Clinical factors associated with severity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Brazil based on 2-year national registry data from GEDIIB.

The Brazilian Organization for Crohn's Disease and Colitis (GEDIIB) established a national registry of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of the study was to identify clinical factors associated with disease severity in IBD patients in Brazil. A population-based risk model aimed at stratifying the severity of IBD based on previous hospitalization, use of biologics, and need for surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's Disease (CD) and on previous complications for CD. A total of 1179 patients (34.4 ± 14.7y; females 59%) were included: 46.6% with UC, 44.2% with CD, and 0.9% with unclassified IBD (IBD-U). The time from the beginning of the symptoms to diagnosis was 3.85y. In CD, 41.2% of patients presented with ileocolic disease, 32% inflammatory behavior, and 15.5% perianal disease. In UC, 46.3% presented with extensive colitis. Regarding treatment, 68.1%, 67%, and 47.6% received biological therapy, salicylates and immunosuppressors, respectively. Severe disease was associated with the presence of extensive colitis, EIM, male, comorbidities, and familial history of colorectal cancer in patients with UC. The presence of Montreal B2 and B3 behaviors, colonic location, and EIM were associated with CD severity. In conclusion, disease severity was associated with younger age, greater disease extent, and the presence of rheumatic EIM.

A NORMOCALORIC, LOW-FIBER DIET FOR COLONOSCOPY PREPARATION IS MORE ACCEPTABLE AND NON-INFERIOR TO A LIQUID, LOW-CALORIE DIET: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

•This is the first study in Brazil about diets to prepare for colonoscopy. •The normocaloric diet was not inferior to the liquid diet regarding the quality of the colonoscopy preparation. •Both diets were well tolerated, but the normocaloric diet was more accepted than the liquid diet. Background - Several publications have shown greater acceptance of less restrictive diets for colonoscopy preparation, without impairing the quality of the preparation, when compared to the clear liquid diet. Objective - To evaluate the quality, tolerance and preference regarding the colonoscopy preparation of a low-fiber, normocaloric diet compared with a hypocaloric liquid diet. Methods - This is a randomized, controlled, observer-blind study to compare two low-fiber colonoscopy preparation diets (hypocaloric liquid diet vs. normocaloric diet). The Boston Bowel Preparation Scale was used to evaluate the qua-lity of the preparations, being considered adequate BBPS ≥6 in the global assessment and ≥2 in each segment. The same laxative was used in both groups as well as the "split-dose" regimen. Results - A total of 136 individuals were enrolled in each group. Adequate preparation was achieved in 90.4% of the individuals allocated to the liquid diet group and 92.6% to the normocaloric group. There was no significant difference in the quality of preparation and tolerance between groups. A higher patient acceptance to repeat the procedure if necessary was observed in the normocaloric diet group compared with the liquid diet group (P=0.005). Conclusion - The normocaloric diet has shown to be not inferior to the liquid diet regarding the quality of the colonoscopy preparation. Patient tolerance rates were similar between both diets, but a higher accep-tance rate was observed with the normocaloric diet as compared with the liquid diet.

Dieta normocalórica e pobre em fibras, para preparo de colonoscopia, é melhor aceita e não inferior que uma dieta líquida hipocalórica: ensaio randomizado controlado / A normocaloric, low-fiber diet for colonoscopy preparation is more acceptable and non-inferior to a liquid, low-calorie diet: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Background: Several publications have shown greater acceptance of less restrictive diets for colonoscopy preparation, without impairing the quality of the preparation, when compared to the clear liquid diet. Objective: To evaluate the quality, tolerance and preference regarding the colonoscopy preparation of a low-fiber, normocaloric diet compared with a hypocaloric liquid diet. Methods: This is a randomized, controlled, observer-blind study to compare two low-fiber colonoscopy preparation diets (hypocaloric liquid diet vs. normocaloric diet). The Boston Bowel Preparation Scale was used to evaluate the qua­lity of the preparations, being considered adequate BBPS ≥6 in the global assessment and ≥2 in each segment. The same laxative was used in both groups as well as the "split-dose" regimen. Results: A total of 136 individuals were enrolled in each group. Adequate preparation was achieved in 90.4% of the individuals allocated to the liquid diet group and 92.6% to the normocaloric group. There was no significant difference in the quality of preparation and tolerance between groups. A higher patient acceptance to repeat the procedure if necessary was observed in the normocaloric diet group compared with the liquid diet group (P=0.005). Conclusion: The normocaloric diet has shown to be not inferior to the liquid diet regarding the quality of the colonoscopy preparation. Patient tolerance rates were similar between both diets, but a higher accep­tance rate was observed with the normocaloric diet as compared with the liquid diet.

RESUMO Contexto: Diversas publicações têm evidenciado uma maior aceitação de dietas menos restritivas para preparo de colonoscopia, sem prejuízo na sua qualidade, quando comparadas com a dieta de líquidos claros. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade, tolerância e preferência do preparo para colonoscopia de uma dieta líquida hipocalórica, quando comparada com uma dieta normocalórica, ambas pobres em fibras. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo randomizado, controlado, observador "cego", para comparar duas dietas de preparo para colonoscopia (dieta líquida hipocalórica e dieta normocalórica, ambas pobres em fibras). Foi utilizada a escala de Boston para avaliar a qualidade do preparo, sendo considerado adequado BBPS ≥6 na avaliação global e ≥2 em cada segmento. Foram prescritos o mesmo laxativo e o regime "dose fracionada" para ambos os grupos. Resultados: Foram incluídos 136 indivíduos em cada grupo. O preparo adequado foi alcançado em 90,4% dos indivíduos alocados no grupo da dieta líquida e 92,6% da normocalorica. Não houve diferença significativa na qualidade do preparo e na tolerância entre ambas as dietas. Observou-se maior aceitação de repetir o procedimento se necessário, no grupo da dieta normocalórica quando comparado ao da dieta líquida (P=0,005). Conclusão: A dieta normocalórica não é inferior que à líquida na qualidade do preparo para colonoscopia, ambas apresentam tolerância similar, porém com maior aceitação da dieta normocalórica quando comparada à líquida.

SECOND BRAZILIAN CONSENSUS ON THE MANAGEMENT OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS IN ADULTS: A CONSENSUS OF THE BRAZILIAN ORGANIZATION FOR CROHN'S DISEASE AND COLITIS (GEDIIB).

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases are immune-mediated disorders that include Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is a progressive disease that affects the colorectal mucosa causing debilitating symptoms leading to high morbidity and work disability. As a consequence of chronic colonic inflammation, UC is also associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. OBJECTIVE: This consensus aims to provide guidance on the most effective medical management of adult patients with UC. METHODS: A consensus statement was developed by stakeholders representing Brazilian gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons (Brazilian Organization for Crohn's Disease and Colitis [GEDIIB]). A systematic review including the most recent evidence was conducted to support the recommendations and statements. All recommendations/statements were endorsed using a modified Delphi Panel by the stakeholders/experts in inflammatory bowel disease with at least 80% or greater consensus. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The medical recommendations (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) were mapped according to the stage of treatment and severity of the disease onto three domains: management and treatment (drug and surgical interventions), criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of medical treatment, and follow-up/patient monitoring after initial treatment. The consensus targeted general practitioners, gastroenterologists and surgeons who manage patients with UC, and supports decision-making processes by health insurance companies, regulatory agencies, health institutional leaders, and administrators.

SECOND BRAZILIAN CONSENSUS ON THE MANAGEMENT OF CROHN'S DISEASE IN ADULTS: A CONSENSUS OF THE BRAZILIAN ORGANIZATION FOR CROHN'S DISEASE AND COLITIS (GEDIIB).

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune-mediated disorder that includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis. CD is characterized by a transmural intestinal involvement from the mouth to the anus with recurrent and remitting symptoms that can lead to progressive bowel damage and disability over time. OBJECTIVE: To guide the safest and effective medical treatments of adults with CD. METHODS: This consensus was developed by stakeholders representing Brazilian gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons (Brazilian Organization for Crohn's disease and Colitis (GEDIIB)). A systematic review of the most recent evidence was conducted to support the recommendations/statements. All included recommendations and statements were endorsed in a modified Delphi panel by the stakeholders and experts in IBD with an agreement of at least 80% or greater consensus rate. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The medical recommendations (pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions) were mapped according to the stage of treatment and severity of the disease in three domains: management and treatment (drug and surgical interventions), criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of medical treatment, and follow-up/patient monitoring after initial treatment. The consensus is targeted towards general practitioners, gastroenterologists, and surgeons interested in treating and managing adults with CD and supports the decision-making of health insurance companies, regulatory agencies, and health institutional leaders or administrators.

Effects of kefir fermented milk beverage on sodium dextran sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in rats.

Background and aim: The etiopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with different factors such as genetic, infectious, immunological, and environmental, including modification of the gut microbiota. IBD's conventional pharmacological therapeutic approaches have become a challenge due to side effects, complications from prolonged use, and higher costs. Kefir fermented milk beverage is a functional food that has demonstrated multiple beneficial effects including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Alternative therapeutic strategies have been used for IBD as more natural products with low-cost and easy acquisition. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of kefir fermented milk beverage on sodium dextran sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in rats. Methods: We used 4 groups to perform this study: baseline control (BC), kefir control (KC), 5% untreated DSS-induced colitis (DSS), and 5% DSS-induced colitis treated with kefir (DSSK). The animals received fermented kefir milk beverage ad libitum for six days and the disease activity index was recorded daily. Colon samples were processed for Transmission Electron Microscopy and histopathological evaluation. We analyzed short fatty chain acids through the fecal sample using gas chromatography. Results: Kefir supplementation was able to reduce the clinical activity index and inflammatory process evidenced by decreased neutrophil accumulation, decreased reticulum edema, and increased autophagosomes. Also, showed a trend to increase the levels of acetate and propionate. Conclusions: Our results suggest that kefir fermented milk beverage may have an anti-inflammatory effect minimizing the intestinal damage of DSS-induced colitis.

Segundo Consenso Brasileiro de Manejo da Doença de Crohn em adultos: um consenso da Organização Brasileira de Doença de Crohn e Colite (GEDIIB) / Second brazilian consensus on the management of crohn's disease in adults: a consensus of the brazilian organization for crohn's disease and colitis (gediib)

ABSTRACT Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune-mediated disorder that includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis. CD is characterized by a transmural intestinal involvement from the mouth to the anus with recurrent and remitting symptoms that can lead to progressive bowel damage and disability over time. Objective: To guide the safest and effective medical treatments of adults with CD. Methods: This consensus was developed by stakeholders representing Brazilian gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons (Brazilian Organization for Crohn's disease and Colitis (GEDIIB)). A systematic review of the most recent evidence was conducted to support the recommendations/statements. All included recommendations and statements were endorsed in a modified Delphi panel by the stakeholders and experts in IBD with an agreement of at least 80% or greater consensus rate. Results and conclusion: The medical recommendations (pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions) were mapped according to the stage of treatment and severity of the disease in three domains: management and treatment (drug and surgical interventions), criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of medical treatment, and follow-up/patient monitoring after initial treatment. The consensus is targeted towards general practitioners, gastroenterologists, and surgeons interested in treating and managing adults with CD and supports the decision-making of health insurance companies, regulatory agencies, and health institutional leaders or administrators.

RESUMO Contexto: A doença inflamatória intestinal (DII) é uma doença imunomediada que inclui a doença de Crohn (DC) e a retocolite ulcerativa. A DC é caracterizada por um envolvimento intestinal transmural da boca ao ânus com sintomas recorrentes e remitentes que podem levar a danos intestinais progressivos e incapacidade ao longo do tempo. Objetivo: Orientar os tratamentos médicos mais seguros e eficazes de adultos com DC. Métodos: Este consenso foi desenvolvido por autores que representam gastroenterologistas e cirurgiões brasileiros especialistas em doenças colorretais (GEDIIB, Organização Brasileira de Doença de Crohn e Colite). Uma revisão sistemática das evidências mais recentes foi realizada para apoiar as recomendações/declarações. Todas as recomendações e declarações incluídas foram endossadas em um painel Delphi modificado pelas partes interessadas e especialistas em DII com uma concordância de pelo menos 80% ou mais. Resultados e conclusão: As recomendações médicas (intervenções farmacológicas e não farmacológicas) foram mapeadas de acordo com o estágio de tratamento e gravidade da doença em três domínios: manejo e tratamento (intervenções medicamentosas e cirúrgicas), critérios para avaliar a eficácia do tratamento médico, e acompanhamento/monitoramento do paciente após o tratamento inicial. O consenso é direcionado a clínicos gerais, gastroenterologistas e cirurgiões interessados em tratar e gerenciar adultos com DC e apoia a tomada de decisões de companhias de seguro de saúde, agências reguladoras e líderes ou administradores de instituições de saúde.

Segundo Consenso Brasileiro no manejo da retocolite ulcerativa em adultos: um consenso da Organização Brasileira para Doença de Crohn e Colite (GEDIIB) / Second brazilian consensus on the management of ulcerative colitis in adults: a consensus of the brazilian organization for crohn's disease and colitis (gediib)

ABSTRACT Background: Inflammatory bowel diseases are immune-mediated disorders that include Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is a progressive disease that affects the colorectal mucosa causing debilitating symptoms leading to high morbidity and work disability. As a consequence of chronic colonic inflammation, UC is also associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Objective: This consensus aims to provide guidance on the most effective medical management of adult patients with UC. Methods: A consensus statement was developed by stakeholders representing Brazilian gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons (Brazilian Organization for Crohn's Disease and Colitis [GEDIIB]). A systematic review including the most recent evidence was conducted to support the recommendations and statements. All recommendations/statements were endorsed using a modified Delphi Panel by the stakeholders/experts in inflammatory bowel disease with at least 80% or greater consensus. Results and conclusion: The medical recommendations (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) were mapped according to the stage of treatment and severity of the disease onto three domains: management and treatment (drug and surgical interventions), criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of medical treatment, and follow-up/patient monitoring after initial treatment. The consensus targeted general practitioners, gastroenterologists and surgeons who manage patients with UC, and supports decision-making processes by health insurance companies, regulatory agencies, health institutional leaders, and administrators.

RESUMO Contexto: As doenças inflamatórias intestinais são doenças imunomediadas que incluem a doença de Crohn (DC) e a retocolite ulcerativa (RCU). A RCU é uma doença progressiva que acomete a mucosa colorretal causando sintomas debilitantes levando a alta morbidade e incapacidade laboral. Como consequência da inflamação crônica do cólon, a RCU também está associada a um risco aumentado de câncer colorretal. Objetivo: Este consenso visa fornecer orientações sobre o manejo médico mais eficaz de pacientes adultos com RCU. Métodos: As recomendações do consenso foram desenvolvidas por gastroenterologistas e cirurgiões colorretais referências no Brasil (membros da Organização Brasileira para Doença de Crohn e Colite [GEDIIB]). Uma revisão sistemática, incluindo as evidências mais recentes, foi conduzida para apoiar as recomendações. Todas as recomendações foram endossadas pelas partes interessadas/especialistas em doença inflamatória intestinal usando um Painel Delphi modificado. O nível de concordância para alcançar consenso foi de 80% ou mais. Resultados e conclus ão: As recomendações médicas (farmacológicas e não farmacológicas) foram mapeadas de acordo com o estágio de tratamento e gravidade da doença em três domínios: manejo e tratamento (intervenções medicamentosas e cirúrgicas), critérios para avaliar a eficácia do tratamento médico, e acompanhamento/monitoramento do paciente após o tratamento inicial. O consenso foi direcionado a clínicos gerais, gastroenterologistas e cirurgiões que tratam pacientes com RCU e apoia os processos de tomada de decisão por companhias de seguro de saúde, agências reguladoras, líderes institucionais de saúde e administradores.

Real-world treatment patterns and disease control over one year in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) with a remission-relapsing presentation and symptomatic exacerbations that have detrimental impacts on patient quality of life and are associated with a high cost burden, especially in patients with moderate-to-severe disease. The Real-world Data of Moderate-to-Severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Brazil (RISE BR) study was a noninterventional study designed to evaluate disease control, treatment patterns, disease burden and health-related quality of life in patients with moderate-to-severe active IBD. We report findings from the prospective follow-up phase of the RISE BR study in patients with active UC or CD. AIM: To describe the 12-mo disease evolution and treatment patterns among patients with active moderate-to-severe IBD in Brazil. METHODS: This was a prospective, noninterventional study of adult patients with active Crohn's disease (CD: Harvey-Bradshaw Index ≥ 8, CD Activity Index ≥ 220), inadequate CD control (i.e., calprotectin > 200 µg/g or colonoscopy previous results), or active ulcerative colitis (UC: Partial Mayo score ≥ 5). Enrollment occurred in 14 centers from October 2016 to February 2017. The proportion of active IBD patients after 9-12 mo of follow-up, Kaplan-Meier estimates of the time to mild or no activity and a summary of treatment initiation, discontinuation and dose changes were examined. RESULTS: The study included 118 CD and 36 UC patients, with mean ± SD ages of 43.3 ± 12.6 and 44.9 ± 16.5 years, respectively. The most frequent drug classes at index were biologics for CD (62.7%) and 5-aminosalicylate derivates for UC patients (91.7%). During follow-up, 65.3% of CD and 86.1% of UC patients initiated a new treatment at least once. Discontinuations/dose changes occurred in 68.1% of CD patients [median 2.0 (IQR: 2-5)] and 94.3% of UC patients [median 4.0 (IQR: 3-7)]. On average, CD and UC patients had 4.4 ± 2.6 and 5.0 ± 3.3 outpatient visits, respectively. The median time to first mild or no activity was 319 (IQR: 239-358) d for CD and 320 (IQR: 288-358) d for UC patients. At 9-12 mo, 22.0% of CD and 20.0% of UC patients had active disease. CONCLUSION: Although a marked proportion of active IBD patients achieved disease control within one year, the considerable time to achieve this outcome represents an unmet medical need of the current standard of care in a Brazilian real-world setting.

Clinical and Demographic Profile of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients in a Reference Center of São Paulo, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with an increasing incidence in developing countries. PURPOSE: To report clinical and demographic data of CD and UC at a referral center for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in São Paulo. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study on adult patients with established IBD. Demographic and clinical data were obtained by medical records analysis from the IBD Outpatient Clinic of EPM-UNIFESP, from October 1997 to October 2017. RESULTS: Of 658 patients included, 355 had UC (54%) and 303 had CD (46%). UC was more prevalent in women than CD (219 [61.7%] vs 152 [50.2%], p=0.003). The median time between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis was 13 (5-38) months, with a longer duration for CD patients. CD mostly affected the ileocolonic location (47.9%). CD patients with stricture, fistula and/or perianal disease (213/303, 70.3%) were younger at diagnosis, had a longer disease duration, higher rates of corticosteroid, immunomodulatory, and biological therapy, hospitalization, and referral to surgery, compared to patients without complication. Extensive colitis was the most common extension of UC (50.6%), which was more frequently associated with younger age at diagnosis, hepatobiliary disease, increased need for hospitalization, higher use of immunomodulatory, and biologic therapy, compared to patients with less extensive disease. In the last 5 years, CD patients were more frequently on biologic and/or immunomodulatory (70.9%) therapy, and UC patients often received salicylates (78.1%) and immunomodulatory (28.1%) treatments. There was a consistent reduction in salicylate usage for CD in the last 5 years compared to the total period of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Despite the increasing incidence, we highlight the diagnostic delay and a more complicated CD and extensive UC in this cohort, reflecting a high need for immunomodulatory and biological treatment, hospitalization, and surgery.

Real-world disease activity and sociodemographic, clinical and treatment characteristics of moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the treatment landscape of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is essential for improving disease management and patient outcomes. Brazil is the largest Latin American country, and it presents socioeconomic and health care differences across its geographical regions. This country has the highest increase in IBD incidence and prevalence in Latin America, but information about the clinical and treatment characteristics of IBD is scarce. AIM: To describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment characteristics of IBD outpatients in Brazil overall and in the Southeast, South and Northeast/Midwest regions. METHODS: Multicenter, cross-sectional study with a 3-year retrospective chart review component. Patients with moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) were consecutively enrolled between October 2016 and February 2017. Active CD at enrollment was defined as a Harvey Bradshaw Index ≥ 8 or a CD Activity Index ≥ 220 or a calprotectin level > 200 µg/g or an active result based on colonoscopy suggestive of inadequate control during the previous year; active UC was defined as a partial Mayo score ≥ 5. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze all variables. RESULTS: In a total of 407 included patients, CD was more frequent than UC, both overall (264 CD/143 UC patients) and by region (CD:UC ratios of 2.1 in the Southeast, 1.6 in the South and 1.2 in the Northeast/Midwest). The majority of patients were female (54.2% of CD; 56.6% of UC), and the mean ages were 45.9 ± 13.8 years (CD) and 42.9 ± 13.0 years (UC). The median disease duration was 10.0 (range: 0.5-45) years for both IBD types. At enrollment, 44.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 38.7-50.7] of CD patients and 25.2% (95%CI: 18.1-32.3) of UC patients presented with active disease. More than 95% of IBD patients were receiving treatment at enrollment; CD patients were commonly treated with biologics (71.6%) and immunosuppressors (67.4%), and UC patients were commonly treated with mesalazine [5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA)] derivates (69.9%) and immunosuppressors (44.1%). More than 50% of the CD patients had ileocolonic disease, and 41.7% presented with stricturing disease. One-quarter of CD patients had undergone CD-related surgery in the past 3 years, and this proportion was lower in the Northeast/Midwest region (2.9%). CONCLUSION: In Brazil, there are regional variations in IBD management. CD outweighs UC in both frequency and disease activity. However, one-quarter of UC patients have active disease, and most are receiving 5-ASA treatment.

P052 National Registration of Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Brazil on Behalf of GEDIIB.

BACKGROUND: The IBD National Patient Registry is an initiative of the GEDIIB (Brazilian Study Group of Inflammatory Bowel Disease) who aims to survey the epidemiological profile of IBD patients through the creation of a centralized registry with data on patients monitored in public and private health services which will allow the planning of actions by the GEDIIB to facilitate the diagnosis and access to treatment of IBD, enabling the implementation of actions of the GEDIIB and the partnership with government agencies to improve care and, consequently, the quality of life of patients with IBD. This study aims to show the results of the IBD National Patient Registry. METHODS: A cohort study was performed. Data were collected from July 2020 to August 2021. Data were obtained from medical records and/or from patients during the regular follow-up visit and stored in pre-established records for further analysis. Only patients with an established diagnosis of CD and UC were included. The study was approved by the local ethical committees and all patients signed the consent form. RESULTS: In total, 797 patients were included, 60% with UC and 40% with CD; 52.9% from University Hospitals. The mean age was 44.75 ± 16.11 (12 - 92y), 59.9% female, 59.3% married, 76.4% Caucasian, 85.1% non-smokers, 30.5% completed higher education, 14.9% presented familial history of IBD. The age of onset of symptoms ranged from 3 - 79 years (32.94 ± 14.22) and 33.2% presented diarrhea as an initial manifestation. The age of diagnosis ranged from 4 - 81 years (35.07 ± 14.60) and the time from symptoms to diagnosis ranged from 1 to 2 years. The Montreal classification of CD patients were A1: 6.3%, A2: 59.9%, A3: 33.8%; L1: 38%, L2: 16.7%, L3: 43.9%, B1: 51.5%, B2: 27.8%, B3: 7.8%; perianal 12.8%. In UC, 47.8% presented pancolitis, 30.3% left-sided and 21.8% distal colitis. EIMs were present in 45.7% of patients, the most frequent being rheumatological 21.8%. Comorbidities were present in 72%, the most frequent were high blood pressure (15.3%) and diabetes (6.3%); 50% were with BMI > 25 Kg/m2. Most of the patients were in use of medical therapy (95.5%), of which 81.3% salicylate, 70.3% biological therapy, 49% immunosuppressor, 25.6% corticosteroid and 1.2% tofacitinib. Regarding biological therapy, the following medications were used: infliximab 47.6%, adalimumab 28.4%, vedolizumab 9.5%, ustekinumab 7.5%, certolizumab 2.2% and golimumab 1.3%. Eleven women used the medication during pregnancy. IBD surgery-related was performed in 69.7%, 77.2% abdominal and 22.8% perianal. Almost 30% performed more than one surgery. In 62% of patients, at least one complication was reported; most of them were infective disorders, demanding prolonged hospitalizations. CONCLUSION: To date, there is no IBD epidemiologic study covering the entire Brazilian territory. The results found with the registry will be fundamental to show the epidemiology of a country with continental dimensions such as Brazil. The greater the number of researchers included and from different regions of the country, the greater the representativeness of the data and may even help direct government actions on behalf of IBD patients.

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE CARE IN BRAZIL: HOW IT IS PERFORMED, OBSTACLES AND DEMANDS FROM THE PHYSICIANS' PERSPECTIVE.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory affections of recurrent nature whose incidence and prevalence rates have increased, including in Brazil. In long term, they are responsible for structural damage that impacts quality of life, morbidity and mortality of patients. OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of physicians who treat IBD patients as well as the characteristics of IBD care, unmet demands and difficulties. METHODS: A questionnaire containing 17 items was prepared and sent to 286 physicians from 101 Brazilian cities across 21 states and the Federal District, selected from the register of the State Commission of the "Study Group of Inflammatory Bowel Disease of Brazil" (GEDIIB). RESULTS: The majority of the physicians who answered the questionnaire were gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. More than 60% had up to 20 years of experience in the specialty and 53.14% worked at three or more locations. Difficulties in accessing or releasing medicines were evident in this questionnaire, as was referrals to allied healthy professionals working in IBD-related fields. More than 75% of physicians reported difficulties in performing double-balloon enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy, and 67.8% reported difficulties in measuring calprotectin. With regard to the number of patients seen by each physician, it was shown that patients do not concentrate under the responsibility of few doctors. Infliximab and adalimumab were the most commonly used biological medicines and there was a higher prescription of 5-ASA derivatives for ulcerative colitis than for Crohn's disease. Steroids were prescribed to a smaller proportion of patients in both diseases. The topics "biological therapy failure" and "new drugs" were reported as those with higher priority for discussion in medical congresses. In relation to possible differences among the country's regions, physicians from the North region reported greater difficulty in accessing complementary exams while those from the Northeast region indicated greater difficulty in accessing or releasing medicines. CONCLUSION: The data obtained through this study demonstrate the profile of specialized medical care in IBD and are a useful tool for the implementation of government policies and for the Brazilian society as a whole.

Atendimento da doença inflamatória intestinal no Brasil: como é feito, os entraves e as demandas sob a ótica dos médicos / Inflammatory bowel disease care in brazil: how it is performed, obstacles and demands from the physicians' perspective

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory affections of recurrent nature whose incidence and prevalence rates have increased, including in Brazil. In long term, they are responsible for structural damage that impacts quality of life, morbidity and mortality of patients. OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of physicians who treat IBD patients as well as the characteristics of IBD care, unmet demands and difficulties. METHODS: A questionnaire containing 17 items was prepared and sent to 286 physicians from 101 Brazilian cities across 21 states and the Federal District, selected from the register of the State Commission of the "Study Group of Inflammatory Bowel Disease of Brazil" (GEDIIB). RESULTS: The majority of the physicians who answered the questionnaire were gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. More than 60% had up to 20 years of experience in the specialty and 53.14% worked at three or more locations. Difficulties in accessing or releasing medicines were evident in this questionnaire, as was referrals to allied healthy professionals working in IBD-related fields. More than 75% of physicians reported difficulties in performing double-balloon enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy, and 67.8% reported difficulties in measuring calprotectin. With regard to the number of patients seen by each physician, it was shown that patients do not concentrate under the responsibility of few doctors. Infliximab and adalimumab were the most commonly used biological medicines and there was a higher prescription of 5-ASA derivatives for ulcerative colitis than for Crohn's disease. Steroids were prescribed to a smaller proportion of patients in both diseases. The topics "biological therapy failure" and "new drugs" were reported as those with higher priority for discussion in medical congresses. In relation to possible differences among the country's regions, physicians from the North region reported greater difficulty in accessing complementary exams while those from the Northeast region indicated greater difficulty in accessing or releasing medicines. CONCLUSION: The data obtained through this study demonstrate the profile of specialized medical care in IBD and are a useful tool for the implementation of government policies and for the Brazilian society as a whole.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: As doenças inflamatórias intestinais (DII) são afecções inflamatórias crônicas de caráter recorrente, cujas taxas de incidência e prevalência têm aumentado, inclusive no Brasil. A longo prazo, são responsáveis por danos estruturais que impactam na qualidade de vida, morbidade e mortalidade dos pacientes. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o perfil dos médicos que atendem pacientes com DII, assim como as características deste atendimento, demandas não atendidas e dificuldades. MÉTODOS: Um questionário contendo 17 variáveis foi elaborado e enviado para médicos, selecionados a partir do cadastro da Comissão das Estaduais do Grupo de Estudos da Doença Inflamatória Intestinal do Brasil (GEDIIB), totalizando 286 médicos de 101 cidades brasileiras distribuídas por 21 estados e Distrito Federal. RESULTADOS: A maioria dos médicos que respondeu o questionário foram Gastroenterologistas e Coloproctologistas. Mais de 60% tinham até 20 anos de atuação na especialidade e 53,14% trabalhavam em três locais ou mais. A dificuldade no acesso ou liberação de medicamentos ficou evidenciada neste questionário, assim como a dificuldade no encaminhamento para profissionais não médicos que atuam em DII. Mais de 75% dos médicos relataram dificuldades para realização de enteroscopia por duplo balão e cápsula endoscópica, e 67,8% para realização da calprotectina. Em relação ao número de pacientes atendidos por cada médico, foi evidenciado que não há uma concentração de pacientes sob a responsabilidade de poucos médicos. O infliximabe e o adalimumabe foram os biológicos mais utilizados e ficou evidenciada prescrição maior de derivados de 5-ASA para retocolite ulcerativa quando comparada à doença de Crohn. Os corticoides foram prescritos para uma parcela menor de pacientes em ambas doenças. Os temas "falha a terapia biológica" e "novas drogas" foram referidos como aqueles com maior prioridade para discussão em eventos científicos. Em relação às possíveis diferenças entre cada região e o restante do país, os médicos da região Norte relataram maior dificuldade no acesso a exames complementares e os médicos da região Nordeste, maior dificuldade no acesso ou liberação de medicamentos. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados obtidos por meio deste estudo mostram o perfil do atendimento médico especializado em DII e podem se constituir em ferramenta útil para para elaboração de políticas governamentais e para sociedade brasileira como um todo.

The relationship between the commensal microbiota levels and Crohn's disease activity.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Human gut microbiota play an important role in metabolism and host physiology. Perturbations of the gut microbial communities lead to the development of various diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, allergic diseases, and metabolic diseases. Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by periods of remission and relapse. Several studies suggest that intestinal inflammation arises due to an abnormal response of the intestinal immune system to the fecal microbiota. The goal of the study was to evaluate the relative amount of four bacterial groups in fecal samples of Crohn's disease patients and their relation to the inflammatory activity. METHODS: We studied stool samples of 105 individuals, 54 with Crohn's disease and 51 as a control group. The DNA extracted from the stool samples was subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for quantification of the Bacteroidetes phylum, class Bacilli, and Bifidobacteriaceae and Enterobacteriaceae families. RESULTS: We found a significant increase in Bacteroidetes in Crohn's disease samples when compared to the control group (14 650 and 2060 CFU/ng DNA, respectively) (P = 0.014). On the other hand, we observed a significant reduction in Bacilli and Bifidobacteriaceae (13 and 58 CFU/ng DNA, respectively) (P < 0.0001). In contrast, patients without any drug treatment presented an increase of Bacilli and Bifidobacteriaceae (102 521 and 6235 CFU/ng DNA, respectively) (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The commensal bacteria were decreased in fecal samples of participants with Crohn's disease when compared to the control group. There was no relation between the disease location and/or disease activity with the microbiota.

Quality of life, work productivity impairment and healthcare resources in inflammatory bowel diseases in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have been associated with a low quality of life (QoL) and a negative impact on work productivity compared to the general population. Information about disease control, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources is relevant to optimizing IBD management. AIM: To describe QoL and work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI), treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources among IBD patients in Brazil. METHODS: A multicenter cross-sectional study included adult outpatients who were previously diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). At enrolment, active CD and UC were defined as having a Harvey Bradshaw Index ≥ 8 or a CD Activity Index ≥ 220 or calprotectin > 200 µg/g or previous colonoscopy results suggestive of inadequate control (per investigator criteria) and a 9-point partial Mayo score ≥ 5, respectively. The PRO assessment included the QoL questionnaires SF-36 and EQ-5D-5L, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ), and the WPAI questionnaire. Information about healthcare resources and treatment during the previous 3 years was collected from medical records. Chi-square, Fisher's exact and Student's t-/Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare PROs, treatment patterns and the use of healthcare resources by disease activity (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Of the 407 patients in this study (CD/UC: 64.9%/35.1%, mean age 42.9/45.9 years, 54.2%/56.6% female, 38.3%/37.1% employed), 44.7%/25.2% presented moderate-to-severe CD/UC activity, respectively, at baseline. Expressed in median values for CD/UC, respectively, the SF-36 physical component was 46.6/44.7 and the mental component was 45.2/44.2, the EQ-visual analog scale score was 80.0/70.0, and the IBDQ overall score was 164.0/165.0. Moderate to severe activity, female gender, being unemployed, a lower educational level and lower income were associated with lower QoL (P < 0.05). Median work productivity impairment was 20% and 5% for CD and UC patients, respectively, and activity impairment was 30%, the latter being higher among patients with moderate to severe disease activity compared to patients with mild or no disease activity (75.0% vs 10.0%, P < 0.001). For CD/UC patients, respectively, 25.4%/2.8% had at least one surgery, 38.3%/19.6% were hospitalized, and 70.7%/77.6% changed IBD treatment at least once during the last 3 years. The most common treatments at baseline were biologics (75.3%) and immunosuppressants (70.9%) for CD patients and 5-ASA compounds (77.5%) for UC patients. CONCLUSION: Moderate to severe IBD activity, especially among CD patients, is associated with a substantial impact on QoL, work productivity impairment and an increased number of IBD surgeries and hospitalizations in Brazil.

Ulcerative colitis - treatment with biologicals.

The Guidelines Project, an initiative of the Brazilian Medical Association, aims to combine information from the medical field in order to standardize producers to assist the reasoning and decision-making of doctors. The information provided through this project must be assessed and criticized by the physician responsible for the conduct that will be adopted, depending on the conditions and the clinical status of each patient.

EVALUATION OF CARBOHYDRATE AND FIBER CONSUMPTION IN PATIENTS WITH IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME IN OUTPATIENT TREATMENT.

BACKGROUND: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional condition, which main symptoms of pain, discomfort and abdominal distension, constipation, diarrhea, altered fecal consistency and sensation of incomplete evacuation can be influenced by the presence of dietary fiber and fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). This study aimed to assess the relationship between the quantity of fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAP) and fiber consumed by individuals diagnosed with IBS, and their classification according to the Rome III criteria. METHODS: A transversal study was carried out in the Intestinal Outpatient Clinic of the Gastroenterology Discipline of UNIFESP. The nutrients of interest for the study were: fiber, general carbohydrates and FODMAPs, with intake quantity measured in grams, analyzed through portions consumed. A nutrition log was used, along with a semi-quantitative questionnaire of consumption frequency. RESULTS: The sample included 63 adult patients; 21 with constipated IBS, 21 with diarrhea IBS, and 21 with mixed IBS. Carbohydrate intake was suboptimal in 55.6% of patients in all groups; excessive consumption was identified in 38.1% of the diarrhea group, 14.3% of the mixed group and 38.1% of the constipated group. Low consumption of carbohydrates was found in 28.6% of diarrhea patients and 47.6% of the mixed group. A mean intake of 23 g of fiber per day was identified, lower than recommended. CONCLUSION: The study identified a number of inadequacies in the consumption of different nutrients, excessive carbohydrate intake, especially FODMAPs, identified by the respondents as responsible for a worsening of their conditions. By contrast, other food groups such as meat, eggs and dairy were consumed by the sample population in insufficient quantities.

Ulcerative colitis - treatment with biologicals

The Guidelines Project, an initiative of the Brazilian Medical Association, aims to combine information from the medical field in order to standardize producers to assist the reasoning and decision-making of doctors. The information provided through this project must be assessed and criticized by the physician responsible for the conduct that will be adopted, depending on the conditions and the clinical status of each patient.

Avaliação do consumo alimentar de pacientes com síndrome do intestino irritável em acompanhamento ambulatorial / Evaluation of carbohydrate and fiber consumption in patients with irritable bowel syndrome in outpatient treatment

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional condition, which main symptoms of pain, discomfort and abdominal distension, constipation, diarrhea, altered fecal consistency and sensation of incomplete evacuation can be influenced by the presence of dietary fiber and fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). This study aimed to assess the relationship between the quantity of fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAP) and fiber consumed by individuals diagnosed with IBS, and their classification according to the Rome III criteria. METHODS: A transversal study was carried out in the Intestinal Outpatient Clinic of the Gastroenterology Discipline of UNIFESP. The nutrients of interest for the study were: fiber, general carbohydrates and FODMAPs, with intake quantity measured in grams, analyzed through portions consumed. A nutrition log was used, along with a semi-quantitative questionnaire of consumption frequency. RESULTS: The sample included 63 adult patients; 21 with constipated IBS, 21 with diarrhea IBS, and 21 with mixed IBS. Carbohydrate intake was suboptimal in 55.6% of patients in all groups; excessive consumption was identified in 38.1% of the diarrhea group, 14.3% of the mixed group and 38.1% of the constipated group. Low consumption of carbohydrates was found in 28.6% of diarrhea patients and 47.6% of the mixed group. A mean intake of 23 g of fiber per day was identified, lower than recommended. CONCLUSION: The study identified a number of inadequacies in the consumption of different nutrients, excessive carbohydrate intake, especially FODMAPs, identified by the respondents as responsible for a worsening of their conditions. By contrast, other food groups such as meat, eggs and dairy were consumed by the sample population in insufficient quantities.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A síndrome do intestino irritável é um distúrbio funcional crônico, no qual a dieta, principalmente o teor de fibra dietética e presença de carboidratos fermentativos (FODMAPs) podem influenciar nos principais sintomas: dores, desconforto e/ou distensão abdominal, constipação, diarreia, alteração na consistência das fezes, sensação de evacuação incompleta. OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as quantidades de carboidratos fermentativos (FODMAP) e fibras consumidas por indivíduos com o diagnóstico de síndrome do intestino irritável e relacionar com seu modelo da classificação, segundo os critérios Roma III. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, realizado no Ambulatório de Doenças Intestinais da Disciplina de Gastroenterologia/UNIFESP. Os nutrientes de interesse para o estudo foram: fibras, carboidratos em geral e FODMAPs, calculando-se suas quantidades em gramas, analisadas através das porções consumidas. Os instrumentos de pesquisa utilizados: ficha de acompanhamento nutricional e questionário de frequência alimentar semi-quantitativo. RESULTADOS: A amostra incluiu 63 pacientes adultos, com síndrome do intestino irritável constipado (21), diarreico (21) e misto (21). O consumo de carboidratos mostrou-se inadequado em 55,6% dos indivíduos em todos os grupos; os que tinham alto consumo (38,1%) pertenciam ao grupo diarreia, 14,3% ao misto e 38,1 % ao constipado. Baixo consumo deste nutriente foi 28,6% nos casos de diarreia e 47,6% do misto. Observamos uma ingestão média de fibras equivalente à 23 g/dia, nos três grupos, inferior ao recomendado. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo permitiu reconhecer várias inadequações no consumo dos diferentes grupos de alimentos, particularmente excesso de carboidratos, incluindo os classificados como FODMAPs, identificados pelos doentes como responsáveis pela piora das suas queixas. Em contrapartida, nutrientes fundamentais, como carnes, ovos, leite e derivados estiveram referidos em níveis abaixo do recomendado.