Advancements in the management of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Jonathan E M O'Donnell1,2, Thomas D Walters1,2,3, Eric I Benchimol1,2,3,4,5
1SickKids Inflammatory Bowel Disease Centre, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
Insights
Advances in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) management focus on optimizing therapies and integrating precision medicine. New strategies improve care for children with PIBD, addressing treatment goals and mental health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research
Background:
- Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) management has evolved significantly over the last decade.
- Limited availability of novel therapies and concerns regarding long-term efficacy in children have driven innovation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in PIBD management.
- To provide guidance on optimizing biologic therapies, new medical treatments, and adjuvant therapies.
- To highlight the importance of precision medicine and mental health in PIBD care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on recent advances in PIBD management.
- Synthesis of current guidance on treatment targets and therapeutic strategies.
- Analysis of emerging therapies, including biologics, small molecules, and microbiome-targeted treatments.
Main Results:
- Standardized treatment goals using a treat-to-target approach are recommended.
- Optimizing anti-TNF biologic therapy through combination therapy or proactive drug monitoring is emphasized.
- Earlier treatment initiation for Crohn's disease and the integration of adjuvant therapies are key advancements.
Conclusions:
- Future progress in PIBD requires increased pediatric participation in clinical trials for faster drug approval.
- Integrating precision medicine and mental health screening is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- A multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensive PIBD care.
Introduction:
The management of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) has drastically changed in the last decade. The limited availability of new biologics or small molecule therapies, and concerns about durability in children has necessitated the development of other advances in management to optimize care.
Areas Covered:
This review covers guidance for management targets and advances in optimizing biologic therapies, new medical therapies, adjuvant therapies, precision medicine and mental health concerns in PIBD. This review focused on recent advances and was not intended as a complete overview of the investigations and management of pediatric IBD.
Expert Opinion:
Advancements include standardization of treatment goals via a treat-to-target strategy, optimizing anti-TNF biologics through combination therapy or proactive drug monitoring, earlier initiation of treatment for Crohn's disease, the emergence of new biologic/advanced therapies and a growing focus on adjuvant therapies targeting the microbiome. Future progress relies on the inclusion of children/adolescents in clinical trials to facilitate faster regulatory approval for pediatric therapies and the integration of precision medicine and mental health screening to improve patient care and outcomes.
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