Showing papers in "Tropical gastroenterology : official journal of the Digestive Diseases Foundation in 2007"

Peritonitis: 10 years' experience in a single surgical unit.

Abstract: Background Peritonitis secondary to gut perforation is still one of the commonest surgical emergencies in India and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The present study examines the aetiology and outcome of peritonitis cases operated on in our surgical unit, and compares our findings with those of previous studies performed between 1981 and 1991. Method A retrospective study of 260 peritonitis patients operated on in a single surgical unit from 1995 to 2006 was done and data involving clinical presentation, operative findings and post-operative course were studied and analysed. Results Causes of peritonitis were small bowel perforation (96 ileal, 17 jejunal), peptic perforation (45 duodenal, 16 gastric), appendicular perforation (36), primary peritonitis (8), and others (42). The incidence of major complications was 25% (burst-11%, leak-5%, intraabdominal abscess-5%, multi-organ failure-6.5%). The overall mortality was 10%. High mortality was observed in jejunal, gall bladder and liver abscess perforation cases (> 20%). Histopathological evaluation (143 specimens) revealed tuberculosis in 42 (mostly small bowel), malignancy in 8, and inflammation in the rest. Comparisons with a similar study carried out in the same unit and published in 1995 revealed similar demographic features and mortality, but a change in the most common cause (peptic ulcer perforation to small bowel perforation), and an increased performance of enterostomy compared with primary repair in small bowel perforation and a decrease in the leak rate (13% to 4%). Conclusion Small bowel perforation is the commonest form of perforation and the mortality rate associated with peritonitis remains unchanged.

Aetiology, clinical profile and prognostic indicators for children with acute liver failure admitted in a teaching hospital in Kolkata.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of hepatotropic viruses in the causation of acute liver failure in children admitted to a tertiary hospital in Kolkata. DESIGN Analysis of clinical and laboratory parameters (including viral markers) of children with acute liver failure using a predesigned, structured proforma. SUBJECTS AND SETTINGS Admitted patients aged from 1 through 12 years who met the criteria of acute liver failure were included in the study. RESULTS Of the 45 patients in our study, a majority was from the southern part of West Bengal. Their mean age was 7.12 +/- 0.37 years. The male: female ratio was 1:1.25. It was possible to determine the aetiology in 35 of the 45 patients (77.7%) admitted. Of these 35, a diagnosis of hepatitis due to hepatotropic viruses was made in 30 patients. The hepatitis A virus was responsible for 16 of the 30 cases (53.3%), 9 cases attributed to HAV only. Following this was the hepatitis E virus causing ALF in 14 cases (46.6%), 7 singularly so. Hepatitis B virus caused 8 cases (26.6%), 6 singly. The survival rate during hospital stay was 51.1%. Prodrome, decreased liver span, ascites, cerebral oedema, coagulopathy, renal failure, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, signs and symptoms of clinical sepsis (corroborated by laboratory data), severe hypoalbuminaemia and electrolyte imbalance were significantly more in patients who died. The mean age, prothrombin time, serum bilirubin level and stage of encephalopathy differed significantly between survivors and non-survivors. CONCLUSION In southern Bengal, hepatotropic viruses are the predominant cause of acute liver failure in children. Of these, the hepatitis viruses A and E transmitted via the enteric route dominate (24 of 30 cases).

Prevalence of occult hepatitis B & C in HIV patients infected through sexual transmission.

Abstract: Background Prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) markers including active and occult infection has not been described in diverse cohorts among HIV-infected patients in India. Earlier studies have explained the role of HBV/HCV co-infection in cohorts of injection drug users (IDUs) but the sexual co-transmission of HBV/ HCV is not completely understood. Objective The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of occult HBV & HCV infection in HIV positive sexually acquired transmission risk group. Materials and methods 58 sexually acquired HIV positive patients were taken up for the study of occult HBV/HCV co-infection. Data on demographics, sexual behaviour, sexually transmitted diseases (STD), medical history, laboratory tests viz., serum ALT and CD4 count were recorded. HBV serology included HBsAg, anti HBs, IgG anti HBc and HBV DNA (PCR). HCV serology included anti HCV & HCV RNA (RT-PCR). Results Occult HBV infection (HBV DNA) was observed in 12.2% (7/58 with HBsAg -ve and IgG anti HBc +ve subjects) while an overall prevalence of HBV DNA was 13.7% (12% occult & 1.7% in HBsAg+ve patients). Out of 58 HIV positive patients 29.3% demonstrated reactivity for any marker of past or current HBV infection. (HBsAg 1.7%, anti HBs 10.3% anti HBc IgG 17.2%). 4/58 (6.8%) revealed anti HCV positivity along with HCV RNA positivity by RT-PCR while 6/58 (10.3%) individuals revealed an occult HCV infection (anti HCV negative). The overall HCV RNA prevalence was 17.2%. 2 out of 58 (3.4%) individuals were positive for occult infection of both HBV DNA & HCV RNA (Triple infection HIV/HBV/ HCV). The HBV/HCV co-infected group (n = 18) showed a significantly high ALT (114.3 + 12.3 U/I) & low CD4 count (202.5 + 33.7 cells/mm3). The percent prevalence of HBV/ HCV co-infection was higher in the illiterate group, in men less than 30 years of age, and in those who were married and exhibited polygamous activity. Conclusions The study demonstrated that in HIV infected patients testing only serological viral markers like HBsAg, antiHBcIgG & anti HCV, fails to identify the true prevalence of co-infection with HBV & HCV. Qualitative PCR for HBV DNA & HCV RNA detects co-infection in patients who are negative for serological markers. Also, in subjects who had only a sexual risk factor for parenterally transmitted infections, HIV may enhance the sexual transmission of HBV and HCV.

Monotherapy with peginterferon alpha-2b {12 kDa} for chronic hepatitis C infection in patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Abstract: Background A combination of Peginterferon and Ribavirin is the standard treatment for patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection (HCV). Ribavirin is contraindicated in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF). Conventional Interferon monotherapy is effective in around 30% of such patients. There is scanty data on the use of Peginterferon monotherapy in them. Methods We describe our preliminary experience of monotherapy with Peginterferon alpha- 2b {12 kDa} (Peg-IFN) for HCV patients undergoing haemodialysis for CRF. They were treated with Peg-IFN 1 microg/kg body weight subcutaneously once a week for 24 weeks. In all patients, clinical (age, sex, mode of acquiring HCV, pattern of haemodialysis) and virological (HCV RNA quantitative-PCR and genotype) profile was noted at baseline. Early virological response at 12 weeks (EVR), end-of-treatment virological response at 24 weeks (ETVR) and sustained virological response after 6 months of stopping treatment (SVR) were noted during the follow-up period. Results The clinical and virological characteristics of patients were as follows: Of a total number of 6 patients, 5 were male and 1 was female with an age range of 35 to 62 years. The duration of haemodialysis was from between 5 and 12 months before the start of treatment and its frequency lay between 1 and 3 times a week. The mode of acquiring HCV was blood transfusion (100%). All 6 cases suffered from chronic hepatitis. The genotype distribution was genotype 3 in 3 (50%), genotype 1 in 1 (16.7%) and genotype none of 6 in 2 (33.3%) patients. All the patients (100%) completed treatment. EVR was seen in all 6 patients (100%). ETVR was seen in 5 of 6 patients (83.3%). A follow-up period of more than 1 year was available in 4 patients. 3 of these 4 patients (75%) had SVR. A virological response was maintained in all 3 (100%) patients with SVR even after 6 months of renal transplantation. Conclusion Peg-IFN monotherapy is safe and effective in patients with HCV who are on haemodialysis for CRF.

Living donor liver transplantation in India.

Abstract: The world over, liver transplantation has emerged a panacea for thousands of patients suffering from end-stage liver disease The strides made in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) by Asian centres particularly in Japan, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan made many Indian centres realise that in order to sustain liver transplant activity in the country, a similar solution had to be found Even though LDLT is very resource intensive and requires skilled multidisciplinary manpower, 22 centres in India have performed liver transplants, of which 14 have performed at least one LDLT procedure 140 LDLT procedures have been performed at our centre, of which 13 have been done in emergency circumstances LDLT has certain advantages over DDLT It allows for adequate preparation of the patient for elective transplant and recipients are not in competition with others over the same donor organ Major concerns with LDLT are of donor safety and biliary complications In conclusion, establishing a high volume LDLT centre with excellent success rates is feasible in the Indian setting

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in North Indian patients with celiac disease

Abstract: Background: Occasionally celiac patients continue to experience gastro-intestinal symptoms even with a gluten free diet. In these cases, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth may be one of the causes of the lack of response. Therefore, this prospective study was planned to determine the prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in celiac patients. Materials and Methods: We studied 87 confirmed cases of celiac disease from North India and 87 age and sex matched controls. Celiac disease was confirmed by positive IgA antitissue transglutaminase on ELISA. 80 g glucose hydrogen breath test (non-invasive test) was performed to establish small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Rise of more than 10 ppm in hydrogen concentration over baseline value within two hours was considered suggestive of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Results: Out of 87 patients with celiac disease, 49 were male and 38 were female.The mean ( ± SD) age for male patients was 26.3 ± 16.3 years (range 14-59 years) and for female patients was 28.4 ± 15.6 years (range 16-58 years). Amongst the controls, 52 (59.8%) were male and 35 (40.2%) were female. The mean (± SD) age for male controls was 27.6 ± 14.5 years (range 15-57 years) and for female controls was 29.3 ± 16.5 years (range 18-59 years). Hydrogen breath test was suggestive of bacterial overgrowth in 18 of the 87 (20.7%) celiac disease patients but not in any of the apparently healthy controls. Conclusion: This study indicates that a large number of celiac patients from North India suffer from bacterial overgrowth which can be accordingly treated with antibiotics.

Review of pathogenesis and management of constipation.

Abstract: This article reviews the pathogenesis, classification, mechanism and management of constipation. Constipation is likely to be common in the Indian population. It is difficult to define precisely since perception of patient and doctor may differ. Rome Consensus Criteria may not be applicable in India where we should not define constipation as stool frequency less than thrice a week as normal bowel movement in among Indians is different than that in the West. Constipation may be due to difficulty in evacuation, i.e. dyschezia, or due to a combination of infrequency and dyschezia. Low fibre diet, insufficient fluid intake, irregular toilet habit, lack of exercise, prolonged bed rest and chronic consumption of drugs may all lead to this chronic ailment. Constipation may result from slow colonic transit, faecal evacuation disorders or a combination of both. The first step in management is to exclude organic and anatomic causes. In the elderly, proctosigmoidoscopy or when required, colonoscopy and barium enema should be done. Colonic transit study is useful to screen for slow transit constipation or faecal evacuation disorders. Defecography, the balloon expulsion test, anorectal ultrasound, anorectal manometry, defecometry, anal sphincter electromyography and the pudendal nerve terminal motor latency study may be used to diagnose faecal evacuation disorders. Treatment aims at symptom relief and bettering the quality of life. High fibre diet, physical activity, modification of current therapy (e.g. where the patient is on opioids), and prescription of laxatives may provide relief. Current guidelines for prescribing laxatives suggest bulk agents as first line and osmotic agents as second line therapy. Biofeedback is useful in faecal evacuation disorders. Surgery may also rarely be necessary to correct anatomical abnormalities.

Time trends and pathological profile of carcinoma lower oesophagus and gastro-oesophageal junction over the last 20 years - an experience from South India

Abstract: There is an upward trend in the incidence of adenocarcinoma lower oesophagus in western countries. However there is only limited comparable data from Asian countries. We conducted a retrospective analysis of our data compiled over a twenty-year period (1985-2004). All lesions diagnosed as either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma involving the oesophagus with or without involvement of the gastro-oesophageal junction were included in the study. 476 cases with biopsy proven malignancy (either adeno or squamous) of lower oesophagus were studied. The pattern of change in frequency and histology over twenty years was analysed using the chi square test for trend. There was a consistent increase in the frequency of cancer involving the gastro-oesophageal junction though it did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.15). Out of 476 lower oesophageal cancers, 249 were adeno-carcinomas and 227 were squamous cell carcinomas. Adenocarcinoma involving the gastro-oesophageal junction showed consistent increase even though the p value was not significant (p = 0.09) and this therefore requires further longitudinal studies. There was no change in trend for pattern and frequency of squamous cell carcinoma oesophagus involving different sub-sites during the study period.

Liver abscess, portal vein thrombosis and cavernoma formation following umbilical vein catherisation in two neonates.

Abstract: Liver abscess is a rare condition in neonates and its diagnosis requires a high degree of suspicion. CT scan and ultrasound are the most sensitive diagnostic modalities for detecting hepatic abscess. Portal vein thrombosis and cavernoma formation are rare complications following neonatal liver abscess and sepsis. We describe the case of two neonates with hepatic abscess following umblical vein catheterisation, with rare complications of portal vein thrombosis and portal vein cavernoma formation. Therefore, unreserved caution should be exercised in performing umbilical cannulation in neonates due to the inherent risks involved with this procedure.

Quality of life and nutritional status in alcohol addicts and patients with chronic liver disease.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess and compare the nutritional status and quality of life in chronic liver disease (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) patients and alcohol addicts. METHODS Patients with alcoholic liver disease (n=41), nonalcoholic liver disease (n=40), alcohol addicts (n=25) without liver disease and healthy controls (n=25) were randomly selected. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements viz. skin fold thickness, arm muscle circumference and area. Biochemical estimations included liver function tests. Food intake was assessed using 48 hour recall and macro-nutrient intake was calculated. Quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. RESULTS The mean value of mid-arm muscle area was significantly lower in patients from the non-alcoholic liver disease group when compared with the other 2 groups (p= 0.0). Body fat store depletion was significantly lower in the alcohol addict group when set against the alcoholic liver disease and non-alcoholic liver disease groups (p= 0.0). The mean percentages of ideal calories (p= 0.0) and proteins (p= 0.0) were significantly higher in alcohol addicts but no significant differences in the mean percentage of fat intake (p= 0.1) was observed. The frequency of macro-nutrient deficiency was highest in the non-alcoholic liver disease group (p= 0.0). Ethanol consumption was not significantly different between alcohol addicts and patients suffering from alcoholic liver disease (p=0.06). Patients with liver disease (irrespective of aetiology) scored significantly lower on the quality of life scale when compared to alcohol addicts. CONCLUSIONS Malnutrition is more frequent and severe in patients suffering from chronic liver disease in comparison to alcohol addicts. The health status is significantly poorer in patients suffering from alcoholic liver disease. Alcohol does not seem to play a primary role in the pathogenesis of liver disease and malnutrition.

Management of anorectal melanomas: a 10-year review.

Abstract: Background Anorectal melanoma (AM) is a rare tumour with poor prognosis. The primary modality of treatment for AM is surgery. However, the choice of operation is controversial. Historically, radical operations like abdominoperineal excision of rectum (APER) with or without inguinal lymph node dissection were preferred. However, as no stage-specific survival advantage has been seen with APER later studies have recommended wide local excision (WLE) as the preferred treatment where negative margins can be achieved. The aim of our study was to review our results. Methods Inpatient and outpatient charts of all patients treated for AM between 1996 and 2005 were reviewed. Patient characteristics, clinical presentation, evaluation, staging, treatment, complications and followup were studied. Patients were followed up to assess disease free and overall survival according to the stage of disease and the surgical procedure performed. Results 17 patients were treated for AM between 1996 and 2005. At presentation 4 (23%) had metastatic and 1 (6%) had inoperable disease. 12 patients (71%) had operative therapy of which 10 had APER and two had WLE. 82% of these patients were followed up for a mean duration of 8 months (range 3-30 months) and their overall and disease free survival compared. The stage specific disease free and overall survival for patients who underwent APER was 8 months and 13 months for stage I and 7 months and 10 months for stage II respectively. The disease free survival and overall survival for patients who underwent WLE, both for stage I disease, was 10 months and 27 months respectively. Conclusion Despite surgical resection and emergence of various forms of adjuvant therapy, the overall prognosis of anorectal melanoma remains dismal. From a review of literature and our own experience, though limited, we conclude that WLE be recommended where negative margins can be achieved and where this is technically feasible. APER should be reserved for large tumours where WLE is not technically possible.

Neonatal gastrointestinal mucormycosis--a case report.

Abstract: Mucormycosis is a rare opportunistic fungal infection. It occurs mainly in immunocompromised patients and is usually fatal in children. This fungus can affect central nervous system, nasopharynx, lungs, skin and gastrointestinal tract. It invades the blood vessels and causes thrombosis, leading to infarction of the surrounding tissues. The diagnosis depends mainly on histopathological examination and demonstration of the fungus in the tissue sections, therefore a high index of suspicion and early exploration is required. We report a case of malnourished child who presented with perforation peritonitis. Investigations revealed very low total serum proteins and raised serum creatinine and blood urea levels. On exploratory laparotomy three perforations were located in the gastrointestinal tract. Histopathlogical examination of the perforation edge sections showed characteristic fungal hyphae confirming the diagnosis of gastrointestinal mucormycosis.

Severe and treatment resistant strongyloidiasis--indicator of HTLV-I infection.

Abstract: The association between severe and persistent strongyloidiasis with human T cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-1) infection is well documented in reports from HTLV-1 endemic regions like Japan and Jamaica. But there are no reports from non-endemic areas like India. We report a case of severe intestinal strongyloidiasis in a 45-year old Keralite man, living in Sikkim. Despite standard treatment with many courses of albendazole, his stool persistently showed Strongyloides stercoralis larvae. In the absence of other immunosuppressive conditions, human T cell lymphotropic virus type I infection was considered and determined positive. Subsequently, treatment with 2 courses of ivermectin achieved eradication of the infection. On follow-up, 3 years later, his stools again revealed Strongyloides stercoralis larvae.

Spectrum of microscopic colitis in a tertiary care centre in India

Abstract: INTRODUCTION The incidence of microscopic colitis has recently increased. Although collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are the two main subtypes of microscopic colitis, many patients may not fit into either category and are thus included under the header nonspecific colitis. Of late, the spectrum of microscopic colitis has widened to include minimal change colitis, microscopic colitis not otherwise specified and microscopic colitis with giant cells. There is a lack of information concerning the spectrum of microscopic colitis in Asia. METHOD In a retrospective analysis, case records of 29 patients diagnosed with microscopic colitis between 1999-2005 were analysed. Drug use parasitic infection and common bacterial infections were excluded. Colonoscopic/ sigmoidoscopic examination was done and multiple colonic mucosal biopsies were stained serially with haematoxylin and eosin for detailed histological examination and Masson trichrome for sub-epithelial collagen band. Based on histological criteria, patients were categorised into five subtypes: collagenous colitis (presence of collagenous thickening of surface epithelium basement membrane > 10 microm), lymphocytic colitis (intra-epithelial lymphocytes more than 20 per 100 colonocytes), minimal change colitis (crypt architectural abnormality in the form of cryptitis and crypt dilatation in the absence of increase in intraepithelial lymphocytes and subepithelial collagenous band), microscopic colitis not otherwise specified (increased inflammatory cell infiltrates in the lamina propria in the absence of other abnormalities) and microscopic colitis with giant cells. RESULTS Mean age of patients was 38.59 years (range 12-62). Of 29 patients with microscopic colitis, 7 (24.1%), 4 (13.8%), 7 (24.1%) and 11 (37.9%) were classified as collagenous colitis, lymphocytic colitis, minimal change colitis and microscopic colitis not otherwise specified, respectively. None of these patients had giant cells. There was no significant correlation between disease type and clinical manifestations. CONCLUSION Microscopic colitis has a wide histological spectrum. Cases reported as non-specific colitis, may be categorised into definite subtypes of microscopic colitis.

Left gastric artery pseudoaneurysm following traumatic pancreatic transection.

Abstract: A 24-year-old man presented to us 10 days after suffering blunt trauma to the abdomen. He was diagnosed with pancreatic transection and underwent distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. Two weeks after the operation, he developed intra-abdominal haemorrhage. Selective visceral angiogram revealed left gastric artery pseudoaneurysm, which had embolised. His recovery was uneventful. To our knowledge, ruptured left gastric artery pseudoaneurysm following pancreatic trauma, has not been reported before. In this article, we discuss some vascular complications of pancreatic trauma.

Gall bladder carcinoid: a case report and review of literature.

Abstract: Gall bladder carcinoid tumours are rare and usually lack specific symptoms. In most instances, they are incidentally detected after a cholecystectomy and rarely do they manifest with carcinoid syndrome. We report a case of gall bladder carcinoid in a patient who had undergone surgery for rectal carcinoid 10 years back. Occurrence of rectal carcinoid and gall bladder carcinoid in the same patient has not been reported before.

Do different hepatitis C virus genotypes behave differently

Abstract: Background : The natural history of hepatitis C genotype III infection, the predominant form in India, is not wholly understood. This study attempted to compare the natural history of diseases due to genotypes III and I. Methods: This 10 -year prospective follow -up study (mean follow-up period=3.6±1.4, range=1 –10 years) included 108 patients of hepatitis C. Group1 comprised 65 patients with hepatitis C genotype III infection (mean age=46.1±11.3 years, male: female=1.8: 1) and group 2 comprised 43 patients with hepatitis C genotype I infection (mean age=44.2±8.2 years, male: female=2.1: 1). Demographic features, clinical presentation and course, response to treatment (either interferon-ribavirin or peginterferon -ribavirin combination) and complications were noted for all patients. Data were analysed using the chi -square test and S tudent’ s t -test. Results : The number of steatosis cases was larger in group 1 (32.3%, 21/65 patients) than in group 2 (18.6%, 8/43 patients) although statistically not significant. There was no significant difference in the mode of infection, presence of diabetes, obesity or alcoholism, clinical presentation, extra - hepatic manifestations, stage of liver disease, complications like decompensation or hepatocellula r carcinoma and mortality . Overall, the sustained treatment response was significantly greater in group 1 patients [(87.5%, 21/24 treated patients vs. 56.2%, 9/16 treated patients in group 2; p=0.0001)]. Conclusion : HCV with genotype III was associated with better treatment response. Although statistically not

Intussusception due to ileal metastases from renal cell carcinoma.

Abstract: Small bowel secondaries from renal cell carcinoma are rare. Patients usually present with features of intestinal obstruction or GI bleeding. Management should be aggressive since metastasectomy can improve the quality of life and survival.

Serum pepsinogen I and II levels in various gastric disorders with special reference to their use as a screening test for carcinoma stomach

Abstract: Introduction: The role of serum pepsinogen in the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma is well established. Its role in other common upper alimentary disorders has not been widely studied. The aim of this study was to describe the effect of various gastric disorders on the levels of pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II and pepsinogen I/II ratio, with an emphasis on the diagnosis of carcinoma stomach in the South Indian population. Methods: A total of 210 patients in seven groups, including one control group, were studied. The groups included patients with carcinoma stomach, Helicobacter pylori gastritis, peptic ulcer, portal hypertensive gastropathy, non-ulcer dyspepsia and erosive gastritis. Serum pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II and pepsinogen I/II ratio were estimated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Results: Patients with carcinoma of the stomach, when compared with controls, had a significantly lower pepsinogen I level (87.2 µg/L vs. 158.1 µg/L, p=0.0002) and pepsinogen I/II ratio (4.3 vs. 7.2, p = 0.0001). No significant change in pepsinogen levels occurred in the other groups. The cut-off levels of pepsinogen I (115.3 µg/L) and pepsinogen I/II ratio (6.2), determined by THE ROC curve, when applied in parallel provided a sensitivity of 97% and a negative predictive value of 91.4% for the diagnosis of carcinoma stomach. When the tests were applied in parallel, the likelihood ratio of a negative test was 0.06, indicating that individuals without carcinoma stomach were 16 times more likely to have a negative test than those with carcinoma. This fulfilled the essential prerequisites of an ideal screening test. Conclusion: Serum pepsinogen estimation is a useful diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of carcinoma stomach. The significance of serum pepsinogen level in portal hypertensive gastropathy, non-ulcer dyspepsia, peptic ulcer, Helicobacter pylori gastritis and erosive gastritis was not established.

Living donor liver transplantation.

Abstract: Initially living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) was almost exclusively performed in infants and children. Adult LDLT programmes were initiated several years later. In the west this programme was introduced in view of a critical shortage of deceased donors and a constant increase in waiting list mortality. At present, this procedure is accepted as a therapeutic option for patients with end-stage liver disease to make up for the shortage of donor organs from dead patients. In Asia, however, LDLT has become the predominant means of liver transplantation as donor organs from the diseased cannot be used for religious and ethical reasons. Although there have been significant improvements in surgical techniques and consequently in recipient outcome over recent years, the LDLT procedure is still associated with donor morbidity and even mortality. The overall reported donor mortality was 0.2% and donor morbidity ranged between 0% and 100%. Biliary complications and infections were the most commonly reported donor complications. Therefore, a thorough medical as well as psychological evaluation of the donor and recipient are necessary prior to this procedure. To date, LDLT comprises less than 5% of adult liver transplantations in Europe and in the United States. Recipient and graft survival are almost identical to those seen with liver transplantations from deceased donors (DD). Biliary and vascular complications are more often seen in the LDLT setting. So far, no studies have focussed on the impact of LDLT on waiting list mortality. There is international consensus that this procedure should be restricted to centres with large experience in deceased donor liver transplantations as well as in hepatobiliary surgery. Ethical issues, optimal utility and application of adult LDLT and optimal recipient and donor characteristics have yet to be defined.

Efficacy and tolerability of pegylated interferon alpha 2b and ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C--a report from eastern India.

Abstract: AIM To study the efficacy and tolerability of pegylated interferon alpha 2b and ribavirin therapy in a cohort of chronic hepatitis C patients. METHODS In a prospective, open label, uncontrolled trial pegylated interferon alpha 2b (Viraferon Peg) 1.5 microgram/ kg subcutaneously weekly plus daily ribavirin 800mg for 24 weeks in genotypes 2 & 3 and 1000mg for 48 weeks in genotypes 1 and 4 was administered to 16 patients of chronic hepatitis C. The primary end point was the sustained viral response. Therapy was prolonged by 3 months if the end of therapy response was not attained. Drug dosage was modified or temporarily discontinued if anaemia or bone marrow suppression developed. RESULTS Both virological end of therapy response and sustained viral response were seen in 75% cases but not every patient who achieved end of therapy response had a sustained viral response. Relapse was seen in 31% cases and a pattern of delayed response was seen in 2 patients who later experienced a sustained viral response. Biochemical and virological responses were similar. A lower baseline viral load, genotype 3, a high ALT and the parenteral mode of viral acquisition were associated with higher sustained viral response rates. A good response was also seen in men, those over 50 years of age and those with normal baseline ALT. Most relapses occurred in genotype 3 patients whose age was less than 50 years; however the relapsing viral load was very low. 66% of previous interferon and ribavirin non-responders achieved sustained viral response. Treatment was well tolerated; temporary dose modification was required in 3 patients. CONCLUSION In Indian patients, a combination of peginterferon alpha 2b and ribavirin is safe and effective both as initial treatment of chronic hepatitis C and for use in previous non-responders.

Spectrum and outcome of pancreatic trauma.

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pancreatic trauma is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis is often difficult and surgery poses a formidable challenge. METHOD Data from 17 patients of pancreatic trauma gathered from a prospectively maintained database were analysed and the following parameters were considered: mode of injury, diagnostic modalities, associated injury, grade of pancreatic trauma and management. Pancreatic trauma was graded from I through IV, as per Modified Lucas Classification. RESULTS The median age was 39 years (range 19-61). The aetiology of pancreatic trauma was blunt abdominal trauma in 14 patients and penetrating injury in 3. Associated bowel injury was present in 4 cases (3 penetrating injury and 1 blunt trauma) and 1 case had associated vascular injury. 5 patients had grade I, 3 had grade II, 7 had grade III and 2 had grade IV pancreatic trauma. Contrast enhanced computed tomography scan was used to diagnose pancreatic trauma in all patients with blunt abdominal injury. Immediate diagnosis could be reached in only 4 (28.5%) patients. 7 patients responded to conservative treatment. Of the 10 patients who underwent surgery, 6 required it for the pancreas and the duodenum. (distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy-3, pylorus preserving pancreatoduodenectomy-1, debridement with external drainage-1, associated injuries-duodenum-1). Pancreatic fistula, recurrent pancreatitis and pseudocyst formation were seen in 3 (17.05%), 2 (11.7%) and 1 (5.4%) patient respectively. Death occurred in 4 cases (23.5%), 2 each in grades III and IV pancreatic trauma. CONCLUSIONS Contrast enhanced computed tomography scan is a useful modality for diagnosing, grading and following up patients with pancreatic trauma. Although a majority of cases with pancreatic trauma respond to conservative treatment, patients with penetrating trauma, and associated bowel injury and higher grade pancreatic trauma require surgical intervention and are also associated with higher morbidity and mortality.

Modification of small bowel microflora in chronic alcoholics with alcoholic liver disease.

Abstract: The bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract plays an essential role in human physiology. Our aim was to study the pattern of change in bacterial microflora in the small intestines of patients with chronic alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Patients of ALD made up the test group and nonalcoholics served as controls. Duodenal (D2) biopsies were obtained by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and processed immediately for microbiological analysis. Marked qualitative and quantitative alterations of small intestinal microflora was documented in chronic alcoholics. There was increased bacterial growth of both gram-positive cocci and gram-negative bacilli in the ALD group.

Isolated tubercular splenic abscess in an immunocompetent child.

Abstract: Splenic abscess is an uncommon entity in children, more so of tubercular etiology in immunocompetent patients. The few cases reported have usually revealed solitary abscesses in the spleen. We present a case of a 12 year-old immunocompetent girl who presented with fever and pain abdomen and was detected to have multiple tubercular abscesses in the spleen in the absence of any other focus of tuberculosis.

Correlation between endoscopic suspicion of gastric cancer and histology in Nigerian patients with dyspepsia.

Abstract: Gastric mucosal biopsies of 77 dyspeptic patients whose endoscopic features were suggestive of cancer and 56 patients with uncomplicated duodenal ulcer (DU) were subjected to histopathological analysis. Gastric cancer was confirmed in 18 (23.4%) of the 77 patients but not in 59 (76.6%). 4 (5.2%) of the 18 patients had early gastric cancer (EGC). Histopathological findings in the stomach biopsy of the 59 patients in whom cancer could not be confirmed were compared with those of the 56 patients with DU. Intestinal metaplasia (IM) was present in 32.2% of the 59 cases with endoscopic suspicion of gastric cancer and in 16.1% of the 56 DU controls (P 0.10). All 18 patients with gastric cancer were positive for Helicobacter pylori and the prevalence of the infection approached 95% in those with IM and MALT. This study shows that IM and MALT present with endoscopic appearances that resemble that of gastric cancer and that along with the latter, their main aetiological agent is Helicobacter pylori.

Rapunzel syndrome: a case report and review of literature.

Abstract: Bezoars consist of ingested foreign material or organic matter which forms a mass in the gastrointestinal tract, usually in stomach. Trichobezoars formed by swallowed hair present with malnutrition, weight loss, abdominal pain with signs of gastrointestinal obstruction. Gastric trichobezoar with a tail reaching the small intestine is called Rapunzel syndrome. Although endoscopic methods are available to remove bezoars, majority of trichobezoars with Rapunzel syndrome undergo surgical removal.

External resection of a giant sigmoid lipoma causing colonic intussusception and prolapse through the anal canal

Abstract: We depict the case of an 80-year-old female patient who presented to us with a history of protruding mass per anum. Sigmoidoscopy revealed a large globular pedunculated polyp at 22 cm from the anal verge resulting in a sigmoidorectal intussusception. Endoscopic polypectomy was not technically possible due to the large size of the polyp. At the time of prolapse the polyp was tied at its pedicle with thread and resected surgically. The patient is asymptomatic on follow-up.

Hepatic encephalopathy: pathophysiology and advances in therapy.

Abstract: Hepatic encephalopathy is a major neuropsychiatric complication of cirrhosis. Hepatic encephalopathy can occur in patients with fulminant liver disease without evidence of portosystemic shunting. The syndromes are distinct in acute liver failure and cirrhosis. The pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy probably is multifactorial, although the predominant causative agent appears to be ammonia. Prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients continues to rely on ammonia lowering strategies which include assessment of dietary protein intake and the use of lactulose, neomycin, sodium benzoate and L-ornithine-aspartate. This review provides recent information on the classification of hepatic encephalopathy, current theories for pathophysiological basis and evaluates the available therapies.

Mediastinal pseudocysts in chronic pancreatitis with spontaneous resolution.

Abstract: A 39 year old male, chronic alcoholic for 12 years, presented with recurrent abdominal pain for last 3 years. He was admitted in our hospital with history of breathlessness, chest pain and abdominal pain for last 20 days. On investigation he had raised total leukocyte count with elevated serum amylase and lipase. Chest radiograph showed mediastinal widening and ultrasound of abdomen revealed chronic pancreatitis with peripancreatic pseudocysts. CT scan revealed extensive phlegmonous collections with cyst formation in the mediastinum which extended from the level of thoracic inlet to below the level of the diaphragm. There were in addition multiple pancreatic and lesser sac pseudocysts. Patient was stable and was hence closely observed on conservative treatment with complete abstinence from alcohol. We performed no surgical, endoscopic or radiological interventions. A repeat CT performed after 14 weeks showed almost complete resolution of the mediastinal pseudocyst. Overall adequate conservative management and timely imaging follow-up before planning any intervention helped us to see that there can be spontaneous resolution of mediastinal pseudocysts.

Primary oesophageal tuberculosis: a rare entity.

Abstract: Tuberculous infection of the oesophagus is rare and primary oesophageal tuberculosis is seen even more infrequently. We report a case of oesophageal tuberculosis in a 32-year-old female patient who presented to us with odynophagia and weight loss. Endoscopy showed a solitary ulcerative oesophageal lesion. Further investigation resulted in a diagnosis of oesophageal tuberculosis with no manifestations of tuberculosis elsewhere. She responded well to antitubercular treatment. This case was classified as primary oesophageal tuberculosis.