Short-term changes in bone and mineral metabolism following gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients

Differential Impact of Subcutaneous and Visceral Fat on Bone Changes after Gastrectomy

BACKGRUOUND

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are crucial musculoskeletal complications in long-term survivors of gastric cancer. However, the relationship between changes in body composition after gastrectomy and bone loss has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to explore whether computed tomography (CT)-derived body composition parameters are associated with bone loss after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records and abdomen CT scans of patients who underwent gastrectomy at Yonsei University Severance Hospital between 2009 and 2018. Patients with non-metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma and preoperative and postoperative non-contrast CT scans were analyzed. Section area of skeletal muscle (SMA), visceral fat (VFA), and subcutaneous fat (SFA) were assessed using semi-automatic segmentation software. Changes in trabecular bone attenuation of L1 mid-vertebra level (L1 Hounsfield units [HU]) were measured.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients (mean age, 65.5±10.6; 70.2% males) were analyzed, and the median duration was 31 months. Fortyseven patients (82.5%) lost weight after gastrectomy. Baseline SMA and VFA did not differ between the bone loss and preserved groups; however, baseline SFA was significantly higher in the bone preserved group than in the bone loss group (P=0.020). In a multivariable linear regression model adjusted for confounding factors, one standard deviation higher VFA at baseline was associated with greater annualized L1 HU loss (%) (P=0.034). However, higher preoperative SFA was associated with protection against bone loss after gastrectomy (P=0.025).

CONCLUSION

Higher preoperative SFA exhibited a protective effect against bone loss after gastrectomy in patients with non-metastatic gastric cancer, whereas VFA exhibited a negative effect.

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies after surgery for esophageal and gastric cancer: A metanalysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients receiving oncological esophagectomy or gastrectomy are known to be at high risk for vitamin and micronutrient deficiency before, during and after surgery. However, there are no clear guidelines for these cancer patients regarding postoperative vitamin supplementation.

METHODS

We conducted a metanalysis consisting of 10 studies regarding vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies after oncological gastric or esophageal resection. 5 databases were searched.

RESULTS

Data was sufficient regarding Vitamins B12 and 25-OH D3 as well as calcium. We were able to show deficiencies in 25-OH Vitamin D3 levels (p < 0.001) and lower levels of Vitamin B12 and calcium (bit p < 0.001) when compared to the healthy population.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients from these groups are at risk for vitamin deficiencies. A guideline on postoperative supplementation is needed.

Korean Practice Guidelines for Gastric Cancer 2022: An Evidence-based, Multidisciplinary Approach

Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers in Korea and the world. Since 2004, this is the 4th gastric cancer guideline published in Korea which is the revised version of previous evidence-based approach in 2018. Current guideline is a collaborative work of the interdisciplinary working group including experts in the field of gastric surgery, gastroenterology, endoscopy, medical oncology, abdominal radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, radiation oncology and guideline development methodology. Total of 33 key questions were updated or proposed after a collaborative review by the working group and 40 statements were developed according to the systematic review using the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and KoreaMed database. The level of evidence and the grading of recommendations were categorized according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation proposition. Evidence level, benefit, harm, and clinical applicability was considered as the significant factors for recommendation. The working group reviewed recommendations and discussed for consensus. In the earlier part, general consideration discusses screening, diagnosis and staging of endoscopy, pathology, radiology, and nuclear medicine. Flowchart is depicted with statements which is supported by meta-analysis and references. Since clinical trial and systematic review was not suitable for postoperative oncologic and nutritional follow-up, working group agreed to conduct a nationwide survey investigating the clinical practice of all tertiary or general hospitals in Korea. The purpose of this survey was to provide baseline information on follow up. Herein we present a multidisciplinary-evidence based gastric cancer guideline.

Risk of fracture following gastric surgery for benign and malignant conditions: A study level pooled analysis of population-based cohort studies

BACKGROUND

Metabolic changes may occur following gastric surgery, which has been reported to contribute to bone loss, osteoporosis and even bone fracture. However, the evidence regarding the relationship between gastric surgery for benign and malignant conditions and risk of fracture is controversial. This study was conducted with the aim to evaluate whether gastric surgery is associated with a high risk of fracture.

METHODS

Major electronic databases were searched from inception through October 2021 for population-based cohort studies investigating the associations between gastric surgery (including bariatric gastric surgeries and surgeries for gastric benign and malignant gastric tumors) and risk of fracture compared with controls. Pooled relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were derived using the random-effects Mantel-Haenszel model. Multiple subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were carried out to test sources of heterogeneity stratified by various study characteristics and the robustness of the results.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies comprising 693134 individuals were identified for analysis. The RR for the risk of fracture in people undergoing gastric surgery was 1.45 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23 - 1.72; I^{2 =} 95.8%; P < 0.001] compared with that in control populations, among which the fracture sites of upper limb, spine, lower limb, pelvis and hip showed consistent significant results (all P < 0.05), whereas nonsignificant associations was noted for other fracture sites. Significant associations were also observed for patients having total or subtotal gastrectomy (RR 2.22, 95% CI 1.66 to 3.00), gastric bypass (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.26 to 1.74), and a similar trend was observed for preserved passage procedures (including sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding, vertical banded gastroplasty and other procedures that preserved the passage through the duodenum and proximal small bowel, in contrast to gastric bypass), though the difference did not reach statistically significant (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.26). An evident increased risk in the age range from 40-59 years was observed (40-49 years: RR 1.36, 95% CI 1.19-1.55; 50-59 years: RR 2.48, 95% CI 1.58-3.90).

CONCLUSION

From this large pooled analysis of population-based cohort studies, evidence supports that fracture risk is increased in gastric surgery survivors compared with the control population. Early prevention and effective intervention strategies of bone fracture should be taken from clinicians and health policy makers.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=291394), identifier CRD42021291394.

International Delphi consensus guidelines for follow-up after prophylactic total gastrectomy: the Life after Prophylactic Total Gastrectomy (LAP-TG) study

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic total gastrectomy (PTG) remains the only means of preventing gastric cancer for people with genetic mutations predisposing to Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer (HDGC), mainly in the CDH1 gene. The small but growing cohort of people undergoing PTG at a young age are expected to have a life-expectancy close to the general population, however, knowledge of the long-term effects of, and monitoring requirements after, PTG is limited. This study aims to define the standard of care for follow-up after PTG.

METHODS

Through a combination of literature review and two-round Delphi consensus of major HDGC/PTG units and physicians, and patient advocates, we produced a set of recommendations for follow-up after PTG.

RESULTS

There were 42 first round, and 62 second round, responses from clinicians, allied health professionals and patient advocates. The guidelines include recommendations for timing of assessments and specialties involved in providing follow-up, micronutrient supplementation and monitoring, bone health and the provision of written information.

CONCLUSION

While the evidence supporting the guidelines is limited, expert consensus provides a framework to best manage people following PTG, and could support the collection of information on the long-term effects of PTG.

Vitamin D—The Nutritional Status of Post-Gastrectomy Gastric Cancer Patients—Systematic Review

Gastric cancer is a malignant neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract, with one of the standard treatment methods remaining gastrectomy. The authors conducted a systemic review of the Medline and Embase databases concerning the serum vitamin D level in post-gastrectomy gastric cancer patients, regarding all articles published until 22 May 2022 according to the PRISMA guidelines. 18 studies with a total number of 908 gastric cancer survivors were included in the analysis. The initial rate of vitamin D deficiency in gastric cancer patients undergoing gastrectomy appears to be similar to the global population deficiency. In post-gastrectomy survivors, the level of 25(OH)D may remain stable or decrease, while the level of 1, 25(OH)₂D remains normal. Supplementation with vitamin D results in an improvement in its serum concentration and positively affects bone mineral density, which is gradually reduced in post-gastrectomy survivors. Combining vitamin D supplementation with calcium and bisphosphonates enables us to obtain better results than vitamin D and calcium only. The type of surgery influences the level of serum vitamin D and its metabolites, with total or partial gastrectomy and maintenance of the duodenal food passage remaining the most important factors. There is a strong need for randomized, controlled trials that would investigate this matter in the future.

Prediction of risk of osteoporosis after gastrectomy for gastric cancer

INTRODUCTION

There are few guidelines for screening of osteoporosis in patients who have undergone gastrectomy. This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to predict the risk of osteoporosis after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer.

METHODS

Bone densitometry results for 522 patients with gastric cancer and 2088 individuals from a health-promotion centre were compared using propensity score matching to develop a nomogram to predict osteoporosis after gastrectomy. External validation was performed using an independent data set.

RESULTS

In the 10 years after gastrectomy 53.5 per cent of patients developed osteoporosis. In multivariable analysis, the odds ratios of subtotal gastrectomy and total gastrectomy were 5.46 and 8.69 (P < 0.001 for both). Seven risk factors (type of gastrectomy, age, sex, BMI, and serum levels of albumin, creatinine and phosphorus) were incorporated into the nomogram. The prediction accuracy of the nomogram in the development set was 0.830 (area under the curve (AUC)); (95 per cent c.i. 0.812 to 0.848). In the validation set, the AUC was 0.807 (95 per cent c.i. 0.741 to 0.873).

CONCLUSION

Gastrectomy was a risk factor for osteoporosis, and its incidence in the first 10 years after surgery was high. This nomogram can help clinicians to identify patients with gastric cancer most at risk of developing osteoporosis after surgery.

A Gender Comparison of Bone Metabolic Changes After Gastric Cancer Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

This study was designed to investigate gender-related differences in changes in bone metabolism after gastric cancer surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively recruited 47 patients (38 males and 9 females) who had early gastric cancer. The bone mineral density (BMD), serum levels of 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25(OH)₂VD), 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)VD), and estradiol (E2) were measured before and after surgery.

RESULTS

BMD significantly decreased 12 months after surgery by median degrees of 3.4% and 3.9% in male and female patients, respectively (p<0.001 and p=0.023). There was no significant difference between both genders in the rate of change in BMD after surgery. The serum E2 level in male patients significantly increased by a median value of 22 pg/ml 12 months after gastrectomy (p=0.030). Both the serum 25(OH)VD and 1,25(OH)₂VD levels remained nearly within the normal range throughout the observation period in both male and female patients.

CONCLUSION

BMD significantly decreased within 12 months after gastrectomy in both male and female patients with gastric cancer, and there was no significant gender-related difference in the rate of change in BMD.

Pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of beriberi after gastric surgery

Beriberi is a nutritional complication of gastric surgery, caused by deficiency of vitamin B₁, or thiamine. Thiamine deficiency leads to impaired glucose metabolism, decreased delivery of oxygen by red blood cells, cardiac dysfunction, failure of neurotransmission, and neuronal death. This review describes the history and pathophysiology of beriberi as well as the relationship between beriberi and nutritional deficiencies after gastric surgery. A literature review of the history and pathophysiology of beriberi and the risk factors for thiamine deficiency, particularly after gastric resection or bariatric surgery, was performed. Recommendations for nutritional follow-up post gastric surgery are based on current national guidelines. Patients may have subclinical thiamine deficiency after upper gastrointestinal surgery, and thus beriberi may be precipitated by acute illness such as sepsis or poor dietary intake. This may occur very soon or many years after gastrectomy or bariatric surgery, even in apparently well-nourished patients. Prompt recognition and administration of supplemental thiamine can decrease morbidity and mortality in patients with beriberi. Dietary education post surgery and long-term follow-up to determine nutritional status, including vitamin and mineral assessment, is recommended for patients who undergo gastric surgery.

Incidence and risk factors of osteoporotic status in outpatients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Background and Aim

Disorders in bone metabolism have long been recognized as typical sequelae of gastrectomy; however, the pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated, resulting in a variation of reported incidence. This study aimed to evaluate current bone health by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) in patients treated by gastrectomy for gastric cancer, with a focus on incidence and risk factors of osteoporosis.

Methods

The study enrolled 81 patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer at Kochi Medical School. BMD of the lumbar spine was measured by dual‐energy X‐ray mineral absorptiometry, with the results expressed as a percentage of the young adult mean (YAM). Clinical data were also obtained to investigate associations with BMD.

Results

Of the 81 study patients, 12 (14.8%) were deemed to have osteoporosis, defined by a percentage of YAM <70, with a dominance of females over males (66.7% vs 17.4%; P < 0.001). The median body weight, hemoglobin concentration, and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level of the patients with osteoporosis was significantly lower than in those with a percentage of YAM ≥70 group (39.6 kg vs 53.1 kg, P < 0.001; 10.9 mg/dL vs 12.5 mg/dL, P = 0.010; 210 U/L vs 251 U/L, P = 0.002). Further analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between body weight and percentage of YAM (r = 0.441, P < 0.001). Despite the administration of bisphosphonates in these patients during this study, one acquired a bone fracture.

Conclusion

Osteoporosis was found in 14.8% of postoperative gastric cancer patients, with female gender, low body weight, and low ALP proposed as risk factors for osteoporosis and thus future bone fracture.

Helicobacter pylori Related Diseases and Osteoporotic Fractures (Narrative Review)

Osteoporosis (OP) and osteoporotic fractures (OFs) are common multifactorial and heterogenic disorders of increasing incidence. Helicobacter pylori (H.p.) colonizes the stomach approximately in half of the world's population, causes gastroduodenal diseases and is prevalent in numerous extra-digestive diseases known to be associated with OP/OF. The studies regarding relationship between H.p. infection (HPI) and OP/OFs are inconsistent. The current review summarizes the relevant literature on the potential role of HPI in OP, falls and OFs and highlights the reasons for controversies in the publications. In the first section, after a brief overview of HPI biological features, we analyze the studies evaluating the association of HPI and bone status. The second part includes data on the prevalence of OP/OFs in HPI-induced gastroduodenal diseases (peptic ulcer, chronic/atrophic gastritis and cancer) and the effects of acid-suppressive drugs. In the next section, we discuss the possible contribution of HPI-associated extra-digestive diseases and medications to OP/OF, focusing on conditions affecting both bone homeostasis and predisposing to falls. In the last section, we describe clinical implications of accumulated data on HPI as a co-factor of OP/OF and present a feasible five-step algorithm for OP/OF risk assessment and management in regard to HPI, emphasizing the importance of an integrative (but differentiated) holistic approach. Increased awareness about the consequences of HPI linked to OP/OF can aid early detection and management. Further research on the HPI-OP/OF relationship is needed to close current knowledge gaps and improve clinical management of both OP/OF and HPI-related disorders.

The change of bone mineral density and bone metabolism after gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a meta-analysis

Bone mineral density (BMD) is significantly decreased after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer. Calcium malabsorption, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and dominant bone resorption appear to contribute to bone loss in these patients. Patients should undergo early surveillance and nutritional or pharmacologic intensive interventions for bone health.

PURPOSE

Survivorship care, including bone health, has become an important issue in gastric cancer. We performed a meta-analysis of the available observational studies to determine whether and how osteoporosis risk is increased after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer.

METHODS

A total of 1204 patients (802 men) from 19 cohort studies were included. We evaluated the prevalence of osteoporosis in postgastrectomy patients, comparing the incidence according to the type of gastrectomy and sex. Additionally, we evaluated changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism-related markers pre- to postoperatively and between patients who underwent gastrectomy and matched controls. Proportion meta-analysis was performed and pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated.

RESULTS

The pooled incidence estimate was 36% [95% confidence interval (CI), 32-40]. The incidence of osteoporosis was significantly higher in women than in men (OR = 1.90, p < 0.001) but was similar between partial and total gastrectomy groups (OR = 0.983, p = 0.939). BMD was significantly decreased, and calcium, phosphorous, and parathyroid hormone levels were significantly increased in patients after gastrectomy compared to those before gastrectomy. BMD and calcium and 25OH-vitamin D levels were significantly decreased, and parathyroid hormone and 1,25OH-vitamin D levels were significantly increased in the gastrectomy group compared to that in the control group.

CONCLUSION

We found that BMD is significantly decreased after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer. Vitamin D deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism are suggested to be common mechanism underlying BMD impairment. After resection, patients should undergo long-term nutritional and bone health surveillance, in addition to their oncological follow-up.

Effect of bisphosphonate on the prevention of bone loss in patients with gastric cancer after gastrectomy: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Bone loss is highly prevalent after gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients. Therefore, the efficacy of medical treatment should be evaluated in patients undergoing gastrectomy.

METHODS

We conducted an unblinded, randomized controlled trial of patients who underwent gastrectomy to treat gastric cancer. The intention-to-treat participants (n = 107) were randomly assigned to receive either alendronate at a weekly dose of 70 mg and daily elemental calcium (500 mg) with cholecalciferol (1000 IU) or daily elemental calcium (500 mg) with cholecalciferol (1000 IU) only. The primary endpoint was defined by the changes in bone mineral density of four measurement sites: the lumbar spine, femur neck, total hip, and trochanter. Changes in bone turnover markers, osteocalcin and collagen I carboxyterminal telopeptide were also observed.

RESULTS

At baseline, there were no differences between the two groups in bone mineral density. In the lumbar spine and trochanter, there were no significant percentage changes compared with the baseline in the alendronate group, but a significant decrease was noted in the control group (p < 0.001 for both lumbar spine and trochanter). In the femur neck and total hip, a larger decrease was observed compared with the baseline in the control group (p < 0.001 for both femur neck and total hip). Significant percentage increases in serum osteocalcin compared with baseline were noted in the control group (p for trend <0.001), but there was no change in the alendronate group (p for trend = 0.713). Collagen I carboxyterminal telopeptide significantly declined in the alendronate group over 12 months (p for trend <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevention and treatment with bisphosphonate effectively reduces bone loss by suppressing bone resorption in gastric cancer patients undergoing gastrectomy.

Increased Risk of Osteoporotic Fracture in Postgastrectomy Gastric Cancer Survivors Compared With Matched Controls: A Nationwide Cohort Study in Korea

OBJECTIVES

Gastrectomy can lead to bone loss. Previous studies have suggested that there is an increased risk of fracture in gastric cancer survivors. However, these studies were performed without proper control groups. Therefore, we used Korean national health insurance data to compare the fracture risk in gastric cancer survivors who received gastrectomy to that of the general population.

METHODS

A total of 133,179 gastric cancer survivors were included and matched to noncancer controls using 1:1 propensity score matching. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to determine the relative risk of fracture between the gastric cancer survivors and matched controls. We also examined the factors associated with fracture in gastric cancer survivors.

RESULTS

Compared with the matched controls, gastric cancer survivors had an elevated risk of osteoporotic fracture (hazard ratio [HR] 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53-1.70), which was most prominent in patients who underwent total gastrectomy (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.96-2.44) and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 2.01, 95% CI 1.81-2.23). In multivariate analysis, anemia was significantly associated with increased fracture risk (aHR 1.34, 95% CI 1.13-1.59), while decrease in weight >5% was not (aHR 1.06, 95% CI 0.89-1.25).

DISCUSSION

Gastric cancer survivors who underwent gastrectomy had an increased osteoporotic fracture risk than did matched controls. Total gastrectomy, adjuvant chemotherapy, and anemia were associated with an even higher risk in these patients. Additional studies are needed to establish optimal strategies, such as screening for osteoporosis and preventive interventions, that will reduce fracture risk in this population.

Increased risk of osteoporotic fracture in community-dwelling elderly men 20 or more years after gastrectomy: The Fujiwara-kyo Osteoporosis Risk in Men (FORMEN) Cohort Study

PURPOSE

Many studies have reported that patients with a history of gastrectomy (gastrectomized patients) have lower areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and higher fracture risk than those without. However, population-based studies on this topic are scarce, and little is known regarding the bone metabolic status of gastrectomized patients in the long-term. This study aimed to clarify the association of gastrectomy with aBMD, bone metabolism markers, and fracture risk in community-dwelling elderly Japanese men.

METHODS

A total of 1992 men aged ≥65 years completed baseline measurements including aBMD at the spine and hip, serum levels of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), intact osteocalcin (OC), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoenzyme 5b (TRACP5b), and undercarboxylated OC (ucOC), and an interview regarding past medical history including gastrectomy. Osteoporotic fractures (OPFs) that occurred during the 5-year follow-up period were determined through structured interviews.

RESULTS

After excluding participants with type 1 diabetes mellitus and those with missing values, 1985 men, including 132 gastrectomized men, were analyzed. Gastrectomized men had significantly higher PTH, TRACP5b, and ucOC levels, and lower aBMD, than non-gastrectomized men. Gastrectomy was associated with a significantly higher risk of OPF after adjusting for confounding variables (hazard ratio (HR): 2.55, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17, 5.55), and the risk was no longer significant when further adjusted for PTH and aBMD. Even in this model, however, increase in OPF risk was significant in gastrectomized men who survived 20 years or more after the surgery (HR: 3.56, 95% CI: 1.33, 9.52).

CONCLUSIONS

History of gastrectomy was associated with elevated bone resorption, decreased aBMD, and increased fracture risk in community-dwelling elderly Japanese men. This increase in fracture risk was more prominent long after gastrectomy.

Risk factors for loss of bone mineral density after curative esophagectomy

Micronutrient and fat malabsorption and altered enteroendocrine signaling occur after esophagectomy for cancer; however, the impact of malnutrition on bone health in this cohort has not been previously investigated. In this study, the prevalence of osteoporosis increased after curative surgery, associated with disease-specific, treatment-related, and population risk factors.

PURPOSE

Improved oncologic outcomes in esophageal cancer (EC) have resulted in increased survivorship and a focus on long-term quality of life. Malnutrition and micronutrient malabsorption are common among patients with EC, but the effect on bone metabolism is not known. The aim of this study was to characterize changes in bone mineral density (BMD) following curative esophagectomy.

METHODS

Consecutive disease-free patients who underwent esophagectomy with gastric conduit for pathologically node-negative disease from 2000 to 2014 were included. BMD was assessed at vertebral levels T12-L5 by computed tomography using a simple trabecular region-of-interest attenuation technique, and serum markers of nutritional status and bone metabolism were examined. Independent risk factors for osteoporosis were identified by multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Seventy-five consecutive patients were studied. Osteoporosis was present in 25% at diagnosis. BMD declined at 1 and 2 years postoperatively (144.3 ± 45.8 versus 128.6 ± 46.2 and 122.7 ± 43.5 Hounsfield Units (HU), P < 0.0001), with increased osteoporosis prevalence to 38% and 44% (P = 0.049), respectively. No significant postoperative change in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate was observed, but alkaline phosphatase increased significantly (P < 0.001). While female sex (P = 0.004) and ASA grade (P = 0.043) were independently associated with osteoporosis at diagnosis, age (P = 0.050), female sex (P = 0.023), smoking (P = 0.024), and pathologic T stage (P = 0.023) were independently predictive of osteoporosis at 1 year postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis is prevalent among disease-free patients post-esophagectomy for EC, associated with disease-specific, treatment-related, and population risk factors. Strategies which minimize BMD decline should be considered to avoid fragility fractures in this cohort.

Changes in bone metabolism after gastric cancer surgery in male patients: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Several retrospective studies have shown that bone disorders occur after gastric cancer surgery. This study was designed to prospectively evaluate the changes in bone metabolism after gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 39 men with early gastric cancer who underwent gastrectomy. We excluded women to avoid the effects of menopause. We employed dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to measure bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine. DEXA was performed before and 1 and 2 years after surgery. The serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D [1,25(OH)₂VD], 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)VD], and estradiol were measured before surgery and every 3 months until 2 years after surgery.

RESULTS

DEXA revealed that BMD significantly decreased by 0.036 ± 0.033 g/cm² 12 months after gastrectomy (P < 0.001) and by 0.046 ± 0.040 g/cm² 24 months after gastrectomy (P < 0.001). The serum ALP level significantly increased by 38.31 ± 103.8 IU/L 24 months after surgery (P = 0.013). The serum 25(OH)VD level significantly decreased by 4.88 ± 6.42 ng/ml 24 months after surgery (P < 0.001), whereas the serum 1,25(OH)₂VD levels were consistently in the normal range. The serum estradiol level significantly increased by 2.94 ± 7.49 pg/ml 12 months after gastrectomy (P = 0.035). A lower preoperative body mass index (BMI) significantly correlated with the reduction in BMD 12 months after surgery; the correlation coefficient was 0.37 (P = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that a significant decrease in BMD was observed for up to 24 months after gastrectomy, not only 12 months.

Osteoporosis and Osteoporotic Fractures in Gastrointestinal Disease

Patients with gastrointestinal disease (GI) are at risk for osteopenia or osteoporosis, which can lead to fractures. Although these patients may be at risk from a young age, gastroenterologists often overlook this fact in practice. There are well-known GI diseases associated with osteopenia and osteoporosis, such as the post-gastrectomy state, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease. As there is an increase in the prevalence of IBD patients, newly diagnosed celiac disease in adulthood, and gastric cancer survivors following gastrectomy, bone disease in these patients becomes an important issue. Here, we have discussed osteoporosis and fractures in GI disease, especially in the post-gastrectomy state, IBD, and celiac disease. Although the pathogenesis of bone loss in each disease has not been fully identified, we have confirmed that the prevalence of osteoporosis and fractures in each of these diseases is high. There are scarce studies comparing the prevalence of osteoporosis or osteoporotic fractures in GI disease patients with studies in postmenopausal women, and specific guidelines for their management in each disease have not been established. Intensive surveillance and management are needed to ensure that these patients attain peak bone mass for age and sex to prevent fractures.

Increased Risk of Osteoporosis in Gastric Cancer Survivors Compared to General Population Control: A Study with Representative Korean Population

Purpose

Although several studies have suggested that osteoporosis is common in survivors of gastric cancer (GC), no study to date has directly assessed the risk for osteoporosis in GC survivors compared to matched controls. Thus, we aimed to investigate the relative risk for osteoporosis in survivors of GC compared to general population.

Materials and Methods

We used the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data (2008-2011). Patients with a history of GC (n=94) were defined as case among 8,142 individuals over 50 years old who were evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Controls (n=470) were matched to cases by age and sex in a 1:5 ratio. Osteopenia (–2.5 < T-score < –1.0) and osteoporosis (T-score ≤ –2.5) were defined.

Results

The prevalence of osteoporosis in GC survivors was 30.2%, which was significantly greater than that of controls (19.7%). In total, GC survivors had a 3.7-fold increased risk for osteoporosis compared to controls (p=0.021). In addition, the risk for osteoporosis of the total proximal femur total (TF) and femur neck (FN) was significantly increased among GC survivors compared to controls (adjusted relative risk, 4.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.16 to 18.6 in TF and adjusted relative risk, 3.58; 95% confidence interval, 1.19 to 10.8 in FN). Furthermore, we found sub-optimal daily calcium intake and mean serum levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D in both groups.

Conclusion

GC survivors are at significantly increased risk for osteoporosis, especially in the femur. Clinically, our finding supports the importance of screening bone health and adequate nutrient supplementation in survivors of GC.

Risk of osteoporosis after gastrectomy in long-term gastric cancer survivors

INTRODUCTION

Although early detection and successful gastrectomy have improved the survival of patients with gastric cancer, long-term health problems remain troubling. We evaluated the prevalence of osteoporosis and its risk factors in long-term survivors of gastric cancer after gastrectomy.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of a tertiary hospital between 2007 and 2014 to identify survivors of gastric cancer who had visited our center at around 5 years after gastrectomy. We evaluated their health status, including bone mineral density (BMD). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure the BMD of the lumbar spine and femur (total and neck area). The prevalence of osteoporosis, defined by a BMD T score <-2.5, was investigated, and clinical variables associated with the presence of osteoporosis were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 250 survivors were included. The mean age was 54.6 years old, and the median follow-up was 6.0 years. The prevalence of osteoporosis was 34.0% (27.4% for men and 43.6% for women). Older age [odds ratio (OR) 5.50, 95% CI 2.33-13.00], higher alkaline phosphatase levels before gastrectomy (OR 5.67, 95% CI 1.36-23.64), and marked weight loss (≥20%) after gastrectomy (OR 3.59, 95% CI 1.32-9.77) were independently associated with the presence of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort, osteoporosis was commonly observed in long-term survivors of gastric cancer, and several risk factors for it were identified. To reduce the risk of osteoporosis after gastrectomy, maintaining adequate body weight may be necessary.

Bone health in long-term gastric cancer survivors: A prospective study of high-dose vitamin D supplementation using an easy administration scheme

Bone disease in long-term survivors after gastric cancer resection has received little research attention. This study aimed to investigate bone health after curative resection of gastric cancer and the consequences of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in patients with low levels of 25-(OH)-vitamin D. Disease-free patients at least 24 months after gastric cancer resection represented the study cohort. Serum markers of bone metabolism were assessed at baseline and at 3 and 12 months. Bone mineral density and presence of fractures were assessed by X-ray at baseline. Patients with 25-(OH)-vitamin D ≤30 ng/mL at baseline received 16,000 IU of vitamin D3 every 10 days during the 1-year follow-up. Forty patients were included in the study. Mean time from surgery was 48.9 (24-109) months. Vitamin D insufficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism were observed in 38 and 20 patients, respectively. Densitometry showed osteoporosis in 14 women and seven men and prevalent fractures in 12 women and six men at baseline. After 3 months of vitamin D supplementation, 35 patients reached values of 25-(OH)-vitamin D over 30 ng/mL. After 12 months, 38 patients were in the normal range of 25-(OH)-vitamin D. At the same time, iPTH levels and markers of bone turnover (C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type-I collagen, serum concentrations of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin) significantly decreased after vitamin D intervention. Oral administration of high doses of vitamin D is easily implemented and restored 25-(OH)-vitamin D and iPTH values, which are frequently disturbed after gastric cancer resection.

Osteoporosis and fracture after gastrectomy for stomach cancer: A nationwide claims study

This study was planned to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of osteoporosis and fracture after gastrectomy for stomach cancer using a nationwide claims database in South Korea.Data from 41,512 patients (50-79 years) who underwent gastrectomy for stomach cancer from 2008 to 2010 with at least 5 years of follow-up were obtained from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. Patients diagnosed with osteoporosis and prescribed bisphosphonate or raloxifene or who experienced osteoporotic fractures after gastrectomy were operationally defined as osteoporosis. Osteoporotic fracture was defined as a fracture at common osteoporotic fracture sites (spine, pelvis, hip, forearm, or rib).In total, 37,076 patients were included in the final analysis. The incidences of postgastrectomy osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures were 41.9 and 27.6 cases per 1000 person-years, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.88; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.79-1.96), female gender (HR 2.46; 2.35-2.58), total gastrectomy (HR 1.10; 1.04-1.16), and diabetes (HR 1.16; 1.11-1.22) were significantly associated with osteoporosis and that older age (HR 1.90; 95% CI 1.80-2.01), female gender (HR 1.50; 1.41-1.58), total gastrectomy (HR 1.17; 1.10-1.25), chemotherapy (HR 1.06; 1.00-1.12), and diabetes (HR 1.26; 1.19-1.33) were significantly associated with fractures. Osteoporotic fractures occurred a median 3.1 years after gastrectomy. Among the 5175 fracture patients, 780 (15.1%) experienced multisite fractures, mostly in the elderly and chemotherapy groups.The osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture incidences are high in patients within a relatively short timeframe after gastrectomy for stomach cancer. Systematic management of osteoporosis is necessary after this surgery.

Bone mineral density after treatment for gastric cancer: Endoscopic treatment versus gastrectomy

Changes in bone metabolism among gastric cancer survivors have long been recognized. The aim of our study was to clarify the changes of bone mineral density (BMD) among gastric cancer survivors who underwent endoscopic resection or gastrectomy. Forty-nine patients diagnosed with tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) stage 1 gastric cancer with pathologic confirmation, who underwent BMD measurement just before the procedure, and had no prior osteoporosis treatment, were studied. BMD was measured with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry before and after treatment. Laboratory tests were performed using fresh serum, and serum levels of alkaline phosphatase, albumin, calcium, and phosphorus were measured. We used a nested case-control design to compare groups. Of the 49 patients, 34 underwent gastrectomy and 15 underwent endoscopic treatment. There were no differences in baseline clinical characteristics, including BMD, and biochemical data between groups. The mean and median follow-up intervals for BMD measurement were 32.6 months (standard deviation, 16.5) and 31.0 months (interquartile range: 21.5, 41.0), respectively. The follow-up BMDs of the femoral neck and total hip were lower in the gastrectomy group (P = .010 and .011, respectively). The percentage changes in BMD for the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip were -3.30%, -1.52%, and 0.40%, respectively, in the endoscopic treatment group, and -7.17%, -6.30%, and -3.49%, respectively, in the gastrectomy group. Bone loss of the lumbar spine and femoral neck were greater in the gastrectomy group (P = .028 and .022, respectively). BMD is lower after gastrectomy than after endoscopic treatment among early stage gastric cancer survivors.

Fracture after gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A long-term follow-up observational study

AIM

Gastrectomy is a known risk factor for decreased bone mass. We aimed to evaluate the cumulative incidence and predictive factors of fracture in gastric cancer patients who underwent gastrectomy.

METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 1687 patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer at our hospital between September 1991 and December 2008. The exclusion criteria were stage IV gastric cancer, history of cancer recurrence, medical conditions that cause osteoporosis and high-energy injury. Fractures at sites considered to be associated with osteoporosis were diagnosed radiologically.

RESULTS

In total, our analysis included the records of 1131 patients. The incidence of postgastrectomy fracture was 42.1 cases per 1000 person-years. Fractures typically occurred within 3.7 ± 0.5 years postoperatively. The cumulative incidence of fracture was 9.1%, 19.7%, and 37.3% by postoperative year 2, 4, and 6, respectively. During the following years, the cumulative incidence increased slowly, up to a final 40.6%. Multivariate analysis showed that older age (hazard ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.04) and smoking (hazard ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.73) were significantly associated with fracture, whereas sex, body mass index, percent weight loss, diabetes mellitus, tumour stage, and type of gastrectomy were not.

CONCLUSION

The cumulative incidence of fracture is high in gastric cancer patients who have undergone gastrectomy, and fracture rate is higher during the early postoperative period. Old age and smoking are independent risk factors for postgastrectomy fracture in these patients. More detailed postoperative surveillance and pharmacological intervention should be considered to prevent fracture.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Risk of Hip Fracture in Kidney Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Posttransplantation bone disease is a significant problem, with few well-evidenced therapeutic options. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are associated with hip fracture in the general population and are widely prescribed for kidney transplant recipients.

STUDY DESIGN

A case-control study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

From the US Renal Data System, we identified from diagnoses and procedures 231 kidney transplant recipients with a first hip fracture. Cases were matched at the hip fracture index date with 15,575 controls on age, sex, race, and transplantation year.

PREDICTOR

PPI use.

OUTCOMES

First hip fracture.

RESULTS

In the year prior to the index date, a PPI was prescribed to 65.4% of cases and 57.4% of controls. Additionally, in 34.6% of cases and 28.9% of controls, a PPI was prescribed for >80% of the year preceding the index date (higher PPI users). Unadjusted ORs of hip fracture associated with any and higher PPI use were 1.55 (95% CI, 1.18-2.05) and 1.65 (95% CI, 1.2-2.27), respectively. When adjusted for baseline demographic, clinical, and pharmacologic covariables, any and higher PPI use remained associated with hip fracture, with ORs of 1.39 (95% CI, 1.04-1.84) and 1.41 (95% CI, 1.02-1.95), respectively.

LIMITATIONS

Potential residual confounding through either incorrectly ascertained or unavailable confounders; cohort limited to Medicare beneficiaries receiving low-income subsidy.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, PPI use was associated with hip fracture risk in the US kidney transplant population.

Negative Effects of Total Gastrectomy on Bone Tissue Metabolism and Volumetric Bone Mineral Density (vBMD) of Lumbar Spine in 1-Year Study in Men

Gastrectomy induces severe osteoporosis in humans but its quantitative scale within trabecular and cortical compartments was not estimated. The aim of the study was to determine changes of volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) in lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4) and biochemical bone metabolism markers in serum of patients 1 year after total gastrectomy. The control group consisted of patients (N = 8) subjected to abdominal surgery due to cardiospasmus. Total gastrectomy was performed in the experimental group (N = 6). Volumetric bone mineral density of trabecular and cortical bone of lumbar spine was measured before (baseline) and 1 year after the gastric surgery using the quantitative computed tomography method. Serum concentrations of insulin, insulin-like growth factor-1, tyroxine, interleukin-6, C-terminal telopeptides of type II collagen and bone formation, and resorption markers were determined at baseline and 1 year later, using ELISA, EIA, and IEMA methods. Total gastrectomy induced significant decrease of vBMD values, up to 16.8% and 10.0%, within the trabecular and cortical bone compartments of lumbar spine (P < 0.05). These negative changes of vBMD were associated with significantly increased serum concentration of bone resorption markers such as deoxypyridinoline, pyridinoline, and C-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen, by 13.5%, 32.2%, and 121.5%, respectively (P < 0.05). Neither vBMD nor biochemical bone turnover markers and hormone concentrations were influenced in the control patients. Dramatic bone loss during the first year in gastrectomized patients has proven dynamic osteoporosis progress indicating an importance of treatment interventions in these patients with emphasis on inhibition of intensive bone resorption processes.

Dietary 2-oxoglutarate mitigates gastrectomy-evoked structural changes in cartilage of female rats

Gastrectomy (Gx) leads to osteopenia/osteoporosis in humans and animals. However, little is known about the influence of Gx on the cartilage in this regard. Recent studies have demonstrated a protective effect of 2-oxoglutaric acid (2-Ox) on bone and cartilage. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether 2-Ox can mitigate eventual Gx-induced cartilage impairment. Twenty female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to Gx and randomly divided into two groups: Gx + 2-Ox and Gx. Another 20 rats were sham-operated (ShO) and randomly divided into two groups: ShO + 2-Ox and ShO. The daily dose of 2-Ox administered to the rats in the drinking water was 0.43 g per 100 g rat. After eight weeks, rats were euthanized and femora and tibiae were collected. Histology and histomorphometry analyses of the articular cartilage and the growth plate were done. Gx resulted in a 32% (±44.5 femur, ±35.8 tibia) decrease in overall thickness of articular cartilage in both bones (femur: ShO 279.1 ± 48.5 vs. Gx 190.2 ± 38.4 µm, tibia: ShO 222.9 ± 50.3 µm vs. Gx 151.3 ± 52.6 µm) (in some zones up to 58 ± 28.0%), and in the growth plate up to 20% (±22.4) (femur: ShO 243.0 ± 34.0 vs. Gx 207.0 ± 33.7 µm, tibia: ShO 220.0 ± 24.6 µm vs. Gx 171.1 ± 16.1 µm). Gx altered the spatial distribution of thick and thin collagen fibers, and chondrocyte shape and size. 2-Ox administration prevented the reduction in both cartilages thickness (Gx + 2-Ox: articular cartilage 265.2 ± 53.8 µm, 235.6 ± 42.7 µm, growth plate 236.7 ± 39.2 µm, 191.3 ± 16.5 µm in femur and tibia, respectively), and abolished the spatial changes in collagen distribution and structure induced by Gx. Gx affects cartilage structure and thickness, however, 2-Ox administration mitigates these effects and showed protective and stimulatory properties. Our observations suggest that dietary 2-Ox can be used to offset some of the changes in hyaline cartilage, in particular articular cartilage, following bariatric surgeries.

Effects of total gastrectomy on plasma silicon and amino acid concentrations in men

The aim of the study was to determine one-year effects of total gastrectomy on plasma silicon and free amino acid concentrations in patients and evaluate changes of volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) in lumbar spine. Eight patients were enrolled to the control (CTR) group. Six patients subjected to total gastrectomy (GX group) were included to the experimental group. vBMD in trabecular and cortical bone was measured in lumbar vertebrae at baseline (before surgery) and one year later using quantitative computed tomography. Plasma concentrations of silicon and free amino acids were determined at baseline and one year later using photometric method and ion-exchange chromatography. Body weights within CTR and GX groups were not different after one-year follow-up when compared to the baseline values (P > 0.05). An average annual decrease of vBMD in the trabecular bone in the gastrectomized patients reached 15.0% in lumbar spine and was significantly different in comparison to the percentage changes observed in CTR group (P = 0.02). One-year percentage change of vBMD in the cortical bone in L1 and L2 has shown significantly decreased values by 10.5 and 9.1% in the GX group when compared to the percentage change observed in the controls (P < 0.05). Plasma concentration of adipic acid was significantly higher by 101.6% one year after total gastrectomy procedure in the patients when compared to the baseline value (P = 0.01). Plasma concentration of silicon was significantly lowered by 26.7% one year after the total gastrectomy when compared to the baseline value (P = 0.009). Total gastrectomy in patients has induced severe osteoporotic changes in lumbar spine within one-year period. The observed osteoporotic changes were associated with decreased plasma concentration of silicon indicating importance of exocrine and endocrine functions of stomach for silicon homeostasis maintenance. Gastrectomy-induced bone loss was not related to decreased amino acid concentration in plasma obtained from overnight fasted patients.

Calcium gluconate supplementation is effective to balance calcium homeostasis in patients with gastrectomy

We demonstrate histological evidence for hyperparathyroidism in patients with gastrectomy. This is, at least in part, explained by impaired calcium absorption, resulting in mineralization defects and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Additionally, we demonstrate improved bone mineralization in patients with gastrectomy after gluconate therapy and showed the effectiveness of calcium gluconate over carbonate to balance impaired calcium hemostasis in mice.

INTRODUCTION

Gastrectomy and hypochlorhydria due to long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy are associated with increased fracture risk because of intestinal calcium malabsorption. Hence, our objectives were to histologically investigate bone metabolism in patients with gastrectomy and to analyze the impact of calcium gluconate supplementation on skeletal integrity in the setting of impaired gastric acidification.

METHODS

Undecalcified bone biopsies of 26 gastrectomized individuals were histologically analyzed. In the clinical setting, we retrospectively identified 5 gastrectomized patients with sufficient vitamin D level, who were additionally supplemented with calcium gluconate and had a real bone mineral density (aBMD) follow-up assessments. A mouse model of achlorhydria (ATP4b-/-) was used to compare the effect of calcium gluconate and calcium carbonate supplementation on bone metabolism.

RESULTS

Biopsies from gastrectomized individuals showed significantly increased osteoid, osteoclast, and osteoblast indices and fibroosteoclasia (p < 0.05) as well as impaired calcium distribution in mineralized bone matrix compared to healthy controls. Five gastrectomized patients with sufficient vitamin D level demonstrated a significant increase in aBMD after a treatment with calcium gluconate alone for at least 6 months (p < 0.05). Calcium gluconate was superior to calcium carbonate in maintaining calcium metabolism in a mouse model of achlorhydria.

CONCLUSION

Gastrectomy is associated with severe osteomalacia, marrow fibrosis, and impaired calcium distribution within the mineralized matrix. We show that calcium gluconate supplementation can increase bone mineral density in gastrectomized individuals and performs superior to calcium carbonate in restoring calcium/skeletal homoeostasis in a mouse model of achlorhydria.

The effects of thyrotropin-suppressing therapy on bone metabolism in patients with well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma

Studies on the effects of levothyroxine (LT4) therapy on bone and bone metabolism have yielded conflicting results. This 1-year prospective study examined whether LT4 in patients with well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is a risk factor for bone mass loss and the subsequent development of osteoporosis. We examined 93 patients with DTC over 12months after initiating LT4 therapy (early postoperative period). We examined another 33 patients on long-term LT4 therapy for DTC (late postoperative period). Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed at baseline and after 1year. The mean bone losses during the early postoperative period in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip, calculated as the percentage change between levels at baseline and 12months, were -0.88, -1.3 and -0.81%, respectively. Bone loss was more evident in postmenopausal women (lumbar spine -2.1%, femoral neck -2.2%, and hip -2.1%; all P<0.05). We compared the changes in annual bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women according to calcium/vitamin D supplementation. Bone loss tended to be higher in the postmenopausal women receiving no supplementation. There was no decrease in BMD among patients during the late postoperative period. The mean bone loss was generally greater in the early than in the late postoperative group, and this was significant at the lumbar spine (P=0.041) and femoral neck (P=0.010). TSH-suppressive levothyroxine therapy accelerates bone loss, predominantly in postmenopausal women and exclusively during the early post-thyroidectomy period.

A dairy product fermented by lactobacilli cancels the adverse effects of hypochlorhydria induced by a proton pump inhibitor on bone metabolism in growing rats

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the effects of hypochlorhydria induced by proton pump inhibitor (PPI) administration and intake of a dairy product fermented by lactobacilli (DFL) on bone metabolism in growing rats. Male rats, aged 3 weeks, were divided into two groups: a control group fed a casein-based diet and a group fed a DFL-based diet. Each group was fed its respective experimental diets for 9 d. At day 5 of the feeding period, each group was divided into two subgroups: one that received a saline injection and one that received a PPI injection. Rats were subcutaneously administered saline or PPI for 5 d. Faecal Ca excretion was determined from day 6 to day 9. At the end of the experiment, plasma and femurs were collected. Administration of PPI significantly decreased bone mineral density (shown by X-ray computerised tomography) and bone strength (shown by a three-point bending test) in the control group. Plasma osteocalcin, type I collagen C-telopeptides, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone concentrations were elevated by PPI administration in the control group. Faecal Ca excretion and urinary P excretion in the control group were remarkably increased by PPI administration. On the other hand, these adverse effects of PPI were not observed in the DFL group. These results suggest that hypochlorhydria-induced bone loss may result from high bone turnover induced by secondary hyperparathyroidism due to Ca malabsorption and that DFL intake cancels these adverse effects probably via improving Ca malabsorption in growing rats.

Prevalence, pathophysiology, screening and management of osteoporosis in gastric cancer patients

Osteoporosis in gastric cancer patients is often overlooked or even neglected despite its high prevalence in these patients. Considering that old age, malnutrition, chronic disease, chemotherapy, decreased body mass index and gastrectomy are independent risk factors for osteoporosis, it is reasonable that the prevalence of osteoporosis in gastric cancer patients would be high. Many surviving patients suffer from back pain and pathological fractures, which are related to osteoporosis. Fractures have obvious associated morbidities, negative impact on quality of life, and impose both direct and indirect costs. In the era of a >55.6% 5-year survival rate of gastric cancer and increased longevity in gastric cancer patients, it is very important to eliminate common sequelae such as osteoporosis. Fortunately, the diagnosis of osteoporosis is well established and many therapeutic agents have been shown to be effective and safe not only in postmenopausal females but also in elderly males. Recently, effective treatments of gastric cancer patients with osteoporosis using bisphosphonates, which are commonly used in postmenopausal woman, were reported.

Hypochlorhydric stomach: a risk condition for calcium malabsorption and osteoporosis?

Malabsorption of dietary calcium is a cause of osteoporosis. Dissolution of calcium salts (e.g. calcium carbonate) in the stomach is one step in the proper active and passive absorption of calcium as a calcium ion (Ca(2+)) in the proximal small intestine. Stomach acid markedly increases dissolution and ionization of poorly soluble calcium salts. If acid is not properly secreted, calcium salts are minimally dissolved (ionized) and, subsequently, may not be properly and effectively absorbed. Atrophic gastritis, gastric surgery, and high-dose, long-term use of antisecretory drugs markedly reduce acid secretion and may, therefore, be risk conditions for malabsorption of dietary and supplementary calcium, and may thereby increase the risk of osteoporosis in the long term.

Follow-up strategy after curative resection of gastric cancer: a nationwide survey in Korea

BACKGROUND

To date, guidelines for follow-up after curative resection in patients with gastric cancer have not been reported. Thus, most centers have managed the process according to institution-specific protocols. We investigated current follow-up practices after curative resection of gastric cancer using a nationwide survey in Korea, where gastric cancer is epidemic.

METHODS

From July to September 2007, questionnaires were sent out to 205 members of the Korean Gastric Cancer Association (KGCA). The questionnaire packet contained a covering letter, general information, and a questionnaire about follow-up schedules and methodologies.

RESULTS

Forty-six percent (96/205) of the members of the KGCA returned the survey. The majority of responders indicated that patients with early gastric cancer were followed up every 6 months (64.4%) for the first year, every 12 months (47.9%) for the next 4 years, and every 12 months (68.8%) from the fifth year after surgery on. For patients with advanced gastric cancer, follow-up studies were carried out every 3 months (43.8%) for the first year, every 6 months for the next 4 years, and every 12 months (75.0%) from the fifth year onward. After surgery, most responders used computed tomography for imaging, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen (CA)19-9 as tumor markers, and serum iron among follow-up measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians have a variety of approaches regarding the extent of follow-up and methodologies used after curative resection for gastric cancer. Therefore, a multicenter randomized trial will be needed to compare routine follow-up with intensive schedules. Our results could facilitate the design of such studies.