The article from Nature, presents a study on the relationship between endoscopic healing (EH) and the effectiveness of biologic treatments in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The study was retrospective and involved 52 UC patients who started biologic treatment and underwent follow-up colonoscopies within two years.
Key findings of the study include:
Endoscopic Healing and Treatment Continuation: Among the 52 patients, 33 achieved EH, defined as a Mayo endoscopic subscore of 0 or 1. All these patients continued the same treatment without loss of response (LOR) during the observation period. In contrast, 20 patients did not achieve EH, and 8 of these discontinued treatment due to LOR.
Statistical Analysis: The Kaplan–Meier estimator showed a significantly lower drug continuation rate in patients without EH. A Cox regression analysis identified EH as an independent factor associated with a reduced risk of LOR-related biologic treatment failure, regardless of the types of biologic agents used.
Clinical Implications: The study underscores the importance of achieving EH in UC patients undergoing biologic treatment. EH within two years is associated with a reduced risk of LOR-related biologic treatment failure, suggesting that EH can be a crucial predictor of long-term treatment success.
The study concludes that a follow-up colonoscopy within 1-2 years of starting biologic treatment is recommended to adjust treatment for potentially persistent mucosal inflammation and maintain prolonged clinical remission. This research adds valuable insights into the management of UC and the effectiveness of biologic therapies.