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Quantification of the Immunosuppressant Tacrolimus on Dried Blood Spots Using LC-MS/MS
Published on: November 8, 2015
Oral tacrolimus for pediatric steroid-resistant ulcerative colitis.
V M Navas-López1, J Blasco Alonso1, M J Serrano Nieto1
1Pediatric Gastroentrology and Nutrition Unit, Hospital Materno Infantil, Málaga, Spain.
Journal of Crohn'S & Colitis
|April 16, 2013
Summary
Oral tacrolimus shows promise for treating severe steroid-resistant ulcerative colitis (UC) in children, potentially preventing or delaying colectomy. This treatment can help induce remission and serve as a bridge to other therapies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Immunosuppressive Therapy
Background:
- Childhood ulcerative colitis (UC) is often extensive and severe, frequently requiring intravenous steroids.
- Corticosteroid resistance in pediatric UC necessitates alternative treatments to prevent surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral tacrolimus in children with severe, steroid-resistant UC.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of pediatric patients (<18 years) with severe steroid-resistant UC treated with oral tacrolimus.
- Treatment period: January 1998 - October 2012, with a minimum 24-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Ten patients (mean age 9.4 years) received oral tacrolimus (0.12 mg/kg/day).
- Tacrolimus trough levels were maintained between 4-13 ng/ml.
- 50% of patients responded by 12 months; 60% ultimately required colectomy.
Conclusions:
- Oral tacrolimus can induce remission in severe steroid-resistant pediatric UC.
- It may prevent or delay colectomy, offering a crucial treatment bridge.
- Tacrolimus aids in preparing patients and families for potential surgery or new maintenance therapies.
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