Regression of fundic gland polyps following acquisition of Helicobacter pylori

Proton Pump Inhibitor Associated Multiple Gastric Hyperplastic Polyps With Uncontrollable Bleeding: A Case Report

BACKGROUND/AIM

The long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been reported to be strongly associated with the development of fundic gland polyps (FGPs). Conversely, a few cases of gastric hyperplastic polyps (GHPs) associated with PPI use have been reported. We experienced a case of PPI-associated multiple GHPs with uncontrollable bleeding.

CASE REPORT

A 64 year old man with a history of rheumatoid arthritis presented to the hospital with complaints of vertigo and black stools. Blood tests revealed anemia and hypoproteinemia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed blood and black residue accumulated in the stomach. The source of the bleeding was multiple hyperplastic polyps. Bleeding could be stopped even with fasting, and total blood transfusions amounted to 28 units of RBCs were required in 18 days. After the cessation of PPI, EGD showed that the polyps had almost disappeared. Pathological diagnosis of resected polyp was hyperplastic polyp, which was characterized by capillary hyperplasia and edema. Gastrin receptors were over-expressed in the foveolar epithelium and not in the capillaries. Methotrexate (MTX)-induced portal hypertensive gastroenteropathy was revealed during follow-up. We consider that the effect of portal hypertension may have caused the capillary hyperplasia.

CONCLUSION

Although PPI-related polyps are usually fundic gland polyps and do not cause life-threatening adverse events, we experienced PPI-related GHPs in which hemostasis was difficult to control.

Gastric fundic gland polyposis and cancer development after eradication of Helicobacter pylori in patient with gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS)

A 44-year-old woman with gastric cancer (GC) and fundic gland polyposis (FGPs) was referred to our hospital for further diagnosis and treatment. She successfully underwent eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori (HP) 6 years ago, but did not exhibit FGPs at that time. When she underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy 2, 4, and 5 years after the eradication of HP, her imaging results revealed the existence of FGPs which gradually increased in her gastric fundus and body. Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) was suspected and a mutational analysis was performed, revealing an APC promoter 1B variant c.-191T > C. A robotic total gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy was performed. Histopathological analysis of the surgical specimens revealed GC with no lymph node metastasis. GAPPS is characterized by GC and FGPs. However, our case shows different gastric phenotypes that are dependent on the status of HP infection.

Forty years of Helicobacter pylori infection and changes in findings at esophagogastroduodenoscopy

BACKGROUND

It is 40 years since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori infection. Over that time major changes have occurred in esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) findings. The aim of this review is to describe these changes, and the important role H. pylori infection has played in their evolution.

METHODS

References were identified through searches of PubMed using the search terms-endoscopy time trends, peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, upper gastrointestinal cancer, gastric polyps, H. pylori, eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, and celiac disease, from 1970 through December 2021.

RESULTS

The prevalence of H. pylori infection has fallen and consequently, H. pylori-positive peptic ulcer disease has become rare. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is now the commonest disorder diagnosed at EGD, and Barrett's esophagus has increased in parallel. Cancer of the distal stomach has fallen while esophageal adenocarcinoma and reflux-related cardia cancer have risen. Gastric polyps have changed from hyperplastic and adenomas to sporadic fundic gland polyps. Antimicrobial resistance has made H. pylori infection more difficult to eradicate. Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, particularly eosinophilic esophagitis, have emerged as important new allergic disorders. Celiac disease has changed and increased.

CONCLUSIONS

EGD findings appear to have changed from features suggesting a H. pylori-positive "phenotype" 40 years ago to a H. pylori-negative "phenotype" today. These changes have major implications for the management of gastrointestinal disorders.

Early Prophylactic Gastrectomy for the Management of Gastric Adenomatous Proximal Polyposis Syndrome (GAPPS)

Background

Gastric adenomatous proximal polyposis syndrome (GAPPS) is a recently described, rare, autosomal dominant condition characterized by the extensive involvement of the proximal stomach with hundreds of heterogeneous fundic gland polyps with antral and duodenal sparing. GAPPS is caused by a point mutation of the APC gene promoter 1B and is associated with a risk of malignant transformation, distant metastasis, and death. There are no surveillance, screening, or treatment guidelines for managing GAPPS. The few reported cases have been variably managed with endoscopic surveillance or prophylactic gastrectomy. However, there is no consensus on the optimal management approach.

Summary

In this case series, we review the relevant literature on GAPPS and present two siblings who underwent early prophylactic total gastrectomies with good outcomes.

Conclusion

Due to the poor correlation between the endoscopic findings on sampled polyps and the risk of harboring invasive gastric cancer, patients with GAPPS should be strongly considered for early prophylactic total gastrectomies in the absence of prohibitive comorbidities.

Long term outcomes of sporadic large fundic gland polyps: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Sporadic fundic gland polyps (FGP) are the most common type of gastric polyp, reported in 0.8%-1.9% of patients undergoing Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Data on long-term outcomes of large FGP is limited. We aim to study the natural history of sporadic large (≥ 10 mm) FGPs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All adults who underwent EGD for any indication from April 2014 to December 2019 at a tertiary care center were retrospectively assessed, and patients with FGP (≥10mm) were identified. Data on baseline characteristics and long-term outcomes were recorded. Follow-up data were recorded for patients who underwent repeat endoscopy to evaluate for rates of dysplasia and cancer.

RESULTS

A total of 4,000 patients with a diagnosis of FGP were screened and 132 large, biopsy-proven FGPs were included in the final analysis. The most common indication for EGD was gastroesophageal reflux disease (61%). During a follow-up period of 3.2 years, the rate of dysplasia, was 4.0%. Subgroup analysis based on size (10-19 mm and ≥ 20 mm) showed no significant difference in overall outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Repeat EGDs for surveillance should not be routinely performed since large (≥10 mm) sporadic FGPs are mostly benign without significant malignant potential.

Occurrence of a Duodenal Polypoid Lesion During Long-Term Acid Suppression Therapy and Its Regression After Drug Discontinuation

Formation of multiple fundic gland polyps or hyperplastic polyps in the gastric mucosa is one of the well-known adverse effects of the long-term acid suppression therapy for peptic ulcer disease. However, similar phenomenon has not been reported to occur in the duodenum. We report a case of duodenal polypoid lesion that developed after the long-term use of acid suppressants and disappeared after the cessation of the treatment. The patient was a 76-year-old man with a history of heavy cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol intake who had been treated with medication of gastric acid suppressants, including proton pump inhibitors and potassium-competitive acid blockers, for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease. After receiving the acid suppression therapy for 3 years, a polypoid lesion of 10 mm in diameter was found at the portion of the duodenal bulb. This polypoid lesion disappeared 1.5 months after the cessation of treatment. We hypothesized that changes in serum gastrin levels caused by acid suppression therapy might have been associated with the development and regression of the duodenal polypoid lesion.

Gastritis, Gastric Polyps and Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer is still an important disease causing many deaths worldwide, although there has been a marked reduction in prevalence during the last few decades. The decline in gastric cancer prevalence is due to a reduction in Helicobacter pylori infection which has occurred for at least 50 years. The most probable mechanism for the carcinogenic effect of H. pylori is hypergastrinemia since H. pylori infected individuals do not have increased risk of gastric cancer before the development of oxyntic atrophy. When atrophy has developed, the carcinogenic process continues independent of H. pylori. Autoimmune gastritis also induces oxyntic atrophy leading to marked hypergastrinemia and development of ECL cell neoplasia as well as adenocarcinoma. Similarly, long-term treatment with efficient inhibitors of acid secretion like the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) predisposes to ECL cell neoplasia of a different degree of malignancy. Contrasting the colon where most cancers develop from polyps, most polyps in the stomach have a low malignant potential. Nevertheless, gastric polyps may also give rise to cancer and have some risk factors and mechanisms in common with gastric cancer. In this overview the most common gastric polyps, i.e., hyperplastic polyps, adenomatous polyps and fundic gland polyps will be discussed with respect to etiology and particularly use of PPIs and relation to gastric carcinogenesis.

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) - A Helicobacter-opposite point

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) is a rare familial gastric cancer syndrome with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. It is characterised by fundic gland polyposis of the gastric body and is associated with a significant risk of gastric adenocarcinoma. Unlike sporadic gastric cancer, Helicobacter pylori is usually absent in patients with GAPPS. This opposite-point finding has so far not been fully clarified. Prophylactic total gastrectomy is indicated in all cases of GAPPS with fundic gland polyposis and the presence of any dysplasia. If no dysplasia is found at histology, prophylactic gastrectomy is suggested at between 30 and 35 years of age, or at five years earlier than the age at which the youngest family member developed gastric cancer. Different phenotypes of GAPPS demand an individual approach to particular family members.

Different phenotypes of gastric fundic gland polyposis and cancer in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis depending on Helicobacter pylori infection

A 37-year-old male with tarry stool presented to our hospital. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed advanced gastric cancer, fundic gland polyposis (FGPsis), and negativity for Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. Computed tomography exhibited multiple liver tumors. Total colonoscopy (TCS) demonstrated 139 tubular adenomas. He was diagnosed as having unresectable gastric cancer and received systemic chemotherapy. His sister and mother had colorectal adenomatous polyposis as revealed by TCS. His sister had FGPsis and was negative for HP infection, whereas his mother had early gastric cancer with HP infection but not FGPsis. Genetic analysis revealed a novel mutation in exon 15 of the APC gene (NM_000038.5: c.7647_7648_delTG) for the patient, his mother, and his sister, whereas no mutation was found for his father who had no gastrointestinal polyps. Therefore, the pedigree was diagnosed as an FAP family with a novel APC germline mutation which had different gastric phenotypes depending on the status of HP infection.

Case-control analysis of fundic gland polyps and proton-pump inhibitors. A pathologist's perspective

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Adequately preserved slides and tissue blocks in pathology archives, when re-reviewed and associated with patient charts, are important tools to further assess prevalence changes and associations of certain pathologies. Our aim was to identify whether proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use, dose, and duration of use were associated with gastric polyps and their phenotypes in a case-control study.

METHODS

The slides from patients with a morphologic diagnosis of either hyperplastic polyps or fundic gland polyps were retrieved from the 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2016 surgical pathology files at a tertiary care hospital in Mexico City and re-evaluated. Cases were paired by age and sex with patients that underwent endoscopy and gastric mucosa biopsy in the same year, with no evidence of polyps.

RESULTS

A total of 133 (3.8%) patients with gastric polyps were identified from 3,499 gastric biopsies taken in the abovementioned years and compared with 133 paired controls. Dyspepsia was more prevalent in the controls (p=0.002) and abdominal pain was more prevalent in the patients with gastric polyps (p=0.001). PPI use (OR 7.7, 95% confidence interval, 4.4-13.3) and taking more than one PPI medication (OR 4.9, 95% confidence interval, 1.09-22.3) were significantly associated with the presence of gastric polyps. The fundic gland phenotype in the oxyntic mucosa was more frequently associated with PPI use (p<0.042), with a continuous increase in its prevalence starting in the year 2000 (p=0.017 for trend).

CONCLUSION

PPI administration for at least one year was associated with gastric fundic gland polyps.

GASTRIC FUNDIC GLAND POLYPS: CAN HISTOLOGY BE USEFUL TO PREDICT PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS USE?

BACKGROUND

Fundic gland polyps allegedly increased in frequency in recent decades, and had attracted great attention due to possible association with prolonged proton pump inhibitor therapy. Prolonged use of this drug could cause parietal cell hyperplasia, obstruction of glandular lumen and cystic dilation of the gland.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyze clinical and pathological features of fundic gland polyps in patients with and without proton pump inhibitor therapy in a selected population from Brazil.

METHODS

It was selected a sample of 101 Brazilian patients (78 females and 23 males), from a five years retrospective search of the files from a private pathology laboratory. The patients had an average age of 57 years and we included patients with a histological diagnosis of fundic gland polyp. The clinical data were obtained from their files and all histological slides were reviewed and examined with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Giemsa.

RESULTS

Information about the use or non-use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) was obtained in 84 patient files. In 17 cases we could not determine if PPI were used or not. Among those in which the information was available, a positive history of anti-acid therapy was observed in 63 (75.0%) patients. Parietal cell hypertrophy/hyperplasia and parietal cell protrusions were detected in most slides. Histological findings were identical in PPI users and PPI negative patients. Helicobacter pylori infection was detected in just two samples. Epithelial dysplasia or adenocarcinoma were not observed in our cases. Histopathological analysis of fundic gland polyps could not distinguish between PPI and non-PPI related cases. Parietal cell cytoplasmic protrusions, an alleged marker of prolonged acid suppression therapy, was detected in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Histological features could not discriminate anti-acid therapy related fundic glands polyps in our patients.

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach: diagnosis and clinical perspectives

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) is a recently described, rare gastric polyposis syndrome. It is characterized by extensive involvement of the fundus and body of the stomach with fundic gland polyps sparing the antrum and lesser curvature, an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern with incomplete penetrance, and a significant predisposition for the development of gastric adenocarcinoma. Due to the recent discovery of APC promotor IB mutations (c.-191T>C, c.-192A>G, and c.-195A>C), which reduce binding of the transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1) and transcriptional activity of the promotor, as its underlying genetic perturbation, GAPPS has been added to the growing molecular class of APC-associated disorders. Recent reports on family members afflicted by gastric polyposis due to GAPPS have described the development of metastatic cancer or the presence of invasive gastric adenocarcinoma in total gastrectomy specimens after variable periods of endoscopic surveillance emphasizing the need for an improved understanding of the to-date poorly characterized natural history of the syndrome. There are, however, currently no guidelines on screening, timing of prophylactic gastrectomy, or endoscopic surveillance for GAPPS available. In this review, we summarize the clinical, pathological, and genetic aspects of GAPPS as well as management approaches to this rare cancer predisposition syndrome, highlighting the need for early recognition, a multidisciplinary approach, and the creation of prospective family registries and consensus guidelines in the near future.

Proton-pump inhibitor-induced fundic gland polyps with hematemesis

Fundic gland polyps (FGPs) are generally considered benign. Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used worldwide as first-line therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced ulcer treatment. Long-term use of PPIs increases the risk of FGP development. We report an extremely rare case of PPI-induced FGPs with hematemesis. A 37-year-old woman taking daily rabeprazole presented to the hospital with a complaint of hematemesis and tarry stools. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed > 20 pedunculated polyps in the gastric body and fundus. Histological examination showed multiple fragments of fundic gland mucosa with dilated glands. Based on these findings and the clinical history, FGPs were diagnosed. Rabeprazole use was discontinued. Repeat EGD performed 9 months later showed a significant decrease in the number and size of the polyps. FGPs are small polyps typically located in the gastric corpus and fundus. They are commonly reported in patients in their 60s and predominantly in females. We conclude that PPI use is a risk factor for the development of FGPs and hematemesis.

Benign and malignant gastroduodenal diseases associated with Helicobacter pylori: a narrative review and personal remarks in 2018

The subject of Helicobacter pylori continues to elicit worldwide interest in many research fields. Epidemiological data suggest that the prevalence of the infection is decreasing in Western/developed countries and even in some developing regions, but this is masked by the high prevalence in the most populous regions. Chronic gastritis, caused invariably by the bacterium, was again classified in Kyoto and Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis was included as a distinct entity. The prevalence of peptic ulcers is decreasing, but bleeding ulcers are a challenging problem, with stable mortality levels even in the endoscopic era. With the extended use of endoscopy, gastric polyps (GP) have become more prevalent: some are associated with the infection, some are not. Autoimmune and Helicobacter-induced gastritis can share common pathogenetic mechanisms. Gastric cancer (GC) is ranked highly on mortality lists worldwide. Its surgical treatment has registered some progress though. Little, if any improvement has been achieved in the medical treatment of advanced GC. With proper organization, GC seems a preventable disease. In spite of many guidelines, the Pan-European registry of Helicobacter pylori management shows that eradication rates obtained in many places are suboptimal. A new therapeutic regimen was compiled with promising pilot results. The results obtained with vonaprazan are limited to Asia. New avenues of both antibiotic and non-antibiotic treatments are expected to accelerate the eradication of this ulcerogenic and carcinogenic bacterium.

Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Risks of Fundic Gland Polyps and Gastric Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There have been increasing numbers of case reports and observational studies of adverse events in patients receiving long-term therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The effects of PPI therapy on risks of fundic gland polyps (FGPs) and gastric cancer have received considerable attention. We performed a systematic review with a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assessed these risks.

METHODS

We searched the PUBMED, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for relevant studies published through July 2015. We calculated pooled odds ratio for FGPs and the risk ratio for gastric cancer in PPI users compared with PPI nonusers using fixed- and random-effects models.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 12 studies, comprising more than 87,324 patients: 1 randomized controlled trial reporting the effect of PPIs on gastric polyps (location not specified), 6 cohort and 1 case-control studies on FGPs, and 1 cohort and 3 case-control studies on gastric cancer. Pooled odds ratios for FGPs were 1.43 (95% confidence interval, 1.24-1.64) and 2.45 (95% confidence interval, 1.24-4.83) from fixed- and random-effects models, respectively. The pooled risk ratio for gastric cancer was 1.43 (95% confidence interval, 1.23-1.66) from each model. We observed significant heterogeneity among studies reporting on FGPs, but not among studies reporting on gastric cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a systematic review with meta-analysis, long-term use of PPIs (≥12 months) is associated with an increased risk of FGPs. PPI therapy might also increase the risk of gastric cancer, but this association could be biased, because of the limited number of studies and possible confounding factors.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: fundic gland polyps and proton pump inhibitors

BACKGROUND

A causal association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and fundic gland polyps has been suggested, but the data are conflicting.

AIM

To clarify the relationship through a meta-analysis of the existing data.

METHODS

A systematic retrieval and selection of records was performed. The main inclusion criteria were original studies reporting the prevalence of fundic gland polyps in PPI users or the reverse, compared to controls. Key outcomes were the odds ratios (OR) for fundic gland polyp prevalence in association with PPI use, prevalence of PPI use amongst subjects with fundic gland polyps and fundic gland polyp prevalence among PPI users. Statistical analysis was performed using Mix 2.0 Pro.

RESULTS

The initial search using electronic databases and manual searching retrieved 339 peer-reviewed articles and abstracts. Twenty articles met all inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a total of 40 218 subjects included. The meta-analysis of 12 studies revealed an increase in fundic gland polyps amongst PPI users compared to controls (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.42-4.27, P = 0.001), particularly among individuals taking PPIs for at least 6 months (OR: 4.71, 95% CI 2.22-9.99, P < 0.001) or 12 months (OR: 5.32, 95% CI 2.58-10.99, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Proton pump inhibitor usage is associated with a significantly increased prevalence of fundic gland polyps, and there is a trend for this to increase with longer length of PPI exposure. However, the meta-analysis is limited mainly to cohort studies.

Upper gastrointestinal tumours in Japanese familial adenomatous polyposis patients

OBJECTIVE

The upper gastrointestinal characteristics in Japanese familial adenomatous polyposis patients have not yet been clarified. The aim of the present study was to elucidate these characteristics in Japanese familial adenomatous polyposis patients.

METHODS

This study was conducted by the study group for familial adenomatous polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum. Familial adenomatous polyposis patients who underwent surgical resection from 2000 to 2012 were included in the study.

RESULTS

In total, 303 familial adenomatous polyposis patients were enrolled, with 265 cases of classical familial adenomatous polyposis (≥100 adenomas) and 38 cases of attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (<100 adenomas). Fundic gland polyps were significantly more common in classical familial adenomatous polyposis than in attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis; however, gastric cancer was significantly less common in classical familial adenomatous polyposis than in attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis. Gastric cancer and duodenal adenoma were significantly more common in familial adenomatous polyposis patients with gastric adenoma than in those without gastric adenoma. Duodenal cancer was detected in 7 of 72 familial adenomatous polyposis patients with duodenal adenoma. The median tumour risk in 50-year-old familial adenomatous polyposis patients was 55.3, 21.8, 3.8, 39.2 and 7.7% for fundic gland polyp, gastric adenoma, gastric cancer, duodenal adenoma and duodenal cancer, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Upper gastrointestinal tumours/polyps were frequently found in familial adenomatous polyposis patients, and their incidences were correlated; however, the frequency of gastric cancer in Japanese familial adenomatous polyposis patients was similar to that in the general population.

ENDOSCOPIC AND HISTOPATHOLOGIC GASTRIC CHANGES IN CHRONIC USERS OF PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS

Background Proton-pump inhibitors have been used for at least two decades. They are among the most commonly sold drugs in the world. However, some controversy remains about the indications for their use and the consequences of their prolonged use. Objectives To evaluate and compare the endoscopic and histopathologic gastric changes in chronic users of proton-pump inhibitors to changes in non-users. Methods A prospective study performed at a tertiary Public Hospital involving 105 patients undergoing upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy. Subjects included 81 proton-pump inhibitor users and 24 non-users (control group). Biopsies of the antral-type mucosa, the antral-fundic transition, and the fundus were evaluated by the Sydney System. The presence of erosion or ulceration, lymphatic follicles, reactive gastropathy, and polypoid or epithelial hyperplasia was also determined. Serum levels of gastrin were measured. Results We found two polyps, one in each group, both of which were negative for Helicobacter pylori. There were two cases of parietal cell hyperplasia in users of proton-pump inhibitors. Gastrin was elevated in 28 users of proton-pump inhibitors and in four members of the control group. We did not find statistically significant differences in the endoscopic or histopathologic findings between the two groups. Conclusions Chronic use of proton-pump inhibitors for the duration examined was not associated with significant gastric changes. An interesting finding was that the 4 chronic users of proton-pump inhibitors who had serum gastrin levels above 500 pg/mL also had positive serology for Chagas disease.

Relative risk factors associated with the development of fundic gland polyps

OBJECTIVES

The prevalence of fundic gland polyps (FGPs) is increasing. Some researchers consider this increase to be associated strongly with the long-term use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs); however, not all researchers share this belief. There are minimal data on the development of FGPs in China. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of FGPs and risk factors associated with the development of this disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied 10 904 consecutive patients who underwent gastroduodenal endoscopies at our digestive endoscopy center between February 2011 and January 2013. Information on sex, age, Helicobacter pylori infection, PPIs intake, and the pathological results of the polyps were collected in the FGPs group and in the control group. The use of PPIs, sex, and H. pylori infection were statistically evaluated as dichotomous variables using a χ-test; age was evaluated as a continuous variable using a t-test. Finally, these factors were evaluated using a multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Gastric polyps were found in 759 (7.0%) patients, and 213 (2.0%) of these patients had FGPs. FGPs accounted for 28.1% of the gastric polyps. In the FGPs group, the percentage of H. pylori infection was 66.8% and the percentage of PPIs intake for at least 12 months was 23.1%. In the control group, the percentage of H. pylori infection was 77.4% and the percentage of PPIs intake for at least 12 months was 2.3%. The difference in the long-term use of PPIs was statistically significant between these two groups [χ=33.98, P<0.05, odds ratio (OR)=12.83, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.47-36.80]. The results of the logistic regression were as follows: long-term use of PPIs (P<0.01, OR=14.11, 95% CI: 4.15-47.93); age (P<0.01, OR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.31-2.18). The P-values for sex and H. pylori infection were higher than 0.05.

CONCLUSION

Age and the long-term use of PPIs were risk factors for the presence of FGPs; the long-term use of PPIs was a particularly strong risk factor.

Clinical features of fundic gland polyps and relationship between fundic gland polyps and Helicobacter pylori infection

AIM: To investigate the clinical features of fundic gland polyps and the relationship between fundic gland polyps (FGPs) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

METHODS: Clinical data for patients with FGPs diagnosed from October 2011 to October 2013 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The same number of patients who had normal gastric mucosa and matched gender and age were chosen as controls.

RESULTS: A total of 276 patients were found to have FGPs by endoscopy, accounting for 0.87% of all cases who underwent endoscopic examination in the same time period. FGPs were frequently seen in females. Clinical symptoms included functional dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. The majority of cases were found in routine endoscopic examinations. Of all polyps, 136 (49.3%) were located in the corpus and 108 (39.1%) in the fundus. Most of FGPs (71.4%) were single polyps, and 28.6% were multiple. Typical pathologic finding was cystic lesions in the fundic glands, without dysplasia or intestinal metaplasia. The number of patients with H. pylori infection in FGP patients was significantly lower than that in controls (OR = 0.135, 95%CI: 0.073-0.250).

CONCLUSION: Our study suggests the benign nature of FGPs and the relationship between FGPs and H. pylori infection. H. pylori infection may be a protective factor for FGPs.

The morphological and immunohistochemical spectrum of gastric biopsies of patients with absorptive hypercalciuria

Objective

Idiopathic hypercalciuria is characterised by renal stone formation and vertebral osteoporosis. The syndrome displays high clinical variability with patients almost equally distributed between fasting or renal type (prevalent calcium loss) and absorptive type (prevalent increase of intestinal absorption). Absorptive hypercalciuria (AH) is characterised by hypersensitivity of calcium-sensing receptors of antral G cells with normal fasting gastrinaemia and meal hypergastrinaemia. To the best of our knowledge, no study has been published about the morphological aspects of gastric biopsies of patients with AH and the immunohistochemical findings of gastrin-producing G cells. So we studied morphologically and immunohistochemically a group of 38 patients with AH, describing their gastric findings and associated lesion.

Design

All 38 patients had a clinical-laboratory diagnosis of AH with normal fasting hypergastrinaemia and an abnormal rise of gastrinaemia after a standardised meal test. Their 38 antral and 27 body-fundus biopsies, and 5 normal antral and body controls, were stained with H&E, Giemsa stain, polyclonal antiserum anti-Gastrin and a monoclonal antibody anti-Chromogranin A.

Results

Antral biopsies of all 38 patients showed a simple (15) or linear (23) hyperplasia of G cells, whereas only 2 of 27 body biopsies showed a nodular hyperplasia of endocrine cells. In five patients with AH, we found an association with fundic gland polyps (FGPs).

Conclusions

We found in all of the patients with AH a correlation between meal hypergastrinaemia and morphological antral G-cell hyperplasia. Moreover, in five patients, AH was associated with FGPs. We know from literature data that FGPs’ development in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is statistically associated with hypergastrinaemia. From our present data, we suggest that even in AH the stimulated hypergastrinaemia may have a role in polyp development.

Gastric polyps: a review of clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic features and management decisions

The increasing use of endoscopy has led to more discernable abnormalities in the stomach, including polyps. Gastric polyps encompass a spectrum of pathologic conditions that can vary in histology, neoplastic potential, and management. Despite their high prevalence, there is a paucity of literature to support management and treatment decisions for endoscopists. The goal of this review is to summarize clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic features of various polyps, review syndromes associated with such polyps, and provide management recommendations.

Accuracy of endoscopic diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection according to level of endoscopic experience and the effect of training

BACKGROUND

Accurate prediction of Helicobacter pylori infection status on endoscopic images can contribute to early detection of gastric cancer, especially in Asia. We identified the diagnostic yield of endoscopy for H. pylori infection at various endoscopist career levels and the effect of two years of training on diagnostic yield.

METHODS

A total of 77 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopy were analyzed. H. pylori infection status was determined by histology, serology, and the urea breast test and categorized as H. pylori-uninfected, -infected, or -eradicated. Distinctive endoscopic findings were judged by six physicians at different career levels: beginner (<500 endoscopies), intermediate (1500-5000), and advanced (>5000). Diagnostic yield and inter- and intra-observer agreement on H. pylori infection status were evaluated. Values were compared between the two beginners after two years of training. The kappa (K) statistic was used to calculate agreement.

RESULTS

For all physicians, the diagnostic yield was 88.9% for H. pylori-uninfected, 62.1% for H. pylori-infected, and 55.8% for H. pylori-eradicated. Intra-observer agreement for H. pylori infection status was good (K > 0.6) for all physicians, while inter-observer agreement was lower (K = 0.46) for beginners than for intermediate and advanced (K > 0.6). For all physicians, good inter-observer agreement in endoscopic findings was seen for atrophic change (K = 0.69), regular arrangement of collecting venules (K = 0.63), and hemorrhage (K = 0.62). For beginners, the diagnostic yield of H. pylori-infected/eradicated status and inter-observer agreement of endoscopic findings were improved after two years of training.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic yield of endoscopic diagnosis was high for H. pylori-uninfected cases, but was low for H. pylori-eradicated cases. In beginners, daily training on endoscopic findings improved the low diagnostic yield.

The changing histological pattern of gastric polyps in an ethnically heterogeneous population

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Variation in the prevalence of various types of gastric polyps worldwide may reflect different etiologies. Here, the authors report the dynamic changes in histological distribution of gastric polyps over time and by ethnicity for individuals who underwent gastroscopies between 1994 and 2009 at two hospitals in Jerusalem, Israel. During this time period, the proportion of patients receiving proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) increased while the proportion of patients infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) decreased.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pathological reports of biopsies from 50,071 consecutive gastroscopies were reviewed.

RESULTS

Gastric polyps were detected in 727 individuals. The yearly prevalence of gastric polyps was ≤ 1% between 1994 and 2001 and ≥ 2% from 2004 to 2009, of which overall 66% were hyperplastic polyps and 23% fundic gland polyps (FGPs). FGPs were diagnosed exclusively in the Jewish population. From 2001 to 2004, an increase in the absolute number of newly discovered hyperplastic and FGPs per year was observed. However from 2005, a divergent trend of changes was observed: While the proportion of patients with hyperplastic polyps dropped from 0.72 during the 2001-2004 period to 0.62 during the 2005-2009 period (p = 0.02), the proportion of patients with FGPs at these time periods increased from 0.16 to 0.33 (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The yearly prevalence of gastric polyps in Jerusalem has recently doubled. This occurred mainly due to the increasing prevalence of FGPs. The changing epidemiology of gastric polyps is probably related to the interaction between genetic factors and fluctuating environmental factors like H. pylori infection rates and exposure to PPIs.

Prevalência de alterações proliferativas gástricas em pacientes com uso crônico de inibidores de bomba de prótons

RACIONAL: As medicações mais frequentemente prescritas e usadas de forma crônica por pacientes com queixas dispépticas pertencem ao grupo dos inibidores de bomba de prótons cujo principal representante é o omeprazol, utilizado clinicamente a cerca de 20 anos. Estudos recentes têm postulado a relação entre o uso crônico desta medicação e alterações proliferativas macroscópicas e microscópicas da mucosa do fundo e corpo gástrico, principalmente os pólipos de glândulas fúndicas. OBJETIVO: Analisar a frequência e o tipo de alterações proliferativas gástricas em usuários crônicos de inibidores de bomba de prótons e sua associação com idade, dose utilizada, tempo de uso, sintomatologia e infecção pelo Helicobacter pylori. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal de prevalência realizado no Serviço de Endoscopia Digestiva do Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal do Paraná. Aplicado questionário com informações quanto ao uso destas drogas e realizada endoscopia digestiva alta em sujeitos em uso contínuo desta classe de medicamentos há pelo menos 12 meses. Realizadas biópsias de fundo, corpo e antro gástrico em todos os pacientes. Pólipos eram retirados ao serem identificados, para análise histopatológica. Realizada pesquisa do Helicobacter pylori por teste de urease e análise histopatológica. RESULTADOS: Vinte e dois indivíduos foram incluídos sendo que seis (27,3%) apresentaram alterações proliferativas da mucosa oxíntica. Destes, dois (9,1%) apresentavam pólipos fúndicos esporádicos e quatro apresentavam exclusivamente alteração proliferativa microscópica como formação cística glandular. Houve significância estatística (p<0,05) na associação entre idade > 60 anos e estas alterações. Não houve associação entre dose de uso, tempo de uso, sintomatologia e infecção pelo Helicobacter pylori. CONCLUSÕES: Ocorrem alterações proliferativas de mucosa oxíntica em indivíduos em uso crônico de inibidores de bomba de prótons. A associação entre idade e alterações proliferativas apresentou significância estatística.

Incidence and risk factor of fundic gland polyp and hyperplastic polyp in long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy: a prospective study in Japan

GOAL

To investigate the development of fundic gland polyp (FGP) and gastric hyperplastic polyp (HPP) during long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and risk factors of each polyp via patient status in a multicenter prospective study.

BACKGROUND

The risk of developing FGP may increase during long-term PPI therapy. However, the association with PPI-induced hypergastrinemia is unclear. Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection (which there is a high rate of in Japan) may influence the development of HPP.

METHODS

Reflux esophagitis patients on PPI maintenance therapy were enrolled. At baseline, the presence of protruding lesion (gastric polyps) and mucosal atrophy was examined endoscopically. The serum gastrin level (SGL) and Hp infection status were noted. The patients took rabeprazole 10 mg/day for 104 weeks and endoscopy was performed at weeks 24, 52, 76, and 104 to check for newly developed FGPs and HPPs. The hazard ratios (HRs) of risk factors were calculated.

RESULTS

191 patients were analyzed. The distribution of patients with baseline SGLs (pg/mL) of <200, >or=200 to <400, and >or=400 was 118 (61.8%), 51 (26.7%), and 22 (11.5%), respectively. 78 (40.8%) patients were Hp-positive, and gastric polyps were found in 70 (36.6%) patients. By the end of rabeprazole therapy, 26 (13.6%) and 17 (8.9%) patients had developed new FGPs and HPPs. In terms of risk factors, Hp-positive was significantly lower (HR=0.288; 95% CI, 0.108-0.764) for FGP while SGL>or=400 pg/mL was significantly higher (HR=4.923; 95% CI, 1.486-16.31) for HPP.

CONCLUSION

During long-term PPI therapy, FGP development was associated with absence of Hp infection. Meanwhile, Hp infection and high SGL may influence HPP development.

Safety of the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors

The proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as a class are remarkably safe and effective for persons with peptic ulcer disorders. Serious adverse events are extremely rare for PPIs, with case reports of interstitial nephritis with omeprazole, hepatitis with omeprazole and lansoprazole, and disputed visual disturbances with pantoprazole and omeprazole. PPI use is associated with the development of fundic gland polyps (FGP); stopping PPIs is associated with regression of FGP. In the absence of Helicobacter pylori infection, the long-term use of PPIs has not been convincingly proven to cause or be associated with the progression of pre-existing chronic gastritis or gastric atrophy or intestinal metaplasia. Mild/modest hypergastrinemia is a physiological response to the reduction in gastric acid secretion due to any cause. The long-term use of PPIs has not been convincingly proven to cause enterochromaffin-like cell hyperplasia or carcinoid tumors. PPIs increase the risk of community acquired pneumonia, but not of hospital acquired (nosocomial) pneumonia. There is no data to support particular care in prescribing PPI therapy due to concerns about risk of hip fracture with the long-term use of PPIs. Long-term use of PPIs does not lead to vitamin B12 deficiencies, except possibly in the elderly, or in persons with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome who are on high doses of PPI for prolonged periods of time. There is no convincingly proven data that PPIs increase the risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in persons in the community. The discontinuation of PPIs may result in rebound symptoms requiring further and even continuous PPI use for suppression of symptoms. As with all medications, the key is to use PPIs only when clearly indicated, and to reassess continued use so that long-term therapy is used judiciously. Thus, in summary, the PPIs are a safe class of medications to use long-term in persons in whom there is a clear need for the maintenance of extensive acid inhibition.

Chronic proton pump inhibitor therapy associated with increased development of fundic gland polyps

BACKGROUND

Fundic gland polyps (FGP) have been implicated with long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use.

AIMS

We attempted to investigate the impact of length and dosage of PPI therapy on the development of FGP.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of all patients who had gastric polyps removed during elective upper endoscopy between March and September 2007 as part of a prior prospective study protocol was carried out. FGP were determined histologically. Prior to endoscopy, all patients completed a questionnaire regarding PPI use and length of therapy (no PPI use, 1-48 months, >48 months). The dosage of PPI was obtained via a thorough chart review of electronic medical records.

RESULTS

Three hundred and eighty-five patients completed upper endoscopy and a questionnaire reporting PPI use (252 [65.4%] patients on PPI). On endoscopy, 55 patients had polyps, with the majority (43/55, 78%) being FGP, resulting in an overall prevalence of 11.1% (43/385). On univariate analysis, FGP were associated with Caucasian race (15 vs. 6%; P=0.009) and chronic PPI therapy (>48 months) (31.9 vs. 7.5%, P<0.001). There was a significant linear-by-linear association between PPI dosage and FGP prevalence (no PPI use, 7.5%; once daily, 10.8%; twice daily 17.4%, P=0.026). On logistic regression, the only independent predictor of FGP was duration of PPI use >48 months (P=0.001, odds ratio [OR] 4.7 [2.0-12.9]).

CONCLUSIONS

The only independent predictor of FGP development in our study was duration of PPI therapy greater than 48 months. Increased dosage of therapy did not significantly impact the development of FGP.

Gastric fundic gland polyps: a clinico-pathological study from North West Tasmania

BACKGROUND

Fundic gland polyps (FGPs) of the stomach were originally described in association with familial polyposis syndromes. It is now known that the majority of these polyps occur in the sporadic setting and are incidentally seen in up to 1.9% of routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopes. The aim of this study was to look at the clinico-pathological features of the FGPs and to analyse their relationship to Helicobacter pylori infection, proton pump inhibitor treatment, colonic polyps and malignancy.

METHODS

A search of the histopathology records for a period of 10 years from 1997 to 2006 identified 120 patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of FGPs. The clinical history, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings, histopathology and colonoscopy findings were recorded from the medical records and analysed.

RESULTS

FGPs were seen in 3.2% of patients undergoing routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopes. There was a definite association with long-term proton pump inhibitor treatment. There was a strikingly low incidence of H. pylori infection in the study population. Although there was no dysplasia or malignancy in any of these polyps, one patient had concomitant adenocarcinoma of the stomach. In the subgroup of patients who also had colonoscopy during the study period, 19% had associated colonic polyps and 6% had associated colonic malignancies.

CONCLUSIONS

Every new patient diagnosed with FGPs should have a thorough clinico-pathological study to see if the polyps are part of a sporadic or syndromic setting. A long-term follow-up study of patients with FGPs and its association with colonic polyps may be warranted.

A case of gastric adenocarcinoma arising from a fundic gland polyp

A rare case of gastric adenocarcinoma arising on the surface of a fundic gland polyp is reported. A 36-year-old Japanese woman was referred to our hospital for examination and treatment of a polyp that had been detected in another hospital. She did not have a history of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Endoscopic examination revealed a 10-mm-diameter fundic gland polyp in the body of the stomach. The polyp had an irregular depression on its top, suggesting the presence of malignancy. Endoscopic mucosal resection was done to make a histological diagnosis. This revealed a fundic gland polyp with a tiny superficial adenocarcinoma. Atrophic changes of the gastric mucosa were mild, although Helicobacter pylori infection was positive. It is suggested that fundic gland polyps have the potential for malignant transformation.

Proton pump inhibitors: actions and reactions

Proton pump inhibitors are the second most commonly prescribed drug class in the United States. The increased utilization of PPIs parallels the rising incidence of reflux disease. Owing to their clinical efficacy and relative lack of tachyphylaxis, PPIs have largely displaced H-2 receptor antagonists in the treatment of acid peptic disorders. The elevation of intragastric pH and subsequent alterations of gastric physiology induced by PPIs may yield undesired effects within the upper GI tract. The ubiquity of the various types of H(+), K(+)-ATPase could also contribute to non-gastric effects. PPIs may influence physiology in other ways, such as inducing transepithelial leak.

[Gastric polyposis due to treatment with proton pump inhibitors]

Fundic gland polyps can appear sporadically or in association with familial adenomatous polyposis syndrome. An association between fundic gland polyps and prolonged treatment with proton pump inhibitors has been described, as has their regression after withdrawal of these inhibitors. Dysplastic components are not usually associated. We describe four patients who were receiving chronic treatment with proton pump inhibitors. The results of prior endoscopic analysis were normal. The presence of multiple fundic gland polyps was detected as was their disappearance 6 months after treatment cessation.

Proton pump inhibitors and an emerging epidemic of gastric fundic gland polyposis

Fundic gland polyps are now commonly recognized during endoscopy. These polyps are benign, often multiple and usually detected in the gastric body and fundus. In the past, these polyps were sometimes associated with familial adenomatous polyposis. In recent years, it has become evident that increasing numbers of these polyps are being detected during endoscopic studies, particularly in patients treated with proton pump inhibitors for prolonged periods. In some, dysplastic changes in these polyps have also been reported. Recent studies have suggested that there may be no increase in risk of colon cancer with long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy. While temporarily reassuring, ongoing vigilance, particularly in those genetically predisposed to colon cancer, is still warranted.

Fundic gland polyp dysplasia is common in familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Fundic gland polyps (FGPs) are common in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) but have been considered nonneoplastic. Gastric carcinoma arises from FGPs in FAP presumably from a dysplasia-carcinoma pathway. Our study examined the prevalence of FGPs and FGP dysplasia in FAP and identified endoscopic or demographic features associated with FGPs and dysplasia.

METHODS

Demographic and endoscopic information were obtained prospectively from 75 consecutive subjects undergoing upper-endoscopic surveillance for FAP. Systematic biopsy specimens of FGPs, normal-appearing fundic mucosa, and antral mucosa for Helicobacter pylori were obtained. Multivariable analysis assessed the association of demographic or endoscopic factors with the presence of FGP or FGP dysplasia.

RESULTS

FGPs were detected in 88% of subjects and were dysplastic in 41% (38% low grade, 3% high grade). H pylori infection was rare in subjects with vs without FGPs (1.5% vs 33.3%, P = .005). In the multivariable analysis larger FGP size (odds ratio [OR], 4.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-14.4), higher stage of duodenal polyposis (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.2-4.5), and antral gastritis (OR, 11.2; 95% CI, 1.2-103.9) were associated with FGP dysplasia. Exposure to acid-suppressive medications was associated with a marked decrease in dysplastic FGPs (OR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.03-0.64).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of FAP patients have FGPs and nearly half will have dysplastic FGPs. There is an inverse relationship between H pylori and FGPs. FGP dysplasia is associated with larger polyp size, increased severity of duodenal polyposis, and antral gastritis. Acid-suppressive therapy use appears protective against dysplasia in FGPs.

[Gastric polyps]

Gastric polyps exist in a wide variety of types, most often benign. Endoscopic discovery of gastric polyps necessitates biopsies - not only of the lesion but also of the antral and fundic mucosa to determine the therapeutic strategy and subsequent surveillance. Fundic gland polyps are the most frequent type; they are asymptomatic with no malignant potential. They require neither treatment nor surveillance. Hyperplastic polyps, adenomas and tumors must be totally resected. Biopsies alone are insufficient to assess the extent of malignancy of adenomas and of hyperplastic polyps more than 5 mm in diameter. These polyps are associated with an elevated frequency of precancerous alterations of the gastric mucosa and consequently by an elevated risk of synchronous or metachronous cancer. Eradication of Helicobacter pylorus may reduce the risk of metachronous gastric cancer and recurrence after resection. Carcinoid tumors of the fundus most often occur in patients with hypergastrinemia during atrophic gastritis of autoimmune origin; they are not serious. The advantages and procedures for endoscopic surveillance of patients with a precancerous condition of the gastric mucosa have not yet been clearly established in populations with a low incidence of cancer.

Impact of Phospholipase A2 group IIa gene polymorphism on phenotypic features of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

PURPOSE

Phospholipase A2 Group IIa has been suggested to be a possible disease modifier gene in familial adenomatous polyposis. This investigation was designed to elucidate possible association between phospholipase A2 Group IIa polymorphism and phenotypes of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis.

METHODS

Phospholipase A2 Group IIa was examined by polymerase chain reaction-based single strand conformation polymorphism and direct sequencing in 55 patients from 45 families with familial adenomatous polyposis. The patients were examined by gastroduodenoscopy plus biopsy with respect to fundic gland polyposis and gastroduodenal adenomas. Helicobacter pylori status was determined by rapid urease test. Contributions of genetic alteration and Helicobacter pylori infection to intestinal and extraintestinal lesions were investigated.

RESULTS

Four types of single nucleotide polymorphism were found in exon 3 of phospholipase A2 Group IIa, among which single nucleotide polymorphism in codon 32 was the most frequent. The prevalence of fundic gland polyposis was higher in patients positive for single nucleotide polymorphism of phospholipase A2 Group IIa than those negative for single nucleotide polymorphism (61 vs. 33 percent; P < 0.05). In contrast, positive rate of Helicobacter pylori infection was lower in the former than in the latter (22 vs. 52 percent; P < 0.05). The prevalence of the other phenotypes was not different significantly. Logistic regression analysis revealed a possibility toward single nucleotide polymorphism of phospholipase A2 Group IIa as an independent risk factor for fundic gland polyposis (95 percent confidence interval, 00.9-14.3; P = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Phospholipase A2 Group IIa may be a modifier gene for fundic gland polyposis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis.

Le reflux biliaire duodéno-gastrique et gastro-œsophagien

This study reviews current data regarding duodenogastric and gastroesophageal bile reflux-pathophysiology, clinical presentation, methods of diagnosis (namely, 24-hour intraluminal bile monitoring) and therapeutic management. Duodenogastric reflux (DGR) consists of retrograde passage of alkaline duodenal contents into the stomach; it may occur due to antroduodenal motility disorder (primary DGR) or may arise following surgical alteration of gastoduodenal anatomy or because of biliary pathology (secondary DGR). Pathologic DGR may generate symptoms of epigastric pain, nausea, and bilious vomiting. In patients with concomitant gastroesophageal reflux, the backwash of duodenal content into the lower esophagus can cause mixed (alkaline and acid) reflux esophagitis, and lead, in turn, to esophageal mucosal damage such as Barrett's metaplasia and adenocarcinoma. The treatment of DGR is difficult, non-specific, and relatively ineffective in controlling symptoms. Proton pump inhibitors decrease the upstream effects of DGR on the esophagus by decreasing the volume of secretions; promotility agents diminish gastric exposure to duodenal secretions by improving gastric emptying. In patients with severe reflux resistant to medical therapy, a duodenal diversion operation such as the duodenal switch procedure may be indicated.

Proton pump inhibitors and gastric neoplasia

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are very effective in maintaining symptomatic and endoscopic remission of acid peptic disorders, such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Side effects with respect to function and morphology of the gastric mucosa are common. Helicobacter pylori eradication can partially prevent and reverse these effects without impairing PPI therapy for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. This makes long term PPI treatment a safe therapy for patients with acid peptic disorders. The potential side effects of such therapy are discussed here.

Coexpression of two distinct muscle acetylcholine receptor alpha-subunits during development

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is a ligand-gated channel that mediates signalling at the vertebrate neuromuscular junction. It is a pentameric complex of four different subunits, assembled with a stoichiometry of alpha 2 beta gamma delta. Muscle-like alpha-subunits have been cloned from Torpedo, mouse, calf, rat, chicken, human and Xenopus, and only a single alpha-subunit complementary DNA from each species has been detected. We report here the cloning and characterization of a second muscle alpha-subunit cDNA from Xenopus, and show that this and a previously reported Xenopus alpha-subunit cDNA are encoded by distinct genes. The novel alpha-subunit reported here is expressed uniquely in oocytes; but both types of alpha-subunit are coexpressed throughout muscle development. This latter observation indicates that the expression of these two alpha-subunits is different from a previously reported developmental 'subunit-switch' mechanism used to generate channel diversity.