Thalidomide in luminal and fistulizing Crohn's disease resistant to standard therapies

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Thalidomide has been shown to be an effective treatment in Crohn's disease. AIM: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of thalidomide in refractory Crohn's disease patients. METHODS: Twenty-five patients were treated. Retrospective 'estimated' Crohn's Disease Activity Indices were assessed at baseline and at the end of follow-up. Clinical response was defined as symptomatic improvement and a reduction in the 'estimated' Crohn's Disease Activity Index of >100 points, > or =50% reduction in draining fistulas or clinical improvement in perianal ulcers. Clinical remission was defined as symptom resolution and an 'estimated' Crohn's Disease Activity Index <150, complete fistula clos..