The Role of Biomarkers for Management of Crohn Disease: A Guideline Topline

New clinical practice guidelines on Crohn disease (CD) from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) emphasize the value of biomarkers in effectively managing both symptomatic and asymptomatic disease.

The Guidelines Committee points out that although the number of therapeutics with novel mechanisms have increased in the past decade, almost half of patients still require surgery over the course of their illness. That prognosis can be improved, according to the AGA, by earlier administration of effective treatment followed by accurate monitoring to ensure that therapeutic targets are attained.

To improve the accuracy of monitoring and better inform disease management, the AGA provides guidance on utilizing the biomarkers fecal calprotectin and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), and advises when endoscopic evaluation is warranted to ascertain status of disease activity. The following slides offer a topline look at the new guideline.