Although the initiating events of Crohn's disease are unknown, models of experimental colitis have provided new insights in the immunologically mediated pathways of mucosal inflammation. In Crohn's disease activated mucosal T lymphocytes produce proinflammatory cytokines within the mucosal compartment. With this understanding, there has been a shift in past years from the use of unspecific anti-inflammatory agents (corticosteroids, aminosalicylates) to the use of immunomodulatory drugs (azathioprine, methotrexate). Moreover, novel strategies have been designed for specific targets in Crohn's disease, in particular T lymphocytes and cytokines. In an open label study treatment of steroid-refractory Crohn's disease with anti- CD4+ antibodies was well tolerated and showed clinical benefit. However, a sustained depletion of the CD4+ cells precluded further clinical trials. In controlled clinical studies, anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) antibodies induced complete remissions and few side effects were observed. One study suggested efficacy in active Crohn's disease of recombinant interleukin-10. Long term treatment studies will have to answer questions about the indications for use, benefit and toxicity. Altogether, these results hold promise for future management of Crohn's disease, where disease-modifying interventions and strategies that effectively maintain disease remission will play a key role.
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