Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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 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.
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%.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 found that patients with large polyps or adenomas may need more frequent follow-up, while those with only a few small polyps can be screened less often. Relatives of patients with large polyps should also be targeted for screening.
Researchers have found promising results with three new non-invasive imaging tests that can diagnose fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver without a biopsy. Ultrasound-based transient elastography was accurate in identifying patients with cirrhosis, while MR elastography showed nearly 100% accuracy in detecting any degree of liver fibrosis.
A recent study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found a significant association between GERD and obesity in women, but not men. The researchers suggest that estrogen may play a role in this correlation.
The American Gastroenterological Association has established minimum standards for gastroenterologist performance of CT colonography, requiring at least 75 endoscopically confirmed cases to be interpreted. The guidelines emphasize the importance of training and quality control to ensure accurate screening for colorectal cancer.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends gastroenterologists use evidence-based sedation protocols for endoscopic procedures to improve quality of practice and reduce adverse events. Proper training and experience are crucial for administering sedation safely.
The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation has awarded a three-year grant to the American Gastroenterological Association to support research fellowships for high school students interested in gastroenterology. The program will provide $2,500 each to five students to fund a 10-week research session under the supervision of an approved preceptor.
Biologics may be a valuable treatment option for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), offering new hope for patients. However, gastroenterologists must carefully weigh the potential benefits against significant side effects and costs. Research is ongoing to better understand the role of biologics in IBD treatment.
New studies examine factors that affect colonoscopy quality, including age, location, and technician training. Research suggests that competence in efficient colonoscopy requires more than 150 cases, with success rates improving significantly after this threshold.
The AGA Institute's Obesity Task Force Report highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing obesity, considering its impact on healthcare budgets and societal practices. The report emphasizes the role of gastroenterology in treating obesity, with novel therapies and policies being developed.
A new study found that routine colonoscopic surveillance improves survival for colorectal cancer patients. Patients who underwent regular follow-up colonoscopies had better five-year survival rates compared to those who did not receive screenings.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that stool DNA testing can detect colorectal cancer with 88% accuracy, regardless of its stage or location. This non-invasive screening test offers a patient-friendly alternative to traditional colonoscopy.
The IDIBAPS project has validated the first prognostic DNA chip, called the IBDchip, which predicts inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) prognosis and treatment response. The chip is a simple device requiring only a small blood sample and can detect 61 genetic mutations.
The AGA Institute's report emphasizes the need for gastroenterologists to adapt to changing practices, technologies, and economic pressures. Key findings include the potential obsolescence of common endoscopic procedures due to technological advancements and increased utilization of nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have developed a novel method to digitally capture and analyze colonoscopy video files, extracting objective quality metrics. The study also found adalimumab effective in inducing remission in patients with moderate to severe Crohn's disease.
The study found that virtual colonoscopy can detect polyps and cancers, but also reveals findings outside the colon that require additional testing, adding significant costs
Healthcare providers must weigh benefits and risks of NSAID use, which are associated with gastrointestinal complications. The AGA Institute recommends lower-risk agents and gastroprotection methods for patients at high risk of GI complications.
The partnership aims to support the training of young investigators in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. Hepatology will now be made available without charge to NASPGHAN fellows.
The APPROVe trial shows rofecoxib effective in reducing the recurrence of colorectal adenomas, a precursor to colon cancer. Patients taking rofecoxib had a lower recurrence rate (41% vs 55%) and reduced risk of advanced adenomas compared to those on placebo.
A study found that African Americans with hepatitis C infection experience a lower response rate to peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin combination treatment compared to Caucasian Americans. The racial difference in viral responses was seen as early as the fourth week of treatment, with African Americans having a significantly lower su...
A study by researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified CD23, a protein in the intestinal tract, as a receptor for IgE associated with allergic reactions. CD23 levels were found to correlate strongly with food-specific IgE in stool samples from patients with allergies.