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Tan N, Ngu N, Worland T, Lee T, Abrahams T, Freeman E, Hannah N, Gazelakis K, Madden RG, Lynch KD, Valaydon Z, Sood S, Dev A, Bell S, Thompson AJ, Ding JN, Nicoll AJ, Liu K, Pandya K, Gow P, Lubel J, Kemp W, Roberts SK, Majeed A. Surveillance MRI is associated with improved survival in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0442. [PMID: 38696372 PMCID: PMC11068143 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The benefits of regular surveillance imaging for cholangiocarcinoma in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are unclear. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the impact of regular magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) on outcomes of patients with PSC in Australia, where the practice of MRCP surveillance is variable. METHODS The relationship between MRCP surveillance and survival outcomes was assessed in a multicenter, retrospective cohort of patients with PSC from 9 tertiary liver centers in Australia. An inverse probability of treatment weighting approach was used to balance groups across potentially confounding covariates. RESULTS A total of 298 patients with PSC with 2117 person-years of follow-up were included. Two hundred and twenty patients (73.8%) had undergone MRCP surveillance. Regular surveillance was associated with a 71% reduced risk of death on multivariate weighted Cox analysis (HR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14-0.59, p < 0.001) and increased likelihood of having earlier endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography from the date of PSC diagnosis in patients with a dominant stricture (p < 0.001). However, survival posthepatobiliary cancer diagnosis was not significantly different between both groups (p = 0.74). Patients who had surveillance of less than 1 scan a year (n = 41) had comparable survival (HR: 0.46, 95% CI 0.16-1.35, p = 0.16) compared to patients who had surveillance at least yearly (n = 172). CONCLUSIONS In this multicenter cohort study that employed inverse probability of treatment weighting to minimize selection bias, regular MRCP was associated with improved overall survival in patients with PSC; however, there was no difference in survival after hepatobiliary cancer diagnosis. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the benefits of regular MRCP and optimal imaging interval in patients with PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natassia Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natalie Ngu
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thomas Worland
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tanya Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent’s Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tobie Abrahams
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent’s Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elliot Freeman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas Hannah
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kathryn Gazelakis
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Richie G Madden
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kate D Lynch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Zina Valaydon
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Siddharth Sood
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anouk Dev
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sally Bell
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent’s Health, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John Nik Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent’s Health, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amanda J Nicoll
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ken Liu
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Keval Pandya
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul Gow
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stuart K Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ammar Majeed
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Patel VS, Mahmood SF, Bhatt KH, Khemkar RM, Jariwala DR, Harris B, George MM, Kurudamannil RA, Anyagwa OE, Tak RS, Kassem M. Ursodeoxycholic Acid's Effectiveness in the Management of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Euroasian J Hepatogastroenterol 2024; 14:92-98. [PMID: 39022193 PMCID: PMC11249908 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10018-1434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim This meta-analysis's objective was to assess the effectiveness of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods Electronic databases like PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were thoroughly looked for randomized controlled trials determining ursodeoxycholic acid's (UDCAs) effectiveness on the serum liver function tests in NAFLD patients. After screening, seven randomized controlled trials were incorporated overall. Utilizing a fixed effects model, quantitative data synthesis was performed in R version 4.3.1. Results The meta-analysis showed significant reductions in alanine transaminase (ALT) (p ≤ 0.0001), aspartate transaminase (p = 0.0009), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (p ≤ 0.0001) after UDCA therapy. However, significant reductions in bilirubin (p = 0.6989) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p = 0.1172) levels were not noted. Sensitivity analysis by removing the studies with some concerns of bias was successful in demonstrating a remarkable reduction in heterogeneity for aspartate transaminase and ALP, which was also observed while performing the subgroup analyses via dosage. Conclusion Ursodeoxycholic acid was beneficial in patients diagnosed with NAFLD as it significantly reduced aspartate transaminase, ALT and GGT levels. However, more randomized controlled trials are required to be conducted in the future to increase the certainty of the evident findings. Clinical significance This meta-analysis strengthens the evidence about the reductions in AST, ALT, and GGT levels observed with ursodeoxycholic acid therapy in NAFLD patients by pooling the data together from the latest RCTs thus proving its hepatoprotective effects which can be beneficial in preventing the associated complications. How to cite this article Patel VS, Mahmood SF, Bhatt KH, et al. Ursodeoxycholic Acid's Effectiveness in the Management of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):92-98.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhavi S Patel
- Faculty of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Safa F Mahmood
- School of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Kunal H Bhatt
- Faculty of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Richisha M Khemkar
- School of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Bilal Harris
- School of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Mirna M George
- School of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Reuel A Kurudamannil
- Faculty of Medicine, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Rajeeka S Tak
- School of Medicine, New Vision University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Maha Kassem
- School of Medicine, New Vision University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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Tan N, Lubel J, Kemp W, Roberts S, Majeed A. Current Therapeutics in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1267-1281. [PMID: 37577219 PMCID: PMC10412694 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00068s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an orphan, cholestatic liver disease that is characterized by inflammatory biliary strictures with variable progression to end-stage liver disease. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood. Chronic biliary inflammation is likely driven by immune dysregulation, gut dysbiosis, and environmental exposures resulting in gut-liver crosstalk and bile acid metabolism disturbances. There is no proven medical therapy that alters disease progression in PSC, with the commonly prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid being shown to improve liver biochemistry at low-moderate doses (15-23 mg/kg/day) but not alter transplant-free survival or liver-related outcomes. Liver transplantation is the only option for patients who develop end-stage liver disease or refractory complications of PSC. Immunosuppressive and antifibrotic agents have not proven to be effective, but there is promise for manipulation of the gut microbiome with fecal microbiota transplantation and antibiotics. Bile acid manipulation via alternate synthetic bile acids such as norursodeoxycholic acid, or interaction at a transcriptional level via nuclear receptor agonists and fibrates have shown potential in phase II trials in PSC with several leading to larger phase III trials. In view of the enhanced malignancy risk, statins, and aspirin show potential for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma in PSC patients. For patients who develop clinically relevant strictures with cholestatic symptoms and worsening liver function, balloon dilatation is safer compared with biliary stent insertion with equivalent clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natassia Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stuart Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ammar Majeed
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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4
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Zhang CC, Sauer P, Rupp C. Effect of endoscopic treatment in patients with secondary sclerosing cholangitis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 37:2011-2018. [PMID: 35933581 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Secondary sclerosing cholangitis (SSC) is a progressive disease with high mortality and characterized by chronic inflammation and biliary obstruction. Therapeutic options are limited. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effects of endoscopic treatment in patients with SSC, the outcome, and association with potential risk factors. METHODS Data from all patients with SSC from 1996 to April 2021 were included. RESULTS Eighty patients with SSC were included. Seventy-five patients (93.8%) underwent diagnostic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography; 46 patients (57.5%) could be treated endoscopically. Endoscopic treatment comprised removal of biliary casts (n = 36/75), dilatation of bile ducts (n = 17/75), and intermittent stenting (n = 11/75). Twenty patients underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (25%); 27 patients died (33.8%). Transplantation-free survival was affected neither by endoscopic treatment nor by presence of biliary strictures, but bacteria positive bile culture was associated with better and increased levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels with poor outcome. CONCLUSIONS Secondary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive disease with poor long-term prognosis. Endoscopic treatment options seem to be limited regarding transplantation-free survival but might improve quality of life and prevent local complications such as cholangitis. The observed limited effect of endoscopic treatment might be attributed to the rapid progression of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Sauer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Rupp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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5
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Hatami B, Mosala M, Hassani AH, Ardakani MJE, Gholami S, Zali MR. Fenofibrate in primary sclerosing cholangitis; a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00984. [PMID: 35822553 PMCID: PMC9277608 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease with no medical treatment proven to improve survival and postpone liver transplantation. Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of fibrates in primary biliary cholangitis. The current study prospectively evaluated the effect of fenofibrate on PSC patients. We administered 200 mg of fenofibrate to PSC patients in the intervention arm and a placebo in the control arm once per day for 6 months and evaluated liver biochemistries (alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, bilirubin, and albumin) and the Mayo Risk Score at the start and end of the study. The primary endpoint was defined as a reduction greater than 50% or normalization of ALP levels. Secondary endpoints were an improvement in the Mayo Risk Score and serum bilirubin levels. Thirty patients were included (19 female, 11 male, 40.2 ± 9.2 years old), all under treatment with Ursodeoxycholic acid prior to this study. ALP and ALT levels significantly decreased in the fenofibrate group, by 64.7% (mean difference = 557, p = 0.004, 95% CI = 208.72, 905.27) and 52.78%, (p = 0.006), respectively. The primary endpoint was achieved in 66.7% of patients (10 in 15) in the fenofibrate group versus 20% of patients (3 in 15) in the placebo group (p = 0.009). Other endpoints were not met. As studies have demonstrated lower levels of ALP may improve outcomes for PSC, our study resulted in significantly lower levels of ALP in the fenofibrate group, which could translate into better disease prognosis in PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Hatami
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhde Mosala
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Hassani
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Ehsani Ardakani
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Gholami
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Rabiee A, Silveira MG. Primary sclerosing cholangitis. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:29. [PMID: 33824933 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-20-266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammatory destruction of the intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to bile stasis, fibrosis, and ultimately to cirrhosis, and often requires liver transplantation (LT). PSC occurs more commonly in men, and is typically diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 40. Most cases occur in association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which often precedes the development of PSC. PSC is usually diagnosed after detection of cholestasis during health evaluation or screening of patients with IBD. When symptomatic, the most common presenting symptoms are abdominal pain, pruritus, jaundice or fatigue. The etiology of PSC is poorly understood, but an increasing body of evidence supports the concept of cholangiocyte injury as a result of environmental exposure and an abnormal immune response in genetically susceptible individuals. PSC is a progressive disease, yet no effective medical therapy for halting disease progression has been identified. Management of PSC is mainly focused on treatment of symptoms and addressing complications. PSC can be complicated by bacterial cholangitis, dominant strictures (DSs), gallbladder polyps and adenocarcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and, in patients with IBD, colorectal malignancy. CCA is the most common malignancy in PSC with a cumulative lifetime risk of 10-20%, and accounts for a large proportion of mortality in PSC. LT is currently the only life-extending therapeutic approach for eligible patients with end-stage PSC, ultimately required in approximately 40% of patients. LT secondary to PSC has an excellent outcome compared to other LT indications, although the disease can recur and result in morbidity post-transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Rabiee
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marina G Silveira
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Rupp C, Hippchen T, Bruckner T, Klöters-Plachky P, Schaible A, Koschny R, Stiehl A, Gotthardt DN, Sauer P. Effect of scheduled endoscopic dilatation of dominant strictures on outcome in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Gut 2019; 68:2170-2178. [PMID: 30910856 PMCID: PMC6872453 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2018-316801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Scheduled endoscopic dilatation of dominant strictures (DS) in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) might improve outcome relative to endoscopic treatment on demand, but evidence is limited. Since randomisation is difficult in clinical practice, we present a large retrospective study comparing scheduled versus on-demand endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) based on patient preferences. DESIGN Between 1987 and 2017, all new patients with PSC had been offered scheduled ERCP with dilatation of a DS if diagnosed; the latter was repeated at defined intervals until morphological resolution, independent of clinical symptoms (treatment group). Patients who refused participation were clinically evaluated annually and received endoscopic treatment only on demand (control group). The primary clinical endpoint was transplantation-free survival. Secondary outcomes were overall survival, bacterial cholangitis episodes, hepatic decompensation of liver cirrhosis and endoscopy-related adverse events. RESULTS The final study included 286 patients, 133 (46.5%) receiving scheduled ERCP and 153 (53.5%) receiving on-demand ERCP. After a mean follow-up of 9.9 years, the rate of transplantation-free survival was higher in patients receiving scheduled ERCP (51% vs 29.3%; p<0.001), as was transplantation-free survival time (median: 17.9 vs 15.2 years; log-rank: p=0.008). However, the benefit of scheduled ERCP was significant only in patients with the initial (17.1%) or later (45.5%) diagnosis of a DS (17.8 vs 11.1 years; log-rank: p<0.001). IBD (p=0.03), DS (p=0.006), higher Mayo Risk Score (p=0.02) and non-adherence to scheduled endoscopy (p=0.005) were independently associated with transplantation-free survival. CONCLUSION In our large retrospective study, regular ERCP with endoscopic balloon dilatation significantly benefits patients with PSC with DS, diagnosed both at initial presentation and during surveillance, even if asymptomatic. Further studies have to find out how to best identify stricture patients non-invasively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rupp
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany,Department of Internal Medicine IV, Interdisciplinary Endoscopy Center, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Theresa Hippchen
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Bruckner
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Klöters-Plachky
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Schaible
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Interdisciplinary Endoscopy Center, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ronald Koschny
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany,Department of Internal Medicine IV, Interdisciplinary Endoscopy Center, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adolf Stiehl
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Nils Gotthardt
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Sauer
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany,Department of Internal Medicine IV, Interdisciplinary Endoscopy Center, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Cazzagon N, Chazouillères O, Corpechot C, El Mouhadi S, Chambenois E, Desaint B, Chaput U, Lemoinne S, Arrivé L. Predictive criteria of response to endoscopic treatment for severe strictures in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2019; 43:387-394. [PMID: 30772328 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to identify predictive criteria of improvement after endoscopic treatment (ET) for severe strictures of extrahepatic bile ducts in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). METHODS PSC patients who had at least one ET for severe stricture were included. Features of magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC), performed before ET, were evaluated according to a standard model of interpretation, and a radiologic qualitative score of probability of improvement after ET was built. Score 3 (likely) was given in case of severe common bile duct (CBD) stricture with marked dilatation without severe strictures of upstream ducts, Score 1 (unlikely) was given in case of severe multiple strictures of secondary ducts without biliary dilatation and Score 2 (undeterminate) was given to an intermediate pattern. The response to ET was assessed at 2 months (T2-response) from the last ET and at 12 months (T12-response) from inclusion. RESULTS Thirty-one patients were included. All had severe stricture (reduction ≥ 75% of the diameter) of CBD and 50% had severe stricture of right and/or left hepatic duct (LHD) at MRC before ET. According to the qualitative score, 16 patients had Score 3, 7 had Score 1 and 9 had Score 2. T12-response was obtained in 50% of patients. In univariate analysis, short LHD strictures, bilirubin, transaminases, pruritus and Score 3 were associated with T12-response. Increased bilirubin and transaminases were independent predictive factors of T12-response (HR 24, 95% CI: 3.4-170.4, P = 0.001 and 23.8, 95% CI: 3.4-169.4, P = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSION MRC, together with biochemical features, may contribute to identify the PSC patients who are likely to be improved after ET for severe strictures of extrahepatic bile ducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Cazzagon
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France; Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology (DiSCOG), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Olivier Chazouillères
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Christophe Corpechot
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Sanaâ El Mouhadi
- Department of Radiology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris AP-HP, Sorbonne university, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Edouard Chambenois
- Department of Radiology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris AP-HP, Sorbonne university, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Benoit Desaint
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France; Endoscopic department, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Ulriikka Chaput
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France; Endoscopic department, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Sara Lemoinne
- Reference center for inflammatory biliary disease and autoimmune hepatitis (MIVB), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Lionel Arrivé
- Department of Radiology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris AP-HP, Sorbonne university, 75012 Paris, France.
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9
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Kalani A, Tabibian JH, Lindor KD. Emerging therapeutic targets for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2018.1490643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Kalani
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, UCLA Gastroenterology Fellowship Training Program, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - James H. Tabibian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, Sylmar, CA, USA
| | - Keith D. Lindor
- Professor of Medicine and Senior Advisor to the Provost, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, USA
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10
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Hilscher MB, Tabibian JH, Carey EJ, Gostout CJ, Lindor KD. Dominant strictures in primary sclerosing cholangitis: A multicenter survey of clinical definitions and practices. Hepatol Commun 2018; 2:836-844. [PMID: 30027141 PMCID: PMC6049068 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dominant strictures (DSs) of the biliary tree occur in approximately 50% of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and may cause significant morbidity. Nevertheless, the definition and management of DSs lacks consensus. We aimed to better understand current perceptions and practices regarding PSC‐associated DSs. We conducted an anonymous, 23‐question, survey‐based study wherein electronic surveys were distributed to 131 faculty in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the three Mayo Clinic campuses (Rochester, Scottsdale, and Jacksonville) as well as the affiliated practice network. Responses were aggregated and compared, where applicable, to practice guidelines of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and European Association for the Study of the Liver. A total of 54 faculty (41.2%) completed the survey, of whom 24 (44.4%) were hepatologists, 21 (38.9%) gastroenterologists, and 9 (16.7%) advanced endoscopists. One of the major study findings was that there was heterogeneity among participants' definition, evaluation, management, and follow‐up of DSs in PSC. The majority of participant responses were in accordance with societal practice guidelines, although considerable variation was noted. Conclusion: Despite the prevalence and morbidity of DSs in PSC, clinical perceptions and practices vary widely among hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and advanced endoscopists who manage these patients, even within a single health care system. Further studies are needed to address these variations, develop general and evidence‐based consensus, and increase adherence to societal guidelines. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:836‐844)
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Affiliation(s)
- Moira B Hilscher
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Mayo Clinic Rochester MN
| | - James H Tabibian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Mayo Clinic Rochester MN.,Division of Gastroenterology Olive View-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center Sylmar CA
| | - Elizabeth J Carey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Mayo Clinic Scottsdale AZ
| | | | - Keith D Lindor
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Mayo Clinic Scottsdale AZ.,College of Health Solutions Arizona State University Phoenix AZ
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Choi AY, Jalikis F, Westerhoff M, Boukhar S, Pulcini E, Damman C, Yu L. Searching for Bacterial Biofilm in Recurrent Cholangitis in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Case Presentation and Introduction of an Unexplored Disease Mechanism. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2018; 6:114-118. [PMID: 29577038 PMCID: PMC5863007 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts are the defining pathological characteristics of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). A previously unexplored mechanism for recurrent cholangitis, one of PSC's most common presentations, is bacterial colonization of the biliary epithelium in the form of biofilm, which may confer resistance to antibiotics and host phagocytic machinery. The aim of the current study was to assess whether bacteria could be seen on the liver explant and whether they organized in the form of biofilm. An explanted PSC liver from a 60-year-old male who suffered from recurrent cholangitis was formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded and Gram stained. The specimens were observed under light microscopy. Neither bacteria nor biofilm were detected. We did not detect bacteria or biofilm in the liver explant of a single PSC patient with recurrent cholangitis using standard light microscopy. We suspect this may be in part due to techniques related to tissue preservation and microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Y. Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Florencia Jalikis
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maria Westerhoff
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sarag Boukhar
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Elinor Pulcini
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - Chris Damman
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lei Yu
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- *Correspondence to: Lei Yu, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356175, Seattle, WA 98195-6175, USA. Tel: +1-206-598-2212, Fax: +1-206-598-3884, E-mail:
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12
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Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic immune-mediated disease affecting intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, primarily the large biliary ducts. Clinical manifestations are broad, and the spectrum encompasses asymptomatic cholestasis, icteric cholangitis with pruritis, cirrhosis, and cholangiocarcinoma. Though rare, PSC has a propensity to affect young to middle-aged males and is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease. There is an unmet need for effective medical treatments for PSC, and to date, the only curative therapy is liver transplantation reserved for those with end-stage liver disease. This article addresses the diagnostic and management challenges of PSC, with a succinct analysis of existing therapies, their limitations, and a glimpse into the future of the management of this multifaceted pathologic entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Sirpal
- Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM), University of Montreal, Montreal, QC
| | - Natasha Chandok
- Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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13
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Role of endoscopy in primary sclerosing cholangitis: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Clinical Guideline. J Hepatol 2017; 66:1265-1281. [PMID: 28427764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This guideline is an official statement of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) on the role of endoscopy in primary sclerosing cholangitis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system was adopted to define the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. Main recommendations.
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14
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Gauss A, Sauer P, Stiehl A, Rupp C, Krisam J, Leopold Y, Kloeters-Plachky P, Stremmel W, Gotthardt D. Evaluation of Biliary Calprotectin as a Biomarker in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3510. [PMID: 27124059 PMCID: PMC4998722 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bile ducts with limited therapeutic options except liver transplantation. Reliable biomarkers to predict the disease course are unavailable, and currently employed disease activity scores such as the Mayo risk score (MRS) have limitations. The present study aims to evaluate biliary calprotectin as a marker of disease activity and prognosis in PSC.This is a monocentric retrospective observational study. Calprotectin concentrations were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in bile samples collected by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography from 106 PSC patients and 20 controls. Biliary calprotectin concentrations were compared between the 2 groups. In PSC patients, results were evaluated with regard to the presence of dominant bile duct stenoses, bile microbiology, MRS, survival free of liver transplantation, and necessity for bile duct interventions in the further disease course.Median (interquartile ranges) biliary calprotectin concentrations were higher in PSC patients than in controls (3646 ng/mL, 249-9748 vs 116 ng/mL, 104-655; P < 0.001). In the PSC cohort, higher biliary calprotectin concentrations were associated with the presence of microbes in bile (P = 0.02), the occurrence of dominant bile duct stenosis at any time in the disease course (P = 0.005), and the necessity for future bile duct interventions (P = 0.02). Patients with biliary calprotectin concentrations above a cut-off of 11,610 ng/mL displayed significantly shorter transplantation-free survival than those with biliary calprotectin concentrations ≤11,610 ng/mL (P < 0.001). Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed high biliary calprotectin concentration (>11,610 ng/mL) as a risk factor of shorter transplantation-free survival of PSC patients (P < 0.001) beside high plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration (>142.5 U/L) (P = 0.006), high MRS (≥2) (P < 0.001), and nonsterility of bile (P = 0.03). Multivariate analysis identified only MRS (P = 0.002) and ALP concentration (P = 0.04) as independent risk factors.Our data strongly suggest that biliary calprotectin may be a valuable additional marker for disease activity and a predictor of outcome in PSC, so that further studies for evaluation of calprotectin in this disease are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Gauss
- From the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (AG, PS, AS, CR, YL, PK-P, WS, DG), University Hospital Heidelberg; and Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics (JK), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Abstract
Benign biliary strictures are a common indication for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Endoscopic management has evolved over the last 2 decades as the current standard of care. The most common etiologies of strictures encountered are following surgery and those related to chronic pancreatitis. High-quality cross-sectional imaging provides a road map for endoscopic management. Currently, sequential placement of multiple plastic biliary stents represents the preferred approach. There is an increasing role for the treatment of these strictures using covered metal stents, but due to conflicting reports of efficacies as well as cost and complications, this approach should only be entertained following careful consideration. Optimal management of strictures is best achieved using a team approach with the surgeon and interventional radiologist playing an important role.
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16
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Lutz H, Trautwein C, Tischendorf JW. Primary sclerosing cholangitis: diagnosis and treatment. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2015; 110:867-74. [PMID: 24529302 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2013.0867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2013] [Revised: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease that involves progressive destruction of the bile ducts. Its prevalence is 4 to 16 cases per 100,000 persons. Its incidence has risen over the last 20 years, with a more than 35% increase in the last 10 years alone. PSC tends to arise in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. It is associated with an increased risk of various types of cancer (13%-14%), most prominently cholangiocellular carcinoma (CCC). METHOD This review is based on a selective search in PubMed for original articles, meta-analyses, and review articles about PSC that appeared from January 1980 to May 2013. RESULTS The diagnosis is generally established with a bile duct imaging study--typically, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreaticography (MRCP): this test is more than 80% sensitive and more than 90% specific for the diagnosis of PSC. The time from diagnosis to death or liver transplantation is 12 to 18 years, and the risk that a patient with PSC will die of cancer is 40% to 58%. Options for drug treatment are limited. Randomized, controlled trials have not shown any improvement of outcomes from the administration of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Interventional endoscopy is used to treat dominant stenoses and cholangitis, even though this method of treatment is supported only by low-level evidence. Liver transplantation results in a 10-year survival rate above 80%. CONCLUSION There is no causally directed treatment for PSC. Early diagnosis, complication management, and the evaluation of an optimally timed liver transplantation are the main determinants of outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Lutz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care Medicine, Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen
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17
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Chathadi KV, Chandrasekhara V, Acosta RD, Decker GA, Early DS, Eloubeidi MA, Evans JA, Faulx AL, Fanelli RD, Fisher DA, Foley K, Fonkalsrud L, Hwang JH, Jue TL, Khashab MA, Lightdale JR, Muthusamy VR, Pasha SF, Saltzman JR, Sharaf R, Shaukat A, Shergill AK, Wang A, Cash BD, DeWitt JM. The role of ERCP in benign diseases of the biliary tract. Gastrointest Endosc 2015; 81:795-803. [PMID: 25665931 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2014.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Thosani N, Banerjee S. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Clin Liver Dis 2014; 18:899-911. [PMID: 25438290 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Although there are no randomized, controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) patients, substantial indirect evidence supports the effectiveness of ERC in symptomatic PSC patients with a dominant stricture. Currently, cumulative evidence supports the role of ERC with endoscopic dilation with or without additional short-term stent placement for symptomatic PSC patients with a dominant stricture. Differentiating benign dominant strictures from cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains difficult; however, newer endoscopic techniques and advanced cytologic techniques are likely to improve sensitivity for the diagnosis of CCA over that achieved by traditional cytology brushing alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirav Thosani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, MC: 5244, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Subhas Banerjee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, MC: 5244, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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19
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Trauner M, Halilbasic E, Kazemi-Shirazi L, Kienbacher C, Staufer K, Traussnigg S, Hofer H. Therapeutic role of bile acids and nuclear receptor agonists in fibrosing cholangiopathies. Dig Dis 2014; 32:631-6. [PMID: 25034298 DOI: 10.1159/000360517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory bile duct diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) result in progressive fibrosis of the biliary tract and ultimately cirrhosis of the liver. Since the etiology and pathogenesis of these fibrosing cholangiopathies are still poorly understood, therapeutic options are rather limited at present. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the paradigm therapeutic bile acid and established standard treatment for PBC, but its role for medical therapy of PSC is still under debate. Promising novel bile acid-based therapeutic options include 24-norursodeoxycholic acid, a side chain-shortened C23 homologue of UDCA, and bile acid receptor/farnesoid X receptor agonists (e.g., obeticholic acid) which currently undergo clinical development for fibrosing cholangiopathies such as PBC and PSC. Other nuclear receptors such as vitamin D receptor and fatty acid-activated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors are also of considerable interest. This review article is a summary of an overview talk given at Falk Symposium 191 on Advances in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Liver Diseases held in London, October 3-4, 2013, and summarizes the recent progress with novel therapeutic bile acids and bile acid derivatives as novel therapies for fibrosing cholangiopathies such as PBC and PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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20
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Ali AH, Carey EJ, Lindor KD. An overview of current and future therapeutic strategies for the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2014. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2014.908701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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21
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Karlsen TH, Vesterhus M, Boberg KM. Review article: controversies in the management of primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:282-301. [PMID: 24372568 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Revised: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite considerable advances over the last two decades in the molecular understanding of cholestasis and cholestatic liver disease, little improvement has been made in diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. AIMS To critically review controversial aspects of the scientific basis for common clinical practice in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and to discuss key ongoing challenges to improve patient management. METHODS We performed a literature search using PubMed and by examining the reference lists of relevant review articles related to the clinical management of PBC and PSC. Articles were considered on the background of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) practice guidelines and clinical experience of the authors. RESULTS Ongoing challenges in PBC mainly pertain to the improvement of medical therapy, particularly for patients with a suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid. In PSC, development of medical therapies and sensitive screening protocols for cholangiocarcinoma represent areas of intense research. To rationally improve patient management, a better understanding of pathogenesis, including complications like pruritis and fatigue, is needed and there is a need to identify biomarker end-points for treatment effect and prognosis. Timing of liver transplantation and determining optimal regimens of immunosuppression post-liver transplantation will also benefit from better appreciation of pre-transplant disease mechanisms. CONCLUSION Controversies in the management of PBC and PSC relate to topics where evidence for current practice is weak and further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Cancer Medicine, Surgery and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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22
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Abstract
The use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for treating benign biliary strictures has become the standard of practice, with surgery and percutaneous therapy reserved for selected patients. The gold-standard endoscopic therapy is dilation of the stricture followed by placing and exchanging progressively larger and more numerable plastic stents over a 1-year period. Newer modalities, including the use of fully covered metal stents, are currently under investigation in an effort to improve the treatment of benign biliary strictures.
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23
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Tian H, Zhao H, Cao X. Catalytic transfer hydrogenation of 7-ketolithocholic acid to ursodeoxycholic acid with Raney nickel. J IND ENG CHEM 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2012.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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24
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Trivedi PJ, Chapman RW. PSC, AIH and overlap syndrome in inflammatory bowel disease. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2012; 36:420-36. [PMID: 22306055 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2011.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2011] [Revised: 10/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive, cholestatic disorder characterised by chronic inflammation and stricture formation of the biliary tree. Symptoms include pruritus, fatigue and in advanced cases ascending cholangitis, cirrhosis and end-stage hepatic failure. Patients are at an increased risk of malignancy arising from the bile ducts, gallbladder, liver and colon. The majority (>80%) of Northern European patients with PSC also have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), usually ulcerative colitis (UC). IBD commonly presents before the onset of PSC, although the opposite can occur and the onset of both conditions can be separated by many years. The colitis associated with PSC is characteristically mild although frequently involves the whole colon. Despite the majority of patients having relatively inactive colonic disease, paradoxically the risk of colorectal malignancy is substantially increased. Patients may also develop dominant, stenotic lesions of the biliary tree which may be difficult to differentiate from cholangiocarcinoma and the coexistence of IBD may influence the development of this complication. Ursodeoxycholic acid may offer a chemoprotective effect against colorectal malignancy and improve liver biochemical indices. Evidence of any beneficial effect on histological progression of hepatobiliary disease is less clear. High doses (∼25-30 mg/kg/d) may be harmful and should be avoided. Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is less common in patients with IBD than PSC, however, an association has been observed. A small subgroup may have an overlap syndrome between AIH and PSC and management should be individualised dependant on liver histology, serum immunoglobulin levels, autoantibodies, degree of biochemical cholestasis and cholangiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Trivedi
- Centre for Liver Research and NIHR Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, Wolfson Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT United Kingdom.
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25
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Zoepf T, Maldonado de Dechêne EJ, Dechêne A, Malágo M, Beckebaum S, Paul A, Gerken G, Hilgard P. Optimized endoscopic treatment of ischemic-type biliary lesions after liver transplantation. Gastrointest Endosc 2012; 76:556-63. [PMID: 22898414 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2012.04.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biliary strictures are the most common complication after liver transplantation. A particular problem is ischemic-type biliary lesions (ITBLs), which are often responsible for graft failure and early retransplantation. Although some encouraging results of successful endoscopic treatment have been reported, this has not yet resulted in a standardized therapeutic approach to date. OBJECTIVE To evaluate an optimized algorithm for the endoscopic treatment of ITBLs. SETTING AND PATIENTS All adult patients who underwent liver transplantation at the University of Essen between April 1998 and July 2006. DESIGN Retrospective outcome analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Success or failure of 2 different therapeutic algorithms in terms of normalization of cholestasis parameters and graft survival. RESULTS Forty-eight patients who had undergone liver transplantation and had an endoscopically determined diagnosis of ITBL were identified. The median interval between liver transplantation and first endoscopic intervention was 242.5 (range, 16-3677) days. Patients received a median of 6 treatment sessions (range 2-13) every 8 to 10 weeks. In 16 of 48 patients, a combination of balloon dilation (BD) and implantation of a plastic endoprosthesis (BD+EP) was performed; in the remaining 32 patients, BD alone was performed. Overall, endoscopic therapy was successful in 73%. BD+EP was successful in 5 of 16 (31%) and BD alone in 30 of 32 patients (91%; P = .0027). In the BD+EP group, severe cholangitis developed in 25% of patients, but only 12% of the BD group (P = .01). The median duration of therapy was 374 (range 11-808) days. Six of 48 patients underwent retransplantation because of chronic graft rejection at a median of 1288 (range 883-4204) days after the primary liver transplantation. Six of 48 patients underwent hepaticojejunostomy because of unsuccessful endoscopic therapy, and 1 patient underwent surgery because of portal vein thrombosis. LIMITATIONS Retrospective design. CONCLUSIONS An endoscopic treatment regimen for ITBLs, preferably BD alone, could prolong the time to or could completely avoid surgical revision and early retransplantation and seems to be superior to endoscopic stenting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Zoepf
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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26
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Abstract
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the first-line management in most situations when a benign biliary stricture is suspected. Although management principles are similar in all subgroups, the anticipated response rates, need for ancillary medical and endoscopic approaches, and use of less proven strategies vary between differing causes. Exclusion of malignancy should always be a focus of management. Newer endoscopic techniques such as endoscopic ultrasound, cholangioscopy, confocal endomicroscopy, and metal biliary stenting are increasingly complementing traditional ERCP techniques in achieving long-term sustained stricture resolution. Surgery remains a definitive management alternative when a prolonged trial of endoscopic therapy does not achieve treatment goals.
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27
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New therapeutic option with N-acetylcysteine for primary sclerosing cholangitis: two case reports. Am J Ther 2012; 18:e71-4. [PMID: 20019586 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0b013e3181c42758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive, cholestatic hepatic disease of unknown etiology. It is characterized by progressive inflammation, destruction, and fibrosis of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts. Several medical therapies have been tried such as penicilamin, colchicine, methatraxate, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and ursodeoxycholic acid. Treatment with mucolytic agents in excessively high viscosity conditions appears to have an important role. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), as a mucolytic agent, may fascilitate the drainage in partial obstructions by decreasing the mucous viscosity. We suggest that NAC and ursodeoxycholic acid have markedly positive effects on the clinical course of cholangitis and cholestasis when used together by affecting bile viscosity. Here, we present two cases treated with NAC. NAC capsul therapies at 800 mg/day were administered to two patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Clinical and laboratory parameters of patients saw significant improvement.
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28
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Rudolph G, Gotthardt DN, Kloeters-Plachky P, Kulaksiz H, Schirmacher P, Stiehl A. In PSC with colitis treated with UDCA, most colonic carcinomas develop in the first years after the start of treatment. Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:3624-30. [PMID: 21656181 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-011-1763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Accepted: 05/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with PSC and IBD have a high incidence of colonic carcinomas (CRC), and the annual incidence of CRC increases with duration of disease. UDCA treatment has been suggested to reduce colonic dysplasias and carcinomas. AIMS The annual incidence of colorectal carcinomas after long-term UDCA treatment was studied. METHODS Patients included in a prospective study on the outcome after ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 120 of 171 PSC patients included had IBD (108 UC and 12 CD). All patients were treated with UDCA for a median time of 6.7 years. Seven patients with PSC and IBD developed a CRC yielding a prevalence of 5.8%. In years 0-3 (n = 120) after the start of UDCA, the annual incidence rate of CRC was 0.62/100 patient years; in years 3-6 (n = 93) it increased to 1.28 and decreased thereafter in years 6-9 (n = 67) to 1.17, then in years 9-12 (n = 42) to 0 and after >12 years (n = 24) it remained 0. In PSC with IBD, Kaplan-Meier estimate of CRC formation increased with time in the first years of treatment and reached a plateau after 9 years; after treatment for ≥ 9 years, no further CRC were observed. CONCLUSION After the start of UDCA, the annual incidence of CRC increased up to 6 years and subsequently decreased. In PSC with IBD treated with UDCA, most colonic carcinomas develop in the first years after the start of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rudolph
- Department of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Medizinische Universitätsklinik, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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29
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Abstract
Several hepatobiliary abnormalities have been described in association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), small duct PSC, chronic hepatitis, cryptogenic cirrhosis, cholangiocarcinoma, and cholelithiasis. PSC is the most common biliary condition in patients with IBD, with an incidence ranging from 2.5% to 7.5%. PSC usually progresses insidiously and eventually leads to cirrhosis independent of inflammatory bowel disease activity. There is a very high incidence of cholangiocarcinoma and an elevated risk for developing colon cancer in patients with PSC. Medical therapy has not proven successful in slowing disease progression or prolonging survival. Treatment of symptoms due to cholestasis, such as pruritis and steatorrhea, is an important aspect of the medical care of patients with PSC. Our preferred treatment of pruritis due to cholestasis is with bile acid binding exchange resins, such as cholestyramine or colestipol. Endoscopic manipulation is recommended for treating complications of recurrent cholangitis or worsening jaundice in the setting of a dominant stricture, but endoscopic approaches have not been conclusively demonstrated to improve survival or decrease the need for liver transplantation. Liver transplantation remains the only effective treatment of advanced PSC, and should be considered in patients with complications of cirrhosis or intractable pruritis or fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lichtenstein
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
Endoscopic treatment is the mainstay of therapy for benign billiary strictures, and surgery is reserved for selected patients in whom endoscopic treatment fails or is not feasible. The endoscopic approach depends mainly on stricture etiology and location, and generally involves the placement of one or multiple plastic stents, dilation of the stricture(s), or a combination of these approaches. Knowledge of biliary anatomy, endoscopy experience and a well-equipped endoscopy unit are necessary for the success of endoscopic treatment. This Review discusses the etiologies of benign biliary strictures and different endoscopic therapies and their respective outcomes. Data on newer therapies, such as the placement of self-expandable metal stents, and the treatment of biliary-enteric anastomotic strictures is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Zepeda-Gómez
- Department of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan, 14000 Mexico City, Mexico
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Culver EL, Chapman RW. Systematic review: management options for primary sclerosing cholangitis and its variant forms - IgG4-associated cholangitis and overlap with autoimmune hepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2011; 33:1273-91. [PMID: 21501198 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2011.04658.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remains a challenging disease to manage. The main goals are prevention of disease progression and reduction of the increased cancer risk. AIMS To review the management strategies for PSC and its variant forms based on published studies. METHODS Publications were identified using Pubmed, Medline and Ovid search engines. RESULTS Distinguishing PSC from variants, such as IgG4-associated cholangitis, and overlap with autoimmune hepatitis is essential to guide treatment decisions. There is no proven efficacious medical treatment for PSC. Ursodeoxycholic acid has been disappointing in low and moderate doses, and potentially dangerous in higher doses, although its role and optimal dose in chemoprevention requires investigation. The novel bile acid, 24-norursodeoxycholic acid, has shown promise in mouse models; human trials are in progress. Dominant strictures are optimally managed by dilatation and stenting to relieve obstructive complications, although exclusion of biliary malignancy is essential. Liver transplantation is the only proven therapy for those with advanced disease. Cholangiocarcinoma remains the most unpredictable and feared complication. In highly selected groups, neo-adjuvant chemoradiation with liver transplantation seems promising, but requires further validation. Screening for inflammatory bowel disease and surveillance for colorectal carcinoma should not be overlooked. CONCLUSIONS The effective management of PSC and its variants is hindered by uncertainties regarding pathogenesis of disease and factors responsible for its progression. Genome studies may help to identify further targets for drug therapy and factors leading to malignant transformation.
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Stanich PP, Björnsson E, Gossard AA, Enders F, Jorgensen R, Lindor KD. Alkaline phosphatase normalization is associated with better prognosis in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Dig Liver Dis 2011; 43:309-13. [PMID: 21251891 PMCID: PMC3057302 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2010.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2010] [Revised: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis results in elevated but fluctuating serum alkaline phosphatase levels that occasionally return to normal. AIMS To investigate the frequency of normalization of alkaline phosphatase in newly diagnosed primary sclerosing cholangitis patients and the subsequent clinical outcomes. METHODS Records of newly diagnosed primary sclerosing cholangitis patients were examined retrospectively for laboratory values and clinical end points (cholangiocarcinoma, liver transplantation and death) within 10 years of diagnosis. Data from a recent prospective ursodeoxycholic acid treatment trial were also studied. RESULTS Eighty-seven patients met the inclusion criteria. Normalization of alkaline phosphatase was seen in 35 (40%) patients. Five (14%) patients with normalization reached an end point whereas 17 (33%) of the patients with persistent elevation reached an end point (P = 0.02). Ursodeoxycholic acid was used similarly by both groups. When the investigative criteria were applied to a prospective trial, there was again a significant relationship between normalization of alkaline phosphatase and survival in patients receiving ursodeoxycholic acid (P < 0.01) and the placebo group (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Serum alkaline phosphatase was found to normalize in a high proportion of newly diagnosed primary sclerosing cholangitis patients. This was significantly associated with a better prognosis in a retrospective cohort and when data from a prospective treatment trial was evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter P Stanich
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, United States
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive chronic cholestatic liver disease that usually leads to the development of cirrhosis. Studies evaluating bile acids in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis have shown a potential benefit of their use. However, no influence on patients survival and disease outcome has yet been proven. OBJECTIVES To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of bile acids for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Science Citation Index Expanded generally from inception through to October 2010. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised clinical trials comparing any dose of bile acids or duration of treatment versus placebo, no intervention, or another intervention were included irrespective of blinding, language, or publication status. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors extracted data independently. We evaluated the risk of bias of the trials using prespecified domains. We performed the meta-analysis according to the intention-to-treat principle. We presented outcomes as relative risks (RR) or mean differences (MD), both with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS Eight trials evaluated ursodeoxycholic acid versus placebo or no intervention (592 patients). The eight randomised clinical trials have a high risk of bias. Patients were treated for three months to six years (median three years). The dosage of ursodeoxycholic acid used in the trials ranged from low (10 mg/kg body weight/day) to high (28 to 30 mg/kg body weight/day). Ursodeoxycholic acid did not significantly reduce the risk of death (RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.46 to 2.20); treatment failure including liver transplantation, varices, ascites, and encephalopathy (RR 1.22; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.64); liver histological deterioration (RR 0.89; 95% CI 0.45 to 1.74); or liver cholangiographic deterioration (RR 0.60; 95% CI 0.23 to 1.57). Ursodeoxycholic acid significantly improved serum bilirubin (MD -14.6 µmol/litre; 95% CI -18.7 to -10.6), alkaline phosphatases (MD -506 IU/litre; 95% CI -583 to -430), aspartate aminotransferase (MD -46 IU/litre; 95% CI -77 to -16), and gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (MD -260 IU/litre; 95% CI -315 to -205), but not albumin (MD -0.20 g/litre; 95% CI -1.91 to 1.50). Ursodeoxycholic acid was safe and well tolerated by patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We did not find enough evidence to support or refute the use of bile acids in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. However, bile acids seem to lead to a significant improvement in liver biochemistry. Therefore, more randomised trials are needed before any of the bile acids can be recommended for this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Poropat
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Vanja Giljaca
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Davor Stimac
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Christian Gluud
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Department 3344, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University HospitalCochrane Hepato‐Biliary GroupBlegdamsvej 9CopenhagenDenmarkDK‐2100
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Parés A. [Primary sclerosing cholangitis: diagnosis, prognosis and treatment]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2011; 34:41-52. [PMID: 20435377 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2010.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2010] [Accepted: 02/12/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic disease characterized by inflammation with fibrosis and obliteration of the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts. This disease is usually associated with ulcerative colitis. The process of chronic cholestasis eventually leads to biliary cirrhosis. The prevalence of primary sclerosing cholangitis is low in southern Europe but is especially high in Scandinavian countries. The etiopathogenesis is unknown but immune disorders, potential toxic agents or intestinal infections, ischemic injury to the bile ducts, and possibly alterations in hepatobiliary transporters are known to play a role. The disease manifests at the age of approximately 40 years, mainly in men with clinical and laboratory features of cholestasis but may also be asymptomatic. There are specific forms in which the small intrahepatic bile ducts are involved, mainly affecting children, as well as overlap syndromes with autoimmune hepatitis. A form characterized by an increase in IgG4 has been described, which is usually associated with autoimmune pancreatitis. The key diagnostic procedure is endoscopic retrograde cholangiography, although magnetic resonance cholangiography is the first diagnostic procedure that should be used since it is equally informative and non-invasive. Liver biopsy is not essential for diagnosis. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive disease with a probability of transplant-free survival of 18 years in asymptomatic forms and of 8.5 years in symptomatic forms. Cholangiocarcinoma can result from the disease and confers a poor prognosis. There is no specific treatment although ursodeoxycholic acid improves the biochemical alterations of cholestasis. Liver transplantation is the last therapeutic resort with good results in terms of survival although the disease can recur in the transplanted liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Parés
- Unidad de Hepatología, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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In PSC with dominant bile duct stenosis, IBD is associated with an increase of carcinomas and reduced survival. J Hepatol 2010; 53:313-7. [PMID: 20472317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2009] [Revised: 02/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), dominant stenoses are associated with reduced survival free of liver transplantation and the role of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in such patients is unclear. In the present study the influence of IBD on the outcome in patients with and without dominant stenosis has been evaluated. METHODS In a prospective study, 171 patients were followed for up to 20 years. All patients were treated with ursodeoxycholic acid; patients with dominant stenosis in addition were treated endoscopically. RESULTS A total of 97 out of 171 patients had or developed dominant bile duct stenoses and 96 out of 97 were treated endoscopically. In patients with dominant stenosis without IBD, no carcinoma was found whereas all six bile duct and two gallbladder carcinomas and 6/7 colo-rectal carcinomas were found in patients with dominant stenosis with IBD (p=0.012). In patients without dominant stenosis but with IBD, 1 out of 7 had colo-rectal carcinoma. In patients with dominant stenosis without IBD (n=30), actuarial survival free of liver transplantation at 18 years was 77.8% and in those with dominant stenosis and inflammatory bowel disease (n=67) it was 23.0% (p=0.045). In PSC patients without dominant stenosis and without IBD (n=21), actuarial survival free of liver transplantation at 18 years was 68.2% and in those with inflammatory bowel disease (n=53) it was 78.4% (n.s.). CONCLUSIONS In patients without dominant stenosis, IBD had no effect on the incidence of carcinomas and survival. Only patients with dominant stenosis with additional IBD had an increased carcinoma rate. This may contribute to the reduced survival free of liver transplantation in such patients.
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Gotthardt D, Stiehl A. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in diagnosis and treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Clin Liver Dis 2010; 14:349-58. [PMID: 20682240 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2010.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterized by progressive fibrosing obliteration of the biliary tract. In some cases the disease is restricted to the small bile ducts, but most patients develop fibrotic stenoses of the larger bile ducts. Despite advances in magnetic resonance cholangiography, in unclear cases endoscopic retrograde cholangiography is necessary to make the correct diagnosis. In patients with total or subtotal strictures of the large bile ducts, these so-called dominant stenoses may be treated by endoscopic balloon dilatation and/or stent placement, though in the large majority of cases a stent placement is not necessary. Several studies showed an improvement of biochemical parameters after endoscopic treatment, and actuarial survival in these patients was improved compared with predicted survival. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography allows tissue sampling, brush cytology, and bile analysis for early detection of cholangiocarcinoma, a major complication of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Despite successful endoscopic opening of bile duct stenoses, patients often progress to liver failure, leading to liver transplantation as the treatment of choice.
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Al-Benna S, Willert J, Steinau HU, Steinstraesser L. Secondary sclerosing cholangitis, following major burn injury. Burns 2010; 36:e106-10. [PMID: 20381966 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2010.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2009] [Accepted: 01/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sammy Al-Benna
- Burn Centre, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, North Rhine-Westphalia, 44789 Bochum, Germany.
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Endoscopic dilation of dominant stenoses in primary sclerosing cholangitis: outcome after long-term treatment. Gastrointest Endosc 2010; 71:527-34. [PMID: 20189511 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2009.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2009] [Accepted: 10/14/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterized by progressive fibrotic inflammation and obliteration of intra- and/or extrahepatic bile ducts. Total or subtotal stenoses of major bile ducts are associated with reduced survival. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the outcome after long-term endoscopic treatment. DESIGN Prospective, single-center study. SETTING Tertiary care academic medical center. PATIENTS A total of 171 patients treated with ursodeoxycholic acid were followed for as long as 20 years. At entry, 20 patients had dominant stenoses, and during a median follow-up period of 7.1 years, dominant stenosis developed in another 77. INTERVENTIONS Ninety-six patients with dominant stenoses were treated by repeated balloon dilation; 5 patients with complete obstruction with bacterial cholangitis were stented. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Survival free of liver transplantation, number of procedures, complications. RESULTS In total, 500 balloon dilations were performed and 5 stents were placed. Complications were pancreatitis (2.2%), bacterial cholangitis (1.4%), and bile duct perforation (0.2%); there were no deaths. Repeated endoscopic interventions allowed the preservation of a functioning common bile duct and of at least 1 hepatic duct up to 2 cm above the bifurcation in all patients. Progression of intrahepatic bile duct and liver disease led to the need for liver transplantation in 22 of 96 patients. Five years after the first dilation of a dominant stenosis, the survival free of liver transplantation rate was 81%, and after 10 years, it was 52%. LIMITATIONS Single-center study, no control group, primary end-stage liver disease excluded. CONCLUSION Repeated endoscopic balloon dilations of dominant stenoses allow the preservation of a functioning common bile duct for many years.
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Zhao H, Tian H, Jin Y, Cao X. Synthesis of 7-ketolithocholic acid via indirect electrooxidation of chenodeoxycholic acid. J APPL ELECTROCHEM 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10800-010-0076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic disease of intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary ducts, characterised by chronic periductal inflammation and sclerosis of the ducts, which results in segmental stenoses of bile ducts, cholestasis, fibrosis, and ultimately, liver cirrhosis. Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis are at higher risk of cholangiocarcinoma as well as of colonic neoplasia, since primary sclerosing cholangitis is associated with inflammatory bowel disease in more than 80% of the patients. Several therapeutic modalities have been proposed for primary sclerosing cholangitis, like ursodeoxycholic acid, glucocorticosteroids, and immunomodulatory agents, but none has been successful in reversing the process of the disease. To date, liver transplantation is the only definite therapeutic solution for patients with advanced primary sclerosing cholangitis with liver cirrhosis. OBJECTIVES To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of glucocorticosteroids for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and LILACS from their inception until September 2009, as well as reference lists. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised clinical trials comparing any dose or duration of glucocorticosteroids versus placebo, no intervention, or other immunosuppressive agents. We included trials irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Authors extracted data independently and assessed the methodological quality by the generation of the allocation sequence, allocation concealment, double blinding, follow-up, incomplete outcome data reporting, selective reporting, baseline imbalance, and early stopping. The results of the meta-analyses were presented as relative risks (RR) or mean difference (MD), both with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The primary outcome measures were mortality and liver-related morbidity. MAIN RESULTS Two randomised clinical trials were eligible for inclusion. One trial compared biliary lavage with hydrocortisone versus saline in 17 patients. Hydrocortisone tended to increase adverse events (pancreatitis, cholangitis with septicaemia, paranoid ideas, fluid retention) (RR 3.43, 95% CI 0.51 to 22.9) and had no cholangiographic improvement, which led to termination of the trial. The other trial compared budesonide versus prednisone in 18 patients. Patients had statistically significant higher serum bilirubin concentration after treatment with prednisone compared with budesonide (MD 10.4 micromol/litre, 95% CI 1.16 to 19.64 micromol/litre). No other statistically significant effects on clinical or biochemical outcomes were reported on any of the evaluated interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is no evidence to support or refute peroral glucocorticosteroids for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. The intrabiliary application of corticosteroids via nasobiliary tube seems to induce severe adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanja Giljaca
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Goran Poropat
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Davor Stimac
- Clinical Hospital Centre RijekaDepartment of GastroenterologyKresimirova 42RijekaCroatia51000
| | - Christian Gluud
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Department 3344, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University HospitalCochrane Hepato‐Biliary GroupBlegdamsvej 9CopenhagenDenmarkDK‐2100
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Child
- Cholangitis/diagnosis
- Cholangitis/immunology
- Cholangitis/therapy
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/diagnosis
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/therapy
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/diagnosis
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/etiology
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/prevention & control
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/therapy
- Cystic Fibrosis/complications
- Female
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/therapy
- Humans
- Immunoglobulin G/metabolism
- Infant
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/diagnosis
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/therapy
- Male
- Osteoporosis/etiology
- Osteoporosis/therapy
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Complications/diagnosis
- Pregnancy Complications/therapy
- Syndrome
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Rudolph G, Gotthardt D, Klöters-Plachky P, Kulaksiz H, Rost D, Stiehl A. Influence of dominant bile duct stenoses and biliary infections on outcome in primary sclerosing cholangitis. J Hepatol 2009; 51:149-55. [PMID: 19410324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2009.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2008] [Revised: 01/16/2009] [Accepted: 01/30/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) dominant stenoses are frequently associated with bacterial, and in part, also fungal infections of the bile ducts. In the present study, the influence of dominant stenoses and of biliary infections on the long-term outcome was studied. METHODS In a prospective study, 171 patients were followed up for 20 years. All patients were treated with ursodeoxycholic acid. Dominant stenoses were treated endoscopically and during endoscopic procedures, bile was obtained for microbiologic analysis. RESULTS Of the 171 patients, 97 had or developed major bile duct stenoses and 96/97 were treated endoscopically. In the 55/97 patients with dominant stenosis, bile samples were obtained and of these, 41/55 had bacteria, five had also Candida and 2/55 had only Candida in their bile. Survival free of liver transplantation in patients without dominant stenosis at 18 years was 73.1% and of patients with dominant stenosis was 25.0% (p=0.011). Bacteria in bile had no effect on survival whereas Candida in bile was associated with reduced survival (p=0.025). CONCLUSIONS In patients with dominant stenosis, survival free of liver transplantation is reduced. Bacteria in bile do not worsen the outcome if dominant stenoses are opened endoscopically and infection is adequately treated with antibiotics. Candida in bile is associated with a poor prognosis and these patients need liver transplantation relatively soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerda Rudolph
- Department of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Medizinische Universitätsklinik, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Mastoraki A, Papantoni E, Papanikolaou IS, Kotsilianou O, Kanakis D, Sakorafas G, Safioleas M. Facing the Challenge of Acute Autoimmune Liver Disease: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature. Gastroenterology Res 2009; 2:183-187. [PMID: 27933131 PMCID: PMC5139712 DOI: 10.4021/gr2009.05.1295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (ALD) comprise two broad categories: those with a hepatic predominance, autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), and those with a predominance of cholestatic features including primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). An overlap syndrome (OS) is thought to exist where a patient appears with clinical features of more than one immune-mediated liver disease. Based on one personal observation we report a case of histologically proven OS. The relevant literature is briefly reviewed. A 68-year-old male was admitted in our department with general malaise, anorexia and jaundice. Trans-abdominal ultrasonography as well as computerized tomography showed a slightly enlarged liver with mild fatty deposition and the patient was submitted to transcutaneous liver biopsy. Histological features included inflammatory infiltration of intra-hepatic bile ducts with the presence of endoepithelial lymphocytes and plasma cells, degenerative distortions and even focal damage of relevant epithelial cellular structures, periductal fibrosis, portal inflammation, interface hepatitis, ductular proliferation and canalicular cholestasis. It is apparent that exact definitions pertaining the OS are limited and general consensus on the precise determinations of overlap/variant syndromes is warranted in order to enable more accurate future research and establish common guidelines in the management of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Mastoraki
- The Fourth Department of Surgery, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Evaggelia Papantoni
- The Fourth Department of Surgery, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis S Papanikolaou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Olympia Kotsilianou
- The Fourth Department of Surgery, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Kanakis
- University of Athens, Department of Dermatopathology, 75 Mikras Asias str., 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - George Sakorafas
- The Fourth Department of Surgery, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Safioleas
- The Fourth Department of Surgery, Athens University, Medical School, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini str., 12462, Chaidari, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
PSC is an idiopathic chronic cholestatic disease of the liver that has a variable clinical course. Patients should be managed based on the degree of liver dysfunction, as well as the degree of biliary obstruction and symptoms. Endoscopic biliary dilations provides symptomatic and biochemical relief with minimal morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic procedures, however, result in shorter overall and transplant-free survival than resection and may not decrease the incidence of cholangiocarcinoma. Dominant strictures that fail endoscopic management may harbor an underlying cholangiocarcinoma and surgical therapy should not be delayed. While transplantation is the option of choice in PSC patients with cirrhosis, extrahepatic biliary resection including the bifureation is a good therapeutic option in noncirrhotic patients. Resection of the extrahepatic biliary tree with the hepatic duct bifurcation should be considered in patients with a dominant extrahepatic stricture and preserved liver function. In the appropriately selected patient, extrahepatic biliary resection affords patients with survival rates equivalent to that of transplantation. In fact, extrahepatic biliary resection can potentially significantly delay or avoid transplantation. Extrahepatic biliary resection is a good durable option for noncirrhotic patients with PSC and a dominant extrahepatic stricture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tsai
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Halsted 614, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Primary sclerosing cholangitis. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2008; 22:689-98. [PMID: 18701947 DOI: 10.1155/2008/824168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, resulting in end-stage liver disease and reduced life expectancy. PSC primarily affects young and middle-aged men, often in association with underlying inflammatory bowel disease. The etiology of PSC includes immune-mediated components and elements of undefined nature. A cholestatic picture of liver biochemistries with elevations in serum alkaline phosphatase, nonspecific autoantibodies such as perinuclear antineutrophilic antibody, antinuclear antibodies and smooth muscle antibodies, and diffuse multifocal biliary strictures, resulting in a 'beaded' appearance on radiographic studies, are the hallmarks of the disease. No effective medical therapy is currently available, although clinical studies are in progress. Ursodeoxycholic acid at high doses (28 mg/kg/day to 30 mg/kg/day) is the most promising agent but is unproven so far. Liver transplantation is currently the only life-extending therapy for patients with end-stage disease, although recurrent disease can be observed in the transplanted liver. The multiple complications of PSC include pruritus, fatigue, vitamin deficiencies, metabolic bone disease, peristomal varices, bacterial cholangitis, dominant biliary strictures, gallbladder stones and polyps, and malignancy, particularly cholangiocarcinoma, which is the most lethal complication of PSC.
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Abstract
GOALS The current study presents 1 tertiary endoscopy center's 20-year experience using endoscopic therapy to treat patients with symptomatic primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). BACKGROUND Endoscopic therapy for patients with PSC and dominant strictures has been used for more than 20 years, but there is concern that instrumenting a sclerotic biliary tree induces risks that outweigh anticipated benefits. STUDY In this retrospective chart review, 117 patients with PSC were identified using ICD-9 codes. Patients had a mean age of 47 years (range: 15 to 86 y). Mean duration of follow-up was 8 years (range: 2 to 20 y). Of the 117 identified patients, 106 underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography on one or more occasions (for a total of 317 endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographies), and a subset of 84 patients received endoscopic therapy for treatment of dominant strictures and/or deteriorating clinical status. Actual survival for endoscopically treated patients was compared with predicted survival using the Mayo Clinic natural history model for PSC. RESULTS Our chart review revealed 23 recognized complications among the 317 procedures performed (7.3%), and no procedure-related deaths. Observed patient survival at years 3 and 4 was significantly higher than that predicted by the Mayo Clinic natural history model for PSC (P=0.021). CONCLUSIONS Patients with PSC who have a deteriorating clinical course benefited from endoscopic therapy to provide drainage of bile ducts, removal of stones, and/or temporary relief from obstructions, with acceptable procedure-related complications and higher than expected 3-year and 4-year survival.
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Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, resulting in cirrhosis and need for liver transplantation and reduced life expectancy. The majority of cases occur in young and middle-aged men, often in association with inflammatory bowel disease. The etiology of primary sclerosing cholangitis includes immune-mediated components and elements of undefined nature. No effective medical therapy has been identified. The multiple complications of primary sclerosing cholangitis include metabolic bone disease, dominant strictures, bacterial cholangitis, and malignancy, particularly cholangiocarcinoma, which is the most lethal complication of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Liver transplantation is currently the only life-extending therapeutic alternative for patients with end-stage disease, although recurrence in the allografted liver has been described. A PSC-like variant attracting attention is cholangitis marked by raised levels of the immunoglobulin G4 subclass, prominence of plasma cells within the lesions, and steroid responsiveness.
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A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of infliximab in primary sclerosing cholangitis. J Clin Gastroenterol 2008; 42:522-6. [PMID: 18344886 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0b013e3181662426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
GOALS To evaluate the safety and efficacy of infliximab in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. STUDY In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 24 patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis were screened and randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive infliximab (5 mg/kg) or placebo at weeks 0, 2, 6, 12, 18, and 24; patients were followed through week 52. The primary efficacy end point was a decrease of at least 50% in the serum alkaline phosphatase level from baseline to week 18. A blinded histologic assessment of liver biopsy samples, obtained at weeks 0 and 26, was performed using a predefined scoring system, including scores for inflammation, fibrosis, and cholestasis. RESULTS Patient enrollment was prematurely stopped when results of an interim analysis showed no significant treatment benefit. Of the 24 patients screened, 10 were enrolled (6 patients received infliximab). Mean alkaline phosphatase levels at weeks 0, 18, and 52 were 349, 330, and 389 U/L, respectively, for the infliximab group and 481, 438, and 391 U/L, respectively, for the placebo group. Liver biopsy samples were analyzed in 7 patients (4 infliximab); no apparent differences could be detected in any of the histologic parameters. In 3 of 4 infliximab-treated patients and 2 of 3 placebo-treated patients, the disease stage did not change after 6 months of treatment. No meaningful changes were detected in the symptom score. No serious drug-related adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS Study findings failed to demonstrate efficacy of infliximab in this small group of patients with established primary sclerosing cholangitis.
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Thomson ABR. Complications after ERCP in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis: let the art and science of endoscopic medicine continue! Gastrointest Endosc 2008; 67:649-50. [PMID: 18374025 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2007.09.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2007] [Accepted: 09/26/2007] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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