Infliximab (Remicade), a new biological treatment for Crohn's disease.

摘要: Tumour necrosis factor plays a pivotal role in Crohn's disease intestinal inflammation. Blocking this cytokine by means of the chimeric monoclonal antibody infliximab has led to rapid reduction mucosal More than 65% refractory patients treated with showed remarkable improvement their symptoms, which was maintained repeated infusions every 2 months up 44 weeks. Patients draining enterocutaneous fistulae also benefited from treatment, more 60% healed after 3 infusions. Adverse events following were mild and transient, occurring same frequency placebo-treated patients. In conclusion, appears offer promising novel therapeutic agent for fistulizing disease. Long-term risks benefits remain be determined.