Infliximab (IFX), known by its trade name Remicade, is an anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α human-mouse chimeric IgG1 antibody that acts as a therapeutic agent by antagonizing TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory factor that plays a key role in the pathogenesis of CD immunity,
IFX is the first novel biologic agent formally used in the treatment of CD and has been used worldwide for more than a decade. The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Group of the Chinese Society of Gastroenterology proposes the following indications for IFX for the treatment of Crohn’s disease: 1. Intestinal CD: moderate to severe active CD, those who are ineffective or hormone-dependent on glucocorticoid therapy, and/or those who are ineffective on immunosuppressant (e.g., azathioprine, etc.) therapy, or those who cannot tolerate the above drug therapy (presence of contraindications or serious adverse effects). For those with risk factors predictive of poor prognosis at the time of diagnosis (e.g., age <40 years, need for glucocorticoid treatment at the beginning of the disease, combined with perianal lesions), early treatment with IFX may be considered if available. 2.Fistula CD: CD
Combined with enterocutaneous fistula, anal fistula or rectovaginal fistula who have failed traditional treatment (including surgical drainage, antibiotics, immunosuppressants, etc.). Complex anal fistula with adequate surgical drainage and anti-infection, early application of IFX
IFX has the potential to achieve good results. The above indications also apply to children and adolescents aged 6-17 years with CD. 4. IFX has been reported to be effective in preventing CD
The use of IFX can be considered for patients with high risk factors for postoperative recurrence, such as penetrating CD and those who have undergone 2 or more operations, based on adequate discussion with the patient.