Ricerc@Sapienza

The connection between inflammation and cancer is well-established and supported by genetic, pharmacological and epidemiological data. The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, have been described as important promoters for colorectal cancer development. Risk factors include environmental and food-borne mutagens, dysbalance of intestinal microbiome composition and chronic intestinal inflammation, with loss of intestinal epithelial barrier and enhanced cell proliferation rate.

Introduction: Traditional management of patients with Crohn's disease includes symptoms and quality of life improvement. With the advent of biological agents, mucosal healing has become an achievable goal, documented through endoscopy. However, due to the transmural nature of inflammation, the prevention of bowel damage should be included in the aims of a targeted therapeutic strategy.Areas covered: Updated literature has been searched in PubMed from 2008 to 2020.