Showing papers in "Open Journal of Gastroenterology in 2012"

Serum SCCA-IgM as a Predictor of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract: Aberrant Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCCA) expression is an early hepatocarcinogenetic event and circulating SCCA-IgM complexes are elevated in most HCC patients. We evaluated whether serum SCCA-IgM levels can identify HCV +ve cirrhotic patients at low HCC risk. In this retrospective study we enrolled 29 cirrhotic patients in whom serum SCCA-IgM was measured 8 - 69 months (median 31) before HCC diagnosis, and 28 cirrhotic patients who remained HCC- free, with SCCA-IgM measured 15 - 68 months (median 48) before the study end. The best discriminating value of SCCA-IgM was calculated and tested in predicting HCC diagnosis within 12, 24 and 36 months. Sensitivity analysis, considering different HCC incidence, was conducted to identify the patient subgroup with an annual cancer risk below the threshold of a cost-effective semiannual surveillance with ultrasound. Cumulative HCC incidence at 12, 24 and 36 months was 7.0%, 15.7% and 26.3%, respectively. SCCA-IgM levels were higher in HCC than in cirrhotic patients [median: 381 (95% C.I.: 50 - 5289) vs. 100 (70 - 493) AU/mL, P = 0.005]. The SCCA-IgM value ≤ 200 AU/mL accurately identified patients at low risk of HCC development in the subsequent year (sensitivity 75%, specificity 62%, positive predictive value 13% and negative predictive value 97%). Considering an annual HCC incidence ≤ 3%, patients with SCCA-IgM ≤ 200 AU/mL (60% of the whole patients) had an HCC risk below the accepted threshold of a cost-effective surveillance (1.5%). In conclusion, provided that our provocative results are confirmed in larger studies, SCCA-IgM serum measurement could permit implementation of a two step (with different costs) surveillance: an initial serological surveillance, based on the annual monitoring of this biomarker, and the conventional surveillance by semiannual US when SCCA-IgM becomes >200 AU/mL. This could improve the cost/effectiveness of surveillance of HCV infected patients at risk of HCC.

Recent advances in choledochal cysts

Abstract: Choledochal cysts are a congenital anomaly, and they show dilatation of the intra- or extrahepatic biliary tree. These cysts are uncommon in Western countries, but are not rare in Asian countries. Choledochal cysts are classified into five groups based on location or shape of the cysts. Types I and IV-A cysts are the most common types, which are associated with anomalous pancreaticobiliary junction (APBJ), but other cysts are not associated with APBJ. Types I and IV-A cysts appear to belong to a different category from other cysts embryologically. Type I and IV-A cysts accompany anomalies of the pancreas. Type I and IV-A cysts might occur when left ventral anlage persists, and with disturbed recanalization of the common bile duct. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is the gold standard for detecting APBJ, but it is an invasive procedure. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a non-invasive imaging tool for detecting pancreatic and biliary trees. MRCP is the first-choice modality for diagnosing choledochal cysts and APBJ in pediatric patients. Cystoenterostomy is been performed because of high complication and mortality rates. Complete excision of the cysts with Roux-en-Y hepatojejunostomy is a standard procedure for choledochal cysts to prevent postoperative complications, including development of cancer. In this study, we review classification, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of types I and IV-A choledochal cysts.

Assessing GastroPanel serum markers as a non-invasive method for the diagnosis of atrophic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori infection

Abstract: Gastric colonization by Helicobacter pylori increases the risk of gastric disorders, including atrophic gastritis which can be diagnosed based on levels of serum biomarkers like Gastrin and Pepsinogen. We therefore examined the efficacy of a serological-based method namely GastroPanel Blood kit, in diagnosing and scoring gastritis associated to Helicobacter pylori infection. Patients with dyspeptic symptoms were prospectively recruited on voluntary basis at the Yaounde Central Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, from March to July 2011. The degree of atrophy was classified according to levels in patient serum of pepsinogens I and II (PGI and PGII) and Gastrin 17 (G17) and compared with histological profiles as reference method. A specific ELISA test was used for the detection of H. pylori IgG antibodies. In total, 86 volunteers from 21 to 83 years old (mean = 46.4 ± 3.3) were enrolled, including 74.4% of women and 25.6% of men. The prevalence of gastritis was statistically similar between Gastro Blood Panel test and histology used as reference method (89.5% versus 83.7%: p > 0.20). Diagnosis based on serum makers showed high sensitivity (93.1%) in comparison with the reference method. However, the serological based method has diagnosed more atrophic gastritis than the reference (17.4% versus 7.0%: p 0.05). Furthermore, the prevalence of H. pylori infection did not differ significantly between serological method (84.9%) and reference method (81.4%). These results suggest that diagnosis of atrophic gastritis and H. pylori infection obtained with an optional serological method (GastroPanel) is in a strong agreement with the biopsy findings, and thus can be a useful non endoscopic assessment of stomach mucosal atrophy in patients with dyspepsia.

M.C.V. should not be the only criteria to order vitamin B12 for anemia under evaluation

Abstract: Introduction: A strict vegetarian diet has been associated with increased risk of cobalamin deficiency therefore; one would expect a high prevalence of Cobalamin deficiency in India. Erythrocyte indices have been used in the initial evaluation of anemic patients; high Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a traditional criterion for folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies. There is no large study of the prevalence of B12 deficiency among patients with normocytosis or micro-cytosis. Method: We retrospectively analyzed the records of serum vitamin B12 and MCV of both inpatients and outpatients at Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital & Research Institute, Jaipur (Rajasthan) during the period from August 2010-April 2011. The study was aimed at identifying the correlation between vitamin B12 level and MCV; and prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in this region. Result & Conclusion: Every third person is vitamin B12 deficient in the region. There is no correlation between vitamin B12 levels and MCV in majority of the cases. MCV should not be the only criteria for ordering vitamin B12 for patients with anemia under evaluation.

EUS guided fine needle aspiration is useful in diagnostic evaluation of indeterminate proximal biliary strictures

Abstract: Background and Aim: Determination of the etiology of proximal biliary strictures (PBS) still remains a challenge. Even though EUS-FNA is potentially useful, its role in diagnostic evaluation of PBS is still not established due to a lack of sufficient data. We sought to determine the performance characteristics of EUSFNA in patients with obstructive jaundice (ObJ) and PBS. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis and included patients with ObJ and PBS with non-diagnostic brush cytology, who underwent EUS-FNA in our university based practice from March 2002 to February 2009. We evaluated the final diagnoses in study patients and the performance characteristics of EUS-FNA for identifying malignant PBS. Final diagnosis was based on surgical pathology or clinical follow-up of at least 12 months. Results: The study included 28 patients (17 male, 11 female) with mean age of 62.4 ± 14.9 years. The strictures ranged from 10 - 70 mm in length. CT scan identified a hilar mass in 9 patients. EUS-FNA identified malignancy in 12 patients. 18 patients were finally diagnosed to have a malignant stricture and 10 patients had a benign stricture. There were 6 false negative diagnoses. The accuracy of EUS-FNA for diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma was 78.6%, with 66.6% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 62.5% NPV and 100% PPV. Conclusions: EUS-FNA can diagnose malignancy in 66.6% of jaundiced patients with PBS and non-diagnostic brush cytology and may have a role in their further diagnostic evaluation.

Pancreatic pseudocyst-portal vein fistula

Abstract: Pancreatic pseudocyst-portal vein fistulae are extremely rare, and cause serious complications, including life-threatening sepsis. We report a 57-year-old man with pancreatic pseudocyst who was admitted to our hospital complaining of prolonged abdominal pain. A pancreatic duct tube was placed into the main pancreatic duct, as the pseudocyst was communicated to the pancreatic duct. He fell into septic shock state two weeks later. An ultrasonography-guided percutaneous drainage of the pseudocyst was performed. The amylase level of drained pus was 80,000 U/l. Pancreatic pseudocyst-portal vein fistula was demonstrated by fisterography. Symptoms disappeared immediately after drainage. No recurrence was observed afterward.

Clinical management of gastrointestinal amyloidosis

Abstract: Amyloidosis is characterized by extracellular deposition of abnormal protein, consisting of primary, secondary, hemodialysis-related, hereditary, senile and localized type. Primary amyloidosis is associated with monoclonal light chains. Secondary amyloidosis is associated with inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic diseases. Amyloid deposition in the gastrointestinal tract can manifest the symptoms including diarrhea, steatorrhea, or constipation. For diagnosis, one should obtain an immunofixation of serum or urine as well as biopsy sampling of gastrointestinal mucosa stained specifically. While most gastrointestinal complications are managed symptomatically, treatment depends upon the type of amyloidosis. Causal therapy is reserved for a select few from various subtypes of this disorder.

Appropriateness of colonoscopy in Cocody teaching hospital center in 2010: A prospective study using criteria established by the European panel on the appropriateness of gastrointestinal endoscopy (EPAGE)

Abstract: Aims: 1) To assess the feasibility of EPAGE criteria in clinical practice; 2) To assess appropriateness colonoscopy using EPAGE criteria; 3) To compare colonoscopy appropriateness and endoscopic lesions. Method: Hundred thirtynine consecutive patients explored by colonoscopy were included. The appropriateness of colonoscopy was evaluated by EPAGE criteria. Results: EPAGE criteria were applicable among 127 patients (91% of the cases). Colonoscopies were appropriate, uncertain and inappropriate in respectively 40%; 27% and 24% of the cases. Rate of abnormal colonoscopies was significantly different between the 3 groups (p = 0.03). Cancers were diagnosed exclusively in the groups with appropriate and uncertain colonoscopies (11% and 5%). Colonic adenomas were observed in the three groups (appropriate (7%), uncertain (5%) and inappropriate (6%)). Subjects with uncertain indication were older (58.25 years; p = 0.035). Conclusion: EPAGE criteria are feasible in clinical practice in Cocody’s teaching hospital center. Colonoscopies are generally appropriate in our hospital. However, within sight of the significant number of normal colonoscopies and discovered lesions in uncertain indication, colonoscopy cannot concern exclusively calculation of a score of appropriateness.

The Effect of NAFLD (Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) on Long-term Outcome of Chronic Hepatitis B in Iranian Patients

Abstract: Background: The influence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease on the outcome of chronic hepatitis B disease, including viral, biochemical and histologic characteristics, in Iranian patients is not yet fully un- derstood. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) on long-term histology- cal, biochemical and viral outcome of chronic he- pa-tictis B in Iranian patients. Methods: We retro- spec-tively evaluated 94 “e Ag” negative chronic hepatitis B patients (with NAFLD: 44, without NAFLD: 50). Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease was diagnosed based on liver biopsy according to Kleiner classifica-tion. Liver biopsy was done for all patients. Serologi-cal and biochemical variables were evaluated with repeated measure analysis. Results: Non-Alcoholic Fat- ty Liver Disease (NAFLD) was present in 47% of the patients (44 out of 94 patients). In the NAFLD group, increase in AST, ALT, stage (P = 0.002), grade, and total score of liver biopsy were independently related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, while HBV-DNA viral load did not correlate with the presence of a fatty liver. Conclusion: Abnormalities of liver enzymes and liver histopathology are more prevalent in concurrent chronic hepatitis B and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).

Alteration of liver N-glycome in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract: Purpose: Alteration of liver function during pro- gression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis affects the serum glycoprotein pattern. In this study, the changes in the N-glycome in liver tis- sue from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B virus infection were investigated to find out the relationship between this maker and liver disease. Methods: Twenty patients, 11 with cirrhosis and 9 with hepatocellular carcinoma, and 15 healthy donors were involved in this study. Liver protein N-glycans were profiled using the DSA-FACE technique developed in our laboratory. To further analyze the fucosylation status of these liver glycans Western lectin blots of total liver proteins were performed using Aspergillus oryzae lectin (AOL) as probe, which is a carbohydrate- binding protein that recognizes specifically α-1,6-fu- cosylated glycans. Results: The N-glycome of liver proteins in patients with HBV related HCC and cirrhosis was analyzed. Compared with healthy donors, the N-glycome had significantly less (p < 0.05) high mannose (M8) in both groups of patients. The total core α-1,6-fucosy-lation in total liver glycoproteins was dramatically increased during the progress of hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis compared to the controls. Conclusion: These results show that fucosylation not only increases in serum proteins but also in liver tissue itself of patients with HBV related HCC and cirrhosis.

Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery is Safe and May be Beneficial in Patients Eighty Years of Age and Over

Abstract: Objective: To establish that the laparoscopic approach to colorectal resection is safe with regards to postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients eighty years of age and over. Methods: Prospectively collected data for consecutive patients aged eighty years and older who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection by the same surgeon (Dr. Daniel R. Kozman) from 1st January 2009 till 31st March 2011, were retrospectively analysed. Data collected included baseline demographic information, operative indication, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grading, procedure type, length of procedure, post-operative course, length of hospital stay, discharge destination and complications. Results: Thirty-one patients underwent laparoscopic colectomy during the study period, 28 for adenocarcinoma. The median age was 85.5 (range 80 - 92) years, 15 patients were male and 25 patients were from home. The mean operating time was 118.4 minutes (range 45 - 271). Conversion was required in only 4 of 31 cases (13%). The mortality rate was 10% in total, and 0% in elective cases. Three patients required re-operation, 2 of which initially presented in the emergency setting and were subsequently deceased. For survivors, the length of hospital stay was 8.1 days (range 3 - 30) with 100% returning to original place of residence. Conclusion/ Interpretation: Laparoscopic surgery in patients eighty years and over is safe and may be beneficial in the elective setting. This is evident by low complication rate, fast return to bowel function, short length of hospital stay, and likely return to pre-operative place of residence and low mortality rate in elective patients. Careful consideration should be given to its use in an emergency setting.

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the esophagus: Report of a case and review of the literature

Abstract: Esophageal neuroendocrine carcinomas are rare, aggressive and have a poor prognosis. Combined therapy using chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or surgery appear effective for them. Upper gastrointestinal endoscope of a 65-year-old male revealed a localized ulcerative lesion in the middle esophagus. Histology of biopsy specimens indicated a neuroendocrine carcinoma. A computed tomography showed an esophageal tumor with enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes. The patient was administered neoadjuvant chemotherapy consisting of 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin, which led to partial response. Subtotal esophagectomy with three-field lymphadenectomy was performed. Pathologically, the tumor was 25 mm and infiltrated the proper muscle layer. The tumor cells were arranged in microtubular structures, with small and round cells containing scanty cytoplasm, and exhibited intense mitosis 51/10 HPF. They were positive for synaptophysin and chromogranin A, and Ki-67 labeling index was 70% - 80%. These findings led to the diagnosis of neuroendocrine carcinoma of small cell type. The patient was administered adjuvant chemotherapy using cisplatin and CPT-11, and he is now alive disease-free at the time of this writing.

Interesting and Unusual Cases of Chronic Abdominal Pain-Intermittent Gastric Volvulus

Abstract: Objective: Intermittent gastric volvulus is a rare disease that requires high index of suspicion for diagnosis and treatment. The incidence and prevalence is unknown, may be due to under reporting or under diagnosis. Gastric volvulus may be transient producing few symptoms. The Borchardt’s Triad may be present only during an acute presentation. Common symptoms may mislead to diagnose a nonsurgical disease if an evaluation is not done, keeping in mind a possibility of gastric volvulus, even if a UGI scopy is normal. Cases may be submerged in the community being undiagnosed. Case Series: CASE 1: 21 yrs old male with intermittent abdominal pain for 1(1/2) yrs with marfanoid habitus, MVP and a normal UGI scopy. BMS revealed an Organo-Axial Volvulus and ligament laxity per-operatively. CASE 2: 65 yrs old diabetic female with vomiting and abdominal pain for 3 months and left sided pneumonitis. UGI scopy showed twisted gastric folds immediately below OGJ and inability to visualise antrum. BMS revealed mixed volvulus with paraesophageal herniation of distal stomach. Per-operatively there was laxity of ligaments with omental content alone within the diaphragmatic rent. Posterior retrocolic sub-mucosal gastrojejunostomy(pexy) was done for all cases. Conclusion: Gastric volvulus should be thought of in a case of chronic intermittent abdominal pain with normal baseline evaluation. A Chest X-ray and BMS should be done, at the time of symptoms.

Significance of Defecography and the Role of Rectocele in Constipated Patients

Abstract: Backround: Chronic constipation is a common, chronic and frequent problem of the general population. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of defecography in diagnosing the etiology of constipation and the relation between constipation and rectocele. Material-method: We have investigated 250 patients who have been admitted to our general surgery out-patient clinic with complaint of constipation using Rome III criteria and diagnostic defecography. Results: Out of 250 patients who were evaluated with defecography only 24 had normal findings. 136 patients were found to have rectocele. Conclusion: We propose that rectocele is an important etiology of constipation, and defecography should be considered early in the diagnosis of rectocele.

Suggested guidelines for the diagnosis and management of chronic HCV infection in children

Abstract: HCV infection in children is different from the adult infection in many ways like natural course of the disease; duration, therapeutic response and side effects profile of the drug therapy; and prognosis. Special considerations include what is the appropriate time to investigate a suspected child, when to institute and choice of drug therapy and how to prevent vertical transmission. In this article, based on the current evidence suggested guidelines for the diagnosis and management of chronic HCV infection in children is given. Feedback to help improve/modify these recommendations by those experienced in dealing with the children will be welcome.

The association of Crohn’s disease with celiac disease

Abstract: We report two cases of a man and a woman whose association of Crohn’s disease (CRD) and celiac disease (CD) was evident and significant. The characteristic of our patients was the young age of discovery, and the localization of the CRD which was different in the two cases: colic localization in the woman and ileal stenosing in the man. The diagnosis of MCO was confirmed by the histological study of the jejunal biopsies in both cases and by serologies (anti-gliadines Antibody) in one case. Through these two observations, we insist on the singularity of the association of the celiac disease to the Crohn’s disease and on the complex etiopathogenesis of CRD which could have common points with that of CD. This fact can help us to understand more the two diseases and thereafter master their management.

Young patient with juvenile polyposis syndrome: A case report

Abstract: A case is reported here of juvenile polyposis in a 15- year-old girl. She was diagnosed upon the assessment of the dysenteric syndrome. Coloscopy and gastro- scopy had shown polyps of variable size whose histological study confirmed the hamartomatous character typical of the youthful non adenomatous polyps free of dysplasia. There was no localization in the small bowel. Coloprotectomy with ileoanal anastomosis was carried out in view of the importance of diarrhoea and the impacts on the general state of health.

The combination of endoglin and FIB-4 increases the accuracy of detection of hepatic fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C patients

Abstract: Background and aim: In patients infected with chronic hepatitis C virus, liver biopsy is the gold standard method of staging fibrosis. Different combinations of serum markers attempted to correlate with hepatic fibrosis in place of liver biopsy and have shown encouraging results. The aim of our study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of endoglin and FIB-4 as non-invasive markers of hepatic fibrosis in HCV patients. Methods: We estimated serum endoglin & FIB-4 index in 40 infected chronic hepatitis C patients. Histological staging of hepatic fibrosis was done according to the METAVIR scoring system. Results: Both endoglin and FIB-4 index showed positive correlation with age and aspartate transaminase and inverse correlation with albumin. The diagnostic performance determined by AUROCs for early fibrosis (≤F2), was 0.868 for endoglin and 0.887 for FIB-4, at cut off va- lues of 5.5 & 0.98 with sensitivity of 64.3% & 82.1%, and specificity of 100% & 85% respectively. For ad-vanced fibrosis (>F2), the AUROC was 0.98 for endoglin and 0.967 for FIB-4, obtained at cut off values of 6.29 & 1.6, with sensitivity of 100% & 91.7%, and specificity of 89.3% & 92.9%, respectively. Conclusion: Both serum endoglin and FIB-4 index are fairly accurate in differentiating stages of hepatic fibrosis; their combination in a single equation enhanced the accuracy of fibrosis detection in chronic HCV patients.

Diagnostic Value of a Panel of Tumor Markers as a Part of a Diagnostic Work-Up for Ascites of Unknown Etiology

Abstract: Background & objectives: Data regarding tumor marker usefulness in diagnosing ascites of unknown etiology and determining its malignant nature are conflicting. We aim to assess the diagnostic value of ascitic and serum tumor markers in ascites of unknown etiology and to evaluate their usefulness besides other laboratory tests in a diagnostic work-up in those patients. Design & setting: A prospective case-control study conducted at Assiut University hospital and oncology institute. Patients & Methods: Three groups were included; Group I: 41 patients with ascites of unknown etiology Group II: 7 Patients with TB ascites and Group III:14 patients with cirrhotic ascites. We assessed the CEA, CEA mRNA, CA15-3, CA19.9, CA125, AFP and PSA in serum and ascetic fluid. A diagnostic work-up for group I included: IPD test, ultrasound, CT, ascetic fluid cytology, SAAG, Laparotomy and biopsy. Results: Ascetic fluid and serum levels of CA15-3 and CA125 were significantly increased in group I and were significantly increased in histopathologically proved malignant ascites compared to TB and cirrhotic ascites. In group I, CA 125 was significantly higher in ascites than serum. With the exception of PSA, all tumor markers significantly correlated in serum and ascetic fluid. No significant difference in the level of ascetic CEA messenger RNA was detected between the 3 groups. Cytology had 53% sensitivity, 94% specificity and CA 125 & CA15-3 had 81% sensitivity and 75% specificity in detection of malignant ascites repectively. Laparotomy and biopsy: diagnosed malignnancy in 53.3% and TB in 13.3%. Conclusions: A diagnostic work-up including SAAG, tumor markers in the serum and ascetic fluid may help in adjunct with ascetic fluid cytology, laparotomy and biopsy, imag- ing and other laboratory tests in diagnosing ascites of unknown etiology.

Impact of infection in hospitalized cirrhotic patients in a university hospital

Abstract: Background: Infection increases the morbidity and mortality in liver cirrhosis patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of infection related to survival and risk factors for death in adult patients with liver cirrhosis in a university hospital. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study of Brazilian hospitalized cirrhotic patients, medical records data were analysed, and all patients who have had one or more confirmed bacterial infection during admission were se-ected for the study. Also, some data as biochemical investigation, Child score, MELD estimation, and evolution and death event were included. Statistical analysis: chi-square, Fisher and Mann-Whitney tests were used. Uni and multivariate analysis were performed, according to Cox regression model. The significant statistical level was p 2.5 mg/dl had increased the risk of death of 4.1, 3.2 and 3.2, respectively. Conclusion: Bacterial infections in hospitalized cirrhotic patients deserve special care, mainly spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and also patients whose hiponatremia, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, high levels of cre-atinine and MELD high score are found.

The Endoscopic Pneumatic Balloon Dilation in Treating Achalasia in a Moroccan Center

Abstract: Aim of the work: Achalasia is a rare pathology whose physiopathogenesis is mysterious. The treatment is based on endoscopic pneumatic dilation (PD) and surgery. The aim of our work is to show our experiment about endoscopic pneumatic dilation as the principal treatment suggested for patients presenting achalasia. Material and method: It is a retrospective study relating 21 cases of achalasia indexed between 2002 and 2007. The remission was judged on Eckardt’s clinical criteria. If the symptoms persist after three episodes of PD, there’s a therapy failure and the patients were then proposed to surgery or recurrent DP. The results: The Middle Age at the time of diagnosis was of 44 ± 10, 66 years (20 to 76). The sex ratio was 1, 3 (12M?9F) (p = 0.5). The diagnosis of achalasia is based on imaging, endoscopy and manometric arguments. The PD of the cardia was proposed in first intention, except two patients who were treated 6 and 15 years before by surgery. 38 dilations were performed for 21 patients with an average of 1.8 PD per patient [1-6]. The rate of good answers after the third episode of PD was about 90.47% (19 patients). There was no complication of the PD. In plain-varied analysis, no predictive factor of good answers to PD was retained. Conclusion: PD is an effective cure with a negligible morbidity and no mortality. The surgery is reserved for the failures of pneumatic dilation.

Acceptance of American society for gastrointestinal endoscopy's guidelines for endoscopy reports

Abstract: Background: Several studies indicate that endoscopy reports lack uniform content and terminology. Thus ASGE, ESGE, and WEO have prepared guidelines to improve the quality of endoscopy reports. However, the acceptance of such recommendations in the community of endoscopists has not been assessed. Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine Non-US endoscopists’ agreement to current ASGE guidelines for endoscopy reporting and ESGE recommendations for image documentation. Design: 137 endoscopists were invited to participate in this internet survey, covering 34 items regarding the content of the endoscopy reports. Non-responders received three e-mail reminders before the study was closed. Settings: A web-based survey tool developed at the University of Oslo was used to perform this study (https://wo.uio.no/as/WebObjects/nettskjema.woa). Results: Eighty (60%) of the 137 endoscopists responded, to the survey. Their agreement to the various items of the ASGE guidelines for text content ranged from 21% - 100%. Only 8.9% (95% CI, 4.4% - 17.2%) considered it necessary to perform routine image documentation according to the ESGE guidelines. Limitations: The response rate of 68%, is on the lower limit of acceptable. Conclusions: The cohort of endoscopists agrees partially to the ASGE guidelines. However, they do not consider systematic image documentation necessary

Spontaneous esophageal intramural hematoma in a young man wrongly diagnosed as achalasia

Abstract: Intramural hematoma of the esophagus is a rare but well described type of acute injury of the esophageal wall and it is more frequently being recognized throughout the world. Patients usually present with acute retrosternal or epigastric pain, minor hematemesis and dysphagia. The condition is mostly seen in women with abnormal coagulation and it can either occur spontaneous or induced by trauma or transesophageal procedures. It is associated with food impaction and vomiting. Esophageal intramural hematoma has also been reported in young and healthy patients. Case reports with coexisting achalasia are limited. Management is conservative and its course is benign.

Is There a Role for Colon Capsule Endoscopy in Acute Disease

Abstract: Colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) was first put into clinical practice for the evaluation of the small bowel in patients presenting with a gastrointestinal bleed unsuccessfully diagnosed by upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy. With the recent advent of new technology, there is improved visualization of the intestinal mucosa and subsequently a higher sensitivity for identification of mural pathology, as seen in many recent prospective studies. CCE has now been studied both in the US and in Europe as a modality for colon cancer screening as well as for the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease. When compared to conventional colonoscopy, CCE has been shown to have a sensitivity of greater than 88% for identifying 6 mm colonic polyps and over 90% for 1 cm polyps. Therefore its use as a screening tool for colon cancer must be evaluated. In patients suspected to have colitis secondary to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it has been shown to have 89% sensitivity for identifying active colonic inflammation. For higher risk patients that requiring urgent colonoscopy, CCE offers an attractive alternative with the potential for a reduced risk on iatrogenic injury. Colon capsule endoscopy may also play an important role in the diagnosis and surveillance of IBD with colonic manifestations. Colonoscopy during active severe disease is associated with an increased risk of perforation due to mucosal inflammation and friability, allowing us to consider CCE as a potentially safer alternative. CCE appears to be most useful for patients with acute lower GI bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, colonic ischemia or other mucosal-based lesions.

Insulinoma misdiagnosed as epilepsy

Abstract: Insulinoma is a rare disease presenting with episodic neuroglycopenic and/or adrenergic symptoms. We describe the clinical case of a female subject, 44 years old, affected with insulinoma, misdiagnosed for two years as epilepsy, threaten with antiepileptics. Insuli-noma was diagnosed based on fasting blood glucose level of 15 mg/dl, high fasting immunoreactive insu-lin/blood glucose ratio (more than 0.3), and a tumor in the pancreas by abdominal CT. After surgical re-moval of the neoplasm, the blood glucose level and insulin level turned normal. A benign insulinoma was also confirmed by histopathological evaluation. The patient remained seizure-free during the 2-year follow up.

Stapled haemorrhoidopexy—Complications and patient satisfaction

Abstract: Background: Surgical haemorrhoidectomy is recognised as an effective but often painful intervention for haemorrhoids. Performed in a district hospital setting, this survey studied the success rates of stapled haemorrhoidopexy (SH) technique according to reported symptoms and patient satisfaction, post operatively. Methods: A cohort of 108 patients admitted for cir- cular stapled procedure at Inverclyde Royal Hospital between June 2006 and December 2011 gave their consent to be interviewed over the telephone after their procedure. 101 out of the 108 patients responded. Assessment of patient satisfaction was made on the basis of pre operative symptoms, postoperative results and complications. Results: Preoperatively, all patients had Grade lll or lV haemorrhoids complicated by haemorrhage. 33% of patients reported associated pain, and 25% complained of anal leakage. Mean follow up time was 23.8 months (7 - 38 months). Overall reported complication rate was 17%, with 9% reporting short term bleeding, 4% reporting shortlived post-operative pain and 3% with recurrence of prolapsed haemorrhoids. 88% of patients were happy with results, with 87% of patients happy to recommend the procedure to others. Conclusion: Stapled anopexy is a relatively new procedure. It has been found to be a successful and well-tolerated procedure for prolapsing haemorrhoids in this district general setting. It has a low recurrence rate, low incidence of post operative pain and a high level of patient satisfaction. However, there are associated complications and it has a steep training curve.

Sequential and concomitant non-bismuth quadruple therapies are ineffective for H. pylori eradication in Palestine. A randomized trial *

Abstract: Background: Increasing clarithromycin resistance has undermined the effectiveness of traditional clarithromycin-containing triple eradication therapy of Helicobacter pylori infections. Sequential and concomitant therapies show improved outcome with clarithromycin resistance. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of sequential and concomitant 4-drug non-bismuth therapies for eradication of Helicobacter pylori in a prospective, randomized, clinical trial conducted in Palestine. Patients and Methods: Patients who underwent upper endoscopy for a clinical indication and tested positive for rapid urease test were included. Subjects randomly allocated into two groups: One received a modified sequential therapy: esomeprazole 40 mg OD and amoxicillin 1 g BID for 5 days then esomeprazole 40 mg OD, clarithromycin 500 mg BID and tinidazole 500 mg BID for another 5 days. The other group received concomitant therapy in which the same 4 drugs and doses were all given daily for 10 days. Stool antigen was tested 4 weeks after completion of treatment. Results: Five hundred thirty three (533) patients were tested for H. pylori and 180 (34%) were positive; 141 patients were included in the study and 112 patients completed. The overall per protocol eradication rate was (74%; 95% CI = 65.9% - 82.1%). The eradication rates for sequential therapy was, (70.9%; 95% CI = 58.9% - 82.9%) and for concomitant therapy (77.2%; 95% CI = 66.3% - 88.1%). The results intention-to-treat were: sequential 61%, concomitant 57%. Conclusion: Neither sequential nor concomitant therapy achieved an acceptable H. pylori eradiation rate in Palestine.

Endoscopic treatment of staple line disruption in patient with vertical banded gastroplasty using the over-the-scope-clip system (with video)

Abstract: Background: scope-clip (OTSC; Ovesco Endoscopy GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany) system is a newly designed method for the mechanical compression of large areas in the gastrointestinal tract. So far, indications for OTSC application are hemostasis of pri-mary or post-interventional bleeding, closure of iatrogenic full-thickness or covered perforations. Recently closure of gastrointestinal tract fistulas using this device has been described. Objective: In this case, we describe the successful endoscopic closure, using the OTSC system, of a gastrogastric fistula due to staple line disruption in patient with vertical banded gastroplasty. Conclusion: Endoscopic application of the OTSC device is safe and effective for the treatment of a staple line disruption.

Ex Vivo Evaluation of a Prototype Submucosal Biopsy Forceps for the Diagnosis of Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

Abstract: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) account for approximately 2% of gastric cancers and can be challenging to diagnose due to the difficulty sampling tissue from these lesions. Current biopsy methods are inadequate for determining the mitotic index, a major prognostic factor of these tumors. We sought to evaluate the ability of a prototype submucosal biopsy forceps to make a histologic diagnosis and mitotic index determination in cases of resected gastric GISTs. After obtaining informed consent and surgical resection of three gastric GISTs, an investigational submucosal biopsy forceps and sheath was passed under direct visualization into the central portion of the tumors (in the ex vivo setting) and biopsies were obtained. The tumor was then processed for standard histology. A gastrointestinal pathologist, blinded to the mitotic index of the full specimen, evaluated the research biopsies. The results from the submucosal forceps biopsies were then compared with the standard histology results. n all 3 cases, the submucosal forceps biopsies confirmed the diagnosis of a GIST. In two out of three cases, the submucosal forceps biopsies accurately classified the risk for progressive disease (based on the mitotic index) when compared to standard histology. In one case, the research biopsy mitotic index would have resulted in an underestimation of tumor risk (biopsies categorized the lesion as “very low” rather than “moderate” risk).

An unusual cause of gastric outlet obstruction in a young girl: Trichobezoar

Abstract: Trichobezoars are an infrequent form of bezoars formed from ingested hair. They are more common in adolescent females with history of trichotillomania. Exceptionally, it can occur in young children making the diagnosis difficult. We report the case of a 6-year-old girl with a history of abdominal pain, distension, weight loss, and attacks of vomiting. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a trichobezoar occupying almost the whole gastric cavity. The gastric bezoar was removed by surgery. Gastric trichobezoar is exceptional in young children and can lead to stunting and gastric outlet obstruction. After definitive surgical or endoscopic treatment, pediatric psychiatric consultation should be opted for any mental disorder and for prevention of further recurrence.