Thiopurines, a previously unrecognised cause for fatigue in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Background: Active inflammatory bowel disease, anaemia, iron deficiency and depression, alone or in combination, are known contributing factors of fatigue in inflammatory bowel disease. However, in some patients, fatigue cannot be attributed to known causes. Thiopurines are not a recognized cause.

A single center experience of methotrexate in the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: a case for subcutaneous administration.

Background And Aim: Methotrexate (MTX) is used as a second-line immuno-modulator in patients with inflammatory bowel disease when purine analogs are not tolerated or lack efficacy. High-level evidence indicates efficacy for intramuscular administration in Crohn's disease, but there are few reports of experience with subcutaneous delivery. This study aimed to evaluate the response to and tolerance of MTX where subcutaneous administration was the preferred option.

Endoscopic balloon dilatation of intestinal strictures in Crohn's disease: safe alternative to surgery.

Background And Aim: Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD), a non-surgical treatment option for intestinal strictures in Crohn's disease, appears to be applied infrequently, possibly due to the perceived risk of perforation and early recurrence. This study aimed to determine the outcomes of EBD by a single endoscopist using a defined technique.

Methods: The records of all patients with Crohn's disease in whom EBD was attempted over a 12-year period were examined to determine the rate of technical success, complications and outcome.

5-Aminosalicylic acid (mesalazine) use in Crohn's disease: a survey of the opinions and practice of Australian gastroenterologists.

Background: The use of 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) drugs in Crohn's disease (CD) is controversial, with their continuing apparent widespread use despite high-level evidence indicating marginal benefit at best and international guidelines recommending limited indications.

Methods: In order to understand how clinicians translate the evidence base into clinical practice, we surveyed a cross-section of Australian gastroenterologists to determine opinions and prescribing patterns of 5-ASA drugs in CD.

Results: In all, 42% of 285 gastroenterologists who were sent a questionnaire by e-mail responded.