[Chronic inflammatory bowel disease - new therapies: tumor necrosis factor-antibodies and cytokines].

The chimeric antibody directed against tumor necrosis factor- alpha (TNF alpha) Infliximab (Remicade) is effective in the therapy of Crohn's disease. This is rather surprising since it was unlikely that single factor should be effective, considering the complexity and redundance of the mucosal cytokine system. Because of safety reasons and high cost the indication should be restrictive.