Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic Research Articles

Young Adult Patient and Caregiver Perspectives on Transition Readiness in an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic

Abstract BACKGROUND When it comes to readiness to transition to an adult subspecialty clinic, perspectives between patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and their caregivers may differ and influence the ability to successfully transition. Patients with IBD have been shown to suffer from poor transfers of care. There is a need to more efficiently and accurately assess transition readiness to improve the transfer process. METHODS Patients transferring to an adult subspecialty clinic and their caregivers were each administered the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Self-Efficacy Scale - Adolescent. Differences between patient and caregiver responses and agreement among each dyad were tested. RESULTS There were 29 dyads of patients and caregivers who enrolled. There was no difference between patient and caregiver total scores. The average level of agreement between patients and caregivers was 78%. There was no association between patient response and their age, gender, ethnicity, age at time of transfer, age at diagnosis, or number of emergency room visits in the prior year. CONCLUSIONS Patient-reported readiness to transition to adult care was confirmed by their caregivers using validated readiness assessment tools. As transition clinics must focus on high-yield interventions, readiness survey of young adult patients without survey of their caregivers may be adequate. However, as experts in each patient’s journey, caregivers may be utilized when setting goals and priorities for a transition readiness program. The surveys used in this study can be used broadly to aid subspecialty clinics that are trying to improve the transition process.

Impact of Clinical Pharmacists in the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic.

Background: Limited evidence exists regarding pharmacist involvement and impact in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) interdisciplinary clinic care models. The purpose is to describe pharmacist utilization in an interdisciplinary IBD clinic and evaluate clinical impact on patient quality of life. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study comparing outcomes in patients with Crohn's disease initiated on therapy when the implementation of pharmacy services began (Early Phase) to the expansion of pharmacy services (Recent Phase). The primary outcome compared the proportion of patients referred to a pharmacist and those achieving a Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) reduction of ≥3 points after therapy initiation. Results: 50 patients were included in the Early Phase and 43 patients in the Recent Phase. Utilization in pharmacy referrals increased from 48% (n = 24) in the Early Phase to 72% (n = 31) in the Recent Phase (P = 0.03). The proportion of patients achieving a HBI reduction of ≥3 points increased from 35% (n = 14) in the Early Phase to 51% (n = 18) in the Recent Phase (P = 0.23). Results also found a greater proportion of patients remaining steroid free in the Recent Phase compared to the Early Phase (50% vs 63%; P = 0.01) and C-reactive protein (CRP) improved significantly in the Recent Phase (-11) compared to (-3) in the Early Phase (P = 0.006). Conclusion: The utilization of pharmacists in an interdisciplinary IBD clinic increased and showed to impact patient care through improving symptom relief as seen by the achievement rate of the HBI score reduction, reducing steroid use after therapy initiation, and making clinically significant interventions.

Differences in circulating alpha-calcitonin gene-related peptide levels in inflammatory bowel disease and its relation to migraine comorbidity: A cross-sectional study.

To analyze the specificity of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels, we measured alpha-CGRP circulating levels in a large series of patients with a recent diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who were interviewed regarding comorbid headache. Several studies have found an association between migraine and IBD. In this cross-sectional study performed in an IBD clinic, morning serum alpha-CGRP levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 96 patients who were recently diagnosed with IBD and compared to those from 50 similar patients with chronic migraine (CM) and 50 healthy controls (HC). Alpha-CGRP levels were higher in patients with IBD (median [interquartile range] 56.9 [35.6-73.9] pg/mL) and patients with CM (53.0 [36.7-73.9] pg/mL) compared to HC (37.2 [30.0-51.8] pg/mL; p = 0.003; p = 0.019, respectively). Regarding IBD diagnostic subtypes, alpha-CGRP levels for ulcerative colitis (67.2 ± 49.3 pg/mL; 57.0 [35.6-73.4] pg/mL) and Crohn's disease (54.9 ± 27.5 pg/mL; 57.7 [29.1-76.1] pg/mL) were significantly higher than those of HC (p = 0.013, p = 0.040, respectively). Alpha-CGRP levels were further different in patients with IBD with migraine (70.9 [51.8-88.7] pg/mL) compared to HC (p < 0.001), patients with IBD without headache (57.5 [33.3-73.8] pg/mL; p = 0.049), and patients withIBD with tension-type headache but without migraine (41.7 [28.5-66.9] pg/mL; p = 0.004), though alpha-CGRP levels in patients with IBD without migraine (53.7 [32.9-73.5] pg/mL) remained different over HC (p = 0.028). Together with CM, circulating alpha-CGRP levels are different in patients with IBD, perhaps reflecting a chronic inflammatory state. IBD is an example of how alpha-CGRP levels are not a totally specific migraine biomarker. However, alpha-CGRP levels were further increased in patients with IBD who have a history of migraine, which reinforces its role as a biomarker in migraine patients, always bearing in mind their comorbidities.

Prevalence of faecal incontinence in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Severity and its relationship with quality of life.

To describe the prevalence of faecal incontinence in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, assess its severity, and correlation with quality of life. We adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines, STROBE method. Correlational-descriptive study. Hebrew-speaking patients seen at an inflammatory bowel disease clinic in a large tertiary medical center in Jerusalem between February 2020 and December 2020 completed the Faecal Incontinence Severity Index and the Faecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale. Ninety-six patients participated in the study, of which 70 (72.9%) had Crohn's disease, and 26 (27.1%) had ulcerative colitis. Eighty-five (88.5%) reported faecal incontinence with an overall Faecal Incontinence Severity Index mean of 27.66 (SD 15.99), yet only 14 (14.7%) reported that their physician or nurse inquired about faecal incontinence. Quality of life scores for patients with faecal incontinence was the lowest on the coping/behaviour scale (M = 2.44; SD 0.94) and the highest on the depression/self-perception scale (M = 2.86; SD 1.04). Significant correlations were found between faecal incontinence severity and quality of life in all scales except for self-embarrassment. Moderate correlations in the same scales were noted in patients with Ulcerative Colitis, while no significant correlations were found in the Crohn's Disease group. A high proportion of inflammatory bowel disease patients reported faecal incontinence associated with impaired quality of life. Only a few were questioned about faecal incontinence by their physician or nurse. There is limited literature regarding the prevalence and severity of faecal incontinence in inflammatory bowel disease patients. A high proportion of patients reported faecal incontinence, which negatively correlated with quality of life. Physicians and nurses must inquire about faecal incontinence to improve patient care. No patient or public contribution.

Sexual health in adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease - The paediatric gastroenterologists' point of view.

Although sexual health (SH) impairment and sexually transmitted infections (STI) are occasionally encountered in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), paediatric gastroenterologists (PedGI) do not often discuss these issues. Literature about SH in the paediatric IBD population is limited. We aimed to assess PedGI knowledge and common practice related to sexual advice and STI workups in patients with IBD. A questionnaire comprising 25 questions addressing sexual activity in youth, SH, recommendations, and workup for STI in adolescents with IBD was sent to all registered PedGI in Israel. Fifty-two physicians completed the questionnaire (27 males,52%). Only 50% correctly predicted the mean age that Israeli youth start practicing sex. Seventy-five per cent responded that providers should discuss sexual activity with their patients, but only 19% do so, most often in response to a patient's query. Ninety six percent answered that they do not have enough knowledge about SH in IBD. Finally, only 2% obtain rectal swabs for STI in patients with refractory proctitis. Sexual issues and recommendations are not routinely discussed by the majority of PedGI in paediatric IBD clinics. Providers should obtain more knowledge in the field and initiate discussion of these issues with adolescent patients with IBD.

Influence of multidisciplinary team care with abundant nurse staffing on patient-reported outcomes among patients with inflammatory bowel disease in clinical remission

BackgroundPatients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) experience difficulties in daily life and demanding self-care needs. The goal of our support for patients is to ease their difficulties and improve their belief in their capacity to self-manage their disease (self-efficacy), by increasing their ability for self-care. The nurse’s contribution is vital in empowering patients and supporting them to better manage their disease. There is evidence that higher nurse staffing levels are associated with better patient outcomes in acute care settings, but little is known about the outpatient setting. The objective of this study was to explore the impact of multidisciplinary team care with abundant nurse staffing levels on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) among patients with IBD, encompassing Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), in clinical remission.MethodsPatients with IBD in clinical remission were included because disease activity influences the patient’s subjective evaluation. A total of 499 valid responses from two different sources were analyzed: 318 from a specialized IBD clinic with abundant nurse staffing and a multidisciplinary care team (UC: 83, CD: 235) and 181 from an online survey panel (UC: 109, CD: 72). The IBD Self-Efficacy Scale (IBD-SES) and the difficulty of life scale (DLS) were used as disease-specific PROMs.ResultsIn two multiple regression models adjusted by background characteristics (age, sex, diagnosis [UC/CD], employment status, use of biologics, and disease duration) using the IBD-SES or DLS as a dependent variable, the responses from clinic patients showed a more favorable score (higher self-efficacy or lower difficulty) than the online responses.ConclusionsMultidisciplinary team care with abundant nurse staffing may improve self-efficacy and ease difficulties of life among patients with IBD in clinical remission. These results could help bring attention to nurse staffing in an outpatient setting, which has previously been overlooked, and be the first to provide evidence of its importance in encouraging enhanced staffing levels.

Development and validation of a 13-item short version of the inflammatory bowel disease self-efficacy scale

BackgroundThe inflammatory bowel disease self-efficacy scale (IBD-SES) is an instrument used across many countries to measure important health outcomes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to develop and validate a substantially shorter version of this scale to reduce patients’ response burden.MethodsA total of 919 patients with IBD, 482 recruited from an IBD clinic and 437 recruited online, completed the Japanese version of the original, 29-item IBD-SES. These data were then used to develop a shorter version of the scale. The original 29 items of the IBD-SES were reduced with three analytic steps: assessing ceiling and floor effect, testing correlation between items, and assessing test-retest reliability. The resulting 13-item IBD-SES was evaluated for construct validity by confirmatory factor analysis, criterion validity by Pearson correlation coefficients with original version, and internal consistency by item-total correlations and the Cronbach’s α coefficient.ResultsThe short version consisted of the same four subscales “managing stress and emotions,” “managing medical care,” “managing symptoms and disease,” and “maintaining remission” as the original scale. The fit indices of the final model were as follows: normed chi-square, 7.18 (p < 0.001); comparative fit index, 0.94; goodness-of-fit index, 0.93; adjusted goodness-of-fit index, 0.89; parsimony goodness-of-fit index, 0.60; and root mean square error of approximation, 0.084. Correlation of each subscale with the original scale was high (0.97–0.98). Cronbach’s α for each subscale ranged from 0.68 to 0.86.ConclusionsA short version of the IBD-SES was developed. The results confirmed the improved validity, reliability, and psychometric properties of the IBD-SES.Trial registrationNot applicable.

Effect of a gamified mobile-based self-management application on disease activity index, quality of life, and mental health in adults with inflammatory bowel disease: A protocol of a randomized controlled trial study.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal tract disease subdivided into Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). There is currently no cure for IBD, and individuals with IBD frequently experience a lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than the general population. Gamification has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years. Adapting game design concepts to nongaming contexts represents a novel and potential approach to changing user engagement. This study will be conducted with the aim of evaluating the effect of a gamified mobile-based self-management application on disease activity index, quality of life, and mental health in adults with IBD. A multicenter, parallel, two-arm, exploratory randomized controlled trial with a 6-month follow-up per patient will be designed to compare the impact of the gamified mobile-based tele-management system on primary and secondary health outcomes and outpatient visits in 210 patients with all types of IBD which are divided equally into a control group with standard care and an intervention group which will use the developed mobile application named MY IBD BUDDY. All patients will attend study visits at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks, and routine IBD clinic visits or telephone consultations based on randomization group assignment. Disease activity or disease activity index, mental health (anxiety and depression) symptoms, quality of life, self-efficacy, and IBD-specific knowledge will be measured at baseline with two follow-ups at 12 and 24 weeks. In sum, the outcomes of our trial will demonstrate the impact of the gamified mobile-based self-management system on disease activity, quality of life, and anxiety and depression by means of interactive care and patient empowerment. IRCT: IRCT20200613047757N1. Registered November 16, 2021. Prospectively registered and visible at OSF (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/AWFY9).

Sacroiliitis in inflammatory bowel disease.

This review summarizes the recent evidence regarding the epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) associated sacroiliitis, including the prevalence, pathogenesis, role of imaging, and therapeutic challenges. Sacroiliitis is an underappreciated musculoskeletal manifestation of IBD, a chronic inflammatory condition of the gut affecting the younger population. Untreated sacroiliitis can lead to joint destruction and chronic pain, further adding to morbidity in IBD patients. Recent publications suggest sacroiliitis can be detected on abdominal imaging obtained in IBD patients to study bowel disease, but only a small fraction of these patients were seen by rheumatologists. Early detection of IBD-associated sacroiliitis could be achieved by utilization of clinical screening tools in IBD clinics, careful examination of existing computed tomography and MRI studies, and timely referral to rheumatologist for further evaluation and treatment. Current treatment approaches for IBD and sacroiliitis include several targeted biologic therapies, but IBD-associated sacroiliitis has limited options, as these therapies may not overlap in both conditions. With the advances in imaging, sacroiliitis is an increasingly recognized comorbidity in IBD patients. Future studies focusing on this unique patient population will expand our understanding of complex pathophysiology of IBD-associated sacroiliitis and lead to identification of novel targeted therapies for this condition.

Adolescent and caregiver perceptions of addressing mental health in inflammatory bowel disease.

Adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of anxiety and depression compared to peers, but availability of mental health services in IBD clinics does not meet patients' needs, and use of primary care services for mental health screening and care is low. This study provides qualitative data regarding adolescent and caregiver perspectives on addressing mental health in IBD. Interviews were conducted with adolescents with IBD and caregivers of adolescents with IBD. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed for prominent themes. Thirteen adolescents and fourteen caregivers were interviewed. Three primary themes emerged: mental health stigma makes discussing it more difficult, physician-adolescent trust makes conversations about mental health easier, and asking about mental health directly can help adolescents feel comfortable. Adolescents and caregivers highlighted the importance of considering each patient and their family individually when choosing how to discuss mental health. Fostering trust with adolescents with IBD is vital to addressing mental health. While encouraging standardized screening is important, the most patient-centered approach to mental health involves considering families individually to identify and address mental health challenges. Given the increased risk of anxiety and depression in pediatric patients with IBD, all providers encountering these patients should be equipped to discuss mental health non-judgmentally.

Effects of COVID-19 vaccines on patient-reported outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a multicenter survey study in Korea.

The impact of vaccination on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients is still unknown, and no studies have assessed the changes in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after vaccination in patients with IBD. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the impact of vaccines on the PROs of patients with IBD. We conducted a questionnaire survey of patients with IBD who visited outpatient clinics at 4 specialized IBD clinics of referral university hospitals from April 2022 to June 2022. A total of 309 IBD patients were included in the study. Patient information was collected from a questionnaire and their medical records, including laboratory findings, were reviewed retrospectively. Risk factors associated with an increase in PROs after COVID-19 vaccination were analyzed using logistic regression analyses. In addition, we assessed whether there were differences in variables by vaccine order using the linear mixed model. In multivariate analysis, young age ( < 40 years) and ulcerative colitis (UC) were found to be independent risk factors for aggravation of PROs in patients with IBD. In all patients, platelet count significantly increased with continued vaccination in multiple pairwise comparisons. In UC patients, PROs such as the short health scale, UC-abdominal signs and symptoms, and UC-bowel signs and symptoms were aggravated significantly with continued vaccination. There was no significant increase in the variables of patients with Crohn's disease. Therefore, there may be a need to counsel patients with IBD younger than 40 years of age, and patients with UC before they receive COVID-19 vaccinations.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Breastfeeding: A Narrative Review.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) frequently affects women of childbearing age who may consider breastfeeding. Although breastfeeding has numerous benefits, there remain concerns regarding the safety of breastfeeding among women with IBD. Breastfeeding is important in developing the immune system of infants and has been shown to protect against the development of IBD. The risk of developing an increase in disease activity postpartum is the same regardless of breastfeeding status. Most IBD medications are also considered safe in breastfeeding and have no major risks to infants. Despite this, breastfeeding rates remain low among women with IBD, mostly due to concerns about the safety of IBD therapy with breastfeeding. Many women self-discontinue their IBD medications to breastfeed, and there is often uncertainty among health professionals to make recommendations about therapy. Dedicated IBD clinics can greatly support mothers during pregnancy and breastfeeding periods to enhance their knowledge, optimize their medication adherence, and improve their postpartum outcomes. This review aims to provide the most recent evidence-based literature regarding the safety of breastfeeding in women with IBD and the current recommendations about medical therapies with breastfeeding.

A Survey Exploring Inflammatory Back Pain in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Background Diagnostic delay of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a widely recognized issue worldwide, providing a great burden for patients with this disease. AxSpA is present in a significant proportion of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This UK study primarily aims to identify the presence of inflammatory back pain (IBP) in patients attending IBD clinic.Further aims of this study include investigating if participants had received further referrals and diagnoses for their IBPand considering factors contributing to diagnostic delay. Methods Patients were recruited from a Royal Free London NHS Trust hospital's IBD clinic. Each participant completed a 23-question survey. The Berlin criteria were applied to the questions to investigate the presence of IBP. Further questions were asked about their IBD diagnosis and treatment, the healthcare professionals they had seen for their back pain, and other extra-articular features associated with axSpA. Results Seventy-five patients completed the online survey sent out via email. Forty percent (n = 30) of participants were female and 60% (n = 45) were male.Sixty-one percent (n = 36) of participants from the colitis clinic reported they had back pain, and 41% of the participants reported back pain for over three months. Of these, 39% (12) of participants fulfilled the Berlin criteria for IBP. Of patients experiencing back pain for over three months, we found that 10% (3) fulfilled the Berlin criteria but had not received a diagnosis for their IBP.All patients who had fulfilled the Berlin criteriabut had not received a diagnosis for their IBPhadseen their general practitioner(GP) and an allied healthcare professional, but not a rheumatologist. Conclusions This study highlights the presence of possibly undiagnosed axSpA in patients with IBD.The reasons for the diagnostic delay of axSpA are multifactorial. We consider specific patient characteristics, lack of awareness and education of the condition, and issues in the referral process. There is a need to improve education and awareness of axSpA, reconsider referral processes, and consider new initiatives such as joint specialty clinics to identify and treat axSpA on time.

A237 ROTAVIRUS VACCINE SAFETY IN INFANTS EXPOSED TO BIOLOGICS IN UTERO IN AN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE POPULATION: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Abstract Background Biologics, the mainstay of therapy in patients with moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), undergo placental transfer during the second trimester of pregnancy and may remain detectable in the blood of exposed infants for up to 12 months. Due to concerns regarding the risk of immunosuppression and adverse events following immunization with live attenuated vaccines in infants exposed to biologics in utero, current guidelines recommend avoiding live vaccines in the first 6 to 12 months of life. Aims This study investigates whether the live rotavirus vaccine can safely be administered in infants exposed to biologics in utero. Methods We conducted a single-centre prospective cohort study, which included infants exposed to biologics in utero and born to mothers with IBD between October 1, 2020 and June 30, 2022. Infants were included in the study if they were assessed by Paediatric specialists at the Special Immunization Clinic (SIC) at SickKids Hospital (Toronto, Ontario). Mothers were followed by Gastroenterologists at the Special Pregnancy IBD Clinic at Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto, Ontario). Data were collected on biologic agent exposure history, infant immune function testing, SIC recommendations for rotavirus vaccination, rotavirus vaccine series completion, and adverse events after immunization. Adverse events following immunization included fevers, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or intussusception within 42 days following immunization. Results 22 infants were included in the study. Of the 22 infants, 5 (22.7%) were exposed to infliximab in utero, 10 (45.5%) were exposed to adalimumab, 3 (13.6%) were exposed to vedolizumab, and 3 (13.6%) were exposed to ustekinumab. Of the 22 infants, 18 (81.8%) were recommended to receive the rotavirus vaccine by the SIC. 1 (0.05%) was not recommended to receive the vaccine due to neutropenia and low CD54 count on lymphocyte testing. The recommendation given to 3 infants is unknown. Of the 18 infants who were recommended to receive the vaccine, 16 (88.9%) received the vaccine and had no adverse events following immunization. 1 (6%) infant did not receive the rotavirus vaccine despite it being recommended due to parental choice. The rotavirus vaccination status and response in 1 infant recommended to receive the vaccine, is unknown. Conclusions Administration of the rotavirus vaccine in biologic-exposed infants did not result in adverse events in our study cohort. Although guidelines currently advise against live vaccinations in infants exposed to biologics in utero, specialist assessment of infant immune function can help encourage safe live vaccination uptake. Funding Agencies None

A79 PATIENT AND PHYSICIAN PERSPECTIVES ON IMPLEMENTION OF BEDSIDE INTESTINAL ULTRASOUND FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Abstract Background New tools for evaluating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) activity and complications are needed to deliver timely disease management and improve patient outcomes. Point of care (POC) intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is safe, inexpensive, and less invasive compared to standard endoscopy and imaging. Aims To evaluate the implementation of POC IUS within an ambulatory IBD clinic at the QEII Health Sciences Center. Methods This was a retrospective evaluation of a cohort of patients who had undergone IUS within the Nova Scotia Collaborative Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Clinic (NSCIBD) between January 18, 2023 and August 13, 2023. Medical records were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographics, disease-related characteristics, perceived impact of IUS on need for endoscopy, perceived impact of IUS on IBD management, and clinical utility of IUS were collected. Surveys were administered prospectively to referring care providers and patients following IUS. Patient surveys assessed IUS satisfaction, acceptance of other methods to assess IBD activity, whether IUS improved knowledge of illness, and impact on quality of life (QoL). Results One physician completed 107 IUS exams on 92 patients at the NSCIBD clinic over a nine-month period. Of 92 patients, 47 (51%) were male and 78 (85%) had Crohn’s disease. 53 patients provided an email and consented to survey participation. 34 responses were submitted (64%). There were 97 responses (91%) from 12 referring gastroenterology specialist clinicians. Ninety-three percent of responses show IUS reports were very helpful (60%) or somewhat helpful (33%). More than a third (37%) of IUS exams were reported to delay or prevent the need for endoscopic evaluation, and 34% were reported to prompt a therapeutic change. Of available tools, IUS had the highest proportion of patients who felt it was completely acceptable (77%), compared to colonoscopy (41%), stool sampling (50%), blood tests (71%), and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (47%). Most (89%) indicated IUS caused either no discomfort (68%) or little discomfort (21%), with no patient reporting a lot of discomfort. Some patients (41%) reported that IUS improved their understanding of their illness, and 38% believe it improved their QoL. Conclusions POC IUS offers an accurate, less invasive option for monitoring IBD activity compared to traditional investigations. There is limited data on implementation of, and patient and clinician perspectives regarding use of IUS and its clinical implications. Even early in implementation, POC IUS has clear benefits. This study suggests that IUS is highly acceptable to patients for investigating/monitoring their illness. Treating clinicians find significant value in IUS and report that it can prevent the need for endoscopic evaluation and prompt changes in therapeutic management. Funding Agencies None

Structural brain morphometry differences and similarities between young patients with Crohn's disease in remission and healthy young and old controls.

Crohn's disease (CD), one of the main phenotypes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. It can impact the function of gastrointestinal secretions, as well as increasing the intestinal permeability leading to an aberrant immunological response and subsequent intestinal inflammation. Studies have reported anatomical and functional brain changes in Crohn's Disease patients (CDs), possibly due to increased inflammatory markers and microglial cells that play key roles in communicating between the brain, gut, and systemic immune system. To date, no studies have demonstrated similarities between morphological brain changes seen in IBD and brain morphometry observed in older healthy controls.. For the present study, twelve young CDs in remission (M = 26.08 years, SD = 4.9 years, 7 male) were recruited from an IBD Clinic. Data from 12 young age-matched healthy controls (HCs) (24.5 years, SD = 3.6 years, 8 male) and 12 older HCs (59 years, SD = 8 years, 8 male), previously collected for a different study under a similar MR protocol, were analyzed as controls. T1 weighted images and structural image processing techniques were used to extract surface-based brain measures, to test our hypothesis that young CDs have different brain surface morphometry than their age-matched young HCs and furthermore, appear more similar to older HCs. The phonemic verbal fluency (VF) task (the Controlled Oral Word Association Test, COWAT) (Benton, 1976) was administered to test verbal cognitive ability and executive control. On the whole, CDs had more brain regions with differences in brain morphometry measures when compared to the young HCs as compared to the old HCs, suggesting that CD has an effect on the brain that makes it appear more similar to old HCs. Additionally, our study demonstrates this atypical brain morphometry is associated with function on a cognitive task. These results suggest that even younger CDs may be showing some evidence of structural brain changes that demonstrate increased resemblance to older HC brains rather than their similarly aged healthy counterparts.

Racial and ethnic differences in diagnosis age and blood biomarkers in a pediatric inflammatory bowel disease cohort.

Prompt diagnosis of pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is crucial for preventing a complicated disease course; however, it is not well understood how social determinants of health might affect pediatric IBD diagnosis. This study examined differences in diagnosis age, biomarkers of disease severity, and anthropometrics with sociodemographic factors in a pediatric IBD cohort. Pediatric IBD patients (n = 114) and their parents/caregivers were enrolled from the Children's of Alabama Pediatric IBD Clinic in Birmingham, Alabama. Primary analyses examined associations of child race and ethnicity, parental income, parental education, single-parent household status, insurance type, and distance to a tertiary pediatric gastroenterology referral center with diagnosis age. Secondary analyses examined differences in biomarker levels, height, and body mass index at the time of diagnosis. Racial and ethnic minority children were diagnosed at an older age compared to Non-Hispanic White children (14.4 ± 0.40 vs. 11.7 ± 0.38 years; p < 0.001), and this trend was robust to adjustment with other sociodemographic variables. Parental attainment of a college education attenuated the link between minority race and ethnicity and the likelihood of older age at diagnosis, while other sociodemographic variables had no moderating effect. Racial and ethnic minority children were 5.7 times more likely to have clinically elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate at diagnosis compared to Non-Hispanic White children (p = .024). These results suggest that child race and ethnicity may exert a primary effect on the age at diagnosis with pediatric-onset IBD. This study highlights the need for further research on racial and ethnic disparities to promote health equity in pediatric-onset IBD.

P1132 Fecal incontinence in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): associated factors and impact on the quality of life of patients in an IBD clinic in Switzerland

Abstract Background Literature on prevalence of fecal incontinence (FI) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and associated factors has not been thoroughly studied. IBD is a chronic disease with high morbidity and significant impact on quality of life. Awareness of prevalence and associated factors of FI would make gastroenterologists more conscious of its burden, leading to targeted clinical assessment and treatment. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study, looking at risk factors for FI and its impact on quality of life. The study population consisted of IBD patients aged from 16 to 80 years old in an IBD clinic in Switzerland. Patients with a stoma, a J-Pouch and an unspecified IBD were excluded. The survey had 53 questions, with demographics and main clinical variables. The quality of life of patients was assessed using the World Health Organization quality of life scale. Disease severity was measured based on the short Crohn’s disease activity index (SCDAI) for Crohn’s disease (CD) and using the simple clinical colitis activity index (SCCAI) for Ulcerative colitis (UC). Logistic regression was used to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratio (OR), applying 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results 450 questionnaires were randomly distributed. 392 patients met the inclusion criteria. 116 patients (29.5%) reported FI. Factors associated with FI included: age &amp;gt; 50 years old [OR 2.74 (CI: 1.57-3.89)]; one or more vaginal delivery [OR 2.49 (CI: 1.32-4.71)];disease duration &amp;gt; 15 years [OR 2.04 (CI: 1.31-3.16)], abdominal pain [OR 2.56 (CI: 1.60-4.09)], diarrhea [OR 3.70 (CI: 2.26-6.04)], blood in stool [OR 3.33 (1.88-5.89)], more than 3 bowel movements/day [OR 4.50 (CI: 2.79-7.26)],night bowel movements [OR 3.98 (CI: 2.36-6.71)] and an SCCAI ≥ 3 [OR 6.06 (CI: 2.62-14.02)]. There was also a positive association between the presence of one or more extraintestinal manifestation (EIM) [OR 1.64 (CI: 1.03-2.61)] and FI. General well-being [OR 2.61 (CI: 1.65-4.14)] was inversely associated with FI. Similarly, depression and anxiety were associated with FI, respectively; [OR 2.43 (CI: 1.27-4.68) and OR 1.88 (CI: 1.07-3.30)]. Noticeably, 35.3% of patients with FI could not hold their stools for more than 5 minutes, and 14.7% were unable to hold their stools for more than a minute. Conclusion FI was highly prevalent (29.5%) in our survey. Age, vaginal delivery, disease duration &amp;gt;15 years, abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stool, &amp;gt;3 bowel movements /day, night bowel movement, SCCAI ≥ 3, ≥ 1 EIM were associated with FI. The quality of life was significantly impacted, and anxiety and depression were associated with FI. These implications highlight the need for interventions aimed at enhancing physical and mental health outcomes among individuals with IBD.

P620 A cost-effective Inflammatory Bowel Disease flare management pathway utilising rapid access intestinal ultrasound and nurse-led triage to achieve hospital avoidance with increased patient satisfaction

Abstract Background Timely inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flare treatment improves outcomes, but quick differentiation from other symptom causes is challenging. We aimed to reduce unplanned hospital presentations with a novel IBD clinical care pathway (CCP) allowing appropriate early flare management, utilising nurse-led triage and objective assessment with rapid access intestinal ultrasound (RAIUS). Methods Prospective data collection from 15 November 2022 until 14 June 2023, including clinical outcomes, pre-specified criteria for healthcare utilisation impact, clinical coding data, and patient satisfaction surveys. A senior IBD nurse assessed patients using a symptom severity-based algorithm, utilising a modified partial Mayo score and Harvey-Bradshaw Index. Standardised blood and stool tests were collected. Based on clinical urgency, patients were discussed with their specialist, referred for RAIUS, or considered for planned hospitalisation if severe symptoms (bypassing emergency department (ED)). Results There were 211 episodes of care (EOCs), with 407 initial and follow up encounters. The median patient age was 34 (IQR 25-44), a majority female (66%), 54% with Crohn’s disease, and 61% bio-exposed. Most (78%, n=165) EOCs were for flare symptoms (mild 41% (n=69), moderate 49% (n=80), severe 10% (n=16)) and the remainder for non-flare concerns (n=46). Of those with flare symptoms, 36% (n=59) had medication optimisation for active disease (5% (n=11) started steroids), 41% (n=67) reassured of remission, 12% (n=19) aperients for faecal loading, 5% (n=8) referred for further investigations, 2% (n=4) seen urgently in colorectal clinic for perianal flare, 2% (n=3) electively admitted, and 3% (n=5) seen urgently in IBD clinic. RAIUS was performed in 56 EOCs (27%), showing active disease in 32% (n=18), response/remission in 43% (n=24), and faecal loading in 23% (n=13). After RAIUS, 52% (n=29) had IBD medication optimisation. Based on pre-specified criteria, unplanned hospitalisation was avoided in 10% (n=20) of EOCs, urgent clinic review avoided in 58% (n=123), and no direct impact in 32% (n=68), with a net saving of AUD$146418 (Figure 1). Clinical coding data showed lower hospital presentations (Figure 2). Only 7 patients (3%) had an unplanned hospital presentation within 30 days of CCP engagement (most after-hours) and 5 (2%) were seen urgently in IBD clinic. With the CCP, more survey respondents (n=60) were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the IBD service, increasing from 53% (n=32) to 85% (n=51). Conclusion Our novel CCP improved IBD care through timely assessment, with high patient satisfaction and cost savings. Better integration of nursing and intestinal ultrasound resources can improve IBD care.

P1200 Study of correlation between polymorphisms of vitamin D metabolism genes and perianal disease in Crohn's disease

Abstract Background Vitamin D (VD) is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium homeostasis and that acts at the extraskeletal level. UVB skin exposure allows the synthesis of provitamin D. This undergoes a first hydroxylation in the leaver by the CYP2R1 enzyme and a second hydroxylation in the kidney by the CYP27B1 enzyme: active VD is obtained. VD is transported into the circulation by VDBP and exerts its activity in the target cells binding its VDR receptor. Finally, VD is inactivated by the renal enzyme CYP24A1. Perianal disease (pCD) is a severe phenotypic manifestation of CD that may present as perianal fistula, abscess, recto-vaginal fistula, or stenosis. Among the mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis we recognise local inflammation and intestinal microbiota alteration. Vitamin D (VD) seems to act on these elements. As there are currently no studies on this subject in the literature, the aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of an association between SNPs of genes coding for enzymes, transporters and receptors involved in the VD pathway and the occurrence of pCD in CD patients. Methods The study was carried out on the biological samples of 206 patients with CD, including 34 with pCD, who were followed up at the inflammatory bowel disease clinic in Turin, Italy. Through the use of Real-Time PCR, the genotype distribution of the following genes were assessed: VDR, CYP27B1, CYP24A1, and GC. For the association study, chi-square test was performed with calculation of p value and, when significant, logistic regression and calculation of OR with 95% CI was performed. Results Studying the association between SNPs and the presence of pCD, the following results were obtained: BsmI p=0.0470 and Apal p=0.0251. For BsmI heterozygous genotype there was an OR=2.5 (95% CI 1.2-5.3) of developing perianal disease and p value=0.02, while for ApaI heterozygous there was OR=2.91 (95% CI 1.3-6.6) of presenting pCD, with p value=0.01. Conclusion In the literature, there are several studies examining the association between the heterozygous Aa genotypes of ApaI and Bb genotypes of BsmI and increased inflammatory markers. In addition, some studies suggest that these two genotypes represent a risk factor for some diseases, including multiple myeloma, systemic lupus erythematosus, and mild cognitive disorder. This study demonstrates for the first time an impact of polymorphisms of genes associated with the VD pathway in predicting the onset of pCD. Specifically, the presence of the heterozygous genotype of BsmI and ApaI significantly increases the risk. Future studies need to be performed in different and larger cohorts of patients in order to confirm these data.