IBD Clinic Letter RAC

IBD Rapid Access Clinic – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Consultant Gastroenterologist **Profile:** 45-year-old female, married, works as a teacher. No children. Enjoys hiking and gardening. **IBD Profile:** Ulcerative Colitis **Date of Diagnosis:** 12 June 2018 **Distribution of Disease:** Extensive colitis, affecting the entire colon. **Scopes:** Colonoscopy on 10 March 2024 showed pancolitis with moderate inflammation. Biopsies confirmed active ulcerative colitis. **Imaging:** MR enterography on 15 August 2024 showed no evidence of small bowel involvement. **Extraintestinal Manifestations of IBD:** None reported. **Previous Medications:** * Mesalamine 4.8g daily (discontinued due to lack of efficacy, 01/01/2024) * Prednisolone 40mg daily (discontinued due to side effects, 01/06/2024) **Current Medications:** * Infliximab 5mg/kg IV every 8 weeks, started 01/07/2024 * Azathioprine 100mg daily, started 01/07/2024 **Past Medical History:** 1. Seasonal allergies 2. Depression **Medications (non-IBD):** * Loratadine 10mg daily * Sertraline 50mg daily **Allergies:** * Penicillin **Family History:** Mother with Ulcerative Colitis. **Smoking / Alcohol / Recreational Drugs:** Non-smoker. Drinks alcohol socially, approximately 1-2 units per week. No recreational drug use. **Progress:** Patient reports ongoing symptoms of frequent bowel movements (6-8 times per day) with urgency and occasional blood. She reports that the Infliximab infusions have provided some relief, but she is still experiencing significant symptoms. She is concerned about the impact of her symptoms on her ability to work and maintain her social life. She is also worried about the long-term effects of her medications. **Non-IBD Issues:** 1. Depression * Patient reports feeling low mood and anxiety. She is currently taking Sertraline, and the dose was recently increased. Discussed the importance of continuing with her medication and attending therapy sessions. **Impression:** Active Ulcerative Colitis, with ongoing symptoms despite current treatment. Possible need for escalation of therapy. **Plan:** 1. Review Infliximab response at next infusion (01/11/2024). 2. Consider dose optimisation or alternative biologic if no improvement. 3. Referral to a psychologist for ongoing support with depression.