Assessing inflammatory bowel disease monitoring procedures in Spain: insights from the IBD-PODCAST study

INTRODUCTION: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are characterized by persistent gastrointestinal inflammation. Timely, effective management is crucial to improve long-term patient outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: as part of the IBD-PODCAST study, this cross-sectional, multicenter, non-interventional study included 396 patients (196 CD, 200 UC) from 14 Spanish hospitals, aiming to assess treat-to-target implementation through monitoring practices in a real-world setting. Biochemical markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], fecal calprotectin [fCal]) measured within ± 14 days of index date and imaging tests (endoscopy, intestinal ultrasound [IUS], magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance enterography/computed tomography [MRI/MRE/CT]) during the previous year were collected. Actions taken based on the results were evaluated. RESULTS: biochemical markers were requested in more than half the patients and imaging in a third, including endoscopic procedures in 18.9 % of CD and 28 % of UC cases, and IUS in < 12 % of patients. Treatment was adjusted in 67 % of CD patients with symptoms and 67 % of UC patients with rectal bleeding. Only 39 % of CD and 26 % of UC patients with abnormal fCal had treatment modifications, with 35 % and 37 % undergoing additional monitoring, respectively. Endoscopic findings prompted adjustments in 87 % of CD and 56 % of UC patients. CONCLUSION: the IBD-PODCAST study examined routine IBD management in Spain, highlighting the need for improved monitoring and intervention to optimize patient care and outcomes.