Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that Fu-Zheng-Jie-Du-Decoction increased PTEN expression in hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting a promising future for TCM as a combined therapy. The decoction was shown to decrease tumor metastasis and improve survival rates compared to chemotherapy.
A study compared ligase detection reaction (LDR) and real-time PCR methods for detecting low abundant YMDD mutations in hepatitis B patients. LDR was found to be more sensitive than real-time PCR, but the latter was faster and less expensive.
Researchers discovered Ginsenoside Rb1 prevents hepatic microcirculatory disturbance and liver injury in mice subjected to intestine ischemia and reperfusion. The compound is a major effective ingredient of Panax notoginseng, a traditional Chinese herb medicine.
Researchers found that higher lymphatic vessel density and angiogenic microvessel density were associated with increased risk of metastasis in colorectal carcinoma. These findings suggest that LVD and MVD could be independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival.
Research suggests that Acanthus ilicifolius, a popular Indian medicinal plant, can prevent hepatic DNA alterations and sister-chromatid exchanges in tumor-bearing mice. The study also showed that ALE treatment was able to limit liver metallothionein expression and lengthen the mean survival of animals.
Researchers found serum PG levels in Chinese are significantly skewed from normal distribution and influenced by factors such as age, sex, gastric mucosa lesions, and H pylori infection. The PG I/II ratio is a better indicator for atrophic lesions on gastric mucosa than either PG I or II alone.
A nationwide survey found that nearly three-quarters of UC patients consider feeling unwell normal, while only 37% of gastroenterologists agree. The study highlights the need for improved communication and compliance to address challenges in disease management.
A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that age, burden, divorce, and heavy tea consumption are significant risk factors for erosive esophagitis. Additionally, routine consumption of greasy food and constipation were identified as risk factors for non-erosive reflux disease.
A study found massive necrosis after trans-catheter treatment for liver cancer to be more common when a tumor capsule is present. Patients with tumors between 2-6 cm, low CLIP scores, and no constitutional syndrome were most likely to experience this outcome.
Researchers reported a rare case of an adrenal adenoma producing carcinoembryonic antigen, highlighting the importance of serum CEA levels in diagnosis. Laparoscopic adrenectomy was successfully performed using combined lateral and anterior transperitoneal approach.
Researchers used FDG PET/CT to monitor early responses and found that combining EGFR-specific antibodies with VEGF-specific antibodies may improve anti-tumor efficacy. The novel approach also shows potential for anticancer therapy by monitoring molecular treatment responses.
Researchers found that silibinin reduces cancer cell proliferation and enhances programmed death of cancer cells, making it a potential treatment option. The study also suggests that other herbal supplements may have similar anti-tumor effects, warranting further investigation.
A rare stomach cancer case report highlights histochemistry's diagnostic value for carcinosarcomas. The study finds epithelial components expressing cytokeratin 18, EMA, and CEA positivity, while mesenchymal components show vimentin staining without muscular or neural differentiation.
The study found that a subtle disorder in optimal systemic hyperdynamic state influences portal venous flow, which is crucial for liver regeneration after LDLT. Maintaining an ideal systemic hemodynamic state ensures sufficient splanchnic blood flow and excellent clinical outcomes in cirrhotic LDLT recipients.
Researchers found no link between the reg1 gene and pancreatic stone formation in patients with tropical calcific pancreatitis. The study suggests alternative mechanisms, such as calcium signaling, may be involved in stone formation.
A rare case of antegrade bowel intussusception after pancreatic duct reconstruction was reported, leading to a diagnosis of severe variant of Roux-en-Y stasis syndrome. The patient had previous episodes of abdominal pain and vomiting suggesting altered intestinal motility.
Research reveals MMP-1 and TNF-alpha play a central role in ulcerative colitis development, offering new therapeutic targeting proteins. Agents like Infliximab have shown promise in treating adult and child patients with ulcerative colitis.
Research investigates the role of NCAM-180 as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer, finding low frequency and lack of prognostic value. The study concludes that routine use of NCAM-180 expression is not feasible due to its rarity.
A case report published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology presents a new technique for biliary drainage using endosonography (ES) guidance. The study shows that ESBD is a safe and effective method without pain or restriction, potentially replacing percutaneous transhepatic cholangio-drainage (PTCD).
A 24-week course of interferon-alpha therapy after curative treatment for HCV-associated HCC significantly reduces tumor recurrence rates and improves patient survival compared to those without interferon therapy. Patients who achieved a sustained virological response also exhibit improved liver function and prolonged overall survival.
A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that plasma serotonin levels significantly increase in patients with liver cirrhosis, correlating with the degree of liver damage. This discovery provides a potential non-invasive diagnostic method for assessing liver insufficiency.
A large dose of dexamethasone has been found to improve survival rates and reduce inflammation in rats with severe acute pancreatitis. The treatment also alleviated pancreatic tissue damage and induced apoptosis in acinar cells.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that minority patients prefer optical colonoscopy (OC) over computed tomographic (CT) colonography for colorectal cancer screening. OC was associated with less discomfort, embarrassment, and pain compared to CT colonography.
A recent study published in Gastroenterology found that high glucose levels are a strong risk factor for colorectal cancer. Patients with elevated insulin and glucose levels had a 50% increased risk of recurrence of colorectal tumors. Maintaining a healthy glycemic index may help reduce this risk.
A study of 200 consecutive patients found that combining clinical history, ultrasonography, and liver function tests effectively excludes common bile duct stones. The triple test has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing CBDS, making it a recommended pre-operative assessment for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
A study of 124 patients with acute viral hepatitis found that 5.65% had mild pancreatitis, all of whom recovered on conservative management. Patients with severe abdominal pain should undergo serum amylase and ultrasonography to rule out pancreatitis as a cause.
Research associates ADH2 and ALDH2 polymorphisms with increased esophageal cancer risk, particularly in individuals who consume alcohol. The study found that certain genetic variants can modulate individual differences in alcohol-oxidizing capacity and drinking behavior, leading to a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer.
The study found that Helicobacter pylori strains inhibit gap junctional intercellular communication in gastric cells, leading to increased cancer risk. The researchers suggest that this mechanism may be a key factor in the development of gastric cancer.
The study found that TCPOBOP stimulation of CAR induced genes involved in fatty acid microsomal omega-oxidation and beta-oxidation pathways, reducing hepatic steatosis. This research offers a potential pharmacologic treatment for NASH by enhancing hepatic fatty acid oxidation.
A case of a giant submucosal lipoma located in the descending colon is presented, highlighting key findings such as abdominal pain, bleeding per rectum, and change in bowel habits. The study suggests that colonic malignancy should not be ruled out in patients with significant symptoms.
A retrospective study on Infliximab treatment in IBD patients found it to be effective in inducing rapid clinical response and maintaining long-lasting remission. The study also showed a steroid-sparing effect, reducing the morbidity associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy.
A new potential therapeutic target for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma has been identified through a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Survivin protein expression was found to be elevated in 64.7% of HCC specimens, suggesting its role as a marker for diagnosis and treatment.
A case report describes an 86-year-old woman who developed acute pancreatitis and cholangitis after her gastrostomy tube migrated into the duodenum. The malpositioned tube caused duodenal obstruction, leading to severe symptoms that improved upon repositioning the tube.
Exogenous sphingomyelinase was found to increase intestinal permeability in vitro by altering the composition of tight junctions. This is achieved through the localized accumulation of ceramide at cell-cell contacts, leading to increased permeability and changes in the epithelial barrier.
A novel technique of image-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance is introduced for accurate preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic solid pseudopapillary tumors. This method helps differentiate SPTP from other pancreatic neoplasms with different biologic behavior and treatment.
Researchers have identified a bioactive polysaccharide from Decalepis hamiltonii that exhibits multi-step ulcer preventive activity, including gastroprotection, down-regulation of activated H+, K+-ATPase, normalization of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes, and recovery of damaged mucosal epithelium. The polysaccharide also shows...
Researchers examined the effectiveness of intra-arterial combination chemotherapy in treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT). The treatment led to a median survival time of 457.2 days and a one-year survival rate of 70%.
Researchers found that Baicalin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing the severity of acute pancreatitis in rats. The study suggests that Baicalin may be an effective treatment option for SAP, offering a promising therapeutic tool with low cost and extensive routes of administration.
The spleen's unique anatomical and immunological characteristics may explain why isolated splenic metastasis from colorectal carcinoma is rare. Experimental studies have shown that cancer cells injected into the spleen grow more slowly than those in other organs.
Researchers have identified activin receptor-interacting protein 2 (ARIP2) as a potential target for treating liver fibrosis. The study found that ARIP2 negatively regulates activin signal pathways, which can help prevent collagen type IV production and alleviate liver damage.
A study of 151 HIV-positive patients found a low prevalence of H pylori infection compared to HIV-negative patients. The researchers suggest a different mechanism for chronic active gastritis in HIV-positive patients, potentially related to opportunistic infections rather than H pylori.
Research highlights underreporting of NSAID use, leading to significant GI complications and healthcare costs. Administering proton pump inhibitors with NSAIDs can help mitigate these risks and reduce hospitalization costs.
Functional gastrointestinal disorders significantly impact daily activity and work productivity, with a loss of at least one day of work in a 40-hour workweek. Patients with conditions like IBS-C, CC, and FD report greater impairment than those with GERD alone.
Researchers found that initial screening colonoscopy with polyp removal significantly reduces colon cancer mortality. The study suggests extending follow-up surveillance intervals from 3-5 years to 6 or more years, contingent on adequate bowel preparation and visualization of the colon.
African-Americans have a higher incidence of colorectal cancer, with advanced polyps on the right side of the colon more common. Latin Americans also show similar high-risk findings to African-Americans in colonoscopy screenings.
Researchers found that gastric bypass patients are at risk of developing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and malabsorption of vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients. This can lead to conditions like osteopenia, osteoporosis, and osteomalacia.
Consumers eating raw fish may be at risk of intestinal parasitic infection Anisakiasis, which can cause sudden abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosed by endoscopy or imaging tests, the condition is often treatable with fluid replacement and rest.
A Chinese medicine compound, delisheng, has shown satisfactory anti-cancer effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cells in a three-dimensional cell culture model. The compound's ginseng component is believed to be responsible for its anti-tumor activity, which may lead to new treatment options for HCC patients.
Over two decades, a study in the UK found that ultrasound-guided liver biopsy is the preferred method due to its reduced complications. The majority of biopsies were performed on patients with raised liver tests and hepatitis C infection.
Researchers have successfully used RNA interference (RNAi) technology to specifically silence the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene, a key player in tumor angiogenesis. This method shows great promise for developing targeted therapeutic approaches to inhibit VEGF expression and potentially suppress cancer growth.
A study found that diabetes increases levels of CA 19-9, a tumor marker for pancreatic cancer. Elevated CA 19-9 levels in diabetics may indicate chronic pancreatitis rather than pancreatic cancer.
Patients with non-cirrhotic and nontumoral extrahepatic portal vein obstruction often present with well-tolerated bleeding. Cirrhosis- and tumor-related portal vein thrombosis generally carries a grim prognosis. A large sample size study found that hypercoagulable states are less common in this population.
A systematic review found that early nasogastric enteral nutrition is effective and safe for treating severe acute pancreatitis. It appears to be a cost-effective alternative to conventional nutritional routes, with no worsening of clinical outcomes.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that electroacupuncture at PC6 can decrease the frequency of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (TLESR) induced by gastric distention in cats. The effect appears to act at the brain stem, mediated through nitric oxide (NO), CCK-A, and mu-opioid receptors.
A retrospective study of 68 postoperative CRC patients found that 18F-DG PET/CT detected more lesions than CT or ultrasonography alone in 30.4% of cases with recurrence and/or metastasis. The imaging technique also helped alter treatment plans in 16.2% of cases.
Researchers found that prolonged antiviral therapy can improve residual liver function and reduce portal hypertension in patients with compensated hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis. The study, published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, suggests that this treatment approach may delay complications and prolong survival rates.
A large sample size study found endoscopic resection to be a safe and effective treatment for gastrointestinal smooth muscle tumors (SMTs) with base sizes ≤ 2 cm. No severe complications or recurrences were observed in cases treated using the 'pushing' or 'grasping and pushing' technique.
The study found that transcutaneous cervical esophageal ultrasound (TCEUS) is not a substitute for 24-hour pH monitoring or manometry in diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal motor disorders. TCEUS can aid in estimating GER and motility disorders, but it cannot replace these established diagnostic methods.
Researchers have found that ultra-low-dose aspirin can normalize platelet-endothelial cell alterations and bleeding time in rats with portal hypertension. This effect is mediated by Cyclooxygenase 2 inhibition, a finding that could have implications for treating this debilitating condition.
A team has developed M-POSSUM, a modified scoring system that combines elements of Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), APACHE and POSSUM to predict postoperative morbidity and mortality in high-risk surgical patients. The study found that M-POSSUM is more accurate than original POSSUM and APACHE II.