Current status of monoclonal antibody therapy for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are complex diseases that have required the use of multiple modalities to aid in treatment. With an increasing understanding of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and identification of specific therapeutic targets, monoclonal antibody treatment has been an ideal strategy for inducing and maintaining remission in these patients. This article addresses approved agents and the supporting data justifying their use in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the safety of and immunologic reactions to these agents, as well as newer agents for treatment.