6, p < 0.0005) was higher for elderly UC patients. Symptoms at presentation were similar between the two groups, although abdominal pain was more common in adults, and weight loss was more common in the elderly. At diagnosis, left colitis (61% vs 39%) and proctitis (14% vs 26%) (p = 0.011) were more frequent in the elderly. Therapy and clinical behaviour were similar. Surgery was more frequently performed in the elderly (20% vs 9%, p = 0.02), while biological therapy was less used (2.1% vs 22%, p < 0.0005). Complications were more frequent in the elderly. Extraintestinal manifestations were lower in elderly patients (9.6% vs 19.2%, p = 0.061). Time to first relapse was similar between the two groups. Mortality (p < 0.0005) was higher in elderly patients.

Conclusions

Ulcerative Colitis has similar presentation and behaviour in elderly and adults patients. However, the elderly are more fragile because of comorbidities, increased risk of infections and disease-related complications.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: biologics and risk of infection or cancer in elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Uncertainty exists concerning the risk of infection and cancer associated with biologic therapies in elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIMS

To identify, synthesise and critically appraise the available evidence on the topic.

METHODS

We systematically searched Medline/PubMed, Embase and Scopus, through October 2019, and recent conference proceedings, to identify studies investigating the risk of serious infections, opportunistic infections, any infection and cancer in elderly IBD patients (>60 years) exposed to biologics as compared to those unexposed to biologics. Two reviewers independently extracted study data and assessed each study's risk of bias. We examined heterogeneity, and calculated summary effect estimates using fixed- and random effects models. Quality of evidence was determined with GRADE.

RESULTS

We included 15 studies (one post hoc analysis of a randomised trial, nine cohort and five case-control studies). Elderly IBD patients treated with biologics were at increased risk of developing serious infections (random effects summary relative risk: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.56-4.66; seven studies; I²  = 57%) and opportunistic infections (3.16, 1.09-9.20; four studies; I²  = 73%). The occurrence of any infection (1.67, 0.51-5.43; five studies; I²  = 75%) and cancer (0.90, 0.64-1.26; nine studies; I²  = 0%) was not significantly affected. Nevertheless, our confidence in the effect estimates is rather limited; the quality of evidence is low to very low.

CONCLUSIONS

Biologics are likely to increase the risk of serious and opportunistic infections in old IBD patients. Large prospective studies are needed to further assess the biologic treatments' long-term safety profile in this population.

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.

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are associated with different lipid profile disorders: a nationwide population-based study

BACKGROUND

The relationships between lipid profiles and IBD remain elusive.

AIM

To determine the association of IBD with serum lipid profiles.

METHODS

A nationwide population-based study was performed using claims data from the Korean National Healthcare Insurance service. A total of 9 706 026 subjects undergoing medical check-ups in 2009 were enrolled and followed up until 2016. Individuals who developed Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) were identified during follow-up. Adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) by age, sex, body mass index, cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, exercise, income and underlying comorbidities was calculated to define the impact of serum lipid profiles on developing IBD.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 7.3 years, IBD was detected in 7,058 (0.07%) individuals. Compared with the highest quartile of serum total cholesterol (TC) levels, lower TC levels were associated with higher incidence of CD (aHR: Q1, 2.52; Q2, 1.52; Q3, 1.27), but not UC. Lower serum LDL-C levels were associated with higher incidence of CD (aHR: Q1, 1.92; Q2, 1.47; Q3, 1.22), but not UC. Moreover, lower serum HDL-C levels were associated with higher incidence of CD (aHR: Q1, 2.49; Q2, 1.90; Q3, 1.43), but not UC. In contrast, lower serum triglyceride levels were associated with higher incidence of UC (aHR: Q1, 1.22; Q2, 1.19; Q3, 1.19), but not CD.

CONCLUSIONS

Low serum TC, LDL-C and HDL-C levels were associated with CD. Low serum triglyceride levels were related to UC.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): general principles of IBD management

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a Position Statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of inflammatory bowel disease management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the general principles of surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Loganin alleviates LPS-activated intestinal epithelial inflammation by regulating TLR4/NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, recurrent gastrointestinal inflammation that affects millions of people around the world. Loganin, an iridoid glycoside, has shown the anti-inflammatory effects. However, the effect of loganin on IBD and its underlying molecular mechanism are not clear. The present study aimed to investigate whether loganin could alleviate IBD and its mechanisms. The intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cell line was treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish an in vitro IBD model. MTT assay was used to detect cell viability. The expression and release level of inflammatory factors were determined by both real-time-PCR and ELISA. Western blotting was used to assess the NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 pathway-related protein levels. The results showed that loganin repressed the expression and release of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, and inhibited TLR4/NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways in a concentration-dependent manner. Overexpression of TLR4 could reverse the effect of loganin, leading to activation of NF-κB signaling and production of inflammatory factors. Meanwhile, IGF-1, a JAK/STAT3 signaling activator, could also reverse the anti-inflammation effect of loganin. In conclusion, loganin inhibited LPS-activated intestinal epithelial inflammation by repressing TLR4/NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Sleep Disturbances in the Elderly Patient with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Studies have suggested that sleep and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) appear to have an important bi-directional relationship, where active disease promotes sleep disruption and poor sleep promotes ongoing and worsening inflammation. In the geriatric population, poor sleep has been linked to increasing morbidity and mortality. The etiologies of poor sleep in the elderly are multifactorial and are understood to be a part of the geriatric syndromes, conditions in the elderly associated with poorer mortality and morbidity. We review the current literature regarding the common sources of sleep disturbances in the geriatric population and, by extension, the growing population of elderly patients with IBD.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is a high prevalence of sleep dysfunction in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, not only in patients in disease remission but also in patients with active disease. Poor sleep has been suggested a potential marker of ongoing subclinical inflammation, and sleep disturbances are linked to poorer outcomes in patients with IBD. Management of inflammation appears to improve fatigue symptoms but is not linked with the elimination of symptoms. Thus, alternative etiologies of poor sleep, especially in the geriatric population, include chronic medical conditions with polypharmacy, co-morbid mood disorders, and primary disorders of sleep. Sleep disturbances in the elderly patient with IBD are related to multiple etiologies. Poor sleep is linked to both worse disease-specific outcomes and higher morbidity and mortality. Coordination of care with geriatricians, mental health professionals, and sleep specialists is often required to target the appropriate cause. We provide an etiological framework in the assessment of poor sleep in the elderly patient with IBD.

Vaccination in the Elderly and IBD

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Significant gaps in knowledge and utilization of vaccinations exist among practitioners providing care for patients with IBD. This review is intended to update the reader on best practices for vaccination within the IBD population with a specific focus on the elderly.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advances in IBD therapeutics have recently increased the number of immunosuppressive therapies available to practitioners. Differences in mechanisms of action of these medications have led to differential implications pertaining to vaccination strategies. Additionally, new vaccines, including the recombinant zoster vaccine, have recently become available for the use in the IBD population. Given the prominent role the IBD provider plays in the management of patients with IBD, a clear understanding of best practices is essential. This review provides a framework for the integration of optimal vaccination strategies for practitioners caring for adult and elderly patients with IBD.

Late-onset Crohn's disease: a comparison of disease behaviour and therapy with younger adult patients: the Italian Group for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease 'AGED' study

BACKGROUND

Disease phenotype and outcome of late-onset Crohn's disease are still poorly defined.

METHODS

In this Italian nationwide multicentre retrospective study, patients diagnosed ≥65 years (late-onset) were compared with young adult-onset with 16-39 years and adult-onset Crohn's disease 40-64 years. Data were collected for 3 years following diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 631 patients (late-onset 153, adult-onset 161, young adult-onset 317) were included. Colonic disease was more frequent in late-onset (P < 0005), stenosing behaviour was more frequent than in adult-onset (P < 0003), but fistulising disease was uncommon. Surgery rates were not different between the three age groups. Systemic steroids were prescribed more frequently in young adult-onset in the first year, but low bioavailability steroids were used more frequently in late-onset in the first 2 years after diagnosis (P < 0.036, P < 0.041, respectively). The use of immunomodulators and anti-TNF's even in patients with more complicated disease, that is, B2 or B3 behaviour (Montreal classification), remained significantly inferior (P < 0.0001) in late-onset compared to young adult-onset. Age at diagnosis, Charlson comorbidity index, and steroid used in the first year were negatively associated with the use of immunomodulators and biologics. Comorbidities, related medications and hospitalizations were more frequent in late-onset. Polypharmacy was present in 56% of elderly Crohn's disease patients.

CONCLUSION

Thirty-two percent of late-onset Crohn's disease presented with complicated disease behaviour. Despite a comparable use of steroids and surgery, immunomodulators and biologics were used in a small number of patients.

Increased risk of thiopurine-related adverse events in elderly patients with IBD

BACKGROUND

Thiopurines are the most widely used immunosuppressants in IBD although drug-related adverse events (AE) occur in 20%-30% of cases.

AIM

To evaluate the safety of thiopurines in elderly IBD patients METHODS: Cohort study including all adult patients in the ENEIDA registry who received thiopurines. Patients were grouped in terms of age at the beginning of thiopurine treatment, specifically in those who started thiopurines over 60 years or between 18 and 50 years of age. Thiopurine-related AEs registered in the ENEIDA database were compared.

RESULTS

Out of 48 752 patients, 1888 started thiopurines when over 60 years of age and 15 477 under 50 years of age. Median treatment duration was significantly shorter for those who started thiopurines >60 years (13 [IQR 2-55] vs 32 [IQR 5-82] months; P < .001). Patients starting >60 years had higher rates of all types of myelotoxicity, digestive intolerance and hepatotoxicity. Thiopurines were discontinued due to AEs (excluding malignancies and infections) in more patients starting >60 years (67.2% vs 63.1%; P < .001). Elderly age and female sex were independent risk factors for most AEs.

CONCLUSION

In elderly IBD patients, thiopurines are associated with an increased risk of non-infectious, non-neoplastic, AEs.

Chronic Antibiotic Dependent Pouchitis Is Associated With Older Age at the Time of Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis (J-pouch) Surgery

BACKGROUND

Risk factors for the development of chronic antibiotic dependent pouchitis (CADP) are not well understood.

METHODS

Using multivariable logistic regression, we compared clinical factors between 194 patients with acute antibiotic responsive pouchitis or CADP.

RESULTS

Individuals with CADP were significantly older (40.9 vs 30.8 years, P < 0.001) and demonstrated a longer disease duration before IPAA (10.3 vs 7.0 years, P = 0.004). Age ≥55 years at the time of IPAA was significantly associated with CADP (adjusted odds ratio = 4.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.01-18.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Although older age should not represent a barrier to IPAA, further studies evaluating etiologies of this association are warranted.

Elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Updated review of the therapeutic landscape

High-quality data remains scarce in terms of optimal management strategies in the elderly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) population. Indeed, available trials have been mostly retrospective, of small sample size, likely owing to under-representation of such a population in the major randomized controlled trials. However, in the last five years, there has been a steady increase in the number of published trials, helping clarify the estimated benefits and toxicity of the existing IBD armamentarium. In the Everhov trial, prescription strategies were recorded over an average follow-up of 4.2 years. A minority of elderly IBD patients (1%-3%) were treated with biologics within the five years following diagnosis, whilst almost a quarter of these patients were receiving corticosteroid therapy at year five of follow-up, despite its multiple toxicities. The low use of biologic agents in real-life settings likely stems from limited data suggesting lower efficacy and higher toxicity. This minireview will aim to highlight current outcome measurements as it portends the elderly IBD patient, as well as summarize the available therapeutic strategies in view of a growing body of evidence.

Natural and synthetic polymer-based smart biomaterials for management of ulcerative colitis: a review of recent developments and future prospects

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the colon that severely affects the quality of life of patients and usually responds well to anti-inflammatory agents for symptomatic relief; however, many patients need colectomy, a surgical procedure to remove whole or part of the colon. Though various types of pharmacological agents have been employed for the management of UC, the lack of effectiveness is usually predisposed to various reasons including lack of target-specific delivery of drugs and insufficient drug accumulation at the target site. To overcome these glitches, many researchers have designed and characterized various types of versatile polymeric biomaterials to achieve target-specific delivery of drugs via oral route to optimize their targeting efficiency to the colon, to improve drug accumulation at the target site, as well as to ameliorate off-target effects of chemotherapy. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize and critically discuss the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of a wide range of natural and synthetic biomaterials for efficient drug targeting to colon and rationalized treatment of UC. Among various types of biomaterials, natural and synthetic polymer-based hydrogels have shown promising targeting potential due to their innate pH responsiveness, sustained and controlled release characteristics, and microbial degradation in the colon to release the encapsulated drug moieties. These characteristic features make natural and synthetic polymer-based hydrogels superior to conventional pharmacological strategies for the management of UC.