Vedolizumab in Crohn's disease with rectal fistulas and presacral abscess: A case report

Abstract

Background: Fistula and intraabdominal fistula are common complications of Crohn's disease (CD), but complex rectal fistula with abscess formation is rare. Tumor necrosis factor antagonists combined with percutaneous drainage or surgical intervention is optimal treatment for fistulizing CD with intraabdominal abscess. There is no study show the efficacy of vedolizumab in such complicated condition.

Case summary: A 47-year-old man has decompensated liver cirrhosis, child B. He suffered from abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, and body weight loss. CD with rectoprostatic fistula, rectopresacral fistula, pre-sacral abscess and cyto-megalovirus (CMV) infection were noted. He received antibiotics, anti-viral therapy, transverse colostomy and vedolizumab treatment. Six months later, he had deep remission and complete fistula tracts closure.

Conclusion: Early vedolizumab and stool diversion are effective and safe in treating CD with complex rectal fistula with abscess formation.

Keywords: Case report; Crohn's disease; Pre-sacral abscess; Rectal pre-sacral fistula; Rectoprostatic fistula; Vedolizumab.