Early Start of Infliximab in Crohn's Disease Increases Rates of Endoscopic Remission and Decreases Stenosis Formation: Experiences From a Single Center Cohort.

Background: Over 10 years ago, the step-up/top-down trial demonstrated favorable outcomes of Crohn's disease (CD) after early initiation of infliximab (IFX) in patients with CD. However, data on long-term effects of this treatment strategy in daily clinical practice are scarce.

Methods: This retrospective study investigated effects of early (<24 months after diagnosis) versus late intervention (>24 months) of IFX in CD on endoscopic remission (ER) rates, surgery rates, and course of CD, long term.