| Theme |
Various Subjects of Long-term Following Patients with Ulcerative Colitis |
| Title |
Long-term Care for Ulcerative Colitis Patients |
| Author |
Makoto Naganuma |
Department of Advanced Therapeutics for GI Diseases, School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University |
| Author |
Mamoru Watanabe |
Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University |
| [ Summary ] |
Recent studies have indicated that 5-aminosalitylate, immunomodulators and biologics are effective for maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Medication adherence is critical for satisfactory long-term outcomes for patients with UC. It is critical we assess the predictive factors concerning relapse to decide on treatment options for patients with quiescent UC. Younger age and greater numbers of prior relapses are predictive factors for relapse in UC cases. Thus, early intervention with aggressive treatment, such as immunomodulators, or biologics, may be needed to maintain remission in these patients. |