Crohn's Disease Fistulas TNF Tumor Necrosis Factor Fistulas Crohns

Crohn's Disease and Fistulas
A report in The Lancet*, a British medical journal, says that monoclonal antibodies (often used as a drug-delivery vehicle to cells,) can help close the fistulas (abnormal passages between a hollow organ and the body surface,) by targeting TNF, a substance made by the body's immune system. TNF (tumor necrosis factor,) has been implicated as a villain in many auto-immune diseases, including lupus, arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Patients might ask their doctors to investigate the drug.

It should be mentioned (without recommendation,) that green tea and fish oils are known to reduce TNF.

*Issue of May 15, l999, reporting on a New England J. of Med. article which was authorized by Dr. Daniel Present of Mt. Sinai Med. Ctr., New York City.