Evaluation of adalimumab therapy in multidisciplinary strategy for perianal Crohn's disease patients with infliximab failure

BackgroundInfliximab has improved the management of perianal Crohn's disease, but intolerance and loss of efficacy can occur. The use of a second antibody can be less effective.ObjectiveOur aim was to determine if the use of adalimumab, based on a multidisciplinary strategy, can enhance outcomes for patients with fistulizing disease and infliximab failure.Material and methodsSixteen patients with perianal disease and infliximab failure were treated with adalimumab. Complex fistulas were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients with severe conditions as determined by radiology were examined under anesthesia, and seton placement was performed when appropriate. Setons were removed when external discharge had ceased and there was no radiological evidence of fistula activity.ResultsNine patients (56%) underwent MRI. Setons were inserted in seven (43%). The baseline perianal disease activity index (PDAI) decreased after 4 weeks and remained at similar levels 24 and 48 weeks after treatment. The complete response rate was 50% after four weeks and 87.5% of these patients remained in remission after 48 weeks of treatment.ConclusionsFor patients with Crohn's perianal fistulas and infliximab failure, adalimumab as a multidisciplinary approach to management, using MRI to guide surgical drainage when necessary, results in a favourable response and low recurrence rate.