1
|
Aryan M, Jariwala R, Alkurdi B, Peter S, Shoreibah M. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in cirrhotics with gastric antral vascular ectasia. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102377. [PMID: 34974327 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2021.102377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is characterized by angliodysplastic lesions that can cause upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). The mechanism behind GAVE and its association with other diseases remains unknown. We investigated the association of metabolic syndrome in cirrhotic GAVE patients when compared to esophageal variceal hemorrhage (EVH) patients. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of 941 consecutive esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGDs) for UGIB at a medical center between 2017 and 2019. The GAVE group consisted of EGD or biopsy diagnosed cirrhotic GAVE patients, and the EVH group consisted of EVH patients with active bleeding or stigmata of recent hemorrhage on EGD. Baseline variables including co-morbidities and cirrhotic etiology were recorded. Continuous variables were compared using Wilcoxon test and categorical variables were compared using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Multiple logistic regression analysis evaluated the association between GAVE and covariates. RESULTS The final cohort had 96 GAVE and 104 EVH patients. Mean BMI was significantly higher in the GAVE cohort (32.6 vs 27.9, p < 0.0001) in addition to diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia (53.1% vs 37.5%; 76% vs 47.1%; 38.5% vs 14.4%; respectively, all p < 0.05). Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis was more prevalent in GAVE than EVH patients (50% vs 24%, p = 0.0001). Multiple logistics regression revealed female sex, increased BMI, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia all having significantly higher risk of GAVE (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our data indicates that when compared to cirrhotics patients with EVH, cirrhotics with GAVE have increased risk of metabolic syndrome. This may play a role in the underlying pathophysiology of GAVE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Aryan
- Tinsley Harrison Internal Medicine Residency Program, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2nd Avenue South, BDB 327, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States.
| | - Ravi Jariwala
- Tinsley Harrison Internal Medicine Residency Program, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2nd Avenue South, BDB 327, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ochsner Medical Center, 1514 Jefferson Hwy. New Orleans, LA, 70121, United States
| | - Basem Alkurdi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1808 7th Avenue South, BDB 391, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States
| | - Shajan Peter
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1808 7th Avenue South, BDB 391, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States
| | - Mohamed Shoreibah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1808 7th Avenue South, BDB 391, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jariwala R, Shoreibah M. An Unexpected Association: Might GAVE Pave the Way to How the Metabolic Syndrome Behaves. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2021; 18:297-300. [PMID: 34976375 PMCID: PMC8688897 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Audio Recording.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Jariwala
- Internal Medicine Residency Training ProgramUniversity of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAL
| | - Mohamed Shoreibah
- Division of Gastroenterology & HepatologyUniversity of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAL
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fouad M, Khalaf Fath-Elbab H, Mostafa AM, Moness HM, Adel NM, Ahmed E. Gastric antral vascular ectasia in hepatitis C virus related liver cirrhosis: Fetching for predictors. JGH OPEN 2021; 5:923-928. [PMID: 34386601 PMCID: PMC8341197 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is observed in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. The exact pathophysiologic mechanism that underlies this condition is unknown. In our study, we estimate the prevalence of GAVE in hepatitis C virus (HCV) cirrhosis and attempted to determine if any of the hepatocellular manifestations, liver functions, serum gastrin, abdominal ultrasound and endoscopic picture have a relation to, or could predict, the occurrence of GAVE in cirrhotic patients. Methods This study includes 500 HCV‐related liver cirrhosis patients. According to endoscopic assessment, we detected 30 patients with GAVE (Group 2). From the 470 patients without GAVE, we randomly selected 120 patients (Group 1), to avoid statistical bias, for comparison with Group 2. Comparison included clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, serum gastrin, ultrasound findings, and endoscopic findings (esophageal and/or gastric varices and gastropathy). Results The percentage of GAVE in HCV‐related liver cirrhosis is 0.06%. We can predict GAVE by platelets, palmer erythema, diabetes mellitus (DM), marked ascites > with area under the curve of 0.67, 75.5, 0.62, and 0.40%, and accuracy of 82.5, 72, 70.7, and 79.3%, respectively. There was no correlation found between occurrence of GAVE and endoscopic findings. Also, there was no correlation found between occurrence of GAVE and serum gastrin levels, which reflect another pathophysiology, and we found no statistically significant correlation with GAVE. Conclusions Palmer erythema, low platelets, DM, and ascites might help in the prediction of GAVE. GAVE is not linked to the presence, type or grade of varices, and gastropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdy Fouad
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Tropical Medicine Faculty of Medicine - Minia University Minia Egypt
| | - Hanaa Khalaf Fath-Elbab
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Tropical Medicine Faculty of Medicine - Minia University Minia Egypt
| | - Alaa Mohamed Mostafa
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Tropical Medicine Faculty of Medicine - Minia University Minia Egypt
| | - Hend M Moness
- Department of Clinical Pathology Faculty of Medicine - Minia University Minia Egypt
| | | | - Elham Ahmed
- Department of Internal Medicine Faculty of Medicine - Minia University Minia Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hirsch BS, Ribeiro IB, Funari MP, de Moura DTH, Matuguma SE, Sánchez-Luna SA, Mancini FC, de Oliveira GHP, Bernardo WM, de Moura EGH. Endoscopic Band Ligation Versus Argon Plasma Coagulation in the Treatment of Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin Endosc 2021; 54:669-677. [PMID: 34053215 PMCID: PMC8505186 DOI: 10.5946/ce.2021.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is the most commonly used endoscopic treatment for gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE). Endoscopic band ligation (EBL) has emerged as an alternative therapy. Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of APC and EBL for the treatment of GAVE. This is the first systematic review that included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on this topic.
Methods A comprehensive search was performed using electronic databases to identify RCTs comparing APC and EBL for the treatment of GAVE following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.
Results Four RCTs were included, with a total of 204 patients. EBL was related to higher endoscopic eradication rates risk difference [RD], 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.14, 0.44]; I2=0%) and less bleeding recurrence than APC (RD, 0.29; 95% CI [0.15, 0.44]; I2=0%). Patients treated with EBL required fewer blood transfusions (mean difference [MD], 1.49; 95% CI [0.28, 2.71]; I2=96%) and hospitalizations (MD, 0.29; 95% CI [0.19, 0.39]; I2=0%). The number of sessions required for the obliteration of lesions was higher with APC. There was no difference in the incidence of adverse events.
Conclusions EBL is superior to APC in the treatment of GAVE in terms of endoscopic eradication rates, recurrence of bleeding, and transfusion requirements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Salomão Hirsch
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor Braga Ribeiro
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus Pereira Funari
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sergio Eiji Matuguma
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio A Sánchez-Luna
- Center for Advanced Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Basil I. Hirschowitz Endoscopic Center of Excellence, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Fabio Catache Mancini
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Wanderley Marques Bernardo
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ali SE, Benrajab KM, Cruz ACD. Outcome of gastric antral vascular ectasia and related anemia after orthotopic liver transplantation. World J Hepatol 2020; 12:1067-1075. [PMID: 33312430 PMCID: PMC7701976 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v12.i11.1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a significant complication of cirrhosis. Numerous medical, surgical, and endoscopic treatment modalities have been proposed with varied satisfactory results. In a few small studies, GAVE and associated anemia have resolved after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT).
AIM To assess the impact of OLT on the resolution of GAVE and related anemia.
METHODS We retrospectively reviewed clinical records of adult patients with GAVE who underwent OLT between September 2012 and September 2019. Demographics and other relevant clinical findings were collected, including hemoglobin levels and upper endoscopy findings before and after OLT. The primary outcome was the resolution of GAVE and its related anemia after OLT.
RESULTS Sixteen patients were identified. Mean pre-OLT Hgb was 7.7 g/dL and mean 12 mo post-OLT Hgb was 11.9 g/dL, (P = 0.001). Anemia improved (defined as Hgb increased by 2g) in 87.5% of patients within 6 to 12 mo after OLT and resolved completely in half of the patients. Post-OLT esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed in 10 patients, and GAVE was found to have resolved entirely in 6 of those patients (60%).
CONCLUSION Although GAVE and associated anemia completely resolved in the majority of our patients after OLT, GAVE persisted in a few patients after transplant. Further studies in a large group of patients are necessary to understand the causality of disease and to better understand the factors associated with the persistence of GAVE post-transplant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saad Emhmed Ali
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - Karim M Benrajab
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - Anna Christina Dela Cruz
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Histologic and Endoscopic Similarity between Nodular Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia and Gastric Hyperplastic Polyps Potentially Causing Treatment Delays. Case Rep Med 2019; 2019:1342368. [PMID: 31662762 PMCID: PMC6791213 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1342368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is the underlying cause for 4% of nonvariceal upper GI bleeding. Nodular GAVE and gastric hyperplastic polyps have similar appearance on upper GI endoscopy (EGD) as well as histology, which could delay specific targeted therapy. We herein, through this case, would like to highlight that high clinical suspicion is required to diagnose nodular GAVE. Case Report A 70-year-old male with a past medical history significant for coronary artery disease s/p drug-eluting stent placement on Plavix, coronary artery bypass grafting, mechanical aortic valve replacement on warfarin, and iron deficiency anemia on replacement was admitted for the evaluation of fatigue and melena for a month. Physical examination was positive for black stool. The only significant lab was a drop in hemoglobin/hematocrit (Hg/dl/H%) of 10/32 to 4/12.5. Fibrosure was sought which suggested that the patient had an F4 cirrhosis. Endoscopy showed nodules in the gastric antrum which were presumptively treated as GAVE with argon plasma coagulation (APC). Surgical pathology showed reactive gastropathy and gastric polyps. Review of the past histology suggested that because of the overlap in the histopathological features of hyperplastic polyps and GAVE, they were misinterpreted as hyperplastic polyp rather than nodular GAVE. Discussion GAVE can be classified endoscopically as punctate, striped, nodular, or polypoidal form. The light microscopic findings considered specific to GAVE are vascular hyperplasia, mucosal vascular ectasia, intravascular fibrin thrombi, and fibromuscular hyperplasia. However, these findings do not differentiate GAVE from hyperplastic gastric polyp. The first line of treatment for GAVE is endoscopic ablation with Nd:YAG laser or argon plasma coagulation. Response to therapy was seen with a mean of 2.6 treatment sessions. There is not a lot of evidence supportive of pharmacological treatment of GAVE with estrogen-progesterone, tranexamic acid, and thalidomide. Serial endoscopic band ligation as well as detachable snares in the management of nodular GAVE refractory to argon plasma coagulation has also been tried. Conclusion Oftentimes, there is a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of nodular GAVE as the histopathological appearance could be similar to gastric polyps. The diagnosis of GAVE especially nodular GAVE requires a high level of clinical suspicion. Misdiagnosis of nodular GAVE can delay targeted therapy and have fatal outcomes.
Collapse
|
7
|
Cleac’h AL, Villeneuve JP, Sylvestre MP, Huard G, Giard JM, Ditisheim S. Gastric antral vascular ectasia is more frequent in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-induced cirrhosis. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2019; 2:84-90. [PMID: 35990220 PMCID: PMC9202753 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.2018-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an uncommon cause of occult gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Based on clinical observations, we hypothesized that GAVE was more common in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis. METHODS We performed this retrospective study at Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM). We included all cirrhotic patients who had undergone an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) between 2009 and 2011. GAVE was diagnosed based on a typical endoscopic appearance. NASH cirrhosis was diagnosed in patients with a metabolic syndrome after excluding other causes of liver disease. GAVE was considered symptomatic if it required treatment. RESULTS We included 855 cirrhotic patients in the study. The median age was 58 (range 19-88) years. The etiology of cirrhosis was as follows: NASH in 18% (n = 154), autoimmune diseases in 15.1% (n = 129), hepatitis B virus (HBV) in 6.3% (n = 54), hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 19.4% (n = 166), alcohol in 25.7% (n = 220), alcohol plus HCV in 7.8% (n = 67), cryptogenic in 2.8% (n = 24), and other etiologies in 4.8% (n = 41). GAVE was more frequently observed among patients with NASH cirrhosis than in cirrhosis of other etiologies (29.2% vs. 9.4%, respectively; p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, NASH was strongly associated with GAVE with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.73 (95% CI 2.36 to 5.90, p < 0.001), and the association was stronger with symptomatic GAVE (OR 5.77, 95% CI 2.93 to 11.38). CONCLUSIONS NASH cirrhosis is a major risk factor for GAVE and symptomatic GAVE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aline Le Cleac’h
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Jean-Pierre Villeneuve
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Marie-Pierre Sylvestre
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal & Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Geneviève Huard
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Jeanne-Marie Giard
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Saskia Ditisheim
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Smith E, Davis J, Caldwell S. Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia Pathogenesis and the Link to the Metabolic Syndrome. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2018; 20:36. [PMID: 29961911 DOI: 10.1007/s11894-018-0644-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a well-described source of chronic blood loss. We aim to review the previously hypothesized etiologies of GAVE and focus on recent proposed mechanisms, including metabolic syndrome. We will support these theories with newly discovered clinical associations and possible therapeutic implications. RECENT FINDINGS Historically, GAVE has been associated with connective tissue disease and liver disease. Based on these associations and its histologic appearance, GAVE has presumed to be caused by mechanical- and hormonally mediated injury. Recent findings have been notable for a clinical association with aspects of the metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the pathogenic etiology may be akin to aspects of the metabolic syndrome via microvascular injury and neoangiogenesis. The potential etiologies of GAVE include hypergastrinemia, mechanical injury, and microvascular injury with neovascular proliferation particularly in the metabolic syndrome. Further research is needed to evaluate these proposed mechanisms and potential targets for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Smith
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, JPA and Lee St., PO Box 800708, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0708, USA
| | - Jessica Davis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, JPA and Lee St., PO Box 800708, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0708, USA
| | - Stephen Caldwell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, JPA and Lee St., PO Box 800708, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0708, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shoreibah M, Peter S. Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia and Metabolic Syndrome: Is There a Case for an Association? Am J Med 2017; 130:e511. [PMID: 29073974 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Shoreibah
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Shajan Peter
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Allamneni C, Alkurdi B, Naseemuddin R, McGuire BM, Shoreibah MG, Eckhoff DE, Peter S. Orthotopic liver transplantation changes the course of gastric antral vascular ectasia: a case series from a transplant center. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 29:973-976. [PMID: 28520574 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an important cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia in patients with cirrhosis. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) on GAVE and associated anemia. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a chart review and identified all cirrhotic patients with GAVE who underwent OLT at the University Of Alabama at Birmingham between 2005 and 2013. Population's demographics, etiology of cirrhosis, comorbidities, presentation and treatment modalities of GAVE, endoscopic and histopathologic reports, hemoglobin values before and after transplant, and immunosuppressive regimens were collected. RESULTS Twelve patients were identified, mean age 52.4±4.4 years; seven were men (58.3%); 11 (91.7%) were White; and 6 of 12 patients had biopsy-proven GAVE. The most common etiology of cirrhosis in the cohort was chronic hepatitis C and obesity was the most common chronic condition in 50 and 83.3%, respectively. Anemia resolution was observed in 9/12 (75%) patients who underwent OLT with an increase in hemoglobin from 8.1±2.4 (5.7-13.1) before transplant to 12.0±1.4 (10-15) after transplant (P<0.0001). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy after transplant was performed in all 12 (100%) patients. The mean time between transplant and post-OLT esophagogastroduodenoscopy was 13.8±18.28 (2-57) months; complete resolution of GAVE was observed in 10 (83.3%) patients, with resolving GAVE in one (8.3%) patient. CONCLUSION GAVE is an important cause of anemia and upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. Our findings show that liver transplantation can resolve GAVE and related anemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaitanya Allamneni
- aDepartment of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology bDepartment of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery cDepartment of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Smith E, Tekola B, Patrie J, Cornella S, Caldwell S. Clinical Characterization of Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia: A Potential Manifestation of the Metabolic Syndrome. Am J Med 2016; 129:1329.e19-1329.e23. [PMID: 27476085 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Gastric antral vascular ectasia is a relatively common endoscopic finding. Past studies have shown an association of gastric antral vascular ectasia with cirrhosis and autoimmune disorders. We aimed to re-examine these associations and to investigate a possible association of gastric antral vascular ectasia with features of the metabolic syndrome. METHODS There were 135 patients with a diagnosis of gastric antral vascular ectasia from years 1995-2013 seen at the University of Virginia who were identified from a clinical data repository and age and sex matched to a cohort of patients without gastric antral vascular ectasia undergoing endoscopy within the same time frame as the index cases. The groups were compared for comorbidities including autoimmune disease, cirrhosis, vascular disease, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, and cirrhosis due to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. RESULTS Sixty-four percent of gastric antral vascular ectasia patients were cirrhotic, compared with 14% of controls (P <.001). Vascular disease was more common in the gastric antral vascular ectasia cohort (57% vs 36%; P <.001). The mean BMI was also higher in the gastric antral vascular ectasia cohort (33.7 kg/m2 vs 28.8 kg/m2; P <.001). Diabetes mellitus and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis were more frequently observed in gastric antral vascular ectasia subjects (64% vs 29% in controls [P <.001] and 28% vs 2% [P <.001], respectively). There was not an increased prevalence of autoimmune disease in gastric antral vascular ectasia patients vs controls (15% vs 13%; P = .861). CONCLUSION These results confirm the association of gastric antral vascular ectasia with underlying cirrhosis and revealed a significant correlation of gastric antral vascular ectasia with features of metabolic syndrome such as diabetes, BMI, vascular disease, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis. The pathophysiology of gastric antral vascular ectasia remains uncertain, but we speculate that it may be a manifestation of the metabolic syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Smith
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Bezawit Tekola
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - James Patrie
- Division of Public Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Scott Cornella
- Division of Internal Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Stephen Caldwell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) are two types of upper gastrointestinal bleeding that may present similarly, but are managed very differently. This article reviews the pathogenesis and guidelines in management of both of these conditions with emphasis on recent advances in the field. RECENT FINDINGS Off-label use of Hemospray has been shown in several case series to be useful in managing acute bleeding from PHG. Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration presents an alternative approach for this condition. Radiofrequency ablation may be an alternative therapy to argon plasma coagulation in the endoscopic treatment of GAVE, as it consists of fewer sessions and has been shown to decrease gastrointestinal blood loss. SUMMARY The treatment options for PHG and GAVE are constantly evolving and expanding. In this review, we present the latest approaches in the gastroenterologist's arsenal to deal with these conditions.
Collapse
|
13
|
Garg H, Gupta S, Anand AC, Broor SL. Portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia. Indian J Gastroenterol 2015; 34:351-8. [PMID: 26564121 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-015-0605-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) are gastric mucosal lesions that mostly present as chronic anemia and rarely cause the acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Despite similar clinical manifestations, their pathophysiology and management are entirely different. PHG is seen exclusively in patients with portal hypertension, but GAVE can also be observed in patients with other conditions. Their diagnosis is endoscopic, and although generally each of them has a characteristic endoscopic appearance and distribution, there are cases in which the differential is difficult and must rely on histology. This review focuses on the management of both entities. The mainstay of management of PHG is based on portal-hypotensive pharmacological treatment while GAVE benefits from hormonal therapy, endoscopic Nd:YAG laser, and argon plasma coagulation. More invasive options should be reserved for refractory cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitendra Garg
- Center for Liver and Biliary Disease, Indra Prastha Apollo Hospital, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, 110 076, India.
| | - Subhash Gupta
- Center for Liver and Biliary Disease, Indra Prastha Apollo Hospital, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, 110 076, India
| | - A C Anand
- Center for Liver and Biliary Disease, Indra Prastha Apollo Hospital, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, 110 076, India
| | - S L Broor
- Center for Liver and Biliary Disease, Indra Prastha Apollo Hospital, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, 110 076, India.,Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indra Prastha Apollo Hospital, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, 110 076, India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Parikh K, Ali MA, Wong RCK. Unusual Causes of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am 2015; 25:583-605. [PMID: 26142040 DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is an important clinical condition managed routinely by endoscopists. Diagnostic and therapeutic options vary immensely based on the source of bleeding and it is important for the gastroenterologist to be cognizant of both common and uncommon etiologies. The focus of this article is to highlight and discuss unusual sources of upper GI bleeding, with a particular emphasis on both the clinical and endoscopic features to help diagnose and treat these atypical causes of bleeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyur Parikh
- Digestive Health Institute, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-5066, USA
| | - Meer Akbar Ali
- Digestive Health Institute, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-5066, USA
| | - Richard C K Wong
- Digestive Health Institute, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-5066, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lesiones vasculares gástricas en la cirrosis: gastropatía y ectasia vascular antral. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2015; 38:97-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 10/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
16
|
Approach to the management of portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2014; 43:835-47. [PMID: 25440929 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) and portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) are important causes of chronic gastrointestinal bleeding. These gastric mucosal lesions are mostly diagnosed on upper endoscopy and can be distinguished based on their appearance or location in the stomach. In some situations, especially in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, a diffuse pattern and involvement of gastric mucosa are seen with both GAVE and severe PHG. The diagnosis in such cases is hard to determine on visual inspection, and thus, biopsy and histologic evaluation can be used to help differentiate GAVE from PHG.
Collapse
|
17
|
Patwardhan VR, Cardenas A. Review article: the management of portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia in cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 40:354-62. [PMID: 24889902 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) are important causes of both acute and chronic gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with cirrhosis. AIM To review the current management of PHG and GAVE. METHODS PubMed was searched for English language articles using the key words 'GAVE', 'gastric antral vascular ectasia', 'cirrhosis', 'gastrointestinal bleeding', 'acute', 'chronic', 'portal hypertensive gastropathy', 'watermelon stomach', 'radiofrequency ablation', 'band ligation', 'thermoablation' and 'TIPSS'. RESULTS GAVE and PHG are both encountered in patients with cirrhosis. They can be seen in asymptomatic patients and in those with either acute or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding. PHG, by definition, requires the presence of portal hypertension, with or without cirrhosis, whereas GAVE requires neither cirrhosis nor portal hypertension. They can often be diagnosed on endoscopic appearance alone, but may require biopsy in certain cases. The treatment of PHG is aimed at reducing hepatic venous pressure gradients, most often by pharmacologic means, but may require shunt procedures in severe cases. Management of GAVE on the other hand is predominantly endoscopic, focusing on various ablative techniques. CONCLUSIONS Gastric antral vascular ectasia and portal hypertensive gastropathy are distinct entities and are both encountered in cirrhotic patients. Management of portal hypertensive gastropathy is centred on reduction in portal pressures, whereas treatment of gastric antral vascular ectasia is predominantly endoscopic.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and colopathy (PHC) are considered complications of portal hypertension. Both entities are clinically relevant because they may cause insidious blood loss or even acute massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Endoscopic evaluation is necessary for the diagnosis of PHG and PHC. The existence of different endoscopic criteria for PHG and PHC makes consensus difficult and results in a broad range of reported prevalence. Therapy targeted at reduction of portal pressure and mucosal blood flow has been used to treat acute bleeding; nonselective β-blockers are the most frequently used agents. Further studies are needed to clarify the natural history, pathogenesis, and treatment of PHG and PHC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie H. Urrunaga
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22 S. Greene Street, N3W156, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Don C. Rockey
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Suite 803, Charleston, SC 29425, USA,Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) and its nodular antral gastropathy (NAG) variant is a unique lesion associated with hypergastrinemic hormonal alterations that may be compounded by concurrent proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. The use of octreotide as a somatostatin analogue and its role in the down regulation of variousenteric hormones has been well documented however its use in the management of NAG has not been widely reported. We herein present a case where octreotide induced gastrin down-regulation as well as PPI cessation facilitated NAG resolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Brijbassie
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Virginia, USA
| | - Abdullah Al Osaimi
- Digestive Center of Excellence, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Steven M Powell
- Digestive Center of Excellence, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fuccio L, Mussetto A, Laterza L, Eusebi LH, Bazzoli F. Diagnosis and management of gastric antral vascular ectasia. World J Gastrointest Endosc 2013; 5:6-13. [PMID: 23330048 PMCID: PMC3547119 DOI: 10.4253/wjge.v5.i1.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2012] [Revised: 09/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/01/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an uncommon but often severe cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, responsible of about 4% of non-variceal upper GI haemorrhage. The diagnosis is mainly based on endoscopic pattern and, for uncertain cases, on histology. GAVE is characterized by a pathognomonic endoscopic pattern, mainly represented by red spots either organized in stripes radially departing from pylorus, defined as watermelon stomach, or arranged in a diffused-way, the so called honeycomb stomach. The histological pattern, although not pathognomonic, is characterized by four alterations: vascular ectasia of mucosal capillaries, focal thrombosis, spindle cell proliferation and fibrohyalinosis, which consist of homogeneous substance around the ectatic capillaries of the lamina propria. The main differential diagnosis is with Portal Hypertensive Gastropathy, that can frequently co-exists, since about 30% of patients with GAVE co-present a liver cirrhosis. Autoimmune disorders, mainly represented by Reynaud’s phenomenon and sclerodactyly, are co-present in about 60% of patients with GAVE; other autoimmune and connective tissue disorders are occasionally reported such as Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, primary biliary cirrhosis and systemic sclerosis. In the remaining cases, GAVE syndrome has been described in patients with chronic renal failure, bone marrow transplantation and cardiac diseases. The pathogenesis of GAVE is still obscure and many hypotheses have been proposed such as mechanical stress, humoural and autoimmune factors and hemodynamic alterations. In the last two decades, many therapeutic options have been proposed including surgical, endoscopic and medical choices. Medical therapy has not clearly shown satisfactory results and surgery should only be considered for refractory severe cases, since this approach has significant mortality and morbidity risks, especially in the setting of portal hypertension and liver cirrhosis. Endoscopic therapy, particularly treatment with Argon Plasma Coagulation, has shown to be as effective and also safer than surgery, and should be considered the first-line treatment for patients with GAVE-related bleeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Fuccio
- Lorenzo Fuccio, Liboria Laterza, Leonardo Henry Eusebi, Franco Bazzoli, Department of Clinical Medicine, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis: a review. Dig Dis Sci 2012; 57:2743-54. [PMID: 22661272 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2229-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-variceal gastrointestinal (NVGI) bleeding in cirrhosis may be associated with life-threatening complications similar to variceal bleeding. AIM To review NVGI bleeding in cirrhosis. METHODS MEDLINE, Scopus, and ISI Web of Knowledge were searched, using the textwords "portal hypertensive gastropathy," "gastric vascular ectasia," "peptic ulcer," "Dieulafoy's," "Mallory-Weiss syndrome," "portal hypertensive enteropathy," "portal hypertensive colopathy," "hemorrhoids," and "cirrhosis." RESULTS Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and gastric vascular ectasia (GVE) are gastric lesions that most commonly present as chronic anemia; acute upper GI (UGI) bleeding is a rare manifestation. Management of PHG-related bleeding is mainly pharmacological, whereas endoscopic intervention is favored in GVE-related bleeding. Shunt therapies or more invasive techniques are restricted in refractory cases. Despite its high incidence in cirrhotic patients, peptic ulcer accounts for a relatively small proportion of UGI bleeding in this patient population. However, in contrary to general population, the pathogenetic role of Helicobacter pylori infection remains questionable. Finally, other causes of UGI bleeding include Dieulafoy's lesion, Mallory-Weiss syndrome, and portal hypertensive enteropathy. The most common non-variceal endoscopic findings reported in patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding are portal hypertensive colopathy and hemorrhoids. However, the vast majority of studies are case reports and, therefore, the incidence, diagnosis, and risk of bleeding remain undefined. Endoscopic interventions, shunting procedures, and surgical techniques have been described in this setting. CONCLUSIONS The data on NVGI bleeding in liver cirrhosis are surprisingly scanty. Large, multicenter epidemiological studies are needed to better assess prevalence and incidence and, most importantly, randomized studies should be performed to evaluate the success rates of therapeutic algorithms.
Collapse
|
22
|
The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of portal hypertension: current status. Int J Hepatol 2012; 2012:167868. [PMID: 22888442 PMCID: PMC3408669 DOI: 10.1155/2012/167868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) represents a major advance in the treatment of complications of portal hypertension. Technical improvements and increased experience over the past 24 years led to improved clinical results and a better definition of the indications for TIPS. Randomized clinical trials indicate that the TIPS procedure is not a first-line therapy for variceal bleeding, but can be used when medical treatment fails, both in the acute situation or to prevent variceal rebleeding. The role of TIPS to treat refractory ascites is probably more justified to improve the quality of life rather than to improve survival, except for patients with preserved liver function. It can be helpful for hepatic hydrothorax and can reverse hepatorenal syndrome in selected cases. It is a good treatment for Budd Chiari syndrome uncontrollable by medical treatment. Careful selection of patients is mandatory before TIPS, and clinical followup is essential to detect and treat complications that may result from TIPS stenosis (which can be prevented by using covered stents) and chronic encephalopathy (which may in severe cases justify reduction or occlusion of the shunt). A multidisciplinary approach, including the resources for liver transplantation, is always required to treat these patients.
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Cirrhosis is the leading cause of portal hypertension worldwide, with the development of bleeding gastroesophageal varices being one of the most life-threatening consequences. Endoscopy plays an indispensible role in the diagnosis, staging, and prophylactic or active management of varices. With the expected future refinements in endoscopic technology, capsule endoscopy may one day replace traditional gastroscopy as a diagnostic modality, whereas endoscopic ultrasound may more precisely guide interventional therapy for gastric varices.
Collapse
|
24
|
Ripoll C, Garcia-Tsao G. The management of portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia. Dig Liver Dis 2011; 43:345-51. [PMID: 21095166 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2010.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia are gastric mucosal lesions that can cause chronic gastrointestinal haemorrhage and, consequently, chronic anaemia, in patients with cirrhosis. Although chronic anaemia is the most common clinical manifestation, these entities may also lead to acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite similar clinical manifestations, their pathophysiology and management are entirely different. Their diagnosis is endoscopic and although generally each of them has a characteristic endoscopic appearance and distribution, there are cases in which the differential is difficult and must rely on histology. This review focuses on the management of both entities. The mainstay of management of portal hypertensive gastropathy is based on portal-hypotensive pharmacological treatment whilst gastric antral vascular ectasia benefits from endoscopic therapy. More invasive options should be reserved for refractory cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ripoll
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ripoll C, Garcia-Tsao G. Management of gastropathy and gastric vascular ectasia in portal hypertension. Clin Liver Dis 2010; 14:281-95. [PMID: 20682235 PMCID: PMC2916868 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2010.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Portal hypertensive gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia may cause gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension. Whereas the former presents exclusively in patients with portal hypertension, gastric antral vascular ectasia can also be observed in patients with other conditions. Diagnosis is established with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, although some cases may require a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. The most frequent manifestation is ferropenic anemia, which may become transfusion dependent. Treatment in portal hypertensive gastropathy is focused on portal pressure reducing drugs, mainly nonselective beta-blockers, whereas in gastric antral vascular ectasia treatment is based on endoscopic ablation. More invasive options can be used if first-line therapies fail, although these should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Corresponding author: Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao, M.D., Digestive Diseases Section, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street – 1080 LMP, New Haven, CT 06510, , Tph: 203 737 6063, Fax: 203 785-7273
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wells CD, Harrison ME, Gurudu SR, Crowell MD, Byrne TJ, Depetris G, Sharma VK. Treatment of gastric antral vascular ectasia (watermelon stomach) with endoscopic band ligation. Gastrointest Endosc 2008; 68:231-6. [PMID: 18533150 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2008.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2007] [Accepted: 02/04/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is characterized by mucosal and submucosal vascular ectasia causing recurrent GI hemorrhage. Treatment of GAVE with endoscopic thermal therapy (ETT) requires multiple sessions for destruction of vascular ectasia and control of bleeding. Endoscopic band ligation (EBL) has become the standard treatment of varices because it effectively obliterates the submucosal plexus of esophageal varices with an acceptably low rate of complications. Additionally, EBL has been used for control of bleeding from other GI vascular lesions. In patients with GAVE and recurrent GI hemorrhage, EBL may offer an alternative to ETT for treatment of large areas of diseased mucosa and submucosa. OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to compare EBL (n = 9) with ETT (n = 13) for the treatment of bleeding from GAVE. DESIGN Observational comparative study. PATIENTS Patients with gastric antral vascular ectasia with occult or overt bleeding. SETTING Mayo Clinic Arizona, a multispecialty academic medical center. INTERVENTION EBL or ETT with argon plasma coagulation or electrocautery. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASUREMENTS Number of treatments to cessation of bleeding and posttreatment hemoglobin, hospitalization, and transfusion requirement. RESULTS There were no significant differences in the demographics, clinical presentation, associated portal hypertension, or mean hemoglobin values or the mean number of transfusions or hospitalizations between the 2 groups before treatment. Four patients in the EBL group had failed prior ETT. Compared with ETT, in exploratory statistical testing EBL had a significantly higher rate of bleeding cessation (67% vs 23%, P = .04), fewer treatment sessions required for cessation of bleeding (1.9 vs 4.7, P = .05), a greater increase in hemoglobin values (2.8 g/dL vs 0.9 g/dL, P = .05), a greater decrease in transfusion requirements (-12.7 vs -5.2, P = .02), and a greater decrease in hospital admissions (-2.6 vs -0.5, P = .02) during the follow-up period. Analysis of covariance showed significantly superior efficacy of EBL for cessation of bleeding, postprocedure transfusion, and hospitalization. One patient in the EBL group had postprocedure emesis and 1 in the ETT group had immediate post procedure bleeding. All patients in the EBL group had complete mucosal healing with minimal residual GAVE at follow-up endoscopy failed post-EBL. CONCLUSIONS Our initial experience suggests that EBL is superior to ETT for the management of GAVE. EBL required fewer treatment sessions for control of bleeding, had higher rates for cessation of bleeding, had a reduction in hospitalizations and transfusion requirements, and allowed for a significant increase in hemoglobin values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Wells
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sharma S, Gurakar A, Jabbour N. Avoiding pitfalls: what an endoscopist should know in liver transplantation--part 1. Dig Dis Sci 2008; 53:1757-73. [PMID: 17990105 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-007-0079-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2007] [Accepted: 10/14/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is associated with global homodynamic changes, but the majority of the complications are usually manifested through the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy has become an important tool in the multidisciplinary approach in the management of these patients. With the ever growing number of cirrhotic patients requiring pre-transplant endoscopic management, it is imperative that the community endoscopists are well aware of the pathologies that can be potentially noted on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Their timely management is also considered to have the utmost importance in being able to stabilize the patient until their transfer to a Liver Transplant Center. The aim of this manuscript is to give a comprehensive update and review of various endoscopic findings that a non-transplant endoscopist will encounter in the pre-transplant setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharad Sharma
- Baptist Medical Center, Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute, 3300 North West Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73112, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Treatment of gastropathy and gastric antral vascular ectasia in patients with portal hypertension. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 10:483-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s11938-007-0048-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
29
|
Polese L, Angriman I, Pagano D, Tenderini ML, Polese F, Frego M, D'Amico DF, Norberto L. Laser therapy and surgical treatment in transfusion-dependent patients with upper-gastrointestinal vascular ectasia. Lasers Med Sci 2006; 21:140-6. [PMID: 16897110 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-006-0389-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2006] [Revised: 05/09/2006] [Accepted: 06/09/2006] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We report the results of endoscopic laser therapy on 59 patients with upper gastrointestinal vascular ectasia. After 300 sessions, complications were two nonbleeding and three bleeding ulcers, treated successfully with endoscopic therapy. After treatment, blood transfusions were abolished in 61% and reduced in 22% of the patients, whereas 17% of the patients were nonresponders and 5% died for bleeding. Treatment outcome correlated with endoscopic healing, number of yearly transfusions, and lesions' localization. Patients, who did not respond to laser therapy by the sixth session, showed no improvement afterwards. Four patients with persistence of bleeding despite laser therapy underwent surgery and in three of them, a long-term control of bleeding was obtained. In conclusion, laser therapy was safe and effective; nonetheless, surgical treatment should be considered, after adequate staging, for those patients receiving more than 10 blood units per year or who have undergone more than six laser sessions without improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lino Polese
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, First Surgical Clinic, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Watermelon stomach (WMS), or gastric antral vascular ectasia, is an uncommon but clinically important cause of chronic occult or overt gastrointestinal (GI) blood loss. Patients typically present with symptomatic anemia and hemoccult positive stools. Although the diagnosis is based primarily on the typical endoscopic appearance, the lesion may be overlooked on initial evaluation or interpreted as "gastritis." Gastric biopsy may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis by showing vascular ectasia, typically without inflammation. WMS is idiopathic but is often associated with autoimmune diseases or cirrhosis of the liver. The majority of patients with classic WMS are elderly and female. In contrast, there is no gender predominance with the diffuse pattern associated with cirrhosis. General supportive care includes transfusion of blood products as necessary to control symptomatic anemia and coagulopathy, iron replacement therapy by oral or parenteral routes, identification and treatment of iatrogenic (eg, warfarin) or hereditary (eg, von Willebrand's disease) coagulopathy, and avoidance of substances that might cause gastric mucosal damage and/or bleeding (eg, aspirin, NSAIDs, alcohol). The goals of therapy are to eliminate or decrease the need for blood transfusions, hospitalization, office visits, and endoscopic therapy sessions aimed at cessation of GI blood loss and resolution of symptomatic anemia. Multipolar electrocoagulation is our preferred technique for endoscopic ablation of WMS. A 10-Fr probe (3.2 mm in diameter) is used at a generator setting of 12 to 16 W. Pulse duration can be as short as 1 to 2 seconds if a pinpoint coagulation technique is used, or continuous if a paint-stroke technique is used to coagulate all vascular stripes in the classic WMS pattern or as many small lesions as possible in the diffuse type. Other techniques we currently use are argon plasma coagulation (APC) or heater probe. In the past, lasers (neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet , KTP, or argon) were successfully used for such treatments. An initial treatment interval of 4 to 8 weeks should allow for interim healing of iatrogenic ulcers. Patients are routinely given standard doses of available proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to facilitate healing of iatrogenic ulcers and to prevent secondary bleeding. The treatment interval can be gradually lengthened as the long-term goals of obliteration of angiomata and resolution of anemia are reached. Side effects may include iatrogenic ulceration at the site of treatment, bleeding, and transient abdominal pain. Antral scarring (after APC or Nd:YAG laser) and hyperplastic polyps have also been reported after endoscopic treatment of classic WMS. Surgical antrectomy is very effective in the prevention of bleeding but has substantial (5% to 10%) mortality in older patients with comorbidity and is now reserved for endoscopic failures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth S Dulai
- Center for Outcomes Research and Education, CURE DDRC, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Bellflower, CA 90706, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Dunne KA, Hill J, Dillon JF. Treatment of chronic transfusion-dependent gastric antral vascular ectasia (watermelon stomach) with thalidomide. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006; 18:455-6. [PMID: 16538122 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200604000-00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a rare condition causing chronic GI blood loss that often proves difficult to treat. Many patients require repeated transfusions despite best efforts made with endoscopic and pharmacological therapies. We attempted to manage a patient with endoscopic resistant GAVE with Thalidomide. Within 3 months the patient became transfusion independent and has maintained an adequate haemoglobin for 9 months on the Thalidomide therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A Dunne
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ward EM, Raimondo M, Rosser BG, Wallace MB, Dickson RD. Prevalence and natural history of gastric antral vascular ectasia in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation. J Clin Gastroenterol 2004; 38:898-900. [PMID: 15492609 DOI: 10.1097/00004836-200411000-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
GOALS To describe the prevalence and natural history of gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) in patients with end-stage liver disease undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). BACKGROUND GAVE is a well-recognized cause of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Although 30% of patients with GAVE have liver disease, the prevalence of GAVE in patients with cirrhosis is not known. STUDY We reviewed clinical records of patients who underwent OLT at our institution from February 1, 1998 to June 2003. Demographic and clinical details were recorded with attention to findings during upper endoscopy before and after OLT. RESULTS A total of 597 patients underwent OLT, and 345 were evaluated preoperatively with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Eight (2.3%) were found to have GAVE before OLT. Three of these eight underwent EGD after OLT, and GAVE was absent in all three. None of the patients with GAVE experienced gastrointestinal bleeding postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS GAVE was present in nearly 1 in 40 patients with end-stage liver disease who underwent EGD before OLT at our institution and appears to resolve after transplant. These findings are consistent with a previous report documenting resolution of GAVE after OLT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Ward
- Divisions of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Transplant Surgery Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ohashi K, Sanaka M, Tu Y, Egawa N, Ohashi K, Funata N, Okuyama Y, Hiruma K, Tanaka Y, Mori S, Akiyama H, Sakamaki H. Clinical features and treatment of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation-associated gastric antral vascular ectasia. Bone Marrow Transplant 2003; 32:417-21. [PMID: 12900779 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1704137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) may occur after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and cause severe and prolonged gastric bleeding. The underlying pathology of transplant-associated GAVE (HSCT-GAVE) is poorly understood and an effective therapeutic strategy has not been established yet. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 230 consecutive allogeneic transplant recipients in our institution between January 1997 and June 2002. We identified five patients who developed HSCT-GAVE (2.2%). Four patients had bleeding from HSCT-GAVE and one patient had HSCT-GAVE discovered incidentally. The clinical features of these patients were similar in that they all received conditioning treatment with busulfan and had history of thrombotic microangiopathy. Furthermore, treatment with a beta-blocker apparently improved the outcome of HSCT-GAVE in three patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Ohashi
- 1Hematology Division, Tokyo Metropolitan Komagome Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Sebastian S, O'Morain CA, Buckley MJM. Review article: current therapeutic options for gastric antral vascular ectasia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 18:157-65. [PMID: 12869075 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2003.01617.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia, or 'watermelon stomach', is a rare but important cause of gastrointestinal blood loss and anaemia, which has characteristic endoscopic and histological features. The pathogenesis of this condition remains unclear; however, many associated disorders have been documented. Various medical, surgical and endoscopic therapeutic modalities have been attempted with variable success. Leading contenders for the therapeutic modality of choice include hormonal therapy, endoscopic Nd:YAG laser and argon plasma coagulation. Randomized controlled trials to identify the ideal treatment method are lacking at present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Sebastian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|