American Gastroenterological Association technical review on the diagnosis and treatment of gastroparesis

Resolution of severe gastroparesis induced by parasympathetic surge following facial trauma: a case report

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the motility of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, causing a delay in the emptying process and leading to nausea, vomiting, bloating, and upper abdominal pain. Motility treatment along with symptom management can be done using antiemetics or prokinetics. This study highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of gastroparesis and suggests a potential link between facial trauma and symptom remission, indicating the need for further investigation.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 46-year-old Hispanic man with hypertension, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and hyperlipidemia on amlodipine 10 mg, lisinopril 5 mg, empagliflozin 25 mg, and insulin glargine presented with a diabetic foot ulcer with probable osteomyelitis. During hospitalization, the patient developed severe nausea and vomiting. The gastroenterology team advised continuing antiemetic medicine and trying very small sips of clear liquids. However, the patient didn't improve. Therefore, the gastroenterology team was contacted again. They advised having stomach emptying tests to rule out gastroparesis as the source of emesis. In addition, they recommended continuing metoclopramide, and starting erythromycin due to inadequate improvement. Studies found a 748-min stomach emptying time. Normal is 45-90 min. An uneventful upper GI scope was done. Severe gastroparesis was verified, and the gastroenterology team advised a percutaneous jejunostomy or gastric pacemaker for gastroparesis. Unfortunately, the patient suffered a mechanical fall resulting in facial trauma. After the fall, the patient's nausea eased, and emesis stopped. He passed an oral liquids trial after discontinuation of erythromycin and metoclopramide.

CONCLUSION

This case exemplifies the difficulties in diagnosing and treating gastroparesis. An interesting correlation between parasympathetic surges and recovery in gastroparesis may be suggested by the surprising remission of symptoms following face injuries.

Esophageal Motility Abnormalities in Lung Transplant Recipients With Esophageal Acid Reflux Are Different From Matched Controls

Background/Aims

There is an increased incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after lung transplantation (LT) that can be associated with graft dysfunction. It is unclear if the underlying esophageal motility changes in GERD are different following LT. This study aimed to use esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) to explore GERD mechanisms in LT recipients compared to matched controls.

Methods

This was a retrospective study including patients with pathologic acid reflux who underwent HRM and pH testing at our healthcare facility July 2012 to October 2019. The study included 12 LT recipients and 36 controls. Controls were matched in a 1:3 ratio for age, gender, and acid exposure time (AET).

Results

LT recipients had less hypotensive esophagogastric junction (EGJ) (mean EGJ-contractile integral 89.2 mmHg/cm in LT vs 33.9 mmHg/cm in controls, P < 0.001). AET correlated with distal contractile integral and total EGJ-contractile integral only in LT group (r = -0.79, P = 0.002 and r = -0.57, P = 0.051, respectively).

Conclusions

Following LT, acid reflux is characterized by a less hypotensive EGJ compared to controls with similar AET. The strongest correlation with AET after LT was found to be esophageal peristaltic vigor. These results add to the understanding of reflux after LT and may help tailor an individualized treatment plan.

Efficacy and Safety of Gastric Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (G-POEM): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is an innovative treatment that has become increasingly utilized for patients with refractory gastroparesis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of G-POEM for the treatment of gastroparesis.

METHODS

Individualized search strategies were developed through February 2021 in accordance with the PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. This meta-analysis was performed by calculating pooled proportions and mean difference preprocedure and postprocedure with rates estimated using random effects models. Measured outcomes included technical success, clinical success, improvement in gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI), change in gastric emptying rate, alterations in impedance planimetry (functional lumen imaging probe [FLIP]) assessment, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 20 studies (n=797 patients; 67.41% female) were included. The mean age was 48.92±11.61 y, with an average duration of 4.24±1.11 y since gastroparesis diagnosis. Technical success was 98.47% [(95% CI: 97.14, 99.19);I2=0.00] with a mean myotomy length of 3.78±1.16 cm. In terms of clinical success, mean preprocedure GCSI scores were 3.38±0.37 and improved significantly postprocedure [weighted mean difference -1.56 (95% CI: -1.89 to -1.24); I2=82.53; P<0.001]. Gastric retention after 4 hours demonstrated ~50% improvement (preprocedure 43.08±9.24% versus postprocedure 22.97±10.19%; P<0.001). FLIP assessment with 40 mL and 50 mL balloons demonstrated a significant increase in diameter, distensibility index, and cross-sectional area postprocedure (all P<0.05). Procedure-associated adverse events occurred among 10.92% [(95% CI 5.09 to 19.32); I2=82.85] of patients.

CONCLUSION

G-POEM appears safe and highly effective for the treatment of patients with refractory gastroparesis regardless of symptom predominance or etiology.

Gastric-filling ultrasonography to evaluate gastric motility in patients with Parkinson's disease

Background

Delayed gastric emptying is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, there is currently no objective evaluation and diagnostic method for this condition.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of gastric-filling ultrasonography for gastric motility in patients with PD and the relationship between gastric dynamics and gastrointestinal symptoms and motor symptoms of PD.

Design setting and patients

We performed a case-control study with 38 patients with PD and 34 healthy controls.

Methods

All patients underwent a 120-min ultrasonography examination using a 500-ml semi-liquid test meal. We determined the antral contraction amplitude (ACA), the antrum contraction frequency (ACF), the motility index (MI), and the gastric antral cross-sectional area (CSA). We acquired the CSA at six time points: fasting for 12 h (T0), immediately after drinking the semi-liquid test meal (T1); and at 30 (T30), 60 (T60), 90 (T90), and 120 (T120) min. We calculated the gastric emptying rate (GER) at different time points by using the CSA. We compared the GER between the groups and evaluated the correlation between the GER and gastrointestinal symptoms and motor symptoms of PD.

Results

The MI and ACF were significantly lower in the PD group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The GER at T30 and the ACA showed no significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05). At different time points, the GER was significantly different between the PD and control groups (P < 0.001). There was no significant association between the GER and gastrointestinal symptoms; none of them were risk factors for impaired gastric emptying (odds ratio > 1). The GER was negatively correlated with the severity of PD motor symptoms (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with PD had significantly delayed gastric emptying, which was negatively correlated with the severity of PD motor symptoms. Measuring gastric emptying by gastric-filling ultrasound had good diagnostic value in clinical screening for delayed gastric motility in patients with PD.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=126304.

Relationships among symptoms of gastroparesis to those of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder in patients with gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Patients with symptoms of gastroparesis (Gp) often reduce food intake in attempt to manage their symptoms. Up to 40% of adults with Gp have been reported to have symptoms of a non-body image-based eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). However, whether ARFID symptoms precede or follow the diagnosis of Gp is unknown.

METHODS

From January 2021 to January 2022, consecutive adult patients with Gp at an academic center completed self-report surveys for Gp symptom severity (patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms; PAGI-SYM) and for ARFID (nine-item ARFID screen; NIAS).

KEY RESULTS

One hundred and seven patients (age 45.4 ± 17.2 yrs, 84.1% female, BMI 26.4 ± 7.3) with Gp (4-h gastric retention 33.5 ± 21.8%) were included. Eighty-two of the 107 Gp patients (77%) screened positive for ARFID. Positive ARFID screen was most often on the NIAS appetite subscale (84%) and fear subscale (76%), with a lower positive screen rate on the picky subscale (45%). Of the Gp who screened positive for ARFID, 38% reported that eating difficulties came after their Gp diagnosis, whereas 17% reported that eating difficulties preceded their Gp diagnosis, and 15% reported that both began at the same time.

CONCLUSIONS

Many (77%) patients with Gp screened positive for ARFID. In Gp patients with ARFID, the Gp diagnosis was more likely to precede the development of eating difficulties. Thus, a subset of patients with Gp may be at risk for developing ARFID. Further longitudinal research is needed to confirm findings and identify risk factors.

The Efficacy of Tradipitant in Patients With Diabetic and Idiopathic Gastroparesis in a Phase 3 Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Neurokinin receptor 1 antagonists are effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy-induced emesis. We investigated the safety and efficacy of tradipitant, a neurokinin receptor 1 antagonist, in patients with idiopathic and diabetic gastroparesis.

METHODS

A total of 201 adults with gastroparesis were randomly assigned to oral tradipitant 85 mg (n = 102) or placebo (n = 99) twice daily for 12 weeks. Symptoms were assessed by a daily symptom dairy, Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index scores, and other patient-reported questionnaires. Blood levels were monitored for an exposure-response analysis. The primary outcome was change from baseline to week 12 in average nausea severity, measured by daily symptom diary.

RESULTS

The intention-to-treat (ITT) population did not meet the prespecified primary endpoint at week 12 (difference in nausea severity change drug vs placebo; P = .741) or prespecified secondary endpoints. Post hoc analyses were performed to control for drug exposure, rescue medications, and baseline severity inflation. Subjects with high blood levels of tradipitant significantly improved average nausea severity beginning at early time points (weeks 2-4). In post hoc sensitivity analyses, tradipitant treatment demonstrated strengthened effects, with statistically significant improvements in nausea at week 12.

CONCLUSIONS

Although tradipitant did not reach significance in the ITT population, a pharmacokinetic exposure-response analysis demonstrated significant effects with adequate tradipitant exposure. When accounting for confounding factors such as baseline severity inflation and rescue medication, a statistically significant effect was also observed. These findings suggest that tradipitant has potential as a treatment for the symptom of nausea in gastroparesis. (ClincialTrials.gov, Number: NCT04028492).

Neurogastroenterology and Motility Disorders of the Gastrointestinal Tract in Cystic Fibrosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss all the various motility disorders impacting people with Cystic Fibrosis (PwCF) and provide diagnostic and management approaches from a group of pediatric and adult CF and motility experts and physiologists with experience in the management of this disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms coexist with pulmonary symptoms in PwCF regardless of age and sex. The GI manifestations include gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal dysmotility gastroparesis, small bowel dysmotility, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome, distal idiopathic obstruction syndrome, constipation, and pelvic floor disorders. They are quite debilitating, limiting the patients' quality of life and affecting their nutrition and ability to socialize. This genetic disorder affects many organ systems and is chronic, potentially impacting fertility and future family planning, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Our review discusses the treatments of motility disorders in CF, their prevalence and pathophysiology. We have provided a framework for clinicians who care for these patients that can help to guide their clinical management.

Abdominal compartment syndrome in critically ill patients

Intra-abdominal hypertension can have severe consequences, including abdominal compartment syndrome, which can contribute to multi-organ failure. An increase in intra-abdominal hypertension is influenced by factors such as diminished abdominal wall compliance, increased intraluminal content, and certain systemic conditions. Regular measurement of intra-abdominal pressure is essential, and particular attention must be paid to patient positioning. Nonsurgical treatments, such as decompression of intraluminal content using a nasogastric tube, percutaneous drainage, and fluid balance optimization, play crucial roles. Additionally, point-of-care ultrasonography aids in the diagnosis and treatment of intra-abdominal hypertension. Emphasizing the importance of regular measurements, timely decompressive laparotomy is a definitive, but complex, treatment option. Balancing the urgency of surgical intervention against potential postoperative complications is challenging.

Precision Endoscopy in Peroral Myotomies for Motility Disorders of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract: Current Insights and Prospective Avenues-A Comprehensive Review

Our review delves into the realm of peroral endoscopic myotomies (POEMs) in the upper gastrointestinal tract (UGT). In recent years, POEMs have brought about a revolution in the treatment of UGT motility disorders. Esophageal POEM, the first to be introduced, has now been validated as the primary treatment for achalasia. Subsequently developed, G-POEM displays promising results in addressing refractory gastroparesis. Over time, multiple endoscopic myotomy techniques have emerged for the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum, including Z-POEM, POES, and hybrid approaches. Despite the well-established efficacy outcomes, new challenges arise in the realm of POEMs in the UGT. For esophageal POEM, the future scenario lies in customizing the myotomy extent to the minimum necessary, while for G-POEM, it involves identifying patients who can optimally benefit from the treatment. For ZD, it is crucial to validate an algorithm that considers various myotomy options according to the diverticulum's size and in relation to individual patients. These challenges align with the concept of precision endoscopy, personalizing the technique for each subject. Within our text, we comprehensively examine each myotomy technique, analyzing indications, outcomes, and adverse events. Additionally, we explore the emerging challenges posed by myotomies within the context of the evolving field of precision endoscopy.

Atypical Causes of Gastroparesis: Prevalence, Gastric Emptying, and Clinical Features

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is commonly attributed to idiopathic or diabetic causes.

GOALS

We aimed to describe atypical causes of gastroparesis and examine the clinical features and severity of delayed gastric emptying compared with idiopathic and diabetic causes.

STUDY

Between 2018 and 2021, gastroparesis patients being evaluated at our tertiary care center completed a 4-hour gastric emptying scintigraphy and questionnaires assessing for gastrointestinal disorders, including patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients were divided into groups relating to gastroparesis cause: diabetic, postsurgical (PSGp), connective tissue (CTGp), neurological and idiopathic.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty-six patients with delayed emptying on gastric emptying scintigraphy completed the questionnaires. Gastroparesis causes included 149 (58.2%) idiopathic, 60 (23.4%) diabetic, 29 (11.3%) postsurgical, 13 (5.1%) connective tissue, and 5 (2.0%) neurological. In each group, most patients were female and White. Gastric retention at 4 hours was significantly greater in patients with diabetic (39.3±25.7% P <0.001), postsurgical (41.3±24.0% P =0.002), and connective tissue gastroparesis (37.8±20.0% P =0.049) compared with patients with idiopathic gastroparesis (25.5±17.6%). In PSGp, diabetic and idiopathic causes, the main symptoms were early satiety and postprandial fullness, whereas in CTGp, bloating and abdominal distension were the predominant symptoms. Vomiting severity was significantly greater in patients with diabetes compared with idiopathic gastroparesis (2.9±1.9 vs. 2.1±1.8 P =0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Atypical causes contributed to gastroparesis in 47 of 256 (18.4%) patients with delayed gastric emptying. Gastric emptying was significantly more delayed in PSGp and CTGp patients. PSGp patients mainly experienced stomach fullness and early satiety, whereas CTGp patients had predominantly bloating and distension.

Impact of outpatient gastroenterology consult on pharmacotherapy and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in Parkinson's Disease

Background & aims

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in Parkinson's Disease (PD) patients, and GI dysmotility is thought to induce motor fluctuations, requiring escalation of levodopa therapy. The role of GI consultation in managing such symptoms, however, is unclear. In this study, we investigate the possible association between GI dysmotility symptoms and escalated LEDD therapy, as well as factors associated with GI consultation for PD symptom management.

Methods

This was a retrospective case-study of 248 PD patients evaluated by outpatient neurology at Massachusetts General Brigham Healthcare from 2018 to 2022. Logistic regression, t-test, and Fisher exact tests were performed to identify factors associated with GI consult, change in LEDD with consult, and association of consultation with GI diagnoses and treatments, respectively.

Results

Among 248 PD patients, 12.9% received GI consultation despite 96.8% having GI symptoms. Bloating was the primary symptom associated with receiving GI consultation (OR 3.59 [95% CI 1.47-8.88], p = 0.005). GI consultation increased the odds of receiving GI-specific medications (78.2% vs 46.3%, p = 0.001) and specialized GI diagnoses like gastroparesis (9.4% vs 0.46%, p < 0.001) and pelvic floor dysfunction (15.6% vs 0%, p < 0.0001). Interestingly, LEDD tended not to change after GI consultation, and dysmotility symptoms, including bloating, did not predict need for higher LEDD.

Conclusions

While treating symptoms of dysmotility may not ameliorate levodopa-based motor fluctuations as much as previously thought, GI consultations are underutilized in PD, and patients who receive GI consultation are more likely to have changes in GI diagnosis and treatment.

Imaging in Gastroparesis: Exploring Innovative Diagnostic Approaches, Symptoms, and Treatment

Gastroparesis (GP) is a chronic disease characterized by upper gastrointestinal symptoms, primarily nausea and vomiting, and delayed gastric emptying (GE), in the absence of mechanical GI obstruction. The underlying pathophysiology of GP remains unclear, but factors contributing to the condition include vagal nerve dysfunction, impaired gastric fundic accommodation, antral hypomotility, gastric dysrhythmias, and pyloric dysfunction. Currently, gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) is considered the gold standard for GP diagnosis. However, the overall delay in GE weakly correlates with GP symptoms and their severity. Recent research efforts have focused on developing treatments that address the presumed underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of GP, such as pyloric hypertonicity, with Gastric Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (G-POEM) one of these procedures. New promising diagnostic tools for gastroparesis include wireless motility capsule (WMC), the 13 carbon-GE breath test, high-resolution electrogastrography, and the Endoluminal Functional Lumen Imaging Probe (EndoFLIP). Some of these tools assess alterations beyond GE, such as muscular electrical activity and pyloric tone. These modalities have the potential to characterize the pathophysiology of gastroparesis, identifying patients who may benefit from targeted therapies. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current knowledge on diagnostic pathways in GP, with a focus on the association between diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment.

Diabetic gastroparesis: clinical features, diagnosis and management

Diabetic gastroparesis carries a heavy burden on people with diabetes and the healthcare system. It remains underdiagnosed and represents challenges to treat. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of diabetic gastroparesis. The disorder is characterized by delayed gastric emptying without evidence of mechanical gastric outflow obstruction. It presents with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, early satiety, postprandial fullness, upper abdominal discomfort and or bloating. As the prevalence of diabetes has been growing over the last few decades, we would expect an increased incidence of delayed gastric emptying in poorly controlled diabetes and perhaps in line with the increasing use of medications that act on the GI tract such as incretin-based therapy. The disease results from multiple reversible and irreversible mechanisms. Diagnosing diabetic gastroparesis requires careful history, examination and investigations to exclude other disorders that could mimic its clinical presentation. Treatment involves a wide variety of options starting with optimization of glycaemic control, stopping any offending medications and lifestyle modifications followed by the introduction of medical therapeutics such as prokinetics. Then, surgical interventions are considered in refractory cases.

Buspirone for early satiety and symptoms of gastroparesis: A multi-centre, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-masked trial (BESST)

BACKGROUND

Patients with gastroparesis and related disorders have symptoms including early satiety, postprandial fullness and bloating. Buspirone, a 5-HT1 receptor agonist, may improve fundic accommodation.

AIM

To determine if buspirone treatment improves early satiety and postprandial fullness in patients with symptoms of gastroparesis.

METHODS

This 4-week multi-centre clinical trial randomised patients with symptoms of gastroparesis and moderate-to-severe symptoms of fullness (Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index [GCSI] early satiety/postprandial fullness subscore [ES/PPF]) to buspirone (10 mg orally) or placebo three times per day. The primary outcome was a change in the ES/PPF from baseline to 4 weeks. The primary analysis was per protocol intention-to-treat ANCOVA of between-group baseline vs. 4-week differences (DoD) in ES/PPF adjusted for baseline ES/PPF. Results are reported using both nominal and Bonferroni (BF) p values.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Ninety-six patients (47 buspirone, 49 placeboes; 92% female, 50% delayed gastric emptying, 39% diabetic) were enrolled. There was no between-groups difference in the 4-week ES/PPF primary outcome: -1.16 ± 1.25 (SD) on buspirone vs -1.03 ± 1.29 (SD) on placebo (mean DoD: -0.11 [95% CI: -0.68, 0.45]; p = 0.69). Buspirone performed better than placebo in patients with severe-to-very severe bloating at baseline compared to patients with none to moderate: (ES/PPF DoD = -0.65 vs. 1.58, pTX*GROUP  = 0.003; pBF  = 0.07). Among individual GCSI symptoms, only bloating appeared to improve with buspirone vs. placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with moderate-to-severe early satiety/postprandial fullness and other symptoms of gastroparesis did not benefit from buspirone treatment to improve the ES/PPF primary outcome compared with placebo. There was a suggestion of the benefit of buspirone in patients with more severe bloating.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT0358714285.

A Systematic Review of the Long-Term Clinical Success of Gastric Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Refractory Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a chronic and debilitating gastrointestinal disorder with few medical treatment options. Traditional surgical management has involved laparoscopic pyloromyotomy or gastric stimulation. In recent years, gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) has become an attractive, less invasive option for patients with refractory gastroparesis. There is little information on the long-term clinical success of GPOEM in patients with refractory gastroparesis. This systematic review aims to evaluate the data on this procedure's long-term clinical efficacy and safety. A comprehensive literature review was done in PubMed, EMBASE, Ovid, and Google Scholar databases from the date of earliest entry in May 2017 up to August 15, 2022. The Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score, adverse reaction, and length of stay were analyzed. Eleven studies were eligible for inclusion (900 patients), seven of the studies were retrospective, while four were prospective. The GCSI is a 6-point Likert scale questionnaire that assesses improvement in gastroparesis. An average decrease of GCSI by 1 point compared to baseline GCSI for all patients (described as clinical success) was found in 662 patients out of 713 (92.8%) at one-year follow-up, 421 out of 460 (91.5%) at two-year follow-up, 270 out of 270 (100%) at three-year follow-up, and 102 out of 102 (100%) at four-year follow-up. Adverse events occurred in 62 out of 835 patients (in nine studies), with two of the most frequent being bleeding and mucosal tears. GPOEM is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with refractory gastroparesis, with symptom improvement noted up to four years postoperatively.

Gastroparesis: The Complex Interplay with Microbiota and the Role of Exogenous Infections in the Pathogenesis of the Disease

Gastroparesis (GP) is a disorder of gastric functions that is defined by objective delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. This disease is characterized by symptoms such as nausea, post-prandial fullness, and early satiety. GP significantly impacts patients' quality of life and contributes to substantial healthcare expenses for families and society. However, the epidemiological burden of GP is difficult to evaluate, mainly due its significant overlap with functional dyspepsia (FD). GP and FD represent two similar diseases. The pathophysiology of both disorders involves abnormal gastric motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and mucosal inflammation. Moreover, both conditions share similar symptoms, such as epigastric pain, bloating, and early satiety. The latest evidence reveals that dysbiosis is directly or indirectly connected to gut-brain axis alterations, which are the basis of pathogenesis in both FD and GP. Furthermore, the role of microbiota in the development of gastroparesis was demonstrated by some clinical studies, which found that the use of probiotics is correlated with improvements in the gastric emptying time (GET). Infections (with viruses, bacteria, and protozoa) represent a proven etiology for GP but have not been sufficiently considered in current clinical practice. Previous viral infections can be found in about 20% of idiopathic GP cases. Moreover, delayed gastric emptying during systemic protozoal infections represents a huge concern for compromised patients, and few data exist on the topic. This comprehensive narrative review analyzes the relationship between microorganisms and GP. We explore, on the one hand, the correlation between gut microbiota dysbiosis and GP pathogenesis, including treatment implications, and, on the other hand, the association between exogenous infections and the etiology of the disease.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2b study of the efficacy and safety of velusetrag in subjects with diabetic or idiopathic gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of velusetrag-a 5-HT₄ agonist with pan-gastrointestinal prokinetic activity-for gastroparesis symptom management and gastric emptying (GE).

METHODS

In this multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, subjects with diabetic or idiopathic gastroparesis received velusetrag 5, 15, or 30 mg or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome was a 7-day mean Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index 24-h composite score (GCSI-24H) change from baseline at week 4; GE was evaluated using scintigraphy (GES) and breath tests, and safety from adverse events (AEs).

KEY RESULTS

232 subjects (183 females; 113 idiopathic gastroparesis) received treatment from February 2015 through June 2017. Least-squares mean improvement from baseline GCSI-24H (primary endpoint) at week 4 was -1.5 following velusetrag 5 mg vs -1.1 following placebo (treatment difference, -0.4; 95% confidence interval, -0.75 to -0.03; nominal p = 0.0327; Hochberg-adjusted p = 0.0980 [not significant]). Symptom improvement from baseline was achieved only with velusetrag 5 mg, which resulted in greater improvement from baseline vs placebo in all gastroparesis core symptoms, especially in subjects with idiopathic gastroparesis. Improvement from baseline GE by GES was greater in subjects receiving velusetrag (all doses) vs placebo; >70% of subjects receiving velusetrag 30 mg had GE normalization at 4 h. Treatment-emergent AEs were generally mild.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Velusetrag treatment was generally well-tolerated and associated with improved GE vs placebo in subjects with diabetic or idiopathic gastroparesis; however, only the lowest dose, velusetrag 5 mg, was associated with short-term improvement in gastroparesis symptoms.

CLINICALTRIALS

GOV: NCT02267525.

Semaglutide delays 4-hour gastric emptying in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and obesity

AIM

To evaluate the effect of once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 1.0 mg on the late digestive period of gastric emptying (GE) after ingestion of a standardized solid test meal by using technetium scintigraphy, the reference method for this purpose.

METHODS

We conducted a single-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 20 obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS; mean [range] age 35 [32.3-40.8] years, body mass index 37 [30.7-39.8] kg/m² ) randomized to subcutaneous semaglutide 1.0 mg once weekly or placebo for 12 weeks. GE was assessed after ingestion of [^99mT c] colloid in a pancake labelled with radiopharmaceutical by scintigraphy using sequential static imaging and dynamic acquisition at baseline and at Week 13. Estimation of GE was obtained by repeated imaging of remaining [^99mT c] activity at fixed time intervals over the course of 4 hours after ingestion.

RESULTS

From baseline to the study end, semaglutide increased the estimated retention of gastric contents by 3.5% at 1 hour, 25.5% at 2 hours, 38.0% at 3 hours and 30.0% at 4 hours after ingestion of the radioactively labelled solid meal. Four hours after ingestion, semaglutide retained 37% of solid meal in the stomach compared to no gastric retention in the placebo group (P = 0.002). Time taken for half the radiolabelled meal to empty from the stomach was significantly longer in the semaglutide group than the placebo group (171 vs. 118 min; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Semaglutide markedly delayed 4-hour GE in women with PCOS and obesity.

2023 update on the clinical management of gastroparesis

INTRODUCTION

Gastroparesis is characterized by symptoms suggesting gastric retention of food and objective evidence of delayed gastric emptying in the absence of a mechanical obstruction. Nausea, vomiting, early satiety, and postprandial fullness are the classic symptoms of gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is increasingly encountered by physicians. There are several recognized etiologies of gastroparesis, including diabetic, post-surgical, medication-induced, post-viral, and idiopathic.

AREAS COVERED

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies discussing gastroparesis management. Dietary modifications, medication adjustments, glucose control, antiemetic agents, and prokinetic agents are all part of gastroparesis management. In this manuscript, we detail treatments evolving for gastroparesis, including nutritional, pharmaceutical, device, and recent advanced endoscopic and surgical therapies. This manuscript concludes with a speculative viewpoint on how the field will evolve in 5 years' time.

EXPERT OPINION

Identification of the dominant symptoms (fullness, nausea, abdominal pain, and heartburn) helps to direct management efforts of the patients. Treatments for refractory (treatment resistant) symptoms may include gastric electric stimulation and intra-pyloric interventions like botulinum toxin and endoscopic pyloromyotomy. Understanding the pathophysiology of gastroparesis, relating pathophysiologic abnormalities to specific symptoms, new efficacious pharmacotherapies, and better understanding of the clinical predictors of response of therapies, are priorities for future research in the field of gastroparesis.

Pulmonary vein isolation-induced vagal nerve injury and gastric motility disorders detected by electrogastrography: The side effects of pulmonary vein isolation in atrial fibrillation (SEPIA) study

INTRODUCTION

Safety of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has been established in clinical studies. However, despite prevention efforts the incidence of damage to (peri)-esophageal tissue has not decreased, and the pathophysiology is incompletely understood. Damage to vagal nerve branches may be involved in lesion progression to atrio-esophageal fistula. Using electrogastrography, we assessed the incidence of periesophageal vagal nerve injury (VNI) following atrial fibrillation ablation and its association with procedural parameters and endoscopic results.

METHODS

Patients were studied using electrogastrography, endoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasound before and after cryoballoon (CB) or radiofrequency (RF) PVI. The incidence of ablation-induced neuropathic pattern (indicating VNI) in pre- and postprocedural electrogastrography was assessed and correlated with endoscopic results and ablation data.

RESULTS

Between February 2021 und January 2022, 85 patients (67 ± 10 years, 53% male) were included, 33 were treated with CB and 52 with RF (38 with moderate power moderate duration [25-30 W] and 14 with high power short duration [50 W]). Ablation-induced VNI was detected in 27/85 patients independent of the energy form. Patients with VNI more frequently had postprocedural endoscopically detected pathology (8% mucosal esophageal lesions, 36% periesophageal edema, 33% food retention) but there was incomplete overlap. Pre-existing esophagitis increased the likelihood of VNI. Ablation data and esophageal temperature data did not predict VNI.

CONCLUSION

PVI-induced VNI is quite common and independent of ablation energy source. VNI is part of (peri)-esophageal damage and only partially overlaps with endoscopic findings. VNI-associated acidic reflux may be involved in the complex pathophysiology of esophageal lesion progression to fistula.

Risk of Adverse Events Associated with Domperidone and Metoclopramide in Gastroparesis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Dopamine antagonists are the main pharmacological options to treat gastroparesis. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) to evaluate the profile of adverse events (AEs) of dopamine antagonists used in the treatment of children and adults with gastroparesis.

METHODS

We searched EMBASE and MEDLINE up to March 25, 2021, for relevant clinical trials and observational studies. We conducted a proportional meta-analysis to estimate the pooled occurrence of AEs (%), with 95% confidence interval (CI), from arm-level data across studies and the comparative occurrence of AEs from placebo-controlled clinical trials (odds ratio [OR] with 95% CI).

RESULTS

We identified 28 studies assessing AEs experienced by patients treated for gastroparesis with domperidone and metoclopramide; 22 studies contributed data to the meta-analyses. Cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine AEs were commonly observed, with point incidences varying from 1 to > 50%. Clinically important AEs, such as QTc prolongation, occurred in 5% of patients treated with domperidone (95% CI: 3.32-8.62). Restlessness, an extrapyramidal AE, occurred in 15% of patients (95% CI: 7.48-26.61) treated with metoclopramide, with a 7-fold increase compared with patients receiving placebo (OR: 7.72; 95% CI: 1.27-47.05). Variation in terminology to describe extrapyramidal events precluded further pooled analyses. Additional meta-analyses were not feasible due to discrepancies in the assessment and reporting of the AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence confirms concerns of cardiovascular, extrapyramidal, and endocrine AEs in patients with gastroparesis treated with domperidone and metoclopramide. Imprecise AE reporting limits firm interpretation and conclusions.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (registration number: CRD42021248888).

Hair Loss in Patients with Gastroparesis: A Sign of Nutritional Deficiency in Gastroparesis?

INTRODUCTION

Some patients with gastroparesis (Gp) report hair loss. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of patient-reported hair loss in Gp patients, analyze hair loss association to severity of Gp and nutritional deficiencies, and study effects of multivitamin treatment on hair loss.

METHODS

Patients with Gp were questioned about hair characteristics, Gp symptoms, and diet. Patients with hair loss had blood drawn for vitamin levels. Patients with hair loss were treated with daily multivitamin and assessed 8 weeks later.

RESULTS

Hair loss was reported in 65 of 143 patients with Gp (45.5%), occurring similarly in idiopathic and diabetic Gp. Hair loss was most commonly noticed while washing and/or combing hair. Patients with hair loss had more severe nausea, abdominal pain, stomach fullness, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, bloating, retching, stomach distension, vomiting, early satiety, postprandial fullness, and constipation. Hair loss patients lost more weight over prior 6 months. Patients with hair loss had similar gastric retention on gastric emptying scintigraphy. Overall, 29 of 61 (47.5%) patients with hair loss had at least one abnormal bloodwork result. After 8 weeks of treatment with a daily multivitamin, 17 of 41 (41%) patients had improvement in hair loss.

CONCLUSION

Hair loss occurred in 46% of patients with Gp, being associated with more severe symptoms, loss of weight, and several vitamin deficiencies, although not a specific one. Treatment with multivitamins improved hair loss in 40% of patients. Presence of hair loss in patients with Gp should prompt nutritional evaluation and supplementation.

Gastrointestinal Tract Considerations Part I

The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract is frequently involved in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and may impact quality of life, physical function and survival. Although we are currently very proactive in terms of screening for heart and lung involvement, patients with SSc are not routinely screened for GI involvement. This review details the available investigations for common upper GI symptoms in SSc, including dysphagia, reflux and bloating and provides advice as to how to integrate these investigations into current clinical care.

Role of Endoscopy in Motility Disorders of Upper Gastrointestinal Tract

Gastrointestinal motility disorders have a wide range of symptoms and affect patients' quality of life. With the advancement of endoscopy, the diagnostic and therapeutic roles of endoscopy in motility disorders is becoming more significant. Endoscopy is necessary to rule out possible organic diseases in patients with suspected motility disorders and provide significant clues for their diagnosis. Moreover, interventional endoscopy may be a primary or alternative treatment option for selected patients with motility disorders, and it is becoming a promising field as new therapeutic applications are developed and utilized for various motility disorders. This review may provide suitable indications for the use of endoscopy in diagnosing and treating motility disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

The Role of Pediatric Gastroenterologists in the Evaluation of Complex Aerodigestive Disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Children with aerodigestive disorders frequently have concerns regarding difficulty breathing, swallowing, and growing. In this review, we explored the role of pediatric gastroenterologists in the evaluation of complex aerodigestive disorders and the overall approach to these often-challenging patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pediatric gastroenterologists evaluate children with aerodigestive concerns ranging from dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux to complex congenital abnormalities such as esophageal atresia. Diagnostic tools, such as multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring, are used for diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux and assessing the correlation with symptoms. Endoscopic evaluation, and in some complex cases, with therapeutic dilations may also be performed. Gastrointestinal dysmotility evaluation with manometry studies are also being increasingly utilized. Multidisciplinary aerodigestive programs can provide a coordinated approach to children with complex airway, pulmonary and gastrointestinal tract disorders. A pediatric gastroenterologist's expertise and specialized skills not only offer many diagnostic tools for these complicated medical cases but are also important in long term medical management.

Evidence for the Involvement of Cytokines Modulation and Prokinetic Properties in Gastric Ulcer Healing Effects of Helicteres sacarolha A. St.-Hil. A. Juss

Preparations of Helicteres sacarolha (Malvaceae) leaves and roots are used in the form of decoction, infusion or maceration, to treat gastrointestinal disturbances, among others. Studies supporting some of its ethnomedicinal uses are still incipient. The present study aimed to investigate it potential effect on chronic ulcer, ulcerative colitis and possible prokinetic activities as part of its mechanism of action. The powdered leaves of Helicteres sacarolha (HEHs) was prepared by maceration in 70 % hydroethanolic solution. Its qualitative phytochemical constituents were investigated by direct flow injection analysis coupled to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (FIA-APCI-IT-MSⁿ ). The gastric ulcer healing effect was evaluated in acetic acid induced chronic ulcer in mice and the lesions were evaluated, including analysis of blood plasma cytokine levels. The prokinetic properties (gastric emptying and intestinal transit) were carried out in mice. Potential anti-ulcerative colitis activity was evaluated in rats using 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (5 % TNBS) -induced colitis. All animal experiments were carried out at the doses of 20, 50 and 250 mg/kg (p.o.). Eight compounds were putatively identified, specifically lariciresinol, and its derivatives, kaempferol derivatives and Tricin-O-Glc. The extract promoted increased gastric ulcer healing at all doses tested. Modulation of the cytokines involved inhibition of some key pro-inflammatory cytokines with maximum effect on IL-1β (70 %, 50 mg/kg, p<0.05), TNF-α (79 %, 20 mg/kg, p<0.01), and in the anti-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-10 (57 %, 50 mg/kg, p<0.05) and IL-17 (79 %, only at 50 mg/kg, p<0.05). Histological findings demonstrated a mitigated inflammatory activity, and tissues undergoing regeneration. HEHs treatment caused delayed gastric emptying, and increased intestinal transit, but had no effect in the experimentally induced ulcerative colitis. We report for the first time putatively the presence of Lariciresinol and tricin derivatives from the hydroethanolic leaves extract of H. sacarolha. Its possible mechanism of actions of gastric ulcer healing involves cytokines modulation, mitigation of inflammatory response and tissue regeneration and provoked opposing effect in the gastrointestinal system. The present study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of H. sacarolha leaves used in Brazilian ethnomedicine in the treatment of chronic gastric ulcer.

A New Paradigm Shift in Gastroparesis Management

Gastroparesis, once regarded as a rare disease, is difficult to diagnose and challenging to treat; there were many breakthrough advances in the 2010s, shifting the paradigm of the understanding of this complex entity and its management. Similar to diabetes, its increasing prevalence reflects increased accessibility to diagnostic modalities and suggests that gastroparesis was underacknowledged in the past. Major developments in the three main aspects of the disease include the discovery of smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, PDGFRα+ cells syncytium, rather than interstitial cells of Cajal alone, as the main gastric pacemaker unit; the development of validated point-of-care diagnostic modalities such as a wireless motility capsule, the carbon 13-labeled breath test, and impedance planimetry; and the introduction of novel minimally invasive therapeutic options such as newer pharmacologic agents and gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy. All aspects of these advances will be discussed further in this review.

Novel insights into the pathogenic impact of diabetes on the gastrointestinal tract

Type 2 and type 1 diabetes are common endocrine disorders with a progressively increasing incidence worldwide. These chronic, systemic diseases have multiorgan implications, and the whole gastrointestinal (GI) tract represents a frequent target in terms of symptom appearance and interdependent pathophysiological mechanisms. Metabolic alterations linked with diabetic complications, neuropathy and disrupted hormone homeostasis can lead to upper and/or lower GI symptoms in up to 75% of diabetic patients, with multifactorial involvement of the oesophagus, stomach, upper and lower intestine, and of the gallbladder. On the other hand, altered gastrointestinal motility and/or secretions are able to affect glucose and lipid homeostasis in the short and long term. Finally, diabetes has been linked with increased cancer risk at different levels of the GI tract. The presence of GI symptoms and a comprehensive assessment of GI function should be carefully considered in the management of diabetic patients to avoid further complications and to ameliorate the quality of life. Additionally, the presence of gastrointestinal dysfunction should be adequately managed to improve metabolic homeostasis, the efficacy of antidiabetic treatments and secondary prevention strategies.

Imaging Review of Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

The motor function of the gastrointestinal tract relies on the enteric nervous system, which includes neurons spanning from the esophagus to the internal anal sphincter. Disorders of gastrointestinal motility arise as a result of disease within the affected portion of the enteric nervous system and may be caused by a wide array of underlying diseases. The etiology of motility disorders may be primary or due to secondary causes related to infection or inflammation, congenital abnormalities, metabolic disturbances, systemic illness, or medication-related side effects. The symptoms of gastrointestinal dysmotility tend to be nonspecific and may cause diagnostic difficulty. Therefore, evaluation of motility disorders requires a combination of clinical, radiologic, and endoscopic or manometric testing. Radiologic studies including fluoroscopy, CT, MRI, and nuclear scintigraphy allow exclusion of alternative pathologic conditions and serve as adjuncts to endoscopy and manometry to determine the appropriate diagnosis. Additionally, radiologist understanding of clinical evaluation of motility disorders is necessary for guiding referring clinicians and appropriately imaging patients. New developments and advances in imaging techniques have allowed improved assessment and diagnosis of motility disorders, which will continue to improve patient treatment options. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2022.

Diagnostic Modalities Used in Diagnosing Gastroparesis: A Clinical Review

Gastroparesis is associated with abnormal gastric motility characterized by delayed gastric emptying without any obvious mechanical gastric outlet obstruction or blockage. Gastroparesis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is pertinent to make a timely diagnosis of gastroparesis so that prompt treatment can be initiated. The purpose of this clinical review article is to help the internist and the primary care providers to get a better idea of various diagnostic modalities used in diagnosing gastroparesis. We have also discussed the advantages and disadvantages of various diagnostic modalities based on the latest evidence.

Gastroparesis in pregnancy

Gastroparesis is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that more commonly affects women, with most cases being diagnosed during childbearing age. However, there is a paucity of data and guidelines to specifically highlight the epidemiology, disease course, maternal and fetal impact, and the management of existing gastroparesis during pregnancy. Apart from metoclopramide, there is no approved therapy specifically indicated for gastroparesis. More importantly, pregnant and breastfeeding women are excluded from clinical trials evaluating pharmacologic agents in the management of gastroparesis. This poses a real challenge to healthcare providers in counseling and managing patients with gastroparesis. In this systematic review, we summarize the current available literature and the knowledge gaps in the impact of pregnancy on gastroparesis and vice versa. We also highlight the efficacy and safety profiles of available pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies in the management of patients with gastroparesis, with emphasis on judicious use of dietary approaches that are deemed relatively safe during pregnancy.

Gastrointestinal and Liver Complications in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus-A Review of the Literature

The number of diabetes mellitus patients has increased over the last few years in developing countries, along with obesity and sedentary lifestyle. Besides macroangiopathy and microangiopathy, damage to the nerve fibers of the peripheral nervous system is the most common chronic complication of diabetes. Digestive complications in diabetic patients represent a consequence of diabetic autonomic neuropathy involving the gastrointestinal tract, but unfortunately not always evaluated by diabetologists. Aside from the complications encountered in the digestive tract, patients with diabetes mellitus are prone to developing liver diseases. This review will describe the prevalence of these complications, the modality of diagnosis, and therapeutical solutions in order to reduce the risk of progression of these complications in diabetic subjects.

Quantification of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Gastric Muscle of Patients with Gastroparesis at Per-Oral Endoscopic Pyloromyotomy: A Novel Approach for Future Research in Pathogenesis of Gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

The role of Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC) in the pathogenesis of gastroparesis has been suggested by previous studies due to their involvement in the transmission of neuronal signaling to the smooth muscles of the GI tract. However, studies have been limited by the inability to obtain a gastric muscle sample, since routine endoscopy can only biopsy the mucosa. We present a new technique of muscle biopsy during per-oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (GPOEM), a novel endoscopic procedure for treatment of gastroparesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All enrolled patients had diagnosed gastroparesis and had biopsies of the muscular layer at the antrum/pylorus during POEM. All GPOEM procedures took place from August 2019 to December 2019. Various demographic, disease-related, and procedure-related data were collected from chart review. ICC in the biopsy specimen was examined and quantitated.

RESULTS

Through this method, we readily expose the gastric muscle of 21 patients through dissection of a gastric submucosal tunnel during GPOEM and provide reliable muscle sample for ICC quantification. Average number of ICC were higher in clinical responders (88 ICC ± 63 vs. 39 ICC ± 24, p = 0.02), defined as those who experienced significant improvement in nausea and vomiting symptoms after GPOEM.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a reliable novel biopsy method for safely biopsy gastric muscle for quantitating the number of gastric ICC in patients with gastroparesis. The number of ICC may be related to the outcome of GPOEM therapy. However, further studies with larger number of patients are needed to confirm the results.

Health-care resource use and costs associated with diabetic and idiopathic gastroparesis: A claims analysis of the first 3 years following the diagnosis of gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Due to limited treatment options, many patients with diabetic gastroparesis (DG) or idiopathic gastroparesis (IG) experience inadequate symptom control resulting in increased health-care resource utilization (HRU) and associated costs. We compared all-cause HRU and health-care costs over the 3 years after patients' first gastroparesis diagnosis with that of matched controls without gastroparesis.

METHODS

Newly diagnosed adults with DG or IG were identified in Optum's de-identified Clinformatics^® Data Mart Database (Q1-2007 to Q1-2019). Patients with DG/IG were matched 1:1 to controls using a mixed approach of exact matching and propensity score matching. The index date was the first gastroparesis diagnosis for cases or randomly selected for controls. All-cause HRU and direct health-care costs per person-year (PPY) were compared between DG/IG cases and controls in Years 1-3 post-index.

KEY RESULTS

Demographics and comorbidities were balanced between patients with gastroparesis (n = 18,015 [DG]; n = 14,305 [IG]) and controls. In each of the Years 1-3 post-index, patients with DG or IG had significantly higher annual HRU and costs versus controls (mean total cost differences PPY: DG Year 1 $34,885, Year 2 $28,071, Year 3 $25,606; IG Year 1 $23,176, Year 2 $16,627, Year 3 $14,396) (all p < 0.05). Across all 3 years, DG/IG cohorts had approximately twice the costs of controls. HRU and costs were highest in Year 1 post-index for both DG and IG.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The economic burden of gastroparesis remains high several years after diagnosis, emphasizing the need for chronic treatment to effectively manage symptoms and consequently reduce the burden of this disorder.

Impact of mucositis on oral bioavailability and systemic exposure of ciprofloxacin Gram-negative infection prophylaxis in patients with haematological malignancies

BACKGROUND

Patients with haematological malignancies frequently endure neutropenia and gastrointestinal (GI)-mucositis after high-dose chemotherapy. In these patients, ciprofloxacin is used for Gram-negative infection prophylaxis.

OBJECTIVES

We investigate ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics after oral administration in patients with haematological malignancies and explore the impact of GI-mucositis on oral bioavailability and clearance in order to assure adequate systemic exposure.

METHODS

Adult haematological patients from two Dutch University Medical Centres received 500 mg twice daily oral ciprofloxacin for Gram-negative prophylaxis. The ciprofloxacin plasma concentrations were collected at various timepoints after oral ciprofloxacin administration and at various days after completion of chemotherapy. Data obtained after oral and intravenous ciprofloxacin administration in 28 healthy volunteers without mucositis served as a control group (391 samples). For haematological patients the degree of GI-mucositis was assessed using the Daily Gut Score (DGS), plasma citrulline and albumin. Data were analysed by non-linear mixed-effects modelling.

RESULTS

In total, 250 blood samples were collected in 47 patients with a wide variety of haematological malignancies between 0-30 days after start of chemotherapy. Mucositis was generally mild [DGS median (IQR) 1 (1-1) and citrulline 16 μmol/L (12-23)]. The time to Cmax was slower in haematological patients compared with healthy volunteers although no association with the degree of mucositis (defined as DGS or citrulline) could be identified. Ciprofloxacin bioavailability and clearance were 60% and 33.2 L/h, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports oral dosing of ciprofloxacin as Gram-negative infection prophylaxis in haematological patients with mild-to-moderate mucositis capable of oral intake.

Management of dysphagia and gastroparesis in Parkinson’s disease in real-world clinical practice – Balancing pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches

Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are commonly experienced by patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Those that affect the lower GI tract, such as constipation, are the most frequently reported GI problems among patients with PD. Upper GI issues, such as swallowing dysfunction (dysphagia) and delayed gastric emptying (gastroparesis), are also common in PD but are less well recognized by both patients and clinicians and, therefore, often overlooked. These GI issues may also be perceived by the healthcare team as less of a priority than management of PD motor symptoms. However, if left untreated, both dysphagia and gastroparesis can have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients with PD and on the effectiveness on oral PD medications, with negative consequences for motor control. Holistic management of PD should therefore include timely and effective management of upper GI issues by utilizing both non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. This dual approach is key as many pharmacological strategies have limited efficacy in this setting, so non-pharmacological approaches are often the best option. Although a multidisciplinary approach to the management of GI issues in PD is ideal, resource constraints may mean this is not always feasible. In ‘real-world’ practice, neurologists and PD care teams often need to make initial assessments and treatment or referral recommendations for their patients with PD who are experiencing these problems. To provide guidance in these cases, this article reviews the published evidence for diagnostic and therapeutic management of dysphagia and gastroparesis, including recommendations for timely and appropriate referral to GI specialists when needed and guidance on the development of an effective management plan.

Poor Gastric Emptying in Patients with Paraesophageal Hernias: Pyloroplasty, Per-Oral Pyloromyotomy, BoTox, or Wait and See?

Gastric emptying delay may be caused with both functional and anatomic derangements. Gastroparesis is suspected in patients presenting with certain foregut symptoms without anatomic obstruction. Data are still emerging regarding the best treatment of this condition. In cases where large paraesophageal hernias alter the upper gastrointestinal anatomy, it is difficult to know if gastroparesis also exists. Management of hiatal hernias is also still evolving, with various strategies to reduce recurrence being actively investigated. In this article, we present a systematic review of the existing literature around the management of gastroparesis and the management of paraesophageal hernias when they occur separately. In addition, since there are limited data to guide diagnosis and management of these conditions when they are suspected to coexist, we provide a rational strategy based on our own experience in patients with paraesophageal hernias who have symptoms or studies that raise suspicion for a coexisting functional disorder.

Transpyloric propagation and liquid gastric emptying in children with foregut dysmotility

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Gastric emptying (GE) requires precise antropyloroduodenal coordination for effective transpyloric flow, the mechanisms of which are still unclear. We aimed to correlate gastric antral function assessed by antroduodenal manometry (ADM) with GE scintigraphy (GES) for liquid feeds in children with suspected gastrointestinal dysmotility.

METHODS

Children who underwent both ADM and GES over a five-year period were reviewed. ADM tracings were re-analyzed to assess antral frequency, amplitude, and motility index (MI) pre-prandially and postprandially. Transpyloric propagation (TPP) was defined as antegrade propagated antral activity preceding duodenal phase III of the migrating motor complex (MMC). TPP was defined as "poor" if occurring in <50% of all presented duodenal phases III. For GES, regions of interest over the whole stomach, fundus, and antrum were drawn to calculate GE half-time (GE-T_1/2 ) and retention rate (RR) in each region at 1 and 2 h.

RESULTS

Forty-seven children (median age: 7.0 years) were included. Twenty-two had PIPO, 14 functional GI disorders, and 11 gastroparesis. Children with poor TPP had longer GE-T_1/2 (113.0 vs 66.5 min, p = 0.028), higher RR of the whole stomach and fundus at 1 h (79.5% vs 63.5%, p = 0.038; 60.0% vs 41.0%, p = 0.022, respectively) and 2 h (51.0% vs 10.5%, p = 0.005; 36.0% vs 6.5%, p = 0.004, respectively). The pre-prandial antral amplitude of contractions inversely correlated with GE-T_1/2 , RR of the whole stomach, and fundus at 2 h.

CONCLUSIONS

TPP during phase III of the MMC correlated with gastric emptying of liquid and its assessment on ADM might predict abnormalities in postprandial gastric function.

Meal Eating Characteristics of Patients with Gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Patients with gastroparesis often consume only small meals due to early satiety.

AIMS

(1) Describe meal eating characteristics of patients with gastroparesis; (2) Relate meal eating characteristics to symptoms, gastric emptying (GE), and body weight.

METHODS

Patients with gastroparesis filled out questionnaires including Patient Assessment of Upper GI Symptoms (PAGI-SYM), and questionnaire about meal habits and body weight. Patients underwent gastric emptying scintigraphy.

RESULTS

Of 192 gastroparesis patients, 93% endorsed early satiety (ES) with severity of 3.7 ± 1.5 (scored from 0-5) and 93% endorsed postprandial fullness (PPF) with severity of 3.9 ± 1.3. Time spent consuming meals averaged 13.6 ± 17.7 min. Main reasons patients stopped eating were fullness (61%), nausea (48%), and abdominal pain (31%). Time spent eating correlated inversely with severity of nausea (r = -0.18, p < 0.05), stomach fullness (r = -0.21, p < 0.01), PPF (r = -0.23, p < 0.01), loss of appetite (r = -0.34, p < 0.01). Postprandial fullness lasted for 316 ± 344 min. Duration of PPF correlated with nausea (r = 0.30, p < 0.01), retching (r = 0.29, p < 0.01), vomiting (r = 0.28, p < 0.01), stomach fullness (r = 0.33, p < 0.01), loss of appetite (r = 0.35, p < 0.01), and constipation (r = 0.27, p < 0.01). Underweight patients had increased inability to finish a normal size meal (p < 0.01), loss of appetite (p < 0.01), and lower abdominal pain/discomfort (p < 0.05). Patients had lost 3.06 ± 10.60 kgs from their baseline weight. Weight loss correlated with nausea (r = 0.26, p < 0.01), ES (r = 0.30, p < 0.01), loss of appetite (r = 0.28, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Early satiety and postprandial fullness were common with high severity. The main reasons for meal cessation were early satiety, nausea, and abdominal pain. Body weight and change in body weight were associated with symptoms of gastroparesis.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is characterized by symptoms suggesting retention of food in the stomach with objective evidence of delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction in the gastric outflow. This condition is increasingly encountered in clinical practice. These guidelines summarize perspectives on the risk factors, diagnosis, and management of gastroparesis in adults (including dietary, pharmacological, device, and interventions directed at the pylorus), and they represent the official practice recommendations of the American College of Gastroenterology. The scientific evidence for these guidelines was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation process. When the evidence was not appropriate for Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation, we used expert consensus to develop key concept statements. These guidelines should be considered as preferred but are not the only approaches to these conditions.

Safety and feasibility of same day discharge after per oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy in refractory gastroparesis: a pilot study

Background:

Gastroparesis is a debilitating medical condition with limited treatment options. Gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) has emerged as a promising treatment option with remarkable short-term clinical success shown in multiple studies. While the post-procedure protocol is not standardized across many centers, the majority of the centers observes these patients in the hospital after the procedure for monitoring. In this single-center prospective study, we evaluated the safety and feasibility of same day discharge after the G-POEM procedure.

Methods:

All the patients with refractory gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM from October 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled. A total of 25 patients were enrolled in the procedure. Based on the pre-defined criteria, patients were either discharged on the same day after the procedure or admitted to the hospital for further observation. The patient and procedure-related data were extracted from the chart review. Univariate analysis was performed (chi-squared test) on categorical variables after organizing categorical variables as numeric counts or percentages. The student t test was performed on continuous variables after reporting as mean and standard deviation. For analysis with a smaller sample size, Fisher exact and Mann–Whitney tests were used.

Results:

A total of 25 patients were enrolled. The technical success of G-POEM was 100% and clinical success was 80% (20/25) at 1-month follow-up. Of the 25 patients, 9 patients (36%) were discharged on the same day according to the procedure from the recovery unit. Of the remaining 16 patients who were admitted to the hospital post-procedure, 10 (40%) were admitted due to procedure-related causes while other admissions were either pre-planned or due to social reasons. The average Charlson comorbidity index was lower in the same day discharge group (P < 0.05). The number of patients requiring double myotomy was higher in the same day discharge group (P < 0.05). The overall complication rate of G-POEM in the study cohort was 12% (3/25) with all complications being mild without any severe adverse events.

Conclusion:

G-POEM is a safe and effective method of treatment for refractory GP with higher clinical success in short-term follow-up. The same day discharge after G-POEM is safe and feasible in >50% of patients with close periprocedural monitoring.

Postprandial symptoms in patients with symptoms of gastroparesis: roles of gastric emptying and accommodation

Patients often are evaluated for gastroparesis because of symptoms occurring with meals. Gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) is used for gastroparesis diagnosis, although results are not well correlated with gastroparesis symptoms. The aim of this study is to assess relationships between gastroparesis symptoms, gastric emptying (GE), and gastric accommodation (GA). Patients with symptoms of gastroparesis completed the Patient Assessment of Upper GI Symptoms (PAGI-SYM) and recorded symptoms during GES and water load satiety test (WLST), an indirect assessment for GA. A total of 109 patients with gastroparesis symptoms were assessed. Symptom severity increased after GES meal for stomach fullness, belching, nausea, abdominal burning, and abdominal pain. There was no difference in symptoms after meal between patients with delayed (n = 66) and normal (n = 42) GE. Diabetic patients (n = 26) had greater gastric retention than idiopathic patients (n = 78), but idiopathic patients had greater postprandial nausea, stomach fullness, and abdominal pain. Water consumed during WLST averaged 421 ± 245 mL. Idiopathic patients had greater nausea scores during WLST than diabetic patients. In comparison to those with normal water consumption (≥238 mL; n = 80), patients with impaired water ingestion (<238 mL; n = 26) had increased stomach fullness, early satiety, postprandial fullness, and loss of appetite on PAGI-SYM. Patients with delayed and normal GE had similar symptom profiles during GES and WLST. Idiopathic patients had less gastric retention but more symptoms after GES meal and after WLST compared with diabetic patients. Patients with impaired water consumption during WLST had increased symptoms by PAGI-SYM. These data suggest that impaired GA, rather than GE, may be important in explaining postprandial symptoms in patients with symptoms of gastroparesis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Patients with delayed and normal gastric emptying (GE) had similar symptom profiles during gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES). Idiopathic patients with symptoms of gastroparesis had less gastric retention by GES; but more symptoms after GES meal and after water load satiety test (WLST) compared with diabetic patients. In patients with symptoms of gastroparesis, symptoms after WLST increased with decreasing water consumption. Early satiety and loss of appetite were associated with decreased water consumption during WLST. Thus, impaired accommodation and perhaps visceral hypersensitivity are important in explaining postprandial symptoms in gastroparesis.

Delivery of therapeutic carbon monoxide by gas-entrapping materials

Carbon monoxide (CO) has long been considered a toxic gas but is now a recognized bioactive gasotransmitter with potent immunomodulatory effects. Although inhaled CO is currently under investigation for use in patients with lung disease, this mode of administration can present clinical challenges. The capacity to deliver CO directly and safely to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract could transform the management of diseases affecting the GI mucosa such as inflammatory bowel disease or radiation injury. To address this unmet need, inspired by molecular gastronomy techniques, we have developed a family of gas-entrapping materials (GEMs) for delivery of CO to the GI tract. We show highly tunable and potent delivery of CO, achieving clinically relevant CO concentrations in vivo in rodent and swine models. To support the potential range of applications of foam GEMs, we evaluated the system in three distinct disease models. We show that a GEM containing CO dose-dependently reduced acetaminophen-induced hepatocellular injury, dampened colitis-associated inflammation and oxidative tissue injury, and mitigated radiation-induced gut epithelial damage in rodents. Collectively, foam GEMs have potential paradigm-shifting implications for the safe therapeutic use of CO across a range of indications.

Risk Factors and Outcomes for Gastroparesis After Lung Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is common after lung transplantation and is associated with worse transplant outcomes, including the development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). This study sought to identify the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with a new diagnosis of gastroparesis after lung transplantation.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective study of patients who underwent lung transplantation in 2008-2018. The primary outcome was a new diagnosis of gastroparesis within 3 years of transplant. Secondary outcomes included a new diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux and the association between gastroparesis and both post-transplant survival and CLAD-free survival. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare diagnosis of gastroparesis and gastroesophageal reflux, while multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze gastroparesis and post-transplant outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 616 patients with no prior history of gastroparesis, 107 (17.4%) were diagnosed with delayed gastric emptying within 3 years of transplant. On multivariable logistic regression, black race (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.18-3.98, p = 0.013) was significantly associated with a new diagnosis of gastroparesis. Age, sex, history of diabetes, connective tissue disease, type of transplant, diagnosis group, renal function, and body mass index were not predictive of gastroparesis post-transplant. Gastroparesis was significantly associated with CLAD (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.20-2.59, p = 0.004), but not with overall mortality (HR 1.16, p = 0.43).

CONCLUSION

While gastroparesis is common after lung transplantation, it remains difficult to predict which patients will develop these complications post-transplant. Black patients were more likely to be diagnosed with gastroparesis after adjusting for relevant confounders. Gastroparesis is associated with increased risk of CLAD, and further studies are needed to assess whether early detection and treatment can reduce the incidence of CLAD.

Gastroparesis with concomitant gastrointestinal dysmotility is not a contraindication for per-oral pyloromyotomy (POP)

INTRODUCTION

Per-oral pyloromyotomy (POP or G-POEM) provides significant short-term improvements in symptoms and objective emptying for patients with medically refractory gastroparesis, but it is unclear if patients with gastroparesis and co-existing dysmotility (small bowel or colonic delay) also benefit. In this study, we used wireless motility capsule (WMC) data to measure outcomes in patients with isolated gastroparesis (GP) and gastroparesis with co-existing dysmotility (GP + Dys) who underwent POP.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients who had POP and completed WMC data during their evaluation of intestinal dysmotility. WMC data were reviewed to identify patients who demonstrated isolated GP or GP + Dys. Each patient's pre-op and post-op Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) and 4-h solid-phase scintigraphy gastric emptying studies (GES) scores were compared to evaluate improvement.

RESULTS

Of the entire cohort (n = 73), 89% were female with a mean age of 47.0 ± 15.0 years old. Gastroparesis etiologies were divided among idiopathic (54.8%), diabetic (26%), postsurgical (8.2%), autoimmune (5.5%), and multifactorial (5.5%). Forty-one patients (56%) had GP and 32 patients (44%) had GP + Dys. GCSI improved after POP whether the patient had isolated GP (- 12.31, p < 0.001) or GP + Dys (- 9.58, p < 0.001); however, there was no significant difference in total GCSI improvement between the two groups. A subset of patients had postoperative GES available (n = 47). In the isolated GP and GP + Dys cohorts, 15/28 (54%) and 12/19 (63%) patients had normal post-op 4-h GES, respectively, but no statistical difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Patients with medically refractory gastroparesis with and without concomitant gastrointestinal dysmotility show short-term subjective and objective improvement after POP. Concomitant small bowel or colonic dysmotility should not deter physicians from offering POP in carefully selected patients with gastroparesis.

Gastric half emptying time (T½ ) for 4-h gastric emptying scintigraphy simplifies reporting but reduces detection of gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) reports percent retention at 1, 2, and 4 h. Time to empty half the meal (T_½ ) could simplify GE reporting.

AIMS

To compare the performance of GES T_½ to 1-, 2-, and 4-h retention.

METHODS

GES studies were reviewed; results determined according to retention at 1, 2, and 4 h. T_½ was determined using 3 methods: (1) GES curve fitting using 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h data; (2) linear interpolation using 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h data; and (3) linear interpolation using only 0, 1, 2, and 4 h data.

RESULTS

Of 495 patients, 265 had normal GE, 4 rapid GE (<30% retention at 1 h), and 226 delayed GE: 17 delayed only at 2 h (>60% ret); 94 delayed only at 4 h (>10% ret); and 115 delayed at both 2 h and 4 h. Strong correlations were seen between each T_½ method and 1, 2, 3, and 4 h %-empty values: curve-fit T_½ (r = -0.851, -0.942, -0.864, -0.744), linear T_½ using all imaging times (r = -0.848, -0.972, -0.878, -0.763), and linear T_½ using standard imaging times (r = -0.853, -0.974, -0.868, -0.760). The 132 min cutoff for delayed GE captures 99.1% to 100% of delayed GE at both 2 h and 4 h, 76.5% to 94.1% delayed at 2 h only, but only 36.7% to 39.4% delayed at 4 h only; 3.5 to 11.3% of patients with normal GE miscategorized as delayed.

CONCLUSIONS

GES T_½ correlates more strongly with retention at 2 h than at 4 h. T_½ alone may misclassify patients, particularly those with late-phase (4 h only) delays, reducing its utility for diagnosing gastroparesis.

Prevalence and clinical correlates of antinuclear antibody in patients with gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Autoimmunity may play a role in the pathogenesis of gastroparesis in a subset of patients. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing is often used to screen for autoimmune disorders.

AIMS

1) Determine prevalence of a positive ANA in patients with gastroparesis; 2) Describe characteristics of idiopathic gastroparesis patients with positive ANA.

METHODS

Patients were assessed with gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES), symptom assessment via Patient Assessment of Upper GI Symptoms [PAGI-SYM], and blood tests-ANA, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP).

RESULTS

Positive ANA was seen in 148 of 893 (17%) patients with gastroparesis, being similar in idiopathic (16% of 536 patients), T1DM (16% of 162), T2DM (18% of 147), and postfundoplication (19% of 48 patients) gastroparesis. Among 536 patients with idiopathic gastroparesis, ANA titer 1:40-1:80 was seen in 33 (6%) patients, 1:160-1:320 in 36 (7%) patients, and ≥1:640 in 17 (3%) patients. Increasing ANA titer was associated with female gender (p = 0.05), Hispanic ethnicity (p = 0.02), comorbid rheumatoid arthritis (p = 0.02), systemic sclerosis (p = 0.004), and elevated ESR (p = 0.007). ANA positivity was associated with lower total GCSI (p = 0.007) and lower nausea/vomiting subscale (p = 0.0005), but not related to gastric emptying.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of a positive ANA in patients with gastroparesis was high at ~17% and did not differ significantly based on etiology. In idiopathic patients, ANA positivity was associated with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, and elevated ESR. ANA-positive gastroparesis represents a subset who often have other autoimmune symptoms or disorders, but less severe nausea and vomiting.