Recommendations for the use of biologic therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease during the COVID-19 pandemic period

During the COVID-19 infection, questions from physicians and patients about the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease were frequent. The number of scientific papers and findings on SARS-CoV-2 virus infection is growing exponentially, as is the number of registered studies on the application of various therapies in the treatment of COVID-19 infection. In this review paper, we have included our recommendations and approach in treating patients with inflammatory bowel disease during the pandemic. Although these recommendations provide a temporary framework for treatment and selection of adequate therapy, it should be emphasized that the final decision on therapy is made taking into account a number of factors including the age of the patient and comorbidity. Inadequate therapy and delayed therapeutic intervention can significantly outweigh the risk of potential SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Key words:
COVID-19; Crohn_s disease; IBD; SARS-CoV-2; ulcerative colitis