Use of calcium or calcium in combination with vitamin D supplementation to prevent fractures and bone loss in people aged 50 years and older: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Whether calcium supplementation can reduce osteoporotic fractures is uncertain. We did a meta-analysis to include all the randomised trials in which calcium, or calcium in combination with vitamin D, was used to prevent fracture and osteoporotic bone loss.

METHODS

We identified 29 randomised trials (n=63 897) using electronic databases, supplemented by a hand-search of reference lists, review articles, and conference abstracts. All randomised trials that recruited people aged 50 years or older were eligible. The main outcomes were fractures of all types and percentage change of bone-mineral density from baseline. Data were pooled by use of a random-effect model.

FINDINGS

In trials that reported fracture as an outcome (17 trials, n=52 625), treatment was associated with a 12% risk reduction in fractures of all types (risk ratio 0.88, 95% CI 0.83-0.95; p=0.0004). In trials that reported bone-mineral density as an outcome (23 trials, n=41 419), the treatment was associated with a reduced rate of bone loss of 0.54% (0.35-0.73; p<0.0001) at the hip and 1.19% (0.76-1.61%; p<0.0001) in the spine. The fracture risk reduction was significantly greater (24%) in trials in which the compliance rate was high (p<0.0001). The treatment effect was better with calcium doses of 1200 mg or more than with doses less than 1200 mg (0.80 vs 0.94; p=0.006), and with vitamin D doses of 800 IU or more than with doses less than 800 IU (0.84 vs 0.87; p=0.03).

INTERPRETATION

Evidence supports the use of calcium, or calcium in combination with vitamin D supplementation, in the preventive treatment of osteoporosis in people aged 50 years or older. For best therapeutic effect, we recommend minimum doses of 1200 mg of calcium, and 800 IU of vitamin D (for combined calcium plus vitamin D supplementation).

Accuracy of procalcitonin for sepsis diagnosis in critically ill patients: systematic review and meta-analysis

Procalcitonin is widely reported as a useful biochemical marker to differentiate sepsis from other non-infectious causes of systemic inflammatory response syndrome. In this systematic review, we estimated the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin in sepsis diagnosis in critically ill patients. 18 studies were included in the review. Overall, the diagnostic performance of procalcitonin was low, with mean values of both sensitivity and specificity being 71% (95% CI 67-76) and an area under the summary receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.78 (95% CI 0.73-0.83). Studies were grouped into phase 2 studies (n=14) and phase 3 studies (n=4) by use of Sackett and Haynes' classification. Phase 2 studies had a low pooled diagnostic odds ratio of 7.79 (95% CI 5.86-10.35). Phase 3 studies showed significant heterogeneity because of variability in sample size (meta-regression coefficient -0.592, p=0.017), with diagnostic performance upwardly biased in smaller studies, but moving towards a null effect in larger studies. Procalcitonin cannot reliably differentiate sepsis from other non-infectious causes of systemic inflammatory response syndrome in critically ill adult patients. The findings from this study do not lend support to the widespread use of the procalcitonin test in critical care settings.

Association of Helicobacter pylori infection with gastric carcinoma: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

As conflicting studies have recently been published, we aimed to determine if Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is associated with gastric adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

This was a meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies.

RESULTS

A total of 42 studies met the selection criteria and were categorized by the type of study design: eight cohort and 34 case-control studies. The pooled odds ratio for H. pylori in relation to gastric carcinoma was 2.04 (95% CI: 1.69-2.45). Both patient age (OR 0.77, 95% CI: 0.68-0.89) and intestinal type cancers (OR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.05-1.25) were independent effect modifiers. Analysis of other effect modifiers showed no relationship with female gender (OR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.64-0.89), stage of cancer (advanced %) (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 0.88-1.43), anatomical location (cardia %) (OR 1.54, 95% CI: 0.32-7.39) or cohort (nested case-control) studies (OR 1.72, 95% CI: 0.32-9.17). There was significant heterogeneity among the studies (tau2 = 149; p < 0.001). The quality of the studies varied considerably, with the majority of excellent studies producing positive results and the very poor to moderate studies producing mixed results.

CONCLUSIONS

H. pylori infection is associated with a 2-fold increased risk of developing gastric adenocarcinoma.

Type 2 diabetes as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease: the confounders, interactions, and neuropathology associated with this relationship

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore whether type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We also reviewed interactions with smoking, hypertension, and apolipoprotein E ɛ4. Using a series of databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Current Contents Connect, and Google Scholar), we identified a total of 15 epidemiologic studies. Fourteen studies reported positive associations, of which 9 were statistically significant. Risk estimates ranged from 0.83 to 2.45. The pooled adjusted risk ratio was 1.57 (95% confidence interval: 1.41, 1.75), with a population-attributable risk of 8%. Smoking and hypertension, when comorbid with T2DM, had odds of 14 and 3, respectively. Of the 5 studies that investigated the interaction between T2DM and apolipoprotein E ɛ4, 4 showed positive associations, of which 3 were significant, with odds ranging from 2.4 to 4.99. The pooled adjusted risk ratio was 2.91 (95% confidence interval: 1.51, 5.61). Risk estimates were presented in the context of a key confounder-cerebral infarcts-which are more common in those with T2DM and might contribute to the manifestation of clinical AD. We provide evidence from clinico-neuropathologic studies that demonstrates the following: First, cerebral infarcts are more common than AD-type pathology in those with T2DM and dementia. Second, those with dementia at postmortem are more likely to have both AD-type and cerebrovascular pathologies. Finally, cerebral infarcts reduce the number of AD lesions required for the manifestation of clinical dementia, but they do not appear to interact synergistically with AD-type pathology. Therefore, the increased risk of clinically diagnosed AD seems to be mediated through cerebrovascular pathology.

Vaccines are not associated with autism: an evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies

There has been enormous debate regarding the possibility of a link between childhood vaccinations and the subsequent development of autism. This has in recent times become a major public health issue with vaccine preventable diseases increasing in the community due to the fear of a 'link' between vaccinations and autism. We performed a meta-analysis to summarise available evidence from case-control and cohort studies on this topic (MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar up to April, 2014). Eligible studies assessed the relationship between vaccine administration and the subsequent development of autism or autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Two reviewers extracted data on study characteristics, methods, and outcomes. Disagreement was resolved by consensus with another author. Five cohort studies involving 1,256,407 children, and five case-control studies involving 9,920 children were included in this analysis. The cohort data revealed no relationship between vaccination and autism (OR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.92 to 1.06) or ASD (OR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.20), nor was there a relationship between autism and MMR (OR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.70 to 1.01), or thimerosal (OR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.77 to 1.31), or mercury (Hg) (OR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.93 to 1.07). Similarly the case-control data found no evidence for increased risk of developing autism or ASD following MMR, Hg, or thimerosal exposure when grouped by condition (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.83 to 0.98; p=0.02) or grouped by exposure type (OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.76 to 0.95; p=0.01). Findings of this meta-analysis suggest that vaccinations are not associated with the development of autism or autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, the components of the vaccines (thimerosal or mercury) or multiple vaccines (MMR) are not associated with the development of autism or autism spectrum disorder.

Use of corticosteroids in acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Controversy remains as to whether low-dose corticosteroids can reduce the mortality and morbidity of acute lung injury (ALI) or the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) without increasing the risk of adverse reactions. We aimed to evaluate all studies investigating prolonged corticosteroids in low-to-moderate dose in ALI or ARDS.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Current Content, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and bibliographies of retrieved articles.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reported in any language that used 0.5-2.5 mg.kg.d of methylprednisolone or equivalent to treat ALI/ARDS.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data were extracted independently by two reviewers and included study design, patient characteristics, interventions, and mortality and morbidity outcomes.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Both cohort studies (five studies, n = 307) and RCTs (four trials, n = 341) showed a similar trend toward mortality reduction (RCTs relative risk 0.51, 95% CI 0.24-1.09; p = 0.08; cohort studies relative risk 0.66, 95% CI 0.43-1.02; p = 0.06). The overall relative risk was 0.62 (95% CI 0.43-0.91; p = 0.01). There was also improvement in length of ventilation-free days, length of intensive care unit stay, Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome Score, Lung Injury Scores, and improvement in Pao2/Fio2. There was no increase in infection, neuromyopathy, or any major complications. There was significant heterogeneity in the pooled studies. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses showed that heterogeneity had minimal effect on treatment efficacy; however, these findings were limited by the small number of studies used in the analyses.

CONCLUSION

The use of low-dose corticosteroids was associated with improved mortality and morbidity outcomes without increased adverse reactions. The consistency of results in both study designs and all outcomes suggests that they are an effective treatment for ALI or ARDS. The mortality benefits in early ARDS should be confirmed by an adequately powered randomized trial.

Does a diet low in FODMAPs reduce symptoms associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders? A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Functional gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, distension, constipation, diarrhea and flatulence have been noted in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The diversity of symptoms has meant that finding an effective treatment has been challenging with most treatments alleviating only the primary symptom. A novel treatment option for IBS and IBD currently generating much excitement is the low fermentable, oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyol (FODMAP) diet. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the evidence of the efficacy of such a diet in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal symptoms.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched through to March 2015 to identify relevant studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals were calculated for the effect of a low FODMAP diet on the reduction in IBS [Symptoms Severity Score (SSS)] score and increase in IBS quality of life (QOL) score for both randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomized interventions using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Six RCTs and 16 non-randomized interventions were included in the analysis. There was a significant decrease in IBS SSS scores for those individuals on a low FODMAP diet in both the RCTs (OR 0.44, 95 % CI 0.25-0.76; I (2) = 35.52, p = 0.00) and non-randomized interventions (OR 0.03, 95 % CI 0.01-0.2; I (2) = 69.1, p = 0.02). In addition, there was a significant improvement in the IBS-QOL score for RCTs (OR 1.84, 95 % CI 1.12-3.03; I (2) = 0.00, p = 0.39) and for non-randomized interventions (OR 3.18, 95 % CI 1.60-6.31; I (2) = 0.00, p = 0.89). Further, following a low FODMAP diet was found to significantly reduce symptom severity for abdominal pain (OR 1.81, 95 % CI 1.13-2.88; I (2) = 0.00, p = 0.56), bloating (OR 1.75, 95 % CI 1.07-2.87; I (2) = 0.00, p = 0.45) and overall symptoms (OR 1.81, 95 % CI 1.11-2.95; I (2) = 0.00, p = 0.4) in the RCTs. In the non-randomized interventions similar findings were observed.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis supports the efficacy of a low FODMAP diet in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal symptoms. Further research should ensure studies include dietary adherence, and more studies looking at greater number of patients and long-term adherence to a low FODMAP diet need to be conducted.

Benefits of fish oil supplementation in hyperlipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Fish oils have been widely reported as a useful supplement to reduce fasting blood triglyceride levels in individuals with hyperlipidemia. We performed an updated meta-analysis to quantitatively evaluate all the randomized trials of fish oils in hyperlipidemic subjects.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search using several electronic databases supplemented by manual searches of published reference lists, review articles and conference abstracts. We included all placebo-controlled randomized trials of parallel design that evaluated any of the main blood lipid outcomes: total, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or triglycerides (TG). Data were pooled using DerSimonian-Laird's random effects model.

RESULTS

The final analysis comprised of 47 studies in otherwise untreated subjects showed that taking fish oils (weighted average daily intake of 3.25 g of EPA and/or DHA) produced a clinically significant reduction of TG (-0.34 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.41 to -0.27), no change in total cholesterol (-0.01 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.03 to 0.01) and very slight increases in HDL (0.01 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.00 to 0.02) and LDL cholesterol (0.06 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.09). The reduction of TG correlated with both EPA+DHA intake and initial TG level.

CONCLUSION

Fish oil supplementation produces a clinically significant dose-dependent reduction of fasting blood TG but not total, HDL or LDL cholesterol in hyperlipidemic subjects.

Dysphagia: epidemiology, risk factors and impact on quality of life--a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Data on the population epidemiology of dysphagia are scarce. Little is known about the prevalence, risk factors and impact on quality of life of dysphagia in the general community.

AIM

To determine the magnitude and impact of dysphagia in the general community.

METHODS

A random sample of 1000 individuals of Sydney, Australia, were mailed a validated self-report questionnaire to assess dysphagia. Measured were dysphagia symptoms, potential mechanisms, risk factors, psychological disorders, quality of life and demographics.

RESULTS

The response rate of included subjects (n = 926) was 73% (n = 672). Dysphagia ever was reported by 16% (n = 110). Multiple logistic regression analysis found that odynophagia was independently associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (OR = 3.41, 95% CI: 1.16-10.04). Intermittent dysphagia was independently associated with GERD (OR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.76-4.98) and anxiety (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01-1.19). The presence of progressive dysphagia was independently associated with depression (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.07-1.67). Progressive dysphagia was independently associated with reduced 'general health' (OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.90-0.99), while intermittent dysphagia was associated with a reduction in the 'role physical' subscale (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Dysphagia is remarkably common in the general population. GERD is a risk factor for dysphagia as well as odynophagia. Intermittent dysphagia was associated with anxiety, while progressive dysphagia was associated with depression.

Non-cardiac chest pain: prevalence, risk factors, impact and consulting--a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the prevalence and importance of non-cardiac chest pain in the general population.

AIM

To evaluate the magnitude and impact of this condition.

METHODS

A validated self-report questionnaire was mailed to a sample of 1000 residents of Penrith, selected randomly from the electoral rolls. Symptoms, risk factors, psychological distress, quality of life and demographics were measured.

RESULTS

The response rate was 73% (n = 672; mean age, 46 years; 52% female). Chest pain ever was reported by 39% of the population; 7% reported a history of myocardial infarction and 8% a history of angina. Two hundred and nineteen (33%) cases were classified as non-cardiac chest pain; only 23% had consulted a physician about chest pain in the previous year. The only independent risk factor for non-cardiac chest pain was the frequency of heartburn (odds ratio, 1.74; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-2.79; P = 0.02). None of the gastrointestinal (heartburn, dysphagia, acid regurgitation) or psychological (anxiety, depression, neuroticism) risk factors were significantly associated with consulting for non-cardiac chest pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-cardiac chest pain is remarkably common in the general population and negatively impacts on the quality of life. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a key risk factor for non-cardiac chest pain in the community. Health care seeking for non-cardiac chest pain remains unexplained.

Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Plus Radiotherapy Compared With Chemoembolization Alone for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has the second-highest cancer-related mortality rate in the world because most patients are diagnosed at an intermediate to advanced stage when surgery is not suitable. Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is currently considered a first-line therapy for unresectable HCC. However, advancements in radiotherapy (RT) have resulted in some studies identifying a significant therapeutic benefit of TACE plus RT for unresectable HCC compared with TACE alone.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TACE plus RT compared with TACE alone for unresectable HCC using meta-analytical techniques.

DATA SOURCES

A search of Medline, EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases was done from inception to January 14, 2015.

STUDY SELECTION

Published trials that included a treatment group receiving TACE plus RT and a control group receiving TACE alone with data for at least 1-year survival or tumor response were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were calculated for the effect of TACE plus RT vs TACE alone on survival, tumor response, and adverse events using a random effects model. Subgroup analyses of study design, anticancer drug, RT type, embolization type, presence of portal venous tumor thrombosis (PVTT), and time between treatments with TACE and RT were performed.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Survival, tumor response, adverse events, study design, anticancer drug, RT type, embolization type, presence of PVTT, and time between TACE and RT.

RESULTS

There were 25 trials (11 RCTs) involving 2577 patients. Patients receiving TACE plus RT showed significantly better 1-year survival (OR, 1.36 [95% CI, 1.19-1.54]) and complete response (clearance of the lesion after treatment) (OR, 2.73 [95% CI, 1.95-3.81]) compared with TACE alone. The survival benefit progressively increased for 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year survival (respectively: OR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.31-1.85]; OR, 1.91 [95% CI, 1.55-2.35]; OR, 3.01 [95% CI, 1.38-6.55]; OR, 3.98 [95% CI, 1.86-8.51]). There was an increased incidence of gastroduodenal ulcers and elevated levels of alanine transaminase and total bilirubin in patients receiving TACE plus RT compared with those receiving TACE alone. Subgroup analyses showed nonsignificant trends in which survival was greater for TACE plus RT in patients with PVTT compared with those without PVTT.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

TACE plus RT was more therapeutically beneficial than TACE alone for treating HCC, and should be recommended for suitable patients with unresectable HCC.

Bacterial infection and Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis

The possibility of an infectious etiology for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been repeatedly postulated over the past three decades. We provide the first meta-analysis to address the relationship between bacterial infection and AD. Studies examining the association between AD and spirochetal bacteria or Chlamydophila pneumoniae (Cpn) were identified through a systematic search of the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Data combined from 25 relevant, primarily case-control studies demonstrated a statistically significant association between AD and detectable evidence of infection of either bacterial group. We found over a ten-fold increased occurrence of AD when there is detectable evidence of spirochetal infection (OR: 10.61; 95% CI: 3.38-33.29) and over a four-fold increased occurrence of AD in a conservative risk estimate (OR: 4.45; 95% CI: 2.33-8.52). We found over a five-fold increased occurrence of AD with Cpn infection (OR: 5.66; 95% CI: 1.83-17.51). This study shows a strongly positive association between bacterial infection and AD. Further detailed investigation of the role of bacterial infection is warranted.

The prognosis of women diagnosed with breast cancer before, during and after pregnancy: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Previous meta-analyses have examined the prognosis of women with pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) as well as pregnancy that follows breast cancer diagnosis. Since then, many additional studies have been performed. We conducted an updated meta-analysis to examine the prognosis for women who become pregnant before, during and after a diagnosis of breast cancer. We also performed analyses on the various subgroups within PABC such as pregnancy and postpartum cases, as well as on time periods postpartum.

METHODS

We identified studies that reported on overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy or up to 5 years postpartum from four electronic databases. We also identified studies that reported on OS and DFS where pregnancy up to 5 years occurred after a breast cancer diagnosis.

RESULTS

41 studies met our inclusion criteria (cases = 4929; controls = 61,041) for pregnancy occurring during or before breast cancer diagnosis. There was an overall increased risk of death amongst patients compared to non-pregnant controls [HR 1.57; 95 % CI 1.35-1.82]. Subgroup analysis indicated poor survival outcomes for those diagnosed either during pregnancy or postpartum (PABC) [HR 1.46; 95 % CI 1.17-1.82] as well as those diagnosed during pregnancy alone [HR 1.47; 95 % CI 1.04-2.08]. Those diagnosed postpartum had the poorest overall survival [HR 1.79; 95 % CI 1.39-2.29]. Similarly, patients with PABC had decreased DFS compared to controls [HR 1.51; 95 % CI 1.22-1.88]. Those diagnosed postpartum were the most at risk of disease progression or relapse [HR 1.86; 95 % CI 1.17-2.93]. 19 studies met our inclusion criteria (cases = 1829; controls = 21,907) for pregnancy following breast cancer diagnosis. Such women had a significantly reduced risk of death compared to those who did not become pregnant [pHR 0.63; 95 % CI 0.51-0.79]. A subgroup analysis to account for the "healthy mother effect" generated similar results [pHR 0.65; 95 % CI 0.52-0.81].

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy that occurs before or concurrently with a diagnosis of breast cancer is more likely to result in death and decreased disease-free survival. On the other hand, pregnancy occurring after a breast cancer diagnosis reduces the risk of death.

Diagnostic yield of alarm features in irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia

OBJECTIVE

The diagnostic value of the addition of alarm symptoms in distinguishing functional from organic gastrointestinal disease remains uncertain. We aimed to establish the value of alarm features in differentiating between organic disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD).

METHODS

A total of 568 consecutive patients (63% female; mean age 44.7 years) completed a detailed symptom questionnaire and then received a complete diagnostic workup, as required. Questionnaire data were collected prospectively and audited retrospectively; the treating physician was blinded to the results of the questionnaires. Patients were coded and allocated to the following diagnostic groups: IBS, FD, organic diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract, or organic diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract. Logistic regression was used to identify the best subset of symptoms that discriminated organic disease from functional illness. Separate models compared IBS (n = 214) with diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract (n = 66), and FD (n = 70) with diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract (n = 250).

RESULTS

Age (50 years at symptom onset: odds ratio (OR) 2.65 (95% confidence interval 1.4-5.0); p = 0.002) and blood on the toilet paper (OR 2.7 (1.4-5.1);p = 0.002) emerged as alarm features that discriminated IBS from lower gastrointestinal illness. A diagnosis of IBS was typically associated with female sex (OR2.5 (1.3-4.6); p = 0.004), pain on six or more occasions in the previous year (OR 5.0 (2.2-11.1); p<0.001), pain that radiated outside of the abdomen (OR 2.9 (1.4-6.3); p = 0.006), and pain associated with looser bowel motions (OR 2.1 (1.1-4.2); p = 0.03). A model incorporating three Manning criteria and alarm features yielded a correct diagnosis of IBS in 96% and a correct diagnosis of organic disease in 52% of cases. Alarm features did not discriminate FD from upper gastrointestinal disease. Patients with FD were significantly more likely to report upper abdominal pain (OR 3.7 (1.7-8.3); p = 0.002) and significantly less likely to report aspirin use (OR 0.26 (0.1-0.6); p = 0.001). The predictive value of symptoms in diagnosing FD was only 17%.

CONCLUSIONS

Symptoms plus alarm features have a high predictive value for diagnosing IBS but the predictive value for a diagnosis of FD remains poor. Current criteria for the diagnosis of IBS should incorporate relevant alarm features to improve the diagnostic yield.

Risk factors for prolapse recurrence: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Female pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition, with a lifetime risk for surgery of 10-20%. Prolapse procedures are known to have a high reoperation rate. It is assumed that etiological factors for POP may also be risk factors for POP recurrence after surgery. There are few reviews available evaluating risk factors for prolapse and recurrence or recently updated meta-analysis on this topic. Our aim was to perform a systematic review and quantitative meta-analysis to determine risk factors for prolapse recurrence after reconstructive surgery.

METHODS

Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar) were searched between 1995 and 1 January 2017, with no language restrictions.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies met inclusion criteria for a total of 5082 patients with an average recurrence rate of 36%. Variables on which a meta-analysis could be performed were body mass index (BMI) (n = 12), age (n = 11), preoperative stage (n = 9), levator avulsion (n = 8), parity (n = 8), constipation/straining (n = 6), number of compartments involved (n = 4), prior hysterectomy (n = 4), familiy history (n = 3), and several other predictors evaluated in only three studies. The following meta- analyses identified significant predictors: levator avulsion [odds ratio (OR) 2.76, P < 0.01], preoperative stage 3-4 (OR 2.11, P < 0.001), family history (OR 1.84, P = 0.006), and hiatal area (OR 1.06/cm2, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Levator avulsion, prolapse stage, and family history are significant risk factors for prolapse recurrence.

A systematic review of paediatric foreign body ingestion: presentation, complications, and management

BACKGROUND

Foreign body ingestion is a common problem among paediatric populations. A variety of foreign bodies are ingested, some of which are particularly harmful and life threatening such as button batteries, magnets and bones. Common household items such as small toys, marbles, batteries and erasers are often ingested. The aim of this systematic review is to study the problem of foreign body ingestion among paediatric populations in terms of commonly ingested objects, and attempt to identify the link between location of impaction, associated symptoms, complications, spontaneous passage, methods and timing of removal.

METHODS

A literature search of multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, Current Contents Connect and Medline were conducted for studies on foreign body ingestions. Based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, 17 studies were selected. A qualitative review of these studies was then performed to identify commonly ingested foreign bodies, symptoms, signs and complications of foreign body ingestion, rates of spontaneous passage and methods of retrieval of the ingested objects.

RESULTS

Coins are the most commonly ingested foreign body. A variety of gastrointestinal symptoms such vomiting and drooling as well as respiratory symptoms such as coughing and stridor are associated with foreign body ingestion. The oesophagus, in particular the upper third, is the common site of foreign body obstruction. Objects in the stomach and intestine were spontaneously passed more frequently than at any other sites in the gastrointestinal system. Complications such as bowel perforations, infection and death are more commonly associated with ingestion of objects such as batteries and sharp objects such as bones and needles. Ingested objects are most commonly removed by endoscopic means.

CONCLUSION

Foreign body ingestion is a common paediatric problem. Batteries and sharp objects should be removed immediately to avoid complications while others can be observed for spontaneous passage. Endoscopy has a high success rate in removing ingested foreign bodies.

Evidence to support the use of minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To use meta-analysis to compare oncologic outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) with open techniques (thoracoscopic and/or laparoscopic). Analysis includes the extent of lymph node (LN) clearance, number of LNs retrieved, staging, geographic variance, and mortality.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic review of the literature was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane databases (1950-2012). We evaluated all comparative studies.

STUDY SELECTION

All eligible published studies with adequate oncologic data comparing MIE with open resection for carcinoma of the esophagus or esophagogastric junction.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two investigators independently selected studies for inclusion and exclusion by article abstraction and quality assessment.

DATA SYNTHESIS

After careful review, we included 16 case-control studies with 1212 patients undergoing esophagectomy. The median (range) number of LNs found in the MIE and open groups were 16 (5.7-33.9) and 10 (3.0-32.8), respectively, with a significant difference favoring MIE (P = .04). In comparing LN retrieval in Eastern vs Western studies, we found a significant difference in Western centers favoring MIE (P < .001). No statistical significance in pathologic staging was found between the open and MIE groups. Generally, no statistically significant difference was found between the open and MIE groups for survival within each time interval (30 days and 1, 2, 3, and 5 years), although the difference favored the MIE group. In comparing survival outcomes in Eastern vs Western centers, a nonsignificant survival advantage (across all time intervals) was found for MIE in the Eastern (P = .28) and Western (P = .44) centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive esophagectomy is a viable alternative to open techniques. Meta-analytic evidence finds equivalent oncologic outcomes to conventional open esophagectomy.

Gastrointestinal symptoms and obesity: a meta-analysis

Weight loss is a recognized alarm symptom for organic gastrointestinal (GI) disease, yet the association between obesity and specific GI symptoms remains poorly described. A meta-analysis was conducted to determine which GI symptoms predominate among obese individuals. A search of the literature using the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE PubMed and Current Contents (1950 - November 2011) was conducted. All studies assessing GI symptoms and increasing body mass index (BMI)/obesity were included. English and non-English articles were searched. A random effect model of the studies was undertaken. Overall, significant associations between GI symptoms and increasing BMI were found for upper abdominal pain (odds ratio [OR] = 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23-5.72), gastroesophageal reflux (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.70-2.09), diarrhoea (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.26-1.64), chest pain/heartburn (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.49-2.04), vomiting (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.28-2.41), retching (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.01-1.74) and incomplete evacuation (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.03-1.71). However, no significant associations were found for all abdominal pain, lower abdominal pain, bloating, constipation/hard stools, fecal incontinence, nausea and anal blockage. Several key GI symptoms are associated with increasing BMI and obesity. In addition, there were a number of other GI symptoms that had no relationship with obesity. A greater knowledge of the GI symptoms associated with obesity along with the physiology will be important in the clinical management of these patients.

Epidemiology of esophageal cancer

The epidemiology of esophageal cancer has radically changed in the last fifty-years in the Western world. Changes in the predominant type of squamous cell carcinoma to adenocarcinoma, disparities between different ethnicities, and the exponential increase in incidence rates of adenocarcinoma have established esophageal cancer as a major public health problem requiring urgent attention.

Meta-analysis: coeliac disease and the risk of all-cause mortality, any malignancy and lymphoid malignancy

BACKGROUND

Coeliac disease has been associated with an increased risk of mortality and malignancy. However, the strength of this association is conflicting among different studies.

AIM

To perform a systematic review and quantitative meta-analysis to determine the risk of all-cause mortality, any malignancy and lymphoid malignancy in coeliac disease patients.

METHODS

Four electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Embase and Current Contents Connect) were searched to 4 January 2012, with no language restrictions. From 8698 citations identified, a total of 17 studies met our inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The all-cause mortality meta-analysis showed an increased risk for all-cause mortality in coeliac patients [odds ratio (OR) 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19-1.30]. A subgroup analysis showed that patients identified by positive serology alone were also at an increased risk of all-cause mortality (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.02-1.31). The non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) meta-analysis showed an increased risk for NHL in coeliac patients (OR 2.61; 95% CI 2.04-3.33). A subgroup analysis showed that patients identified by positive serology alone were also at an increased risk of NHL (OR 2.55; 95% CI 1.02-6.36). The T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (TNHL) meta-analysis showed an increased risk of TNHL (OR 15.84; 95% CI 7.85-31.94). The any malignancy meta-analysis showed no increased risk (OR 1.07; 95% CI 0.89-1.29).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with coeliac disease are at an increased risk of mortality and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma; they do not have an increased risk of any malignancy overall. Serologically defined patients with coeliac disease have an elevated risk of mortality and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Diabetes increases the risk of breast cancer: a meta-analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was to collate and analyse all primary observational studies investigating the risk of breast cancer (BC) associated with diabetes. In addition, we aimed to complete subgroup analyses by both type of diabetes and gender of study participants to further clarify the origin of any such association between the two. Studies were obtained from a database search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Current Contents Connect and Google Scholar with additional cross-checking of reference lists. Collated data were assessed for heterogeneity and a pooled odds ratio (OR) calculated. Forty-three studies were included in the meta-analysis with 40 studies investigating BC in women and six studies investigating BC in men. Overall, we found a significantly increased risk of BC associated with diabetes in women (OR 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13-1.29). After subgroup analysis by type of diabetes, the association was unchanged with type 2 diabetes (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.07-1.40) and nullified with gestational diabetes (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.79-1.40). There were insufficient studies to calculate a pooled OR of the risk of BC associated with type 1 diabetes. There was an increased risk of BC in males with diabetes mellitus; however, the results did not reach statistical significance (OR 1.29, 95% CI 0.99-1.67). In conclusion, diabetes increases the risk of BC in women. This association is confirmed in women with type 2 diabetes and supports the hypothesis that diabetes is an independent risk factor for BC.

Review article: the burden of illness of non-cardiac chest pain

BACKGROUND

Non-cardiac chest pain is a common condition affecting approximately one-quarter of the population during their lifetime, but the long-term economic costs of non-cardiac chest pain are poorly defined.

METHODS

A MEDLINE and Current Contents search was performed from 1991 to 2002 using specific keywords. All major articles on the subject of non-cardiac chest pain in this period were reviewed and their reference lists searched.

RESULTS

Limited studies suggest that the majority of those with non-cardiac chest pain do not consult a doctor regarding their symptoms; the drivers of health care seeking are not known. The impact on the quality of life in consulters can be severe, with as many as 36% reporting much lower quality of life levels. The diagnosis of non-cardiac chest pain can be difficult due to the heterogeneous nature of the condition, with significant overlap of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, chest wall syndromes and psychiatric disease, which may drive up the costs of management. The prognosis appears to be good, but there are conflicting results in long-term studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The costs of non-cardiac chest pain to the health care system are likely to be large and represent a significant proportion of each Western country's health care budget. Further studies are required to determine methods of reducing health care costs.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of survival and surgical outcomes following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for pancreatic cancer

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to characterize the surgically important benefits and complications associated with the use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for the treatment of both resectable and initially unresectable pancreatic cancer. Studies were identified through a systematic literature search and analyzed by two independent reviewers. Survival, peri-operative complications, death rate, pancreatic fistula rate, and the incidence of involved surgical margins were analyzed and subject to meta-analysis.

METHODS

Nineteen studies, involving 2,148 patients were identified. Only cohort studies were included.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis found that patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy achieved similar survival outcomes to patients with resectable disease, even though only 40% were ultimately resected. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy was not associated with a statistically significant increase in the rate of pancreatic fistula formation or total complications.

CONCLUSION

Patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy were less likely to have a positive resection margin, although there was an increase in the risk of peri-operative death.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: the relationship between chronic Salmonella typhi carrier status and gall-bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Carcinoma of the gall-bladder is the fifth commonest gastrointestinal tract cancer and is endemic in several countries. An association of chronic typhoid carriage and carcinoma of the gall-bladder has been reported.

AIM

To clarify whether chronic Salmonella typhi carrier state is associated with carcinoma of the gall-bladder.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Current Contents, Cochrane library, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Web of Science. Original data were abstracted from each study and used to calculate a pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

RESULTS

Of the articles selected, only 17 studies met full criteria for analysis. The overall OR for chronic S. typhi carrier state was 4.28(95% CI: 1.84-9.96). Most of the studies were from South Asia especially India and China. When a subgroup analysis was performed according to region, a significant association was observed in South-East Asia (OR: 4.13, 95% CI: 2.87-5.94, P value <0.01). Chronic S. typhi carrier state was associated with carcinoma of the gall-bladder based on detection methods of S. typhi antibody levels (OR: 3.52, 95% CI: 2.48-5.00, P value <0.01) and even more so on culture (OR: 4.14, 95% CI: 2.41-7.12, P value <0.01). The association was prominent in controls without gallstones (OR: 5.86, 95% CI: 3.84-8.95, P value <0.01) when compared with controls with gallstones (OR: 2.71, 95% CI: 1.92-3.83, P value <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic S. typhi carrier state is an important risk factor among patients with carcinoma of the gall-bladder. Given the high risk associated with this carrier state, management options should include either elective cholecystectomy or careful monitoring using ultrasound.

Does minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) provide for comparable oncologic outcomes to open techniques? A systematic review

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to compare minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) and open techniques with respect to oncologic outcomes through analysis of the extent of lymph node clearance, number of lymph nodes retrieved, oncologic stage, and 5-year mortality.

METHODOLOGY

A systematic review of the literature review was conducted using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane databases (1950-2011), and evaluated all comparative studies. Comparison between the open and MIE/hybrid MIE (HMIE) groups was possible with data being available for direct comparison.

RESULTS

After careful review, 17 case-control studies with 1,586 patients having an esophagectomy were included in this systematic review. The median (range) number of lymph nodes found in the MIE, open and HMIE groups were 16 (5.7-33.90), 10 (3-32.80) and 17 (17-17.15), of which there was significance between the MIE and open groups (p=0.03) but not significant between MIE versus HMIE (p=0.25). There was no statistical significance in pathologic stage between open, MIE and HMIE groups. Generally, there were good short-term (30 day) survival rates between all three groups. The open group had 5-year survival rates between 16% and 57% compared to the MIE group 12.5%-63% (p=0.33). Overall 5-year survival was found to be not significant between open group and MIE (p=0.93). MIE does not appear on statistical evidence to present any survival advantage.

CONCLUSION

The evidence of this study suggests that MIE is equivalent to standard open esophagectomy in achieving similar oncological outcomes. Further randomised controlled trials are required to provide for a higher level of evidence.