[Use of infliximab in ulcerative colitis]
H Tilg1, T Feichtenschlager, P Knoflach
1Die Institutsangaben sind am Ende des Beitrags gelistet. herbert.tilg@i-med.ac.at
Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|August 19, 2007
Summary
Infliximab, an anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha antibody, effectively treats moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) when other therapies fail. It promotes mucosal healing and improves patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Infliximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF), has revolutionized chronic inflammatory disease management.
- While established for Crohn's disease, its use in ulcerative colitis (UC) was initially limited by diseasepathophysiology concepts.
Framework:
- Two large placebo-controlled trials demonstrated infliximab's efficacy in moderate to severe UC, including steroid-refractory cases.
- Benefits observed include significant mucosal healing and improved quality of life for UC patients.
Implementation:
- Infliximab is indicated for UC patients unresponsive to conventional therapies like steroids or immunosuppressants.
- It may serve as an alternative to calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine A, tacrolimus) in severe, steroid-refractory acute UC.
Implications:
- Infliximab is now a recognized treatment option for chronic-active UC and severe acute UC.
- Careful consideration of the benefit/risk ratio by experienced gastroenterologists is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
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