Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
A recent study found that most celiac disease patients do not receive adequate medical follow-up, which can lead to non-compliance with a gluten-free diet. The study suggests that gastroenterologists need to improve communication with patients to ensure timely follow-up care and improve outcomes in celiac disease.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that aspirin use may protect against Barrett's esophagus (BE), the largest known risk factor for esophageal cancer. High-dose aspirin was significantly associated with decreased BE risk, but caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular benefits.
The AGA journals, Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, maintained strong standing with high impact factors in 2011. Both journals received a significant number of citations and had outstanding immediacy indices.
The guidelines provide evidence-based information for diagnosing and managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is rapidly becoming the most common cause of cirrhosis in the US. The condition can lead to liver cancer and failure, emphasizing the need for standardized medical care.
A six-food elimination diet significantly improves symptoms in adult patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, reducing inflammation and improving digestion. The study identified specific food triggers that cause symptoms like heartburn and difficulty swallowing.
A new ethics framework is recommended to manage conflicts of interest in the development of medical guidelines, ensuring expert input without industry influence. The study found that such a framework can help identify and address ethics issues, but further analysis and initiatives are needed.
The Multisociety Sedation Curriculum for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy provides a comprehensive framework for training gastroenterologists in procedure sedation. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of practice and research based on ethical principles, aiming to balance patient comfort with safety.
The American Gastroenterological Association honors outstanding contributions and achievements in gastroenterology through its prestigious recognition awards. The AGA presents several awards, including the Julius Friedenwald Medal, William Beaumont Prize, Distinguished Educator Award, and more.
The American Gastroenterological Association will showcase innovative data and advancements in treating gastrointestinal (GI) disorders during the Digestive Disease Week 2012. The presentation of exciting, cutting-edge information will help physicians diagnose and treat GI disorders more effectively.
This special issue of Gastroenterology focuses on the latest progress made in viral hepatitis research and care, including new diagnostic tools, therapies, and prevention strategies. Classic review articles and expert commentaries address critical unresolved issues and fundamental questions for the future.
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that GERD-related inflammation may contribute to the development of esophageal cancer. Researchers analyzed data from over 33,000 patients with GERD and found a significant increase in esophageal cancer incidence among those with erosive reflux disease.
A study found that amoxicillin-clavulanate triggers groups of propagated contractions within the small intestine, improving small bowel transit and influencing gut microbiome. The antibiotic may be effective in patients with alterations of duodenal phase III, chronic symptoms of intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
Research published in The Journal of Hepatology found that moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the risk and severity of liver disease in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NALFD). Patients with NALFD who consume two drinks or less daily are half as likely to develop hepatitis as non-drinkers, experiencing less severe l...
A study found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal disorders receive significant doses of diagnostic radiation. Alternative, radiation-free imaging options are available, but evidence-based guidelines on reducing radiation exposure are still needed.
A new study found that children who experienced general trauma, physical punishment, and emotional abuse are more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adulthood. Emotional abuse was the strongest predictor of IBS, with a significant association observed mainly in women.
The study found a substantial increase in the use of anesthesia services for gastrointestinal endoscopies, with most procedures performed on low-risk patients. Regional variation in anesthesia use was also observed, with higher rates in the Northeast region.
A new study suggests that fecal transplantation is clearly better than any other treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection. The procedure showed an outstanding result in a patient group unresponsive to other treatment methods, with no serious adverse events observed during a one-year period.
A survey of over 1,000 gastroenterologists found that pressure to increase colonoscopy volume negatively affects procedure quality and safety. Gastroenterologists reported reducing time examining the colon wall or aborting difficult procedures due to production pressures.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that IBD travelers are not at a higher risk of contracting intestinal infections when visiting developing or tropical countries. Traveling during clinical remission can significantly reduce the risk of illness, according to lead author Shomron Ben-Horin.
Researchers found that consuming a high-fiber diet raised, rather than lowered, the risk of developing diverticulosis. Those with lower fiber intake were less likely to develop diverticula.
The study found significant variability in colonoscopy reporting, but high overall quality. Significant variance between endoscopy departments was also observed. Continuous monitoring and implementation of quality indicators can improve the quality of both reporting and performance.
A global study on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) reveals increasing incidence and prevalence worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The study found that IBD affects individuals in their most productive years of life, resulting in significant healthcare costs.
Chronic abdominal pain has seen a significant rise in opioid prescriptions, driven by factors such as campaigns to recognize pain as the "fifth vital sign". The use of opioids for non-cancer chronic pain is supported by limited evidence and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and worsen abdominal pain.
Certain IBD patients may have an increased risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer, particularly those on thiopurine immunosuppressants. Researchers emphasize the need for dermatologic screening and sun protection in these patients.
A new study found that psychological factors, such as pain catastrophisizing and anxiety sensitivity, affect IBS symptoms but not overall severity. GI symptoms like pain, bloating, and defecation explain most of the variance in IBS severity scores.
A study found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), leading to gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients who drank a moderate amount of alcohol, sometimes less than one drink per day, were more likely to have SIBO.
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a new assessment index for microscopic colitis, allowing physicians to objectively score the condition's severity. The Microscopic Colitis Disease Activity Index provides a consistent way to assess symptoms beyond just diarrhea frequency.
A new study reveals that celiac patients may unknowingly expose themselves to gluten through the use of cosmetics, highlighting a significant gap in available information. Researchers found that only two top cosmetic companies provided detailed ingredient information without identifying gluten sources.
Research suggests that childhood and adult traumas contribute to adult irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with general life traumas being more common than physical or emotional abuse. The study found patients with IBS report higher levels of traumas over a lifetime, which may sensitize the brain and gut.
A combination treatment of telaprevir with pegylated interferon and ribavirin showed substantial improvement in sustained viral response among African Americans, with an SVR rate of 61% compared to 25% with standard care. Screening for Hepatitis C during routine colon cancer screening is also being explored, particularly among Baby Boo...
The Mayo Clinic Facebook group provides a platform for patients to share their experiences and challenges with esophageal cancer. The group, led by Dr. Herbert Wolfsen, has become an invaluable resource for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals.
A new study suggests that patients with certain types of abdominal pain may benefit more from gallbladder surgery. Researchers found that episodic pain occurring during the evening or at night, lasting less than 24 hours, and having a specific pattern of symptoms can predict improved relief after surgery.
A new study found that neuroticism is linked to increased brain activity during pain anticipation in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This heightened emotional response may exacerbate chronic pain conditions. Physicians should consider a patient's mental state when determining treatment regimens.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that low-dose aspirin increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly when combined with other medications. However, proton pump inhibitor use can reduce this risk.
Researchers have discovered a novel cytokine, Interleukin 37 (IL-37), that protects mice from colitis by modulating inflammation. This finding offers a promising approach to treat or control overactive immune systems in humans, particularly for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) successfully eradicates precancerous cells and intestinal metaplasia in patients with dysplastic Barrett's esophagus, with over 90% of patients showing complete clearance after three years. The procedure offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, reducing complication rates and mortality.
A new study found that high folate intake is associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer. The strongest association was with total folate intake, which includes naturally occurring food folate and folic acid from fortified foods and dietary supplements.
A new study found that coffee consumption improved treatment response in advanced patients with chronic liver disease and hepatitis C. Patients who drank three or more cups of coffee per day were two times more likely to respond to treatment, with higher rates of early virologic response and sustained virologic response.
The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) have updated their 2003 joint guideline to ensure safe reprocessing of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes. The guidelines emphasize the importance of high-level disinfection and standardized cleaning procedures.
A study found that many gastroenterologists are not knowledgeable about the appropriate immunizations to recommend to IBD patients. In fact, over half of gastroenterologists did not regularly ask their patients about immunization history. This lack of knowledge can lead to IBD patients being vulnerable to vaccine-preventable illnesses.
A new study by Henry Ford Hospital researchers found that nurse-driven, open-access colonoscopy programs are as effective and safe as traditional consultations with a gastroenterologist. The study compared outcomes of 15,901 patients in an open-access program to 6,861 patients who received outpatient consultation prior to screening.
A Mayo Clinic study found that it takes an average of 275 procedures to reach minimal cognitive and motor competency in gastroenterology fellows performing colonoscopies. The research team used a validated testing method to assess the performance of 41 fellows who performed over 6,600 colonoscopies.
University of North Carolina researchers presented three studies: meditation reduces irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and psychological distress; colonoscopy screening rates decreased among insured Americans during the recession due to high out-of-pocket costs; and diets high in fiber actually increase the risk of diverticulosis, not ...
The AGA recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to gastroenterology through various awards, including the Julius Friedenwald Medal and Distinguished Achievement Award. These recipients are leaders in their field and have made remarkable impacts on gastroenterological practice and research.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) will present exciting, cutting-edge data during the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) meeting that will help change the way physicians diagnose and treat GI disorders. AGA researchers will focus on the latest research and clinical advances in gastroenterology.
A recent study published in Gastroenterology highlights the increased risk of gastrointestinal complications in childhood cancer survivors after therapy. Risks for colostomy/ileostomy, cirrhosis or liver biopsy were highest among older patients and those exposed to abdominal radiation or certain chemotherapy treatments.
The American College of Gastroenterology published a new evidence-based systematic review on the management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), grading treatment options for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. A comprehensive meta-analysis highlights the importance of diet, gut microbiome, and immune system in IBD causes.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that an automated colonoscopy reminder system significantly improved adherence to endoscopic follow-up recommendations, particularly in minority populations. The system, which included a letter and telephone call, nearly doubled the rate of recommended exams.
Cognitive impairment in liver disease patients may not be fully reversible and can affect driving safety. Doctors are advised to carefully evaluate cirrhotic patients for hepatic encephalopathy and address driving issues with them.
A study on nonsurgical hepatic decompression in Budd-Chiari syndrome shows satisfactory outcomes with low morbidity and mortality rates. The research suggests strict adherence to anticoagulation and early management of shunt dysfunction are crucial for clinical, laboratory, and radiological improvement.
A study found vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis, with severity linked to liver dysfunction. The research highlights the importance of monitoring vitamin D levels in all cirrhosis patients, with further studies needed to determine optimal supplementation.
A research article reports a case of iatrogenic sigmoid perforation successfully repaired using a combination of three endoscopic techniques. The patient underwent laparoscopic surgery four days later due to another polyp, but the sigmoid repair was found to be complete.
A study found that nearly half of head and neck cancer patients who received prophylactic percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes never used them. The study suggests that PEG placement prior to therapy may not be necessary and could impact cost-effectiveness and quality of life.
The study found that Yi-Qi-Zeng-Min-Tang improves insulin sensitivity, glycaemic control, and dyslipidemia in high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin-induced Type 2 diabetic rats. The herbal decoction does not cause weight gain, making it a potential adjunct treatment for patients with insulin resistance.
Research found that underweight patients (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2) tend to be older at HCC onset compared to those with normal weight range BMI. Achieving adequate body weight and reducing alcohol intake may help prevent hepatic carcinogenesis in HCV-infected patients.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that chronic pancreatitis cases are not exclusively caused by alcohol consumption, with over 50% of patients having no identifiable cause. Genetic factors and environmental interactions may play a role in disease development.
Researchers used DNA microarrays to analyze gene expression in livers from patients with biliary atresia and found a key regulator: RRAS. This gene plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of the disease, making it a potential prognostic biomarker.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that daily magnesium oxide treatment significantly increases serum magnesium concentrations in children with functional constipation. However, the magnitude of the increase appears modest, and younger age may be a relative risk factor for hypermagnesemia.
For patients with confirmed high-grade dysplasia, endoscopic eradication therapy is recommended. Surveillance may be considered in some cases, but it is not a substitute for treatment. The American Gastroenterological Association recommends regular screening for cardiovascular risk factors and interventions.
A randomized clinical trial found that fast-track rehabilitation programs significantly accelerate the restoration of gastrointestinal functions after resection of colorectal cancer. Fast-track care also reduces postoperative complications and hospital stay time for patients.