EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF AUTOIMMUNE RHEUMATIC DISEASES

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARD) represent two distinct clinical entities, but there is growing evidence suggesting an interconnection between them. The chronic inflammation characteristic of IBD, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, has been associated with the subsequent development of AKI, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis, and others. Although the precise mechanisms of this relationship are not yet completely elucidated, genetic, immunological and environmental factors play important roles in this complex interaction. Understanding this connection is crucial for a comprehensive and effective clinical approach to patients with both conditions. Objective: To critically analyze the literature available over the last 10 years to investigate the relationship between IBD and the development of AKI, identifying patterns of association, risk factors and possible underlying mechanisms. Methodology: This review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A search was carried out in the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases using the descriptors "intestinal inflammatory diseases", "autoimmune rheumatic diseases", "relationship", "mechanisms" and "association". Studies published in the last 10 years that investigated the association between IBD and AKI in humans were included. The inclusion criteria were: observational or experimental studies, available in full text and written in English, Portuguese or Spanish. The exclusion criteria were: animal studies, systematic reviews and studies focusing exclusively on treatment. Results: Analysis of included studies revealed a significant association between IBD and AKI, with evidence suggesting a higher prevalence of AKI in IBD patients compared to the general population. Furthermore, several studies have explored the possible immunological and genetic mechanisms underlying this relationship. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of recognizing and monitoring the interaction between IBD and ARD in clinical practice. A deeper understanding of these conditions can lead to more effective treatment strategies and improvements in patients' quality of life.