Infliximab three-dose induction regimen in severe corticosteroid-refractory ulcerative colitis: Early and late outcome and predictors of colectomy

Abstract Background Infliximab is effective as rescue therapy in severe corticosteroid-refractory ulcerative colitis. The optimal dose regimen and the long term benefits are not well defined. The aim of the present study was to evaluate short- and long-term colectomy rate in a cohort of patients with severe corticosteroid-refractory ulcerative colitis who received a three-dose infliximab induction regimen. Methods One hundred and thirteen patients admitted to 11 Italian IBD referral centres and treated with infliximab according to an intention to treat three-dose regimen were included. The co-primary endpoints were 3- and 12-month colectomy rate. The secondary end-points were the overall co…