Consider disease severity and response to corticosteroids when selecting agents to manage ulcerative colitis in children

Abstract

The primary objective in the management of paediatric ulcerative colitis is the induction and maintenance of disease remission. Induction is achieved primarily with aminosalicylates in patients with mild disease and with corticosteroids in those with moderate or severe disease. Maintenance options include aminosalicylates, immunomodulators and biological agents. Rescue therapy with calcineurin inhibitors or infliximab should be considered in those unresponsive to corticosteroids.