Combining infliximab, anti-MAP and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for resistant fistulizing Crohn's disease
Gaurav Agrawal1, Thomas Borody1, Robert Turner2
1Centre for Digestive Diseases, Level 1/229 Great North Rd, Five Dock NSW 2046, Australia; Centre for Digestive Diseases, Level 1/229 Great North Rd, Five Dock NSW 2046, Australia.
Background:
Fistulizing Crohn's disease (CD) presents a therapeutic challenge as fistulae are notoriously difficult to heal. Mycobacterium avium ss paratuberculosis (MAP) treatment in CD is gaining attention.
Aim:
We evaluated healing of CD fistula(e) using a novel combination therapy.
Study:
Nine consecutive patients who failed to heal fistulae on conventional treatment including anti-TNF, were treated with at least three doses of infliximab, 18-30 courses of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and anti-MAP antibiotics comprising rifabutin, clarithromycin and clofazimine.
Results:
All patients achieved complete healing of fistulae by 6-28 weeks and follow-up for mean 18 months.
Conclusion:
Combining infliximab, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and anti-MAP, seems to enable healing of recalcitrant fistulae and although a small case series, all nine patients achieved complete healing.
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