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Infliximab in Fistulizing Crohn's Disease

2006; Elsevier BV; Volume: 35; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.gtc.2006.09.007

1558-1942

Mark T. Osterman, Gary R. Lichtenstein,

Gastrointestinal disorders and treatments

Crohn’s disease (CD) is characterized by transmural inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which predisposes to the formation of fistula. Duodenal involvement occurs in less than 5% of cases and often leads to clinically relevant strictures. However, fistula formation in the duodenum is exceptional. Herein, we report an unusual case of duodenobiliary fistula due to CD occurring in a 65-year-old patient who was successfully treated by anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents. This case report highlights the efficacy of anti-TNF alpha agents in the treatment of a bilioenteric fistula because it increases the probability of clinical remission and mucosal healing and therefore reduces the need for surgical treatment which may be associated morbidity.