A population study on the prevalence of gallstone disease: the Sirmione Study

Frequency of cholecystectomy and associated sociodemographic and clinical risk factors in the ELSA-Brasil study

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

There are few data in the literature on the frequency of cholecystectomy in Brazil. The frequency of cholecystectomy and associated risk factors were evaluated in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil).

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study using baseline data on 5061 participants in São Paulo.

METHODS

The frequency of cholecystectomy and associated risk factors were evaluated over the first two years of follow-up of the study and over the course of life. A multivariate regression analysis was presented: odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

RESULTS

A total of 4716 individuals (93.2%) with information about cholecystectomy were included. After two years of follow-up, 56 had undergone surgery (1.2%: 1.7% of the women; 0.6% of the men). A total of 188 participants underwent cholecystectomy during their lifetime. The risk factors associated with surgery after the two-year follow-up period were female sex (OR, 2.85; 95% CI, 1.53-5.32), indigenous ethnicity (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 2.28-15.85) and body mass index (BMI) (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.19 per 1 kg/m2 increase). The risk factors associated over the lifetime were age (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.02-1.05 per one year increase), diabetes (OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.34-2.76) and previous bariatric surgery (OR, 5.37; 95% CI, 1.53-18.82). No association was found with parity or fertile age.

CONCLUSION

Female sex and high BMI remained as associated risk factors while parity and fertile age lost significance. New factors such as bariatric surgery and indigenous ethnicity have gained importance in this country.

Risk Factors for Gallstone Formation in Resected Gastric Cancer Patients

Previous studies reported increased incidence of gallstone formation after gastrectomy. However, there were few reports about factors other than surgical technique. The purpose of this study is to investigate the spectrum of risk factors of gallstone formation after gastrectomy. From June 2003 to December 2008, 1480 patients who underwent gastrectomy due to gastric cancer but had no gallstones before surgery were identified. Electronic medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Gallstones were assessed by computerized tomography or ultrasound performed as surveillance for recurrence. There were 987 men (66.7%) and the median age was 59.0 years. The median follow-up period was 47.0 months. According to the surgical technique, 754 (50.9%), 459 (31.1%), and 267 (18.0%) underwent subtotal gastrectomy with Billroth I (STG B-I) and Billroth II (STG B-II) anastomosis, and total gastrectomy (TG). Within the follow-up period, gallstone formation occurred in 106 of 1480 patients (7.2%), the only 9 patients (0.6%) experienced symptomatic cholecystitis. By multivariate Cox regression analysis, age (HR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04), male (1.65, 1.02-2.67), diabetes mellitus (2.15, 1.43-3.24), ≥4% decrease of body mass index after surgery (1.66, 1.02-2.70), STG B-II (1.63, 1.03-2.57), and TG (2.35, 1.43-3.24) compared with STG B-I were associated with gallstone formation. Common bile duct stone formation occurred in 20 of 1480 patients (1.4%) and was only associated with gallstones. After gastrectomy, there were considerable numbers of patients with newly developed gallstones; however, prophylactic cholecystectomy should not be routinely recommended. Gastrectomy (STG B-II or TG), old age, male sex, diabetes mellitus, and decreased body mass index were associated with gallstones.

Ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A single center experience

AIM

To evaluate the demographic and clinical parameters affecting the outcomes of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ALC) in terms of pain, nausea, anxiety level, and satisfaction of patients in a tertiary health center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ALC was offered to 60 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Follow-up (questioning for postoperative pain or discomfort, nausea or vomiting, overall satisfaction) was done by telephone contact on the same day at 22:00 p.m. and the first day after surgery at 8: 00 a.m. and by clinical examination one week after operation. STAI I and II data were used for proceeding to the level of anxiety of patients before and/or after the operation.

RESULTS

Sixty consecutive patients, with a mean age of 40.6 ± 8.1 years underwent ALC. Fifty-five (92%) patients could be sent to their homes on the same day but five patients could not be sent due to anxiety, pain, or social indications. Nausea was reported in four (6.7%) cases and not associated with any demographic or clinical features of patients. On the other hand, pain has been reported in 28 (46.7%) cases, and obesity and shorter duration of gallbladder disease were associated with the increased pain perception (P = 0.009 and 0.004, respectively). Preopereative anxiety level was significantly higher among patients who could not complete the ALC procedure (P = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

Correct management of these possible adverse effects results in the increased satisfaction of patients and may encourage this more cost-effective and safe method of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Management of gallstones and its related complications

The majority of gallstone patients remain asymptomatic; however, interest toward the gallstone disease is continuing because of the high worldwide prevalence and management costs and the development of gallstone symptoms and complications. For cholesterol gallstone disease, moreover, a strong link exists between this disease and highly prevalent metabolic disorders such as obesity, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia and the metabolic syndrome. Information on the natural history as well as the diagnostic, surgical (mainly laparoscopic cholecystectomy) and medical tools available to facilitate adequate management of cholelithiasis and its complications are, therefore, crucial to prevent the negative outcomes of gallstone disease. Moreover, some risk factors for gallstone disease are modifiable and some preventive strategies have become necessary to reduce the onset and the severity of complications.

Phase composition and morphological analysis of human gallstones using IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray Rietveld analysis

Quantitative phase composition and morphological characterization of 12 human gallbladder stones (GS1–GS12) retrieved from patients of eastern India have been carried out using IR-spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FTIR spectra indicated that the primary composition of gallstones studied was cholesterol. X-ray powder diffraction study revealed cholesterol monohydrate (CHM) as the major crystalline phase in GS1–GS12. The Rietveld analysis showed that nine of the gallstones were composed exclusively of CHM, while the remaining three stones contained in addition to CHM, small amounts (4.2–10.6 wt%) of calcium carbonate as aragonite and vaterite. The crystallite size of CHM in GS1–GS12 varied between 82(6) and 249(3) nm. The SEM images of gallstones showed different crystal habits of CHM such as plates, thin rods, rectangular and hexagonal blocks, which resulted into different levels of agglomeration at the mesoscopic scale. Presence of numerous parasitic eggs with a typical muskmelon surface in three gallstones (GS2, GS7 and GS9) suggests possible association between the liver fluke infection and biliary stone formation in these patients. To the best of our knowledge, the study constitutes the first report of X-ray quantitative phase analysis of gallstones using the Rietveld methodology.

Long-term Outcomes of Symptomatic Gallbladder Sludge

GOALS AND BACKGROUND

Long-term outcomes of symptomatic gallbladder (GB) sludge are not fully established. This study aimed to determine whether patients with symptomatic GB sludge could experience subsequent biliary events.

STUDY

This study investigated consecutive patients who presented with typical biliary pain and underwent abdominal ultrasonography from March 2003 to December 2012. A prospectively maintained database of these patients, excluding those with gallstones, was reviewed retrospectively. We compared the development of biliary events such as acute cholecystitis, acute cholangitis, and acute pancreatitis between both GB sludge and non-GB sludge cohorts.

RESULTS

In all, 58 and 70 patients were diagnosed with and without GB sludge, respectively. The 5-year cumulative biliary event rate was significantly higher in the GB sludge (33.9% vs. 15.8%, P=0.021) and the hazard ratio of subsequent biliary events was 2.573 (95% confidence interval, 1.124-5.889; P=0.025) in patients with GB sludge. The 5-year cumulative rate of each biliary event was higher in the GB sludge cohort (15.6% vs. 5.3% in acute cholecystitis, 15.5% vs. 5.3% in acute cholangitis, 18.4% vs. 11.1% in acute pancreatitis, respectively), although it was not statistically significant. Among the GB sludge cohort, subsequent biliary events were less frequent in patients who underwent cholecystectomy compared with those who did not (2/16, 12.5% vs. 17/42, 40.4%; P=0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

GB sludge accompanying typical biliary pain can cause subsequent biliary events and cholecystectomy may prevent subsequent biliary events. Therefore, GB sludge would be considered as a culprit of biliary events.

The deletion of the estrogen receptor α gene reduces susceptibility to estrogen-induced cholesterol cholelithiasis in female mice

Compelling evidence has demonstrated that estrogen is a critical risk factor for gallstone formation and enhances cholesterol cholelithogenesis through the hepatic estrogen receptor α (ERα), but not ERβ. To study the lithogenic mechanisms of estrogen through ERα, we investigated whether the deletion of Erα protects against gallstone formation in ovariectomized (OVX) female mice fed a lithogenic diet and treated with 17β-estradiol (E2) at 0 or 6μg/day for 56days. Our results showed that the prevalence of gallstones was reduced from 100% in OVX ERα (+/+) mice to 30% in OVX ERα (-/-) mice in response to high doses of E2 and the lithogenic diet for 56days. Hepatic cholesterol secretion was significantly diminished in OVX ERα (-/-) mice compared to OVX ERα (+/+) mice even fed the lithogenic diet and treated with E2 for 56days. These alterations decreased bile lithogenicity by reducing cholesterol saturation index of gallbladder bile. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that ERα was expressed mainly in the gallbladder smooth muscle cells. High levels of E2 impaired gallbladder emptying function mostly through the ERα and cholecystokinin-1 receptor pathway, leading to gallbladder stasis in OVX ERα (+/+) mice. By contrast, gallbladder emptying function was greatly improved in OVX ERα (-/-) mice. This markedly retarded cholesterol crystallization and the growth and agglomeration of solid cholesterol crystals into microlithiasis and stones. In conclusion, the deletion of Erα reduces susceptibility to the formation of E2-induced gallstones by diminishing hepatic cholesterol secretion, desaturating gallbladder bile, and improving gallbladder contraction function in female mice.

Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cholecystectomy compared with observation/conservative management for preventing recurrent symptoms and complications in adults presenting with uncomplicated symptomatic gallstones or cholecystitis: a systematic review and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10-15% of the adult population suffer from gallstone disease, cholelithiasis, with more women than men being affected. Cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice for people who present with biliary pain or acute cholecystitis and evidence of gallstones. However, some people do not experience a recurrence after an initial episode of biliary pain or cholecystitis. As most of the current research focuses on the surgical management of the disease, less attention has been dedicated to the consequences of conservative management.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cholecystectomy compared with observation/conservative management in people presenting with uncomplicated symptomatic gallstones (biliary pain) or cholecystitis.

DATA SOURCES

We searched all major electronic databases (e.g. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index, Bioscience Information Service, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from 1980 to September 2012 and we contacted experts in the field.

REVIEW METHODS

Evidence was considered from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised comparative studies that enrolled people with symptomatic gallstone disease (pain attacks only and/or acute cholecystitis). Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. Standard meta-analysis techniques were used to combine results from included studies. A de novo Markov model was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of the interventions.

RESULTS

Two Norwegian RCTs involving 201 participants were included. Eighty-eight per cent of people randomised to surgery and 45% of people randomised to observation underwent cholecystectomy during the 14-year follow-up period. Participants randomised to observation were significantly more likely to experience gallstone-related complications [risk ratio = 6.69; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57 to 28.51; p = 0.01], in particular acute cholecystitis (risk ratio = 9.55; 95% CI 1.25 to 73.27; p = 0.03), and less likely to undergo surgery (risk ratio = 0.50; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.73; p = 0.0004), experience surgery-related complications (risk ratio = 0.36; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.81; p = 0.01) or, more specifically, minor surgery-related complications (risk ratio = 0.11; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.56; p = 0.008) than those randomised to surgery. Fifty-five per cent of people randomised to observation did not require an operation during the 14-year follow-up period and 12% of people randomised to cholecystectomy did not undergo the scheduled operation. The results of the economic evaluation suggest that, on average, the surgery strategy costs £1236 more per patient than the conservative management strategy but was, on average, more effective. An increase in the number of people requiring surgery while treated conservatively corresponded to a reduction in the cost-effectiveness of the conservative strategy. There was uncertainty around some of the parameters used in the economic model.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this assessment indicate that cholecystectomy is still the treatment of choice for many symptomatic people. However, approximately half of the people in the observation group did not require surgery or suffer complications in the long term indicating that a conservative therapeutic approach may represent a valid alternative to surgery in this group of people. Owing to the dearth of current evidence in the UK setting a large, well-designed, multicentre trial is needed.

STUDY REGISTRATION

The study was registered as PROSPERO CRD42012002817.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Prevalence of cholelithiasis among persons undergoing abdominal ultrasound at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of gallstones among Ghanaians is unknown. We aimed to determine the prevalence of gallstones among persons undergoing abdominal ultrasound at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study of patients aged ≥14years presenting to KATH for abdominal ultrasound between 2009 and 2012. Patient demographics were recorded. The gallbladder was assessed by ultrasonography. Cholelithiasis was defined as presence of gallstones or absence of gallbladder. Data was expressed as descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS

There were 2824 participants. 55% were females. Mean age was 47±18 years. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.0±5.5. Mean parity among females was 3±3. Prevalence of cholelithiasis was 5.9 (95%C.I:5.0,6.8). Females had a high prevalence compared to males (6.8 vs 4.7). Prevalence increased steadily by age. Prevalence was 6.6, 5.1 and 8.8 for patients with BMI <18.5, 18.5-24.9 and ≥30 respectively. Prevalence among women with parity of 0,1-5 and >5 was 3.1, 6.7 and 6.4 respectively.On multivariate regression analysis, female sex (AOR=1.55;p<0.05), age≥40 years (AOR=2.05;p<0.01), BMI<18.5 (AOR=1.25;p>0.05) or BMI≥30 (AOR=1.39;p>0.05) and family history of gallstones (AOR=11.9;p<0.01) increased the odds of cholelithiasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of cholelithiasis among patients undergoing ultrasonography at KATH was 5.9. Patient age, sex and family history significantly influenced the prevalence.

Endoscopic ultrasound versus magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography for common bile duct stones

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) are tests used in the diagnosis of common bile duct stones in patients suspected of having common bile duct stones prior to undergoing invasive treatment. There has been no systematic review of the accuracy of EUS and MRCP in the diagnosis of common bile duct stones using appropriate reference standards.

OBJECTIVES

To determine and compare the accuracy of EUS and MRCP for the diagnosis of common bile duct stones.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded, BIOSIS, and Clinicaltrials.gov until September 2012. We searched the references of included studies to identify further studies and of systematic reviews identified from various databases (Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), Health Technology Assessment (HTA), Medion, and ARIF (Aggressive Research Intelligence Facility)). We did not restrict studies based on language or publication status, or whether data were collected prospectively or retrospectively.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included studies that provided the number of true positives, false positives, false negatives, and true negatives for EUS or MRCP. We only accepted studies that confirmed the presence of common bile duct stones by extraction of the stones (irrespective of whether this was done by surgical or endoscopic methods) for a positive test, and absence of common bile duct stones by surgical or endoscopic negative exploration of the common bile duct or symptom free follow-up for at least six months for a negative test, as the reference standard in people suspected of having common bile duct stones. We included participants with or without prior diagnosis of cholelithiasis; with or without symptoms and complications of common bile duct stones, with or without prior treatment for common bile duct stones; and before or after cholecystectomy. At least two authors independently screened abstracts and selected studies for inclusion.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently collected the data from each study. We used the bivariate model to obtain pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity.

MAIN RESULTS

We included a total of 18 studies involving 2366 participants (976 participants with common bile duct stones and 1390 participants without common bile duct stones). Eleven studies evaluated EUS alone, and five studies evaluated MRCP alone. Two studies evaluated both tests. Most studies included patients who were suspected of having common bile duct stones based on abnormal liver function tests; abnormal transabdominal ultrasound; symptoms such as obstructive jaundice, cholangitis, or pancreatitis; or a combination of the above. The proportion of participants who had undergone cholecystectomy varied across studies. Not one of the studies was of high methodological quality. For EUS, the sensitivities ranged between 0.75 and 1.00 and the specificities ranged between 0.85 and 1.00. The summary sensitivity (95% confidence interval (CI)) and specificity (95% CI) of the 13 studies that evaluated EUS (1537 participants; 686 cases and 851 participants without common bile duct stones) were 0.95 (95% CI 0.91 to 0.97) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.94 to 0.99). For MRCP, the sensitivities ranged between 0.77 and 1.00 and the specificities ranged between 0.73 and 0.99. The summary sensitivity and specificity of the seven studies that evaluated MRCP (996 participants; 361 cases and 635 participants without common bile duct stones) were 0.93 (95% CI 0.87 to 0.96) and 0.96 (95% CI 0.90 to 0.98). There was no evidence of a difference in sensitivity or specificity between EUS and MRCP (P value = 0.5). From the included studies, at the median pre-test probability of common bile duct stones of 41% the post-test probabilities (with 95% CI) associated with positive and negative EUS test results were 0.96 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.98) and 0.03 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.06). At the same pre-test probability, the post-test probabilities associated with positive and negative MRCP test results were 0.94 (95% CI 0.87 to 0.97) and 0.05 (95% CI 0.03 to 0.09).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Both EUS and MRCP have high diagnostic accuracy for detection of common bile duct stones. People with positive EUS or MRCP should undergo endoscopic or surgical extraction of common bile duct stones and those with negative EUS or MRCP do not need further invasive tests. However, if the symptoms persist, further investigations will be indicated. The two tests are similar in terms of diagnostic accuracy and the choice of which test to use will be informed by availability and contra-indications to each test. However, it should be noted that the results are based on studies of poor methodological quality and so the results should be interpreted with caution. Further studies that are of high methodological quality are necessary to determine the diagnostic accuracy of EUS and MRCP for the diagnosis of common bile duct stones.

Ultrasound versus liver function tests for diagnosis of common bile duct stones

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound and liver function tests (serum bilirubin and serum alkaline phosphatase) are used as screening tests for the diagnosis of common bile duct stones in people suspected of having common bile duct stones. There has been no systematic review of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and liver function tests.

OBJECTIVES

To determine and compare the accuracy of ultrasound versus liver function tests for the diagnosis of common bile duct stones.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded, BIOSIS, and Clinicaltrials.gov to September 2012. We searched the references of included studies to identify further studies and systematic reviews identified from various databases (Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Health Technology Assessment, Medion, and ARIF (Aggressive Research Intelligence Facility)). We did not restrict studies based on language or publication status, or whether data were collected prospectively or retrospectively.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included studies that provided the number of true positives, false positives, false negatives, and true negatives for ultrasound, serum bilirubin, or serum alkaline phosphatase. We only accepted studies that confirmed the presence of common bile duct stones by extraction of the stones (irrespective of whether this was done by surgical or endoscopic methods) for a positive test result, and absence of common bile duct stones by surgical or endoscopic negative exploration of the common bile duct, or symptom-free follow-up for at least six months for a negative test result as the reference standard in people suspected of having common bile duct stones. We included participants with or without prior diagnosis of cholelithiasis; with or without symptoms and complications of common bile duct stones, with or without prior treatment for common bile duct stones; and before or after cholecystectomy. At least two authors screened abstracts and selected studies for inclusion independently.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently collected data from each study. Where meta-analysis was possible, we used the bivariate model to summarise sensitivity and specificity.

MAIN RESULTS

Five studies including 523 participants reported the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound. One studies (262 participants) compared the accuracy of ultrasound, serum bilirubin and serum alkaline phosphatase in the same participants. All the studies included people with symptoms. One study included only participants without previous cholecystectomy but this information was not available from the remaining studies. All the studies were of poor methodological quality. The sensitivities for ultrasound ranged from 0.32 to 1.00, and the specificities ranged from 0.77 to 0.97. The summary sensitivity was 0.73 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.90) and the specificity was 0.91 (95% CI 0.84 to 0.95). At the median pre-test probability of common bile duct stones of 0.408, the post-test probability (95% CI) associated with positive ultrasound tests was 0.85 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.91), and negative ultrasound tests was 0.17 (95% CI 0.08 to 0.33).The single study of liver function tests reported diagnostic accuracy at two cut-offs for bilirubin (greater than 22.23 μmol/L and greater than twice the normal limit) and two cut-offs for alkaline phosphatase (greater than 125 IU/L and greater than twice the normal limit). This study also assessed ultrasound and reported higher sensitivities for bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase at both cut-offs but the specificities of the markers were higher at only the greater than twice the normal limit cut-off. The sensitivity for ultrasound was 0.32 (95% CI 0.15 to 0.54), bilirubin (cut-off greater than 22.23 μmol/L) was 0.84 (95% CI 0.64 to 0.95), and alkaline phosphatase (cut-off greater than 125 IU/L) was 0.92 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.99). The specificity for ultrasound was 0.95 (95% CI 0.91 to 0.97), bilirubin (cut-off greater than 22.23 μmol/L) was 0.91 (95% CI 0.86 to 0.94), and alkaline phosphatase (cut-off greater than 125 IU/L) was 0.79 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.84). No study reported the diagnostic accuracy of a combination of bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, or combinations with ultrasound.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Many people may have common bile duct stones in spite of having a negative ultrasound or liver function test. Such people may have to be re-tested with other modalities if the clinical suspicion of common bile duct stones is very high because of their symptoms. False-positive results are also possible and further non-invasive testing is recommended to confirm common bile duct stones to avoid the risks of invasive testing.It should be noted that these results were based on few studies of poor methodological quality and the results for ultrasound varied considerably between studies. Therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution. Further studies of high methodological quality are necessary to determine the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and liver function tests.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography versus intraoperative cholangiography for diagnosis of common bile duct stones

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) are tests used in the diagnosis of common bile duct stones in people suspected of having common bile duct stones. There has been no systematic review of the diagnostic accuracy of ERCP and IOC.

OBJECTIVES

To determine and compare the accuracy of ERCP and IOC for the diagnosis of common bile duct stones.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded, BIOSIS, and Clinicaltrials.gov to September 2012. To identify additional studies, we searched the references of included studies and systematic reviews identified from various databases (Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE)), Health Technology Assessment (HTA), Medion, and ARIF (Aggressive Research Intelligence Facility)). We did not restrict studies based on language or publication status, or whether data were collected prospectively or retrospectively.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included studies that provided the number of true positives, false positives, false negatives, and true negatives for ERCP or IOC. We only accepted studies that confirmed the presence of common bile duct stones by extraction of the stones (irrespective of whether this was done by surgical or endoscopic methods) for a positive test, and absence of common bile duct stones by surgical or endoscopic negative exploration of the common bile duct, or symptom-free follow-up for at least six months for a negative test as the reference standard in people suspected of having common bile duct stones. We included participants with or without prior diagnosis of cholelithiasis; with or without symptoms and complications of common bile duct stones; with or without prior treatment for common bile duct stones; and before or after cholecystectomy. At least two authors screened abstracts and selected studies for inclusion independently.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently collected data from each study. We used the bivariate model to summarise the sensitivity and specificity of the tests.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified five studies including 318 participants (180 participants with and 138 participants without common bile duct stones) that reported the diagnostic accuracy of ERCP and five studies including 654 participants (125 participants with and 529 participants without common bile duct stones) that reported the diagnostic accuracy of IOC. Most studies included people with symptoms (participants with jaundice or pancreatitis) suspected of having common bile duct stones based on blood tests, ultrasound, or both, prior to the performance of ERCP or IOC. Most studies included participants who had not previously undergone removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). None of the included studies was of high methodological quality as evaluated by the QUADAS-2 tool (quality assessment tool for diagnostic accuracy studies). The sensitivities of ERCP ranged between 0.67 and 0.94 and the specificities ranged between 0.92 and 1.00. For ERCP, the summary sensitivity was 0.83 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72 to 0.90) and specificity was 0.99 (95% CI 0.94 to 1.00). The sensitivities of IOC ranged between 0.75 and 1.00 and the specificities ranged between 0.96 and 1.00. For IOC, the summary sensitivity was 0.99 (95% CI 0.83 to 1.00) and specificity was 0.99 (95% CI 0.95 to 1.00). For ERCP, at the median pre-test probability of common bile duct stones of 0.35 estimated from the included studies (i.e., 35% of people suspected of having common bile duct stones were confirmed to have gallstones by the reference standard), the post-test probabilities associated with positive test results was 0.97 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.99) and negative test results was 0.09 (95% CI 0.05 to 0.14). For IOC, at the median pre-test probability of common bile duct stones of 0.35, the post-test probabilities associated with positive test results was 0.98 (95% CI 0.85 to 1.00) and negative test results was 0.01 (95% CI 0.00 to 0.10). There was weak evidence of a difference in sensitivity (P value = 0.05) with IOC showing higher sensitivity than ERCP. There was no evidence of a difference in specificity (P value = 0.7) with both tests having similar specificity.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Although the sensitivity of IOC appeared to be better than that of ERCP, this finding may be unreliable because none of the studies compared both tests in the same study populations and most of the studies were methodologically flawed. It appears that both tests were fairly accurate in guiding further invasive treatment as most people diagnosed with common bile duct stones by these tests had common bile duct stones. Some people may have common bile duct stones in spite of having a negative ERCP or IOC result. Such people may have to be re-tested if the clinical suspicion of common bile duct stones is very high because of their symptoms or persistently abnormal liver function tests. However, the results should be interpreted with caution given the limited quantity and quality of the evidence.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Asymptomatic Gallstone Disease in North-East Part of Bangladesh

Background

The study was designed to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic gallstone disease in North-East part of Bangladesh.

Materials and methods

Randomly selected asymptomatic persons, unknown to have gallstone disease, from both rural and urban areas were enrolled. They were subjected to abdominal ultrasonography and findings were recorded in a data sheet.

Results

Total 1,019 persons (316 males and 703 females) were examined. Age of them varied from 18 to 80 years with mean age of 37.22 years. Out of them, 61 (6%) persons were found to have gallstone. Among them, 14 were males and 47 were females. Both male and females of age below 40 years were more affected. Gallstone disease was found more commonly among housewives and middle class people. Among 61 patients with gallstone, seven were underweight (11.47%), 32 (52.45%) had normal weight and 22 (36.06%) were overweight, obese or extremely obese. But, this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.894).

Conclusion

Prevalence of asymptomatic gallstone disease was found in 6% apparently healthy subjects of North-East part of Bangladesh. It was more prevalent among housewives and middle class group of population. It is also common among the people of age group below 40 years.

How to cite this article

Saha M, Nahar K, Hosen MMA, Khan MH, Saha SK, Shil BC, Rahman MH. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Asymptomatic Gallstone Disease in North-East Part of Bangladesh. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2015;5(1):1-3.

Surgery for common bile duct stones--a lost surgical skill; still worthwhile in the minimally invasive century?

PURPOSE

Techniques of laparoscopic bile duct exploration have been reported for over 20 years. Despite the simplicity and success of these procedures, they have failed to become commonplace in most surgical departments, as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has become the preferred method for dealing with bile duct stones. There is a risk of surgeons not obtaining or losing these skills, which may still be required as a definitive treatment when ERCP fails or is not available.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This paper describes these laparoscopic operations, which can be performed to enable a 'one-stop shop' treatment of common bile duct stones (CBDS) at the time of cholecystectomy. In particular, transcystic basket clearance of the bile duct is possible in two-thirds of cases with very little increase in morbidity compared to routine cholecystectomy. The selection of patients who are most likely to be successfully treated with this technique is defined. Some of the authors have published large study series and prospective randomised trials, further refining the choices available to the surgeon who, when performing operative cholangiography, is already halfway to bile duct exploration.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery may reclaim this lost ground by offering an excellent and safe therapeutic option for many of the symptomatic CBDS.

Prevalence of gallstone disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and the risk factors in North Indian population: a case control study

BACKGROUND

Age, female sex, and obesity are considered to be risk factors for gallstone disease. The role of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in gallstone formation is still uncertain, and data in Indians is limited.

OBJECTIVES

This is a case-control study to determine the prevalence of gallstones (GS) in patients with T2D, risk factors, and the relative risk compared with subjects without diabetes, selected from the general population.

METHODS

Among 450 cases with T2D of a ≥2-year duration, 377 (88.8 %) participated. Diagnosis of GS was made at ultrasonography and history of cholecystectomy for GS. Controls were selected from the general population and diabetes excluded by oral glucose tolerance test. Cases and controls were matched for age, gender, and body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

Gallstones were seen in 67 (17.7 %) cases compared to 40 (5.8 %) in controls (p = 0.001). Prevalence increased with increasing age with peak in the sixth decade (23.4 % in cases and 4.4 % in controls (p = 0.001) and was higher in women (27.9 %) in cases and (7.8 %) in controls, (p = 0.001). In univariate analysis, risk factors for GS included age, female sex, BMI, multiparity, family history of GS, and high triglycerides and cholesterol with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In multivariate analysis, age, (relative risk [RR] 1.54, confidence interval [CI] 1.1-2.1), female sex (RR 1.6, CI 1.0-1.9), and BMI (RR 1.5, CI 1.3-2.5) were the independent risk factors in gallstone formation.

CONCLUSION

Patients with T2D had higher probability of having GS compared to the general population. Increasing age, female sex, and higher BMI were independently associated with gallstone disease.

Cholesterol cholelithiasis in pregnant women: pathogenesis, prevention and treatment

Epidemiological and clinical studies have found that gallstone prevalence is twice as high in women as in men at all ages in every population studied. Hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy put women at higher risk. The incidence rates of biliary sludge (a precursor to gallstones) and gallstones are up to 30 and 12%, respectively, during pregnancy and postpartum, and 1-3% of pregnant women undergo cholecystectomy due to clinical symptoms or complications within the first year postpartum. Increased estrogen levels during pregnancy induce significant metabolic changes in the hepatobiliary system, including the formation of cholesterol-supersaturated bile and sluggish gallbladder motility, two factors enhancing cholelithogenesis. The therapeutic approaches are conservative during pregnancy because of the controversial frequency of biliary disorders. In the majority of pregnant women, biliary sludge and gallstones tend to dissolve spontaneously after parturition. In some situations, however, the conditions persist and require costly therapeutic interventions. When necessary, invasive procedures such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy are relatively well tolerated, preferably during the second trimester of pregnancy or postpartum. Although laparoscopic operation is recommended for its safety, the use of drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and the novel lipid-lowering compound, ezetimibe would also be considered. In this paper, we systematically review the incidence and natural history of pregnancy-related biliary sludge and gallstone formation and carefully discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the lithogenic effect of estrogen on gallstone formation during pregnancy. We also summarize recent progress in the necessary strategies recommended for the prevention and the treatment of gallstones in pregnant women.

Evidence-Based Management of Common Gallstone-Related Emergencies

Gallstone-related disease is among the most common clinical problems encountered worldwide. The manifestations of cholelithiasis vary greatly, ranging from mild biliary colic to life-threatening gallstone pancreatitis and cholangitis. The vast majority of gallstone-related diseases encountered in an acute setting can be categorized as biliary colic, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, and pancreatitis, although these diagnoses can overlap. The management of these diseases is uniquely multidisciplinary, involving many specialties and treatment options. Thus, care may be compromised due to redundant tests, treatment delays, or inconsistent management. This review outlines the evidence for initial evaluation, diagnostic workup, and treatment for the most common gallstone-related emergencies. Key principles include initial risk stratification of patients to aid in triage and timing of interventions, early initiation of appropriate antibiotics for patients with evidence of cholecystitis or cholangitis, patient selection for endoscopic biliary decompression, and growing evidence in favor of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for clinically stable patients.

Moderate to severe, but not mild, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease associated with increased risk of gallstone disease

OBJECTIVE

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and gallstone disease (GSD) share some of the same risk factors. The association between NAFLD and GSD was inconsistent. Moreover, there are no studies on the association between GSD and the severity of NAFLD in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the severity of NAFLD and GSD in a Taiwanese population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 12,033 subjects were enrolled. The diagnoses of GSD and NAFLD were based on the finding of abdominal ultrasonography. The severity of NAFLD was divided into mild, moderate, and severe.

RESULTS

Compared with the non-GSD group, the GSD one was older and had a higher BMI, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, and higher prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, but they had a lower eGFR and HDL-C level and less prevalence of current smoking and alcohol drinking. There was a significant difference in the severity of NAFLD between subjects with and without GSD. Based on logistic regression, age ≥65 versus <40 years, 40-64.9 versus <40 years, female, current alcohol drinking, diabetes, hypertension, HDL-C level and moderate to severe NAFLD, but not mild NAFLD, were the independently associated risk factors of GSD.

CONCLUSION

Moderate to severe, but not mild, NAFLD was associated with an increased risk of GSD, independent of the traditional cardio-metabolic risk factor. Age, female, diabetes, and hypertension were also related to a higher risk of GSD, but HDL-C level and moderate alcohol drinking showed a lower risk.

Gallstones are Associated with Intima-Media Thickness of Common Carotid Arteries in Men

Background

The prevalence of gallstone disease is increasing in Korea. Gallstone disease and atherosclerosis share common risk factors. Ultrasonographic carotid intima-media thickness is an independent predictor of atherosclerosis. We measured the carotid intima-media thickness among men who had gallstones to establish the association between atherosclerosis and gallstones.

Methods

A total of 330 men who visited the health promotion center of the IS Hallym Hospital from January 2011 to July 2012 were recruited. Both abdomen and carotid ultrasonographies were performed. Demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected.

Results

The prevalence of gallstones was 6.6%. The carotid intima-media thickness, age, and body mass index were higher in subjects with gallstones (P < 0.05 for all). After Pearson correlation analysis, gallstone, age, body mass index, and fasting blood sugar were significantly associated with carotid intima-media thickness. A statistically positive association between gallstone and carotid intima-media thickness was demonstrated in a multivariate analysis adjusted for age, body mass index, and fasting blood sugar.

Conclusion

Carotid intima-media thickness is higher in male subjects with gallstones, indicating that they are at greater risk for atherosclerosis.

Symptomatic cholelithiasis and functional disorders of the biliary tract

Symptomatic cholelithiasis and functional disorders of the biliary tract present with similar signs and symptoms. The functional disorders of the biliary tract include functional gallbladder disorder, dyskinesia, and the sphincter of Oddi disorders. Although the diagnosis and treatment of symptomatic cholelithiasis are relatively straightforward, the diagnosis and treatment of functional disorders can be much more challenging. Many aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of functional disorders are in need of further study. This article discusses uncomplicated gallstone disease and the functional disorders of the biliary tract to emphasize and update the essential components of diagnosis and management.

Challenges of imaging for cancer in patients with diabetes and obesity

A growing body of evidence supports a connection among diabetes (predominantly type 2), obesity, and cancer. Multiple meta-analyses of epidemiological data show that people with diabetes are at increased risk of developing a variety of different cancers and suffer from an increased rate of perioperative complications and cancer mortality. Computed tomography (CT) has played an important role in diagnosis and staging of cancer. Positron emission tomography is complementary to CT in the diagnosis, staging, and evaluation of treatment response for many types of cancer. Because of generally poor clinical outcome of cancers when they are detected in late stages, more research is now focused on stratifying risk to allow personalized screening of at-risk patients and cancer detection at an earlier stage. In this review, we summarize basic noninvasive imaging techniques currently in use to detect cancer with emphasis on the challenges of imaging for early cancer detection in obese patients with diabetes.

Biliary issues in the bariatric population

Biliary disease is common in the obese population and increases after bariatric surgery. This article reviews management of the gallbladder at the time of bariatric surgery, as well as imaging modalities in the bariatric surgery population and prevention of lithogenesis in the rapid weight loss phase. In addition, diagnosis and treatment options for biliary diseases are discussed, including laparoscopic-assisted percutaneous transgastric endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the patient having bariatric surgery.

Cumulative exposure to ritonavir-boosted atazanavir is associated with cholelithiasis in patients with HIV-1 infection

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the effect of long-term treatment with ritonavir-boosted atazanavir (atazanavir/ritonavir) on cholelithiasis.

METHODS

A single-centre, cross-sectional study was conducted to elucidate the prevalence of cholelithiasis in patients with HIV-1 infection who underwent abdominal ultrasonography between January 2004 and March 2013. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to estimate the effects of >2 years of atazanavir/ritonavir exposure on cholelithiasis as the primary exposure.

RESULTS

Of the 890 study patients, 84 (9.4%) had >2 years of atazanavir/ritonavir exposure. Cholelithiasis was twice as frequent in those treated for >2 years with atazanavir/ritonavir [15 (18%) of 84 patients] compared with those treated for <2 years [72 (8.9%) of 806 patients] (P = 0.018). Univariate analysis showed a significant association between >2 years of atazanavir/ritonavir exposure and cholelithiasis (OR = 2.216; 95% CI = 1.206-4.073; P = 0.010) and the association almost persisted in multivariate analysis (adjusted OR = 1.806; 95% CI = 0.922-3.537; P = 0.085). Long-term treatment (>2 years) with other commonly used protease inhibitors, such as ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and ritonavir-boosted darunavir, was not associated with cholelithiasis in univariate and multivariate analysis. Additional analysis showed that >1 year of exposure to atazanavir/ritonavir was significantly associated with cholelithiasis (OR = 1.857; 95% CI = 1.073-3.214; P = 0.027), whereas >1 year of exposure to ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and ritonavir-boosted darunavir was not.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term treatment of patients with HIV-1 infection for >2 years with atazanavir/ritonavir was associated with an increased risk of cholelithiasis compared with patients with shorter exposure. Long-term exposure to atazanavir/ritonavir appears to increase the risk of cholelithiasis in patients with HIV-1 infection.

Elective day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a formal assessment of the need for outpatient follow-up

INTRODUCTION

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is performed routinely as day-case surgery. Most hospital trusts have a policy of no routine postoperative outpatient follow-up although there are no formal guidelines on this. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the incidence of complications, the degree of symptom resolution and patient satisfaction with a view to formally appraising the need for outpatient follow-up.

METHODS

Patients who underwent LC in the period between February 2011 and June 2012 were contacted retrospectively by telephone. A standardised questionnaire was used to ascertain the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI), other complications, symptom resolution and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

A total of 211 responses were collected. The rate of SSI was 7.6% (n=16), with the only specific risk factor being smoking (p=0.027). All other complications had a combined incidence of 7% (n=15). There was complete resolution of symptoms in 64% of patients. Of the 36% of patients with residual symptoms, 45% described abdominal discomfort or pain, 41% described reflux symptoms and 14% complained of diarrhoea. Patient satisfaction was very high (96%), yet 33% of patients visited their general practitioner postoperatively in relation to their surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients are highly satisfied with elective day-case LC. However, SSI is not uncommon, occurring in 1 in 13 patients. Although the majority of patients experience complete symptom resolution, a significant proportion do not. In our experience, routine outpatient follow-up is not required. Nevertheless, the lack of formal follow-up may prove a missed learning opportunity, potentially resulting in inappropriate patient selection for surgery.

Elective day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a formal assessment of the need for outpatient follow-up

Introduction

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is performed routinely as day-case surgery. Most hospital trusts have a policy of no routine postoperative outpatient follow-up although there are no formal guidelines on this. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the incidence of complications, the degree of symptom resolution and patient satisfaction with a view to formally appraising the need for outpatient follow-up.

Methods

Patients who underwent LC in the period between February 2011 and June 2012 were contacted retrospectively by telephone. A standardised questionnaire was used to ascertain the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI), other complications, symptom resolution and patient satisfaction.

Results

A total of 211 responses were collected. The rate of SSI was 7.6% (n=16), with the only specific risk factor being smoking (p=0.027). All other complications had a combined incidence of 7% (n=15). There was complete resolution of symptoms in 64% of patients. Of the 36% of patients with residual symptoms, 45% described abdominal discomfort or pain, 41% described reflux symptoms and 14% complained of diarrhoea. Patient satisfaction was very high (96%), yet 33% of patients visited their general practitioner postoperatively in relation to their surgery.

Conclusions

Patients are highly satisfied with elective day-case LC. However, SSI is not uncommon, occurring in 1 in 13 patients. Although the majority of patients experience complete symptom resolution, a significant proportion do not. In our experience, routine outpatient follow-up is not required. Nevertheless, the lack of formal follow-up may prove a missed learning opportunity, potentially resulting in inappropriate patient selection for surgery.

Elective day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a formal assessment of the need for outpatient follow-up

Introduction

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is performed routinely as day-case surgery. Most hospital trusts have a policy of no routine postoperative outpatient follow-up although there are no formal guidelines on this. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the incidence of complications, the degree of symptom resolution and patient satisfaction with a view to formally appraising the need for outpatient follow-up.

Methods

Patients who underwent LC in the period between February 2011 and June 2012 were contacted retrospectively by telephone. A standardised questionnaire was used to ascertain the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI), other complications, symptom resolution and patient satisfaction.

Results

A total of 211 responses were collected. The rate of SSI was 7.6% (n=16), with the only specific risk factor being smoking (p=0.027). All other complications had a combined incidence of 7% (n=15). There was complete resolution of symptoms in 64% of patients. Of the 36% of patients with residual symptoms, 45% described abdominal discomfort or pain, 41% described reflux symptoms and 14% complained of diarrhoea. Patient satisfaction was very high (96%), yet 33% of patients visited their general practitioner postoperatively in relation to their surgery.

Conclusions

Patients are highly satisfied with elective day-case LC. However, SSI is not uncommon, occurring in 1 in 13 patients. Although the majority of patients experience complete symptom resolution, a significant proportion do not. In our experience, routine outpatient follow-up is not required. Nevertheless, the lack of formal follow-up may prove a missed learning opportunity, potentially resulting in inappropriate patient selection for surgery.

Multi-analytic approach elucidates significant role of hormonal and hepatocanalicular transporter genetic variants in gallstone disease in North Indian population

Objective

Cholesterol gallstone disease (CGD) is a multifactorial and multistep disease. Apart from female gender and increasing age being the documented non-modifiable risk factor for gallstones the pathobiological mechanisms underlying the phenotypic expression of CGD appear to be rather complex, and one or more variations in genes could play critical roles in the diverse pathways further progressing to cholesterol crystal formation. In the present study we performed genotyping score, Multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) and Classification and Regression Tree analysis (CART) to identify combinations of alleles among the hormonal, hepatocanalicular transporter and adipogenesis differentiation pathway genes in modifying the risk for CGD.

Design

The present case-control study recruited total of 450 subjects, including 230 CGD patients and 220 controls. We analyzed common ESR1, ESR2, PGR, ADRB3, ADRA2A, ABCG8, SLCO1B1, PPARγ2, and SREBP2 gene polymorphisms to find out combinations of genetic variants contributing to CGD risk, using multi-analytical approaches (G-score, MDR, and CART).

Results

Single locus analysis by logistic regression showed association of ESR1 IVS1-397C>T (rs2234693), IVS1-351A>G (rs9340799) PGR ins/del (rs1042838) ADRB3-190 T>C (rs4994) ABCG8 D19H (rs11887534), SLCO1B1 Exon4 C>A (rs11045819) and SREBP2 1784G>C (rs2228314) with CGD risk. However, the MDR and CART analysis revealed ESR1 IVS1-397C>T (rs2234693) ADRB3-190 T>C (rs4994) and ABCG8 D19H (rs11887534) polymorphisms as the best polymorphic signature for discriminating between cases and controls. The overall odds ratio for the applied multi-analytical approaches ranged from 4.33 to 10.05 showing an incremental risk for cholesterol crystal formation. In conclusion, our muti-analytical approach suggests that, ESR1, ADRB3, in addition to ABCG8 genetic variants confer significant risk for cholesterol gallstone disease.

Bile duct stone formation around a nylon suture after gastrectomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Many cases of choledocholiths formed around sutures and clips used during cholecystectomy have been reported. We describe a case of gallstone formation around a nylon suture after non-biliary surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of such a case.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 75-year-old Japanese man, who had undergone distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer and reconstruction with the Billroth II method 8 years earlier, presented with gastric discomfort. Abdominal ultrasonography was conducted and we diagnosed cholecysto-choledocholithiasis with dilatation of the intrahepatic bile duct. He underwent cholecystectomy and cholangioduodenostomy for choledocholith removal. Gallstones, which had formed around a nylon suture used during the previous gastrectomy, were found in the bile duct. Sutures of the same material had also been placed on the duodenum. Chemical analysis revealed that the stones were composed of calcium bilirubinate. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 19, and choledocholithiasis has not recurred thus far.

CONCLUSION

The findings from this case suggest that standard, non-resorbable sutures used in gastrectomy may be associated with the formation of bile duct stones; therefore, absorbable suture material may be required to avert gallstone formation even in the case of gastrectomy.

Incidental Findings on Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Ultrasonography

Objective:

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the frequency and clinical significance of incidental findings on upper gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS).

Methods:

Patients referred for upper gastrointestinal EUS were consecutively enrolled into this prospective study. Any coincidental abnormality found during standard EUS was considered an incidental finding. Significant incidental findings were defined as abnormalities that required further medical, surgical, or endoscopic intervention, including surveillance.

Results:

In 552 patients who underwent EUS, 41 incidental findings were detected in 39 patients (7.1%). Twenty-one abnormalities had clinical significance. The frequency of incidental findings increased significantly with increasing age ( P = .001). The most frequent incidental findings were gallstones, subepithelial lesions, and pancreatic lesions.

Conclusions:

Incidental findings on EUS are not uncommon in clinical practice and might be a clue to a significant pathology. The appropriate extent of evaluation of incidental findings noted during a standard EUS procedure warrants further research yet to be defined.

Androgen-deprivation therapy and risk for biliary disease in men with prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) by either a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist or bilateral orchiectomy improves disease-related outcomes of men with prostate cancer but has a variety of adverse metabolic effects including obesity, increased abdominal girth, increased triglycerides, and insulin resistance. Each is a risk factor for gallstone disease. Additionally, GnRH agonist treatment was recently shown in metabolomic analyses to increase plasma levels of some bile acids.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship between ADT and the incidence of biliary disease in men with prostate cancer.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We studied 183 842 men >65 yr of age living in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results regions who were diagnosed with prostate cancer from 1992 to 2007 and followed through 2009.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

We calculated incidence rates for biliary disease during treatment with GnRH agonists, orchiectomy, or no therapy. We used Cox proportional hazard models to assess the association of ADT with biliary disease.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Among 183 842 men with locoregional prostate cancer, 48.4% received GnRH agonist treatment and 2.2% underwent bilateral orchiectomy during follow-up. GnRH agonist treatment was associated with a significantly higher incidence of biliary disease compared with no treatment (15.7 vs 13.4 cases per 1000 person-years; p<0.001). In adjusted analyses, GnRH agonist use was associated with the risk of biliary disease (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.15; p<0.001). Orchiectomy was not significantly associated with biliary disease.

CONCLUSIONS

GnRH agonist treatment may be associated with a greater risk of incident biliary disease.

Lifestyle and gallstone disease: scope for primary prevention

OBJECTIVE

To study the antecedent risk factors in the causation of gallstone disease in a hospital-based case control study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cases (n = 150) from all age groups and both sexes with sonographically proven gallstones were recruited over a duration of 3 months from the surgical wards of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Modes of presentation were also noted among cases. Age- and sex-matched controls (n = 150) were chosen from among ward inmates admitted for other reasons. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed for selected sociodemographic, dietary, and lifestyle-related variables.

RESULTS

Females had a higher prevalence of gallstone disease than males (P < 0.01). Among males, the geriatric age group (<60 years) was relatively more susceptible (28%). Prepubertal age group was least afflicted (3.3%). Univariate analysis revealed multiparity, high fat, refined sugar, and low fiber intakes to be significantly associated with gallstones. Sedentary habits, recent stress, and hypertension were also among the significant lifestyle-related factors. High body mass index and waist hip ratios, again representing unhealthy lifestyles, were the significant anthropometric covariates. However, only three of these, viz., physical inactivity, high saturated fats, and high waist hip ratio emerged as significant predictors on stepwise logistic regression analysis (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Gallstone disease is frequent among females and elderly males. Significant predictor variables are abdominal adiposity, inadequate physical activity, and high intake of saturated fats; thus representing high risk lifestyles and yet amenable to primary prevention.

Pediatric obesity and gallstone disease

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between childhood and adolescent obesity, the risk of gallstones, and the potential effect modification by oral contraceptive use in girls.

METHODS

For this population-based cross-sectional study, measured weight and height, oral contraceptive use, and diagnosis of cholelithiasis or choledocholithiasis were extracted from the electronic medical records of 510,816 patients ages 10 to 19 years enrolled in an integrated health plan, 2007-2009.

RESULTS

We identified 766 patients with gallstones. The adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) of gallstones for under-/normal-weight (reference), overweight, moderate obesity, and extreme obesity in boys were 1.00, 1.46 (0.94%-2.27%), 1.83 (1.17%-2.85%), and 3.10 (1.99%-4.83%) and in girls were 1.00, 2.73 (2.18%-3.42%), 5.75 (4.62%-7.17%), and 7.71 (6.13%-9.71%), respectively (P for interaction sex × weight class <0.001). Among girls, oral contraceptive use was associated with higher odds for gallstones (odds ratio 2.00, 95% CI 1.66%-2.40%). Girls who used oral contraceptives were at higher odds for gallstones than their counterparts in the same weight class who did not use oral contraceptives (P for interaction weight class × oral contraceptive use 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the shift toward extreme childhood obesity, especially in minority children, pediatricians can expect to face increasing numbers of children and adolescents affected by gallstone disease.

Effect of ursodeoxycholic Acid alone and ursodeoxycholic Acid plus domperidone on radiolucent gallstones and gallbladder contractility in humans

Background/Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) alone and UDCA plus domperidone on dissolution of solitary or multiple gallstones. Methods. Fifty-three patients with cholesterol gallstones were randomized into three treatment groups: group I (n = 22) was given UDCA (15 mg/kg/day) alone and group II (n = 18) was treated with domperidone (30 mg/day) in addition to UDCA. The control group (n = 13) was followed without a medical treatment. Gallbladder volumes and ejection fractions were measured sonographically in all patients before and after treatment. Results. After 12 months of treatment, stone dissolution was found in 9 (40.9%) of the patients in group I and 7 (38.8%) of the patients in group II. The difference was statistically significant compared to controls in both treatment groups (P < 0.05) but the two groups did not show a difference between each other (P > 0.05). All the patients that achieved dissolution had multiple gallstones except for one patient with a solitary stone in group I. Neither monotherapy of UDCA nor the combination with domperidone affected the ejection fraction of gallbladder. Conclusions. Combination with domperidone did not potentiate the efficacy of UDCA. It has been observed that both UDCA alone and UDCA plus domperidone treatment did not affect ejection fraction of gallbladder.

Epidemiology of gallbladder disease: cholelithiasis and cancer

Diseases of the gallbladder are common and costly. The best epidemiological screening method to accurately determine point prevalence of gallstone disease is ultrasonography. Many risk factors for cholesterol gallstone formation are not modifiable such as ethnic background, increasing age, female gender and family history or genetics. Conversely, the modifiable risks for cholesterol gallstones are obesity, rapid weight loss and a sedentary lifestyle. The rising epidemic of obesity and the metabolic syndrome predicts an escalation of cholesterol gallstone frequency. Risk factors for biliary sludge include pregnancy, drugs like ceftiaxone, octreotide and thiazide diuretics, and total parenteral nutrition or fasting. Diseases like cirrhosis, chronic hemolysis and ileal Crohn's disease are risk factors for black pigment stones. Gallstone disease in childhood, once considered rare, has become increasingly recognized with similar risk factors as those in adults, particularly obesity. Gallbladder cancer is uncommon in developed countries. In the U.S., it accounts for only ~ 5,000 cases per year. Elsewhere, high incidence rates occur in North and South American Indians. Other than ethnicity and female gender, additional risk factors for gallbladder cancer include cholelithiasis, advancing age, chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the gallbladder, congenital biliary abnormalities, and diagnostic confusion over gallbladder polyps.

Clinical and radiologic preoperative predicting factors for GB cholesterol polyp

PURPOSE

To use the clinical and radiological data to differentiate non-cholesterol versus cholesterol gall bladder (GB) polyps, which can be useful in deciding the treatment of the patient.

METHODS

One hundred and eighty-seven patients underwent cholecystectomy for GB polyps of around 10 mm for 10 years, and were divided into two groups, cholesterol polyps (146 patients) and non-cholesterol polyps (41 patients) based on the postoperative pathological findings. Gender, age, body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), symptoms, laboratory findings, size, number of polyps, presence of GB stone and maximum diameter measured by preoperative ultrasonography (USG), computed tomography (CT), and pathological diameter were subjected to comparative analysis.

RESULTS

Patients diagnosed with cholesterol polyps were younger in age and had higher BMI, and the total cholesterol levels and white blood cell levels were higher, but were not statistically significant. It was notable to see that 28.6% of the cholesterol polyps were not found in the preoperative CT yet the percentage of the undetectable rate was significantly lower (8%) in the non-cholesterol polyp group. There was a discrepancy in maximum diameters between the two radiological methods in both groups but the discrepancy was significantly larger in the cholesterol polyp group.

CONCLUSION

The clinical signs that can be helpful to diagnose whether it is a cholesterol polyp or not are younger patients who have high BMI, polyps which are detectable only on the USG and large maximum diameters between the USG and CT. And if the discrepancy of the maximum diameter is lesser than 1mm the polyp may be considered as a non-cholesterol polyp.

Could gastrointestinal disorders differ in two close but divergent social environments?

BACKGROUND

Many public health problems in modern society affect the gastrointestinal area. Knowledge of the disease occurrence in populations is better understood if viewed in a psychosocial context including indicators of the social environment where people spend their lives. The general aim of this study was to estimate the occurrence in the population and between sexes of common gastrointestinal conditions in two neighborhood cities representing two different social environments defined as a "white-collar" and a "blue-collar" city.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective register study using data of diagnosed gastrointestinal disorders (cumulative incidence rates) derived from an administrative health care register based on medical records assigned by the physicians at hospitals and primary care.

RESULTS

Functional gastrointestinal diseases and peptic ulcers were more frequent in the white-collar city, while diagnoses in the gallbladder area were significantly more frequent in the blue-collar city. Functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and unspecified functional bowel diseases, and celiac disease, were more frequent among women while esophageal reflux, peptic ulcers, gastric and rectal cancers were more frequent among men regardless of social environment.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of the occurrence of gastrointestinal problems in populations is better understood if viewed in a context were the social environment is included. Indicators of the social environment should therefore also be considered in future studies of the occurrence of gastrointestinal problems.

Diabetes mellitus and the risk of cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Whether diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of cholecystectomy remains controversial.

AIMS

To explore the association between diabetes mellitus and the risk of cholecystectomy.

METHODS

Population-based case-control analysis using UK-based General Practice Research Database. Cases of cholecystectomy and up to four controls per case, matched on age, sex, BMI, general practice, calendar time, and years of history in the database were identified between 1994 and 2008. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the risk of cholecystectomy in diabetics compared to non-diabetics. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated, adjusted for smoking, alcohol consumption, statin use, and additional confounders.

RESULTS

Amongst 22,574 cases with cholecystectomy and 72,476 controls, 1068 (4.7%) and 3270 (4.5%) had diabetes, respectively, yielding an adjusted OR for developing gallstone disease followed by cholecystectomy of 0.88, 95% CI 78-1.00, p=0.05) in association with diabetes mellitus. Neither glycaemic control, nor increasing diabetes duration or oral antidiabetic therapies were associated with an altered risk of cholecystectomy. Use of statins was protective in patients with (adj. OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.54-0.80, p<0.0001) or without diabetes (adj. OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.62-0.78, p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes mellitus was not associated with an altered risk of cholecystectomy.

Acute pancreatitis in pregnancy: an overview

Acute pancreatitis is rare in pregnancy but it is associated with increased incidence of maternal and fetal mortality. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of upper quadrant abdominal pain with or without nausea and vomiting. The commonest identified causes of acute pancreatitis in pregnancy are gallstones, alcohol and hypertriglyceridemia. The main laboratory finding is increased amylase activity. Appropriate investigations include ultrasound of the right upper quadrant and measurement of serum triglycerides and ionized calcium. Management of gallstone pancreatitis is controversial, although laparoscopic cholecystectomy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are often used and may be associated with lower complication rates. In hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis ω-3 fatty acids and even therapeutic plasma exchange can be used. We also discuss preventive measures.

Gallstone disease: current therapeutic practice

Most asymptomatic gallstone carriers require no therapy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the best definitive therapy for symptomatic gallstone disease. Selective laparoscopic cholecystectomy can provide secondary prevention of symptoms and complications in certain instances (in a complex clinical setting such as sickle cell disease or to prevent gallbladder carcinoma from developing in those at risk with large gallstones or with a calcified gallbladder). Primary prevention is unproven but focuses on early identification and risk alteration to decrease the possibility of developing gallstones. Ursodeoxycholic acid has a limited role for stone dissolution but can prevent stone development in severe obesity during rapid weight reduction with diet or after bariatric surgery. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with endoscopic sphincterotomy represents the therapeutic cornerstone for managing severe pancreatitis and cholangitis.

Gallbladder dyskinesia

The most appropriate means to diagnose and manage patients with suspected gallbladder dyskinesia remain contentious. A major problem relates to difficulties in clearly identifying the features that characterize biliary-like pain. Conflicting reports in the literature regarding whether symptoms alone are reliable predictors of pain relief after cholecystectomy in patients with suspected gallbladder dysfunction underscore the perceived need by clinicians for a reliable test to help confirm a clinical suspicion of gallbladder dysfunction before cholecystectomy. Most studies report use of cholecystokinin-cholescintigraphy (CCK-CS) with calculation of gallbladder ejection fraction in predicting symptom outcome after cholecystectomy in patients with suspected gallbladder dyskinesia. However, quality evidence is lacking, thereby precluding a definitive recommendation regarding its use. Nevertheless, CCK-CS may be useful when performed using a slow infusion of CCK in a well-selected patient population. Based on our clinical experience and interpretation of the literature, we currently suggest consideration of cholecystectomy to our patients based on high clinical suspicion. This is performed after adequate follow-up with trials of pharmacologic therapies and exclusion of other disease entities and counseling the patient on postoperative expectations. Clearly, a large, prospective, controlled study is needed with patients meeting the Rome definition of gallbladder dyskinesia, randomized to surgery or no surgery, and using standardized CCK-CS methods and outcome measures with long-term follow-up. This study would help us better understand the pathophysiology and optimal management of this clinically challenging condition.

Emergency physician-performed ultrasound to diagnose cholelithiasis: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to determine the diagnostic test characteristics of bedside emergency physician (EP)-performed ultrasound (US) for cholelithiasis in symptomatic emergency department (ED) patients.

METHODS

A search was conducted of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, bibliographies of previous systematic reviews, and abstracts from major emergency medicine conference proceedings. We included studies that prospectively assessed the diagnostic accuracy of emergency US (EUS) for cholelithiasis, compared to a criterion reference standard of radiology-performed ultrasound (RADUS), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or surgical findings. Two authors independently performed relevance screening of titles and abstracts, extracted data, and performed the quality analysis. Disagreements were resolved by conference between the two reviewers. EUS performance was assessed with summary receiver operator characteristics curve (SROC) analysis, with independently pooled sensitivity and specificity values across included studies.

RESULTS

The electronic search yielded 917 titles; eight studies met the inclusion criteria, yielding a sample of 710 subjects. All included studies used appropriate selection criteria and reference standards, but only one study reported uninterpretable or indeterminate results. The pooled estimates for sensitivity and specificity were 89.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 86.4% to 92.5%) and 88.0% (95% CI = 83.7% to 91.4%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that in patients presenting to the ED with pain consistent with biliary colic, a positive EUS scan may be used to arrange for appropriate outpatient follow-up if symptoms have resolved. In patients with a low pretest probability, a negative EUS scan should prompt the clinician to consider an alternative diagnosis.

The cholecystokin provocation HIDA test: recreation of symptoms is superior to ejection fraction in predicting medium-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

The (99m) technetium labelled hepato imino diacetic acid (HIDA) scan is widely used in the investigation of patients with typical biliary pain but whose trans-abdominal ultrasound scan (US) is normal. Although the standard measure by which the HIDA scan is deemed positive is the presence of an ejection fraction (EF) of <35% following provocation with cholecystokinin (CCK), there still remains debate as to the usefulness of this measure. The aim of this study was to compare the roles of EF and symptom provocation following CCK infusion in relation to the outcome following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). More specifically, we aimed to review the resolution of symptoms for our significant population of patients with normal HIDA scan EFs for whom surgery has traditionally been deemed inappropriate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients undergoing LC for a presumed diagnosis of biliary dyskinesia were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Data were collected regarding pre-operative symptoms, EF and symptom provocation during the CCK HIDA scan, histological findings, early symptomatic outcome, and medium-term follow-up.

RESULTS

During the period from March 2006 to October 2009, 42 patients with biliary symptoms but a negative US were referred for assessment by a single surgeon. There were 31 women and 11 men with a mean age of 39.0 ± 12.6 years. All underwent a CCK HIDA scan of which 17 were positive with an EF <35% and the remaining 25 were negative. All patients reported recreation of symptoms following administration of CCK. All gallbladders were delivered intact for histological assessment and all but one showed evidence of chronic cholecystitis. At each postoperative visit, approximately 2 weeks following the procedure, all patients reported resolution of symptoms. After a mean of 18.7 ± 12.1 months symptom recurrence had been noted in only one of 42 (2.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

The CCK HIDA scan is a useful study in the investigation of acalcalous cholecystitis; however, we would suggest that recreation of symptoms following CCK provocation is superior to EF for the identification of underlying chronic cholecystitis. Indeed, a normal gallbladder ejection fraction does not necessarily rule out a biliary aetiology of symptoms for this patient population.

Hereditary liver disease: gallstones

Gallstones are common in Western countries and due to pain and complications pose a substantial burden on health care systems. In general, cholesterol gallstones are distinguished from bilirubin gallstones. Bilirubin gallstones form if the ion product of unconjugated bilirubin and calcium in gallbladder bile exceeds the solubilisation capacities of mixed micelles and vesicles. Cholesterol gallstones develop if the amount of cholesterol in gallbladder bile exceeds the maximum concentration that is soluble at the given concentration of bile salts and phospholipids. In addition, cholesterol gallstone formation requires hypomotility of the gallbladder and a mucin gel as nucleation matrix for monohydrate crystals. The individual risk of gallstone formation is determined by interactions of lithogenic alleles of gallstone susceptibility genes and multiple environmental factors. For asymptomatic gallstones, expectant management is recommended, whereas an episode of gallstone-associated pain substantially increases the risk of complications such as cholecystitis, cholangitis and pancreatitis and therefore necessitates cholecystectomy.

Cholecystitis in pregnancy

Biliary tract disease is a relatively uncommon, heterogenous disease in pregnancy. Specifically, acute cholecystitis can be especially difficult to recognize in pregnancy. However, once diagnosed, the initial management plan should be conservative and include antibiotic therapy. Subsequent management depends on the gestational age at diagnosis. Surgical therapy, when indicated, should not be delayed and a planned intervention during the second trimester appears to offer a better outcome than surgery performed under emergent conditions.

Functional gallbladder disorder: gallbladder dyskinesia

Functional gallbladder disorder, commonly referred to as gallbladder dyskinesia, is characterized by the occurrence of abdominal pain resembling gallbladder pain but in the absence of gallstones. The diagnosis and management of this condition can be confusing even for the most astute clinician. The aim of this article is to clarify the identification and management of patients with suspected functional gallbladder disorder.

Epidemiology of gallstones

Gallstones are common with prevalences as high as 60% to 70% in American Indians and 10% to 15% in white adults of developed countries. Ethnic differences abound with a reduced frequency in black Americans and those from East Asia, while being rare in sub-Saharan Africa. Certain risk factors for gallstones are immutable: female gender, increasing age, and ethnicity/family (genetic traits). Others are modifiable: obesity, the metabolic syndrome, rapid weight loss, certain diseases (cirrhosis and Crohn disease), gallbladder stasis (from spinal cord injury or drugs, such as somatostatin), and lifestyle.