Response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in immune mediated inflammatory diseases: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The treatment for COVID-19 often utilizes immune-modulating drugs. These drugs are also used in immune mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). We performed a systematic review about seroconversion after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with IMIDs and impact of various drugs on seroconversion rates.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched to identify relevant studies reporting seroconversion rates following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in IMIDs. We calculated the pooled seroconversion rates after a single or two doses of vaccination, pooled seroconversion rates in patients with specific IMIDs, and rates in patients on various drugs/drug classes.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies were included in the systematic review. The pooled seroconversion rates after two doses of mRNA vaccination were higher (83.1, 95%CI: 74.9-89.0, I2 = 90%) as compared to a single dose (69.3, 52.4-82.3, I2 = 95%). The odds of seroconversion were lower in IMIDs as compared to healthy controls (0.05, 0.02-0.13, I2 = 21%). The seroconversion rates in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (95.2, 95%CI: 92.6-96.9, I2 = 0%), spondyloarthropathy (95.6, 95% CI: 83.4-98.9, I2 = 35%), and systemic lupus erythematosus (90.7, 95%CI: 85.4-94.2, I2 = 0%) were higher as compared to rheumatoid arthritis (79.5, 95% CI: 65.1-88.9, I2 = 85%), and vasculitis (70.5, 95% CI: 52.9-83.5, I2 = 51%). The seroconversion rates following double dose of mRNA were excellent (>90%) in those on anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF), anti-integrin (vedolizumab), anti-IL 17 (secukinumab), anti-IL6 (Tocilizumab) and anti-IL12/23 (Ustekinumab) therapies but attenuated (<70%) in patients on anti-CD20 (Rituximab) or anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen (CTLA-4) therapies (Abatacept). The seroconversion rates were good (70-90%) with steroids, hydroxychloroquine, JAK inhibitors, mycophenolate mofetil and leflunomide. Combination of anti-TNF with immunomodulators (azathioprine, 6-meracptopurine, methotrexate) resulted in an attenuated vaccine response as compared to anti-TNF monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Seroconversion rates after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination are lower in patients with IMIDs. Certain therapies (anti-TNF, anti-integrin, anti-IL 17, anti-IL6, anti-12/23) do not impact seroconversion rates while others (anti-CD20, anti-CTLA-4) result in poorer responses.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the liver: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Liver function derangements have been reported in coronavirus disease (COVID-19), but reported rates are variable.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase with terms COVID and SARS-COV-2 from December 1, 2019 till April 5, 2020. We estimated overall prevalence, stratified prevalence based on severity, estimated risk ratio (RR), and estimated standardized mean difference (SMD) of liver function parameters in severe as compared to non-severe COVID. Random effect method utilizing inverse variance approach was used for pooling the data.

RESULTS

In all, 128 studies were included. The most frequent abnormalities were hypoalbuminemia [61.27% (48.24-72.87)], elevations of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) [27.94% (18.22-40.27)], alanine aminotransferase (ALT) [23.28% (19.92-27.01)], and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) [23.41% (18.84-28.70)]. Furthermore, the relative risk of these abnormalities was higher in the patients with severe COVID-19 when compared to non-severe disease [Hypoalbuminemia-2.65 (1.38-5.07); GGT-2.31 (1.6-3.33); ALT-1.76 (1.44-2.15); AST-2.30 (1.82-2.90)]. The SMD of hypoalbuminemia, GGT, ALT, and AST elevation in severe as compared to non-severe were - 1.05 (- 1.27 to - 0.83), 0.76 (0.40-1.12), 0.42 (0.27-0.56), and 0.69 (0.52-0.86), respectively. The pooled prevalence and RR of chronic liver disease as a comorbidity was 2.64% (1.73-4) and 1.69 (1.05-2.73) respectively.

CONCLUSION

The most frequent abnormality in liver functions was hypoalbuminemia followed by derangements in gamma-glutamyl transferase and aminotransferases, and these abnormalities were more frequent in severe disease. The systematic review was, however, limited by heterogeneity in definitions of severity and liver function derangements. Graphical depiction of the summary of meta-analytic findings a) pooled prevalence of abnormalities b) Risk ratio of abnormality in severe versus non-severe COVID-19 c) standardized mean difference (SMD) between severe and non-severe group and d) pooled prevalence for parameters based on severity stratification for bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), albumin, globulin and acute hepatic injury (AHI) . Also estimates for overall/total liver disease (TLD) and chronic liver disease (CLD) amongst COVID-19 patients are depicted in a, b, d. For d) In addition to severity stratification, Overall (all studies for a particular estimate) and combined (only those studies which reported severity) estimates are provided.

Abbreviated MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma screening: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Biannual ultrasound has poor sensitivity for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening. MRI is accurate for the detection of HCC, but a complete MRI is not feasible as a screening tool. Abbreviated MRI (AMRI) is an acceptable alternative. The diagnostic performance of different AMRI protocols is not known. We performed a systematic review to determine the diagnostic accuracy of AMRI for HCC screening.

METHODS

We searched the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of AMRI for HCC screening. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of different AMRI protocols were calculated based on a random intercept logistic regression model. The diagnostic performance of AMRI was compared with ultrasound. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool.

RESULTS

Of the 11,327 studies screened by titles, 15 studies (3 prospective and 12 retrospective: 2,807 patients, 917 with HCC) were included in the final analysis. The pooled per-patient sensitivity and specificity were 86% (95% CI 84-88%, I2 0%) and 94% (95% CI 91-96%, I2 83%), respectively. Pooled per-lesion sensitivity was 77% (95% CI 74-81%, I2 8%). There was no influence of study type, screening setting, reference standard, and presence and etiology of cirrhosis on the performance of AMRI. The sensitivity of AMRI for detection of HCC <2 cm was lower than that for HCC ≥2 cm (69% vs. 86%). The sensitivity and specificity of non-contrast AMRI were comparable to contrast-enhanced AMRI (86% and 94% vs. 87% and 94%, respectively). The diagnostic performance of different non-contrast AMRI and contrast-enhanced AMRI protocols was comparable. The sensitivity of ultrasound was lower than AMRI (53% vs. 82%).

CONCLUSIONS

AMRI has high sensitivity and specificity for HCC screening. Different AMRI protocols have comparable diagnostic performance.

LAY SUMMARY

Abbreviated MRI (AMRI) has been suggested as an alternative to ultrasound and complete MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening. Our study results showed that AMRI has a high per-patient and per-lesion sensitivity for HCC. Although the sensitivity of AMRI for detection of HCC <2 cm is considerably lower than for HCC ≥2 cm, it is substantially higher than ultrasound, making it a potential alternative for HCC screening in high-risk populations.

Risk and outcomes of coronavirus disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and clinical outcomes of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in inflammatory bowel disease are unclear.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase with the keywords: inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and COVID-19, novel coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2. We included studies reporting the frequency of COVID-19 infection and outcomes (hospitalisation, need for intensive care unit care and mortality) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. We estimated the pooled incidence of COVID-19 in inflammatory bowel disease and comparative risk vis-a-vis the general population. We also estimated the pooled frequency of outcomes and compared them in patients who received and did not receive drugs for inflammatory bowel disease.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies were included. The pooled incidence rate of COVID-19 per 1000 patients of inflammatory bowel disease and the general population were 4.02 (95% confidence interval [CI, 1.44-11.17]) and 6.59 [3.25-13.35], respectively, with no increase in relative risk (0.47, 0.18-1.26) in inflammatory bowel disease. The relative risk of the acquisition of COVID-19 was not different between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (1.03, 0.62-1.71). The pooled proportion of COVID-19-positive inflammatory bowel disease patients requiring hospitalisation and intensive care unit care was 27.29% and 5.33% while pooled mortality was 4.27%. The risk of adverse outcomes was higher in ulcerative colitis compared to Crohn's disease. The relative risks of hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission and mortality were lower for patients on biological agents (0.34, 0.19-0.61; 0.49, 0.33-0.72 and 0.22, 0.13-0.38, respectively) but higher with steroids (1.99, 1.64-2.40; 3.41, 2.28-5.11 and 2.70, 1.61-4.55) or 5-aminosalicylate (1.59, 1.39-1.82; 2.38, 1.26-4.48 and 2.62, 1.67-4.11) use.

CONCLUSION

SARS-CoV-2 infection risk in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is comparable to the general population. Outcomes of COVID-19-positive inflammatory bowel disease patients are worse in ulcerative colitis, those on steroids or 5-aminosalicylates but outcomes are better with biological agents.

Small bowel bleeding: a comprehensive review

The small intestine is an uncommon site of gastro-intestinal (GI) bleeding; however it is the commonest cause of obscure GI bleeding. It may require multiple blood transfusions, diagnostic procedures and repeated hospitalizations. Angiodysplasia is the commonest cause of obscure GI bleeding, particularly in the elderly. Inflammatory lesions and tumours are the usual causes of small intestinal bleeding in younger patients. Capsule endoscopy and deep enteroscopy have improved our ability to investigate small bowel bleeds. Deep enteroscopy has also an added advantage of therapeutic potential. Computed tomography is helpful in identifying extra-intestinal lesions. In cases of difficult diagnosis, surgery and intra-operative enteroscopy can help with diagnosis and management. The treatment is dependent upon the aetiology of the bleed. An overt bleed requires aggressive resuscitation and immediate localisation of the lesion for institution of appropriate therapy. Small bowel bleeding can be managed by conservative, radiological, pharmacological, endoscopic and surgical methods, depending upon indications, expertise and availability. Some patients, especially those with multiple vascular lesions, can re-bleed even after appropriate treatment and pose difficult challenge to the treating physician.

Effectiveness and Durability of COVID-19 Vaccination in 9447 Patients With IBD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The serological responses after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination may be attenuated in immunocompromised individuals. The study aimed to systematically evaluate the seroconversion rates after complete vaccination for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched to identify studies reporting response to COVID-19 vaccination in IBD. Pooled seroconversion rates after complete vaccination were calculated. Subgroup analysis for vaccine types was also performed. Pooled seroconversion rates for various drugs or classes were also estimated. The pooled rates of breakthrough infections in vaccinated IBD patients were estimated. The pooled neutralization rates after complete vaccination were also estimated. The studies reporting durability of titers were systematically assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 46 studies were included. The pooled seroconversion rate for complete vaccination (31 studies, 9447 patients) was 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-0.97; I2 = 90%). When compared with healthy control subjects, the pooled relative risk of seroconversion was lower (0.98; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99; I2 = 39%). The pooled seroconversion rates were statistically similar among various drug classes. The pooled positivity of neutralization assays (8 studies, 771 participants) was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.70-0.87; I2 = 82%). The pooled relative risk of breakthrough infections in vaccinated IBD patients was similar to vaccinated control subjects (0.60; 95% CI, 0.25-1.42; I2 = 79%). Most studies suggested that titers fall after 4 weeks of COVID-19 vaccination, and the decay was higher in patients on anti-tumor necrosis factor alone or combination with immunomodulators. An additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine elicited serological response in most nonresponders to complete vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete COVID-19 vaccination is associated with seroconversion in most patients with IBD. The decay in titers over time necessitates consideration of additional doses in these patients.

Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase 2 in Adults and Children: Experience From India

OBJECTIVE

Deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2) is a potentially fatal monogenic syndrome characterized by variable manifestations of systemic vasculitis, bone marrow failure, and immunodeficiency. Most cases are diagnosed by pediatric care providers, given the typical early age of disease onset. This study was undertaken to describe the clinical phenotypes and treatment response both in adults and in children with DADA2 in India.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of pediatric and adult patients with DADA2 diagnosed at various rheumatology centers across India was conducted. Clinical characteristics, diagnostic findings, and treatment responses were analyzed in all subjects.

RESULTS

In total, 33 cases of DADA2 were confirmed in this cohort between April 2017 and March 2020. Unlike previous studies, nearly one-half of the confirmed cases presented during adulthood. All symptomatic patients exhibited features of vasculitis, whereas constitutional symptoms and anemia were more common in pediatric patients. Cutaneous and neurologic involvement were common, and 18 subjects had experienced at least one stroke. In addition, the clinical spectrum of DADA2 was expanded by recognition of novel features in these patients, including pancreatic infarction, focal myocarditis, and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) was initiated in 25 patients. All of the identified disease manifestations showed marked improvement after initiation of TNFi, and disease remission was achieved in 19 patients. Two cases were complicated by tuberculosis infection, and 2 deaths were reported.

CONCLUSION

This report presents the first case series of patients with DADA2 from India, diagnosed by adult and pediatric care providers. The findings raise awareness of this syndrome, particularly with regard to its presentation in adults.

Pancreatic tuberculosis

Pancreatic tuberculosis is very rare, but recently, there has been a spurt in the number of reports on pancreatic involvement by tuberculosis. It closely mimics pancreatic cancer, and before the advent of better imaging modalities it was often detected as a histological surprise in patients resected for a presumed pancreatic malignancy. The usual presentation involves abdominal pain, loss of appetite and weight, jaundice which can be associated with cholestasis, fever and night sweats, palpable abdominal lump, and peripheral lymphadenopathy. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen is an important tool for evaluation of patients with pancreatic tuberculosis. This CT imaging yields valuable information about the size and nature of tubercular lesions along with the presence of ascites and lymphadenopathy. However, there are no distinctive features on CT that distinguish it from pancreatic carcinoma. Endoscopic ultrasound provides high resolution images of the pancreatic lesions as well as an opportunity to sample these lesions for cytological confirmation. The presence of granulomas is the most common finding on histological/cytological examination with the presence of acid fast bacilli being observed only in minority of patients. As there are no randomized or comparative studies on treatment of pancreatic tuberculosis it is usually treated like other forms of tuberculosis. Excellent cure rates are reported with standard anti tubercular therapy given for 6-12 months.

Serial C-reactive protein measurements in patients treated for suspected abdominal tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

Response to treatment is often used as a criterion for the diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis.

AIM

To determine utility of serum C reactive protein (CRP) in assessment of response to anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) in abdominal tuberculosis (ATB).

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the database of patients with suspected ATB (intestinal and/or peritoneal). Response to ATT was assessed using subjective and objective (ulcer healing or ascites resolution) parameters. Serum CRP levels were estimated at baseline and then at 2 months and 6 months of ATT.

RESULTS

One hundred and twelve patients were included in the analysis. The mean age was 36.57 ± 15.04 years and 54.46% (61/112) were males. Sixty-six patients (58.92%) had intestinal, 28 (25%) had peritoneal and 18 (16.07%) had both. Eleven patients had a normal CRP at baseline while 101 had elevated levels. The CRP levels declined in 94 patients at 6 months. One patient with increased levels at 2 months had multi-drug resistant TB. Seven patients showed elevated or plateaued CRP levels on follow-up. These patients had underlying Crohn's disease (3 patients), peritoneal carcinomatosis (1), inter-current infection (1), lymphoma (1) and non-healing ulcers (1).

CONCLUSION

Lack of decline in CRP may suggest alternative diagnosis or drug-resistant tuberculosis.

Probiotics and liver disease

Intestinal microbiota play an important role in health and disease. The gut-liver axis provides for an interaction between bacterial components like lipopolysaccharide and hepatic receptors (Toll-like receptors). Dysbiosis and altered intestinal permeability may modulate this interaction and therefore result in hepatic disorders or worsening of hepatic disorders. Administration of health-promoting microbial strains may help ameliorate these harmful interactions and hepatic disorders. This review focuses on changes in gut microbiota in the context of liver disease and possible roles of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics in liver disease.

Letter: mucosal response in discriminating intestinal tuberculosis from Crohn's disease-when to look for it?

This article is linked to Partap Mouli et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13840 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14535.

Cytokine profile in prediction of acute lung injury in patients with acute pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

To study the role of cytokines in prediction of acute lung injury (ALI) in acute pancreatitis.

METHODS

Levels of TNFα, IL-6, IL-10, IL-8 and IL-1β were measured in 107 patients at presentation and at 72 h in patients who developed acute lung injury. A model was devised to predict development of ALI using cytokine levels and SIRS score.

RESULTS

The levels of TNF α (p < 0.0001), IL-6 (p < 0.0001), IL-8 (p < 0.0001) and IL-1β (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in the ALI group. IL-10 levels were significantly lower in persistent ALI (p-ALI) than in transient ALI (t-ALI) patients (p < 0.038). p-ALI group had significant rise of TNFα (p = 0.019) and IL-1β (p = 0.001) while t-ALI group had significant rise of only IL-1β (p = 0.044) on day 3 vs day 1. Combined values of IL-6 and IL-8 above 251 pg/ml had sensitivity of 90.9% and a specificity of 100% to predict future development of ALI. Composite marker-I (IL6 ≥ 80 pg/ml + SIRS) yielded sensitivity and specificity of 73% and 98% whereas composite marker-II (IL8 ≥ 100 pg/ml + SIRS) yielded sensitivity and specificity of 73% and 95% to predict future ALI.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-6 and IL-8 can predict future development of ALI. When they are combined with SIRS, they can be used as comprehensive composite markers.

Common and uncommon imaging features of abdominal tuberculosis

Despite the advances in the medical care, tuberculosis (TB) still remains an important health problem. This is particularly relevant to the developing countries as well as the immunocompromised population in the developed world. Multidrug resistance poses another challenge and may be responsible for increasing incidence of TB, to some extent. The respiratory system is the most commonly involved, although any organ system may be affected. Abdominal involvement occurs in 11-12% of the patients with extrapulmonary TB. The clinical features of abdominal TB are nonspecific. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of abdominal TB. Although a few imaging features strongly favour the possibility of TB, abdominal TB is a greater masquerader. In this review, we highlight the entire spectrum of the manifestations of abdominal tuberculosis (excluding the genitourinary involvement) with an emphasis on imaging findings.

Gallbladder reporting and data system (GB-RADS) for risk stratification of gallbladder wall thickening on ultrasonography: an international expert consensus

The Gallbladder Reporting and Data System (GB-RADS) ultrasound (US) risk stratification is proposed to improve consistency in US interpretations, reporting, and assessment of risk of malignancy in gallbladder wall thickening in non-acute setting. It was developed based on a systematic review of the literature and the consensus of an international multidisciplinary committee comprising expert radiologists, gastroenterologists, gastrointestinal surgeons, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and pathologists using modified Delphi method. For risk stratification, the GB-RADS system recommends six categories (GB-RADS 0-5) of gallbladder wall thickening with gradually increasing risk of malignancy. GB-RADS is based on gallbladder wall features on US including symmetry and extent (focal vs. circumferential) of involvement, layered appearance, intramural features (including intramural cysts and echogenic foci), and interface with the liver. GB-RADS represents the first collaborative effort at risk stratifying the gallbladder wall thickening. This concept is in line with the other US-based risk stratification systems which have been shown to increase the accuracy of detection of malignant lesions and improve management.

Gastrointestinal manifestations of long COVID: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 are an important concern due to the large numbers affected by the pandemic.

OBJECTIVES

To ascertain the frequency of gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations as part of long GI COVID.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting GI manifestations in long COVID was performed.

DATA SOURCES AND METHODS

Electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science) were searched till 21 December 2021 to identify studies reporting frequency of GI symptoms in long COVID. We included studies reporting overall GI manifestations or individual GI symptoms as part of long COVID. We excluded pediatric studies and those not providing relevant information. We calculated the pooled frequency of various symptoms in all patients with COVID-19 and also in those with long COVID using the inverse variance approach. All analysis was done using R version 4.1.1 using packages 'meta' and 'metafor'.

RESULTS

A total of 50 studies were included. The frequencies of GI symptoms were 0.12 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.06-0.22, I 2 = 99%] and 0.22 (95% CI, 0.10-0.41, I 2 = 97%) in patients with COVID-19 and those with long COVID, respectively. The frequencies of abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, and loss of taste were 0.14 (95% CI, 0.04-0.38, I 2 = 96%), 0.06 (95% CI, 0.03-0.11, I 2 = 98%), 0.20 (95% CI, 0.08-0.43, I 2 = 98%), and 0.17 (95% CI, 0.10-0.27, I 2 = 95%), respectively, after COVID-19. The frequencies of diarrhea, dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome were 0.10 (95% CI, 0.04-0.23, I 2 = 98%), 0.20 (95% CI, 0.06-0.50, I 2 = 97%), and 0.17 (95% CI, 0.06-0.37, I 2 = 96%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

GI symptoms in patients were seen in 12% after COVID-19 and 22% as part of long COVID. Loss of appetite, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, loss of taste, and abdominal pain were the five most common GI symptoms of long COVID. Significant heterogeneity and small number of studies for some of the analyses are limitations of the systematic review.

Imaging-based algorithmic approach to gallbladder wall thickening

Gallbladder (GB) wall thickening is a frequent finding caused by a spectrum of conditions. It is observed in many extracholecystic as well as intrinsic GB conditions. GB wall thickening can either be diffuse or focal. Diffuse wall thickening is a secondary occurrence in both extrinsic and intrinsic pathologies of GB, whereas, focal wall thickening is mostly associated with intrinsic GB pathologies. In the absence of specific clinical features, accurate etiological diagnosis can be challenging. The survival rate in GB carcinoma (GBC) can be improved if it is diagnosed at an early stage, especially when the tumor is confined to the wall. The pattern of wall thickening in GBC is often confused with benign diseases, especially chronic cholecystitis, xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis, and adenomyomatosis. Early recognition and differentiation of these conditions can improve the prognosis. In this minireview, the authors describe the patterns of abnormalities on various imaging modalities (conventional as well as advanced) for the diagnosis of GB wall thickening. This paper also illustrates an algorithmic approach for the etiological diagnosis of GB wall thickening and suggests a formatted reporting for GB wall abnormalities.

Endoscopic ultrasound guided transmural drainage of walled off pancreatic necrosis using a "step - up" approach: A single centre experience

BACKGROUND

Walled off necrosis (WON) can be treated endoscopically using multiple transmural plastic stents or fully covered self-expandable metallic stent (FCSEMS) and direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN). We evaluated the efficacy of "step-up" endoscopic transmural approach for treatment of WON.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data of 86 patients with WON who were treated with attempted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided "step up" transmural drainage during last 5 years was done. Initially multiple plastic stents were placed and patients not responding underwent FCSEMS placement and/or DEN.

RESULTS

Patients presented 10.8 ± 2.8 weeks after an acute attack of acute pancreatitis and mean size of WON was 10.7 ± 2.9 cm. EUS guided transmural drainage was technically successful in 85/86 (98.8%) patients and 70 (82.4%) were drained with multiple 7/10Fr plastic stents alone while DEN was needed in 9 (10.6%) and FCSEMS was inserted in 6 (7%) patients. All patients had successful outcome with none requiring surgery. The patients who needed DEN/FCSEMS presented earlier and had large size collection with more solid necrotic debris as compared to patients treated with multiple plastic stents alone. The complications were pneumoperitoneum (n = 1), bile leak following cholecystecomy (n = 1), development of external pancreatic fistula following percutaneous drainage (n = 1) and gastrointestinal bleed (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

"Step up" endoscopic transmural drainage using multiple plastic stents as an initial therapy is safe and effective treatment of WON and avoids more aggressive DEN in majority of patients. Large size WON with more necrotic debris may require DEN.

Site and size of extrapancreatic necrosis are associated with clinical outcomes in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

The site and size of extrapancreatic necrosis (EPN) as assessed on computed tomography may influence the severity of acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP). The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of site and size of EPN on the clinical outcomes in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP).

METHOD AND MATERIALS

This retrospective study comprised of consecutive patients with ANP who were admitted between January 2017 and March 2019. Patients in whom the initial contrast enhanced CT showed EPN were eligible for inclusion. The site, volume and maximum dimension of EPN were recorded. The severity of AP and modified CT severity index (MCTSI) was calculated. Clinical outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 119 patients (mean age, 37.56 years, 91 males) were included. There was a significant association between the location of EPN and the outcome parameters. The left posterior pararenal collections were significantly associated with mortality (P = 0.041), left paracolic gutter collections with the length of hospitalisation (LOH) (P = 0.014), and right paracolic gutter and mesenteric collections with the intensive care unit (ICU) stay (P = 0.024, and P = 0.021, respectively). There was a significant correlation between the volume and the maximum dimension of collection with LOH and ICU stay. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for volume, maximum dimension and MCTSI for predicting death was 0.724 (95% CI, 0.612-0.837), 0.644 (95% CI, 0.516-0.772) and 0.574 (95% CI, 0.452-0.696), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The site and size of EPN provide reliable and objective information for assessing clinical outcomes in patients with ANP.

Accuracy of computed tomographic features in differentiating intestinal tuberculosis from Crohn's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) can noninvasively image the entire gastrointestinal tract and assess extraintestinal features that are important in differentiating Crohn's disease (CD) and intestinal tuberculosis (ITB). The present meta-analysis pooled the results of all studies on the role of CT abdomen in differentiating between CD and ITB. We searched PubMed and Embase for all publications in English that analyzed the features differentiating between CD and ITB on abdominal CT. The features included comb sign, necrotic lymph nodes, asymmetric bowel wall thickening, skip lesions, fibrofatty proliferation, mural stratification, ileocaecal area, long segment, and left colonic involvements. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated for all the features. Symmetric receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted for features present in >3 studies. Heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed and sensitivity analysis was performed by excluding studies that compared features on conventional abdominal CT instead of CT enterography (CTE). We included 6 studies (4 CTE, 1 conventional abdominal CT, and 1 CTE+conventional abdominal CT) involving 417 and 195 patients with CD and ITB, respectively. Necrotic lymph nodes had the highest diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity, 23%; specificity, 100%; DOR, 30.2) for ITB diagnosis, and comb sign (sensitivity, 82%; specificity, 81%; DOR, 21.5) followed by skip lesions (sensitivity, 86%; specificity, 74%; DOR, 16.5) had the highest diagnostic accuracy for CD diagnosis. On sensitivity analysis, the diagnostic accuracy of other features excluding asymmetric bowel wall thickening remained similar. Necrotic lymph nodes and comb sign on abdominal CT had the best diagnostic accuracy in differentiating CD and ITB.

Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage in patients at higher risk for adverse events: experience from a tertiary care referral center

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in endoscopic drainage procedures, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) remains an essential interventional radiology (IR) procedure. Several factors may adversely affect the success of PTBD. We report the experience of our IR unit with PTBD in patients considered at higher risk for adverse events.

MATERIAL

Consecutive PTBDs performed between November 2017 and April 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients at increased risk for adverse events from PTBD, defined by one or more of the following factors: non-dilated system, moderate amount of perihepatic fluid, coagulopathy, altered sensorium, and PTBD performed at bedside, were identified. Technical success, complications, and outcome at 3 months were recorded.

RESULTS

During the study period, PTBDs were performed in 90 patients. PTBDs in 57 (63.3%) patients (mean age 47.6 years, 35 females) were identified as predisposing to higher risk for adverse events. Left and right PTBD were performed in 37 (64.9%) and 15 (26.3%) patients, respectively. Bilateral PTBDs were performed in three (5.2%) patients. In two (3.5%) cases, biliary access was obtained via percutaneous cholecystostomy. Overall technical success of 91.2% (n = 52) was achieved. Carcinoma gallbladder was the most common underlying cause. Non-dilated ductal system was the most common condition deemed to predispose to higher risk for adverse events (n = 32, 56.1%), followed by perihepatic fluid (n = 9, 15.8%), and deranged coagulation parameters (n = 9, 15.8%). PTBD was performed at bedside in intensive care unit in 5 (8.8%) patients. Two (3.5%) patients had altered sensorium. Major complications in the form of biliary peritonitis were observed in three (5.2%) patients. No procedure-related mortality was observed.

CONCLUSION

PTBD can be effectively and safely performed even in situations deemed to predispose patients to increased risk for adverse events. Thus, the mere presence of these conditions should not cause a denial of PTBD.

Review article: latent tuberculosis in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases receiving immunosuppression-risks, screening, diagnosis and management

BACKGROUND

One quarter of the world's population has latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Systemic immunosuppression is a risk factor for LTBI reactivation and the development of active tuberculosis. Such reactivation carries a risk of significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the increasing global incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the use of immune-based therapies, current guidelines on the testing and treatment of LTBI in patients with IBD are haphazard with a paucity of evidence.

AIM

To review the screening, diagnostic practices and medical management of LTBI in patients with IBD.

METHODS

Published literature was reviewed, and recommendations for testing and treatment were synthesised by experts in both infectious diseases and IBD.

RESULTS

Screening for LTBI should be performed proactively and includes assessment of risk factors, an interferon-gamma releasing assay or tuberculin skin test and chest X-ray. LTBI treatment in patients with IBD is scenario-dependent, related to geographical endemicity, travel and other factors. Ideally, LTBI therapy should be used prior to immune suppression but can be applied concurrently where urgent IBD medical treatment is required. Management is best directed by a multidisciplinary team involving gastroenterologists, infectious diseases specialists and pharmacists. Ongoing surveillance is recommended during therapy. Newer LTBI therapies show promise, but medication interactions need to be considered. There are major gaps in evidence, particularly with specific newer therapeutic approaches to IBD.

CONCLUSIONS

Proactive screening for LTBI is essential in patients with IBD undergoing immune-suppressing therapy and several therapeutic strategies are available. Reporting of real-world experience is essential to refining current management recommendations.

Prevalence of coeliac disease in healthy blood donors: a study from north India

BACKGROUND

Blood donor screening can help predict prevalence of coeliac disease in population.

METHODS

Between December 2010 and June 2011, healthy blood donors were screened using anti-tissue glutaminase antibodies. Those positive underwent duodenoscopy. Their age, gender, body mass index and haemoglobin and histological changes were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 1610 blood donors screened, 1581 (98.2%) were males. The mean age of donors was 31.51 ± 9.66 years and the mean body mass index was 22.12 ± 4.24 kg/m(2). Nine (0.56%) men were seropositive. Endoscopic features included reduced fold height (9), scalloping (8), grooving (7) and mosaic mucosal pattern (3). Eight had Marsh IIIa changes whilst one had IIIb change. The prevalence of coeliac disease was 1:179 (0.56%, 95% confidence interval 1/366-1/91, 0.27-1.1%). None of the 9 patients had any symptoms. Their mean haemoglobin and body-mass index was similar to rest of the cohort.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of coeliac disease amongst apparently healthy blood donors was 1:179 (0.56%).

Efficacy of endovascular embolization of arterial pseudoaneurysms in pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is a significant variability in the reported outcomes following endovascular embolization of arterial pseudoaneurysms in pancreatitis. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of endovascular embolization of pancreatitis-related pseudoaneurysms.

METHODS

Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were performed through July 1, 2019 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. All studies with ≥10 patients reporting technical success, clinical success, complications, and mortality were included. Generalized linear mixed method with random effects model was used for assessing pooled incidence rates and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies (n = 840 with 638 pseudoaneurysms) were included. The pooled incidence rates of pseudoaneurysms in acute and chronic pancreatitis were 0.05% and 0.03%, respectively (odds ratio, 0.91, 95% CI-0.24-3.43). The most common site of pseudoaneurysm was splenic artery (37.7%). The most common embolization agent was coil (n = 415). The follow up period was 54.7 months (range, 21 days to 40.5 months). Pooled technical success rate was 97% (95% CI-92-99%, I2 83%). Clinical success rates at ≤3 months, 3-12 months, and >12 months were 82% (95% CI-70-90%, I2 42%), 86% (95% CI-75-92%, I2 44%), and 88% (95% CI-83-91%, I2 0%), respectively. There was no significant difference in the technical or clinical success between acute and chronic pancreatitis on subgroup analysis. Mortality was lower in chronic pancreatitis (OR 4.27 (95% CI 1.35-13.53, I2 0%)). Splenic infarction was the most common complication (n = 47).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular embolization is associated with a high technical and clinical success.

Role of conservative management in tubercular abdominal cocoon: a case series

BACKGROUND

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (Abdominal cocoon) is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction and tuberculosis is an important etiology. Appropriate management of this entity is still uncertain.

METHODS

We did a retrospective analysis of patients with abdominal cocoon who were seen over a two year period at a tertiary care center in North India. We included patients with tubercular abdominal cocoon (TAC) who were managed primarily with antitubercular therapy in the present report. The diagnosis of TAC was made using combination of criteria (radiological or surgical findings of cocoon with evidence of tuberculosis in form of microbiological, histological or biochemical evidence). The clinical presentation, outcome and need for surgery for these patients were retrieved from the records of these cases maintained in a database.

RESULTS

Of 18 patients with abdominal cocoon, 15 patients had underlying tuberculosis. The median age was 28 years (interquartile range 24) and 12 (80%) were males. Three patients had confirmed tuberculosis on basis of microbiological evidence. All had abdominal pain for 1-9 months, and 11 had intestinal obstruction. Twelve patients had positive Mantoux test, none had HIV. Pulmonary tuberculosis was noted in four patients, pleural in five, splenic and intestinal in two each, hepatic and mediastinal lymph-nodal in one each. Thirteen patients were started on usual 4-drug anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) while two cirrhotics needed modified ATT. Three patients were on steroids with ATT and all three improved. One patient was lost to follow up. Of the rest 14 patients, 2 underwent surgery, 1 at initial presentation while another after 4 months of ATT. Overall five patients developed intestinal obstruction while on ATT, one needed surgery and one died of liver failure while others improved with conservative means.

CONCLUSION

TAC can be managed conservatively in a subset of patients.

Evaluation of gallbladder wall thickening: a multimodality imaging approach

INTRODUCTION

Gallbladder (GB) wall thickening is a relatively common finding on imaging. While there are clear recommendations for the management of gallstones, GB wall thickening presents a significant challenge. Despite advances in radiological as well as endoscopic techniques, the ability to characterize GB wall thickening is still limited.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the currently available literature on various imaging investigations to characterize GB wall thickening. This review also summarizes the differences between benign and malignant GB wall thickening based on available imaging modalities. Transabdominal ultrasonography is the first-line investigation for evaluation of GB wall thickening. However, further characterization requires additional imaging tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the use of gadolinium and diffusion-weighted sequence is the preferred modality for GB wall characterization.

EXPERT OPINION

The accurate characterization of GB wall thickening is a challenging task. The available imaging criteria allow differentiation of benign and malignant GB wall thickening with moderate accuracy. The advanced imaging techniques, including contrast enhanced ultrasound, contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasound, and shear wave elastography, continue to evolve. There is a need for a well-designed reporting system for GB wall thickening to ensure uniformity of reporting of imaging tests, especially in regions with a high prevalence of GB cancer.