Clinical impact and prognosis of cryoglobulinemia and cryofibrinogenemia in systemic sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

An association of systemic sclerosis (SSc) with cryoglobulin and/or cryofibrinogenemia has been described. However, clinical, biological, morphological and prognostic implications are unknown. The objective of this study was to describe the phenotype and evaluate the prognosis of cryoglobulinemia and/or cryofibrinogenemia in the progression of SSc.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were included from the Systemic Scleroderma Toulouse Cohort (SSTC), between June 1, 2005 and May 31, 2018, and underwent a measurement of a cryoglobulin and/or cryofibrinogen in immunology laboratory at the Toulouse University Hospital Center. Patients with and without cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l and patients with and without cryofibrinogenemia were compared to identified the impact of cryoprcipitate on the phenotype. Mortality based on cryoprecipitate was explored.

RESULTS

166 patients were included in the study. 43.3% and 46.6% had a cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l and cryofibrinogenemia, respectively. Cryoglobulin >50 mg was not associated with microvascular damage. Cryoglobulin does not influence the phenotype. 5-and 10-years survival were 97.6% and 88.8% respectively in patients with cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l versus 91.9% and 78.4% in patients without cryoglobulin>50 mg/l. 10-years survival was better for patients with cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l (log-rank 0.0363). Cryofibrinogenemia was not associated with neoplasia, any clinical (in particular ischemic damage), biological or morphological features. Cryofibrinogenemia had no influence on the mortality of these patients.

CONCLUSION

Cryoglobulinemia and cryofibrinogenemia are frequent in SSc. The presence of cryoprecipitate (cryoglobulin or cryofibrinogen) not influence the phenotype and has not associated with a poor survival.

AB0651 Clinical Impact and Prognosis of cryoglobulinemia and cryofibrinogenemia in Systemic Sclerosis

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is reported to be a secondary cause of cryoglobulinemia as well as cryofibrinogenemia. However, prevalence, clinical implication and associated pronostic of cryoprecipitates in SSc are unknown.

Objectives

To describe the prevalence, the phenotype and evaluate the prognosis of cryoglobulinemia and/or cryofibrinogenemia associated with systemic sclerosis.

Methods

We included all adult (≥18 years) consecutive SSc patients from the Systemic Scleroderma Toulouse Cohort (SSTC) [1] for whom a cryoglobulin and/or cryofibrinogen measurement was carried out at the immunology laboratory of the Toulouse University Hospital between June 1, 2005 and May 31, 2018 and at least one follow-up visit. We compared SSc-patients characteristics’ with and without cryoglobulinemia > 50 mg/l and with and without cryofibrinogenemia. Survival analysis based on presence of cryoglobulin cryofibrinogen was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models (ascending step-by-step method) were used to determine baseline variables associated with cryoglobulin or cryofibrinogen presence.

Results

166 patients were included in the study. 74.6% of patients were women, with a average age at diagnosis of 51.2 years-old. 24% were diffuse cutaneous subtypes and 71.6% limited cutaneous subtypes. Anti-centromere and anti-Scl70 were respectively positive in 44.5% and 21.6% of cases. All these patients were assessed for cryoglobulin detection and 75 cryofibrinogen detection in serum. 43.3% had a cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l. 46.6% had cryofibrinogenemia. Patients with cryoglobulinemia >50 mg had more cardiac diastolic involvement (22.8% vs. 5.1% p=0.0395). In the multivariate analysis, diastolic involvement (HR=6.23; p=0.0331) was an independent predictor of cryoglobulin >50 mg/l. Survival at 10 years was better for patients with cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l (log-rank 0.0363) (Figure 1). Survival at 5 and 10 years was 97.6% and 88.8% respectively in patients with cryoglobulinemia >50 mg/l versus 91.9% and 78.4% in patients with cryoglobulinemia <50 mg/l. In cox regression model adjusted for gender, age and type of systemic sclerosis, cryoglobulin >50 mg/l was negatively associated with mortality (HR: 0.09; p=0.03). The presence of cryofibrinogenemia was not associated with any clinical, biological or morphological features. In the multivariate analysis, no variable was predictive of the presence of cryofibrinogenemia in patients with SSc. The presence of cryofibrinogenemia had no influence on the mortality of these patients.

Conclusion

In SSc patients, the presence of cryoglobulin >50 mg/l is an independent predictive factor of cardiac diastolic involvement and is associated with a better survival. However, cryofibrinogenemia does not influence clinical phenotype or impact mortality in SSc patients.

References

[1]De Almeida Chaves S, Porel T, Mounié M, Alric L, Astudillo L et al. Sine scleroderma, limited cutaneous, and diffused cutaneous systemic sclerosis survival and predictors of mortality. Arthritis Res Ther. 2021 Dec 7;23(1):295. doi: 10.1186/s13075-021-02672-y.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS0884 DESCRIPTIVE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF SEVERE CARDIAC INVOLVEMENT IN SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS: A BICENTRIC RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON 459 PATIENTS

Background

The prevalence of cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) varies in the literature between 3% and 44% and represents a leading cause of mortality in this disease. The incidence of severe cardiac involvement and the factors associated with the occurrence of severe cardiac involvement are not known in the literature.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence, prognosis and factors associated with the occurrence of severe cardiac involvement during SSc course.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, bi-centric study from January 1, 1966 to December 31, 2018. The patients included had a diagnosis of SS according to the ACR/EULAR 2013 criteria. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of severe cardiac involvement. Cardiac involvement was defined by the presence of at least one of the following elements: death of cardiovascular origin, left ventricular ejection fraction less than or equal to 50%, abnormality of at least 3 measurement parameters of diastolic function, global longitudinal strain less than or equal to 18 in absolute value, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular extrasystoles requiring intervention or elevated troponin. Patients with associated myositis and whose only criterion for cardiac involvement was elevated troponin were not included in the group with cardiac involvement. Severe cardiac involvement was defined by the occurrence of hospitalization for cardiovascular reasons or by death of cardiovascular origin. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine variables associated with severe cardiac involvement occurrence. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method with comparisons performed using the log rank test.

Results

Four hundred and fifty-nine patients with SSc were included and were followed for a median of 7.1 years [3.1; 13.3]. The median age of our population was 54 years old. There were 81% of women, 77% of patients had limited cutaneous SSc, 15% diffuse cutaneous SSc and 8% SSc sine scleroderma. Of the 459 patients, 105 (23%) had cardiac involvement and 56 (12%) severe cardiac involvement. The incidence of severe cardiac involvement was 2.42 per 100 patient years. Ninety-six hospitalizations were recorded, including 40 (42%) for acute heart failure, 19 (20%) for arrhythmia, 5 (5%) for acute pericarditis, 6 (6%) for acute myocarditis and 14 (15 %) for coronary artery disease (acute coronary syndrome, myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization). The independent factors associated with severe cardiac involvement in SSc were age over 54 years at SSc-diagnosis (OR = 3.21 95% CI [1.73; 5.95], p < 0.001), the presence of myositis (OR = 5.01 95% CI [1.89; 13.28], p = 0.001), pericardial involvement (OR = 3.79 95% CI [2.05; 7.03]; p < 0.001) or scleroderma renal crisis (OR = 4.72 95% CI [2.05; 10.92], p < 0.001). The survival rate of patients with severe cardiac involvement was 70% at 5 years and 53% at 10 years. Patients with severe cardiac involvement had a mortality risk three times greater than patients without severe cardiac involvement, HR = 3.1 (95% CI [1.7; 5.7], p<0.0001) (Figure 1). Pericardial involvement was an independent risk factor for mortality, HR = 2.0 (95% CI [1.02; 4.0], p=0.04).

Figure 1.

Survival of patients with severe cardiac involvement of systemic scleroderma. HR: Hazard ratio; 95% CI: 95% Confidence interval; Nb at risk: Number at risk

Conclusion

We need to focus our clinical attention on diagnosing and manage cardiac involvement in SSc, as severe cardiac involvement is not uncommon and is responsible for a poor prognosis.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0129 MYOSITIS-SPECIFIC AUTOANTIBODIES IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: IMPROVING THE PERFORMANCES OF THE IMMUNODOT

Background

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) or myositis are a group of rare autoimmune diseases that combine muscle weakness and multi-visceral damage. The discovery of IIM-specific autoantibodies (aAbs) and their associations with clinical phenotypes has improved diagnostic and classification criteria. Faced with the large number of these aAbs, multiplexed techniques have emerged. Among them, the immunodot is simple, rapid, and inexpensive, but has been several times criticized for its lack of specificity.

Objectives

Our objective was to evaluate the current interpretation criteria of the D-Tek immunodot and to propose new interpretation rules based on clinical criteria in order to improve its reliability.

Methods

Were included in this retrospective study patients tested positive result on the semi-quantitative myositis/synthetase immunodots at manufacturer threshold (≥ 5 UA), for at least one of the 15 aAbs: anti-SRP, anti-NXP2, anti-TIF1, anti-SAE (1 and 2), anti-Mi2, anti-MDA5, anti-Jo1, anti-PL7, anti-PL12, anti-EJ, anti-OJ, anti-KS, anti-ZO, anti-HA. Specificity of the immunodots was further evaluated using 60 healthy and anonymous subjects (French blood bank, Toulouse, France). The clinical diagnosis and sub-classification retained by the clinician in charge of the patient was used as a reference for attribution to the myositis/non-myositis group and subgroups. For the myositis group, 7 subgroups were considered: immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (n=4); dermatomyositis (n=66); anti-synthetase syndrome (n=36); inclusion body myositis (n=1); overlap myositis with another connective tissue disease (n=7); polymyositis (n=8); and unclassified myositis (n=6). For the non-myositis group, patients were subdivided in 4 subgroups: autoimmune or inflammatory diseases (n=72); isolated and diffuse interstitial lung disease (n=26) not associated with other myositis criteria; other non-inflammatory myopathies (n=8) including genetic, metabolic, and toxic myopathies; and other diseases (n=36). The immunodot interpretation thresholds were evaluated both in relation to the manufacturer’s threshold, and by considering the phenotypes and clinical diagnoses using a ROC method (Youden’s index).

Results

Among 270 patients included between 01/07/2016 and 30/06/2020, 128 (47%) were classified as myositis (median age 58 years, 60% women, 52% DM and 28% AS) and 142 (53%) in non-myositis. Among the 15 aAbs analyzed, none were detected in the healthy control group but they were represented in both myositis and non-myositis group. Among them only 2 (anti-Jo1, anti-Mi2) predominate in the myositis group, and 1 (anti-TIF1) in the non-myositis group (Fisher’s test). As quantitative values were found different for 5 aAbs (Mann Whitney test), a clinical threshold was calculated to discriminate myositis from non-myositis groups (ROC curve) allowing to determine an odds ratio (OR). Accordingly, 4/15 (%) aAbs were found associated with myositis: anti-SRP (at 28UA: OR=3.24 95% CI [1.01-10.46], p=0.048), anti-MDA5 (at 15UA: OR=4.36; 95% CI [1.19-15.99], p=0.048), anti-Mi2 (at 5UA: OR =3.24; 95% CI [1.01-10.46], p=0.026), anti-Jo1 (at 5UA: OR= 12.20; 95% CI [2.78-53.52], p<0.0001). All positive predictive values were improved by using a clinical threshold although some of did not reach significance due to their infrequency.

Conclusion

In this retrospective work, despite missing data, the clinical phenotypes of myositis patients and their distribution according to aAbs were comparable to those in the literature. Our study confirms the lack of specificity of D-tek immunodots for IIM-specific aAbs and allows establishing new thresholds improving their performance. Our results should encourage medical biologists to establish local rules of interpretation and reinforce the interest of the discussion between Clinicians and Biologists around the interpretation of these immunodots.

Figure 1.

A: Odd Ratio (OR) evaluated with the manufacturer threshold ≥ 5 and B: OR using Youden’s index (clinical threshold).

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Distant lymph node metastases in gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: impact of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is established as the most accurate technique for pre-operative locoregional staging of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the distant lymph nodes (LNs) EUS-fine-needle aspiration (FNA) impact in therapeutic decision for patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study was made, with cross-sectional, non-probabilistic analysis from prospectively collected database for all GEJ adenocarcinoma staging patients referred between January 2009 and August 2012 in Paoli-Calmette Institute in Marseille-France.

RESULTS

A total of 154 patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma were managed in our institution, of whom 113 (73.3%) had non-distant metastatic disease at computed tomography (CT) scan and underwent EUS for initial tumor staging prior to a treatment decision. On A total of 113 patients undergoing EUS, 8 (7%) patients underwent endoscopic resection and 6 (5.3%) underwent direct surgical resection. Of the remaining 99 patients (87.6%), 24 (21.2%) distant LN EUS-FNA were made. Seventeen LN had EUS malignant features, including 9 (52.9%) that were confirmed as malignant and underwent palliative treatment with chemotherapy. Ninety (79.6%) patients were treated with pre-operative neoadjuvant therapy and were revaluated after. 4 (4.4%) had metastatic disease at CT scan (underwent palliative treatment) and 65 (72.2%) underwent EUS restaging to treatment decision revaluation. Of these, twelve (18.4%) distant LN EUS-FNA were performed. Seven had LN EUS malignancy features, including 4 (57.1%) that were confirmed as malignant and underwent palliative treatment. The remaining 61 patients underwent surgery. As stated above, 21 patients (23.3%) did not undergo EUS restaging, including 10 (47.6%) that did not go to surgery because patient's age, poor general status and comorbidities, 6 (28.5%) had a loss of follow-up, 1 (4.7%) underwent to surgery due to chemotherapy collateral effects, 3 (14.2%) were still on pre-operative chemotherapy and 1 (4.7%) died for sepsis after mediastinal EUS-FNA, this was the only complication event evidenced. EUS-FNA changed clinical management in 54.2% of patients who met the criteria inclusion (distant LN with malignancies EUS features), which corresponds to 11.5% of patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSION

EUS-FNA was able to provide a different tumor staging and these differences were associated with treatment received. EUS-FNA had a significant impact on treatment decision.

Short-term results after hepaticogastrostomy guided by echo-endoscopy: Monocentric retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Biliary drainage guided by echo-endoscopy (EUS) is a recent technique but expanding more and more in addition of retrograde and percutaneous approaches.

METHODS

Seventy-three hepaticogastrostomy (HG) were carried out from 2000 to 2013. After exclusion of patients included in a randomized prospective study, data from 60 patients were retrospectively analyzed in order to study the feasibility and early results of this technique.

RESULTS

During the study period, 60 patients (woman = 32; median age = 64 years [38-93]) were treated by HG. This technique was choose in the event of impossibility to reach the papilla, a failure of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or to achieve drainage of the left hepatic biliary ducts in 35%, 15% and 50%, respectively. The biliary stricture was neoplasic in 85%. Sixty-four procedures were carried out: The technical success rate was 94%. Eighteen patients presented one or more adverse effects (28%) including: Infection (n = 14), pneumoperitoneum (n = 7), choleperitoneum/bilioma (n = 8), hemorrhage (n = 2), other (n = 2). Seven stents migration occurred (11%). The average duration of hospitalization was 9 days (0-61j). Three related deaths occurred, due to severe infection. During the period of the study, several types of stent were placed during the first procedure: Plastic stent (n = 12), one covered or uncovered metallic stent (n = 9), association of one uncovered metallic stent and one fully covered stent (SIS, n = 27), or one half covered metallic stent (n = 16). The rate of complications was respectively 33% (n = 4), 56% (n = 5), 26% (n = 7) and 13% (n = 2) according to the type of stent used. Three successive periods can thus be individualized according to the type of biliary stent used and the use of the CO2 insufflator [Table 1]. [Table: see text].

CONCLUSIONS

Hepaticogastric anastomosis guided by echo-endoscopy is an effective, useful technique when the retrograde way is not possible or to drain selectively left intrahepatic biliary ducts. The morbidity rate is quite high but seems to decrease.

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided bi-lateral biliary drainage: A case series study

INTRODUCTION

Biliary obstruction is preferentially managed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). However, after ERCP failed, alternatives include percutaneous transhepatic drainage, surgery and more recently, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)-guided hepaticogastrostomy. The limitation of this technique is that the drainage is restricted to the left side. The aim of this study is to describe a new method of drainage of both hepatic ductal systems by hepaticogastrostomy in patients with hilar obstruction.

RESULTS

Nine prospectively patients were included, all with hilar obstruction (metastasis of a pancreatic adenocarcinoma n = 4, cholangiocarcinoma n = 1, gallbladder cancer n = 2 and metastasis from a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor n = 2). A total of four patients had previously Whipple surgery and the others five had duodenal involvement by the tumor. The topography of the stenosis varied from Bismuth type 2 (n = 7) and hilar infiltration in the others two. All of them were submitted a three-step drainage. The first one consisted in a transgastric EUS-guided puncture of the left-side bile duct with a 19 gauge needle, insertion of a 0.0035 inch guide wire which was positioned at the right biliary tree crossing the bile bifurcation. After a dilatation with 6 Fr cystotome, a non-covered self-expandable metal stent was placed communicating the right and left biliary ducts. Finally, a second stent, partially covered, was inserted at the left biliary duct, with the distal part inside the previously stent and the proximal edge positioned at the stomach. Successful drainage was observed in seven patients, two of them presented abdominal pain during the first 72 h. One patient developed sepsis and death 7 days after the procedure and the other one had drainage failure. Jaundice was reduced significatively in seven patients and a chemotherapy was started in 6/7 patients.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study shows the feasibility of this new technique to drain the right biliary duct in patients with hilar obstruction, with few major complications rates.

Distant lymph node metastases in gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: impact of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is established as the most accurate technique for pre-operative locoregional staging of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the distant lymph nodes (LNs) EUS-fine-needle aspiration (FNA) impact in therapeutic decision for patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study was made, with cross-sectional, non-probabilistic analysis from prospectively collected database for all GEJ adenocarcinoma staging patients referred between January 2009 and August 2012 in Paoli-Calmette Institute in Marseille-France.

RESULTS

A total of 154 patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma were managed in our institution, of whom 113 (73.3%) had non-distant metastatic disease at computed tomography (CT) scan and underwent EUS for initial tumor staging prior to a treatment decision. On A total of 113 patients undergoing EUS, 8 (7%) patients underwent endoscopic resection and 6 (5.3%) underwent direct surgical resection. Of the remaining 99 patients (87.6%), 24 (21.2%) distant LN EUS-FNA were made. Seventeen LN had EUS malignant features, including 9 (52.9%) that were confirmed as malignant and underwent palliative treatment with chemotherapy. Ninety (79.6%) patients were treated with pre-operative neoadjuvant therapy and were revaluated after. 4 (4.4%) had metastatic disease at CT scan (underwent palliative treatment) and 65 (72.2%) underwent EUS restaging to treatment decision revaluation. Of these, twelve (18.4%) distant LN EUS-FNA were performed. Seven had LN EUS malignancy features, including 4 (57.1%) that were confirmed as malignant and underwent palliative treatment. The remaining 61 patients underwent surgery. As stated above, 21 patients (23.3%) did not undergo EUS restaging, including 10 (47.6%) that did not go to surgery because patient's age, poor general status and comorbidities, 6 (28.5%) had a loss of follow-up, 1 (4.7%) underwent to surgery due to chemotherapy collateral effects, 3 (14.2%) were still on pre-operative chemotherapy and 1 (4.7%) died for sepsis after mediastinal EUS-FNA, this was the only complication event evidenced. EUS-FNA changed clinical management in 54.2% of patients who met the criteria inclusion (distant LN with malignancies EUS features), which corresponds to 11.5% of patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSION

EUS-FNA was able to provide a different tumor staging and these differences were associated with treatment received. EUS-FNA had a significant impact on treatment decision.

A distinctive epitheliomesenchymal biphasic tumor in the duodenum: the first case of duodenoblastoma?

Epitheliomesenchymal biphasic neoplasms are extremely rare in the duodenum, and most of these are carcinosarcomas. Miettinen et al. (Am J Surg Pathol 33:1370-7, 2009) recently reported three cases of a novel distinctive epitheliomesenchymal biphasic tumor of the stomach in young adults. In view of the resemblance to other childhood blastomas, they proposed to refer to this entity as a gastroblastoma. Since none of the components were sufficiently atypical, the gastroblastoma seemed more comparable to this kind of tumor than carcinosarcomas or other aggressive and malignant biphasic tumors. This report describes a duodenal location of a similar epitheliomesenchymal biphasic tumor in a 22-year-old woman. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case occurring primarily in the duodenum and might be the first case of "duodenoblastoma."

Radiofrequency ablation associated to mucosal resection in the oesophagus: experience in a single centre

Endoscopic resection (EMR) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) form part of the treatment of Barrett's oesophagus (BO), dysplasia, superficial adenocarcinoma (OAC) associated with BO.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between June 2008 and April 2011, 34 patients underwent treatment with RFA (HALO system(®)), in a tertiary centre. For the study, patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 (16 patients of average 60 years old; 14 men, two women) received EMR and RFA. Group 2 (18 patients averaging 59 years age; 14 men, four women) received RFA without EMR in the year preceding the RFA.

RESULTS

In group 1, high grade dysplasia (HGD) was eradicated in 12 cases (92%), low grade dysplasia (LGD) in three cases (100%). Complete response occurred in nine cases (56%), partial response in 100% of cases. Mean follow-up was 15 months. In group 2, HGD was eradicated in one patient (100%), LGD in three patients (64%). A complete response was achieved in eight patients, partial response in four cases (77%). Mean follow-up was 10 months. The complication rate for groups 1 and 2 was of 18% and 10% respectively. No complication prevented completion of treatment or continued monitoring. Recurrence was evaluated to 5% in both groups.

CONCLUSION

RFA associated with EMR is feasible, offering probably better results and a very important advantage: a more complete histology before follow-up. Our results show effective treatment of BO and associated dysplasia with a low rate of complication. Nevertheless, when new techniques of BO ablation are used, the need to obtain histology before treatment should not be forgotten.

[Predictive factors of tumour response after neoadjuvant chemoradiation for locally advanced rectal cancer and correlation of these factors with survival]

PURPOSE

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery is the standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to correlate tumour response to survival and to identify predictive factors for tumour response after chemoradiation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1998 to 2008, 168 patients with histologically-proven locally advanced adenocarcinoma treated by preoperative chemoradiation before total mesorectal excision were retrospectively studied. They received a radiation dose of 45 Gy with a concomitant 5-fluoro-uracil-based chemotherapy. Analysis of tumour response was based on the lowering of T stage between pre-treatment endorectal ultrasound and pathologic specimens. Overall and progression-free survival was correlated with tumour response. Tumour response was analysed with predictive factors.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 34 months. Five-year disease-free survival and overall survival were respectively of 44.4% and 74.5% in the whole population, 83.4% and 83.4% in patients with pathological complete response, 38.6% and 71.9% in patients with tumour downstaging, 29.1% and 58.9% in patients with absence of response. A pre-treatment concentration of carcinoembryonnic antigen below 5 ng/mL was significantly associated with tumour downstaging and significantly independently associated with pathologic complete tumour response (P = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

Downstaging and complete response after chemoradiation improved progression-free survival and overall survival of locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma. In multivariate analysis, a pre-treatment concentration of carcinoembryonnic antigen below 5 ng/mL was associated with complete tumour response, hence with tumour downstaging.

Results of a phase I-II study on intraductal confocal microscopy (IDCM) in patients with common bile duct (CBD) stenosis

BACKGROUND

Confocal endomicroscopy is an emergent technique and allows real optical biopsies in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate a new intraductal confocal miniprobe in patients with a normal common bile duct (CBD) or with a suspicion of a malignant stenosis (cholangiocarcinoma).

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients (23 males) underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for bile duct stone removal (7 cases) or bile duct stenosis (30 cases). Intraductal confocal microscopy (IDCM) was performed during the ERCP using a probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) technique. IDCM was done with the CholangioFlex probe with Cellvizio (Mauna Kea Technologies, Paris, France). The depth of penetration of theCholangioFlex probe was 40-70 μm and magnification was 400×. Images were reviewed by an experienced pathologist in GI disease and compared to ERCP findings, CBD biopsies performed during ERCP or EUS, and in 15 patients to the resected specimen (Wipple resection).

RESULTS

No complications related to the CholangioFlex insertion occurred after the ERCP. Good images were obtained in 33 patients. Final histology diagnosis was a normal CBD in 7 cases, 23 malignant stenoses (4 ampullary carcinomas, 13 cholangiocarcinomas, and 6 pancreatic cancer), and 7 inflammatory stenoses (4 chronic pancreatitis, 1 stenosis of hepaticojejunal anastomosis, 1 postcholecystectomy CBD stenosis, and 1 primary sclerosing cholangitis). IDCM of a normal CBD showed a thin black band (<20 μm), normal vessels (thin and regular), and no visible glands. IDCM of malignant strictures revealed irregular vessels with lack of contrast in the CBD wall, large black band (>20 μm), and an aggregate of irregular black cells (black clumps). These aspects were seen in all malignant stenoses and none were seen in benign or normal CBD. The presence of irregular vessels, large black bands, and black clumps seen with confocal laser microscopy enabled prediction of neoplasia with an accuracy rate of 86%, sensitivity of 83%, and specificity of 75%. The respective numbers for standard histopathology were 53, 65, and 53%.

CONCLUSION

This phase I-II study on IDCM showed that IDCM is feasible. This new technique will open a new door for optical biopsy of the CBD.

Results of a phase I-II study on intraductal confocal microscopy (IDCM) in patients with common bile duct (CBD) stenosis

BACKGROUND

Confocal endomicroscopy is an emergent technique and allows real optical biopsies in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate a new intraductal confocal miniprobe in patients with a normal common bile duct (CBD) or with a suspicion of a malignant stenosis (cholangiocarcinoma).

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients (23 males) underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for bile duct stone removal (7 cases) or bile duct stenosis (30 cases). Intraductal confocal microscopy (IDCM) was performed during the ERCP using a probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) technique. IDCM was done with the CholangioFlex probe with Cellvizio (Mauna Kea Technologies, Paris, France). The depth of penetration of theCholangioFlex probe was 40-70 μm and magnification was 400×. Images were reviewed by an experienced pathologist in GI disease and compared to ERCP findings, CBD biopsies performed during ERCP or EUS, and in 15 patients to the resected specimen (Wipple resection).

RESULTS

No complications related to the CholangioFlex insertion occurred after the ERCP. Good images were obtained in 33 patients. Final histology diagnosis was a normal CBD in 7 cases, 23 malignant stenoses (4 ampullary carcinomas, 13 cholangiocarcinomas, and 6 pancreatic cancer), and 7 inflammatory stenoses (4 chronic pancreatitis, 1 stenosis of hepaticojejunal anastomosis, 1 postcholecystectomy CBD stenosis, and 1 primary sclerosing cholangitis). IDCM of a normal CBD showed a thin black band (<20 μm), normal vessels (thin and regular), and no visible glands. IDCM of malignant strictures revealed irregular vessels with lack of contrast in the CBD wall, large black band (>20 μm), and an aggregate of irregular black cells (black clumps). These aspects were seen in all malignant stenoses and none were seen in benign or normal CBD. The presence of irregular vessels, large black bands, and black clumps seen with confocal laser microscopy enabled prediction of neoplasia with an accuracy rate of 86%, sensitivity of 83%, and specificity of 75%. The respective numbers for standard histopathology were 53, 65, and 53%.

CONCLUSION

This phase I-II study on IDCM showed that IDCM is feasible. This new technique will open a new door for optical biopsy of the CBD.

Clinical and virological factors associated with hepatitis B virus reactivation in HBsAg-negative and anti-HBc antibodies-positive patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or autologous stem cell transplantation for cancer

We studied clinical outcome and clinico-virological factors associated with hepatitis B virus reactivation (HBV-R) following cancer treatment in hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative/anti-hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBcAb)-positive patients. Between 11/2003 and 12/2005, HBV-R occurred in 7/84 HBsAg-negative/anti-HBcAb-positive patients treated for haematological or solid cancer. Virological factors including HBV genotype, core promoter, precore, and HBsAg genotypic and amino acid (aa) patterns were studied. Patients presenting with reactivation were men, had an hepatitis B virus surface antibody (HBsAb) titre <100 IU/L and underwent >1 line of chemotherapy (CT) significantly more frequently than controls. All were treated for haematological cancer, 3/7 received haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and 4/7 received rituximab. Using multivariate analysis, receiving >1 line of CT was an independent risk factor for HBV-R. Fatal outcome occurred in 3/7 patients (despite lamivudine therapy in two), whereas 2/4 survivors had an HBsAg seroconversion. HBV-R involved non-A HBV genotypes and core promoter and/or precore HBV mutants in all cases. Mutations known to impair HBsAg antigenicity were detected in HBV DNA from all seven patients. HBV DNA could be retrospectively detected in two patients prior cancer treatment and despite HBsAg negativity. HBV-R is a concern in HBsAg-negative/anti-HBcAb-positive patients undergoing cancer therapy, especially in males presenting with haematological cancer, a low anti-HBsAb titre and more than one chemotherapeutic agent. HBV DNA testing is mandatory to improve diagnosis and management of HBV-R in these patients. The role of specific therapies such as rituximab or HSCT as well as of HBV aa variability deserves further studies.

Transgastric endoscopic ultrasonography-guided biliary drainage: results of a pilot study

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) access to the biliary tract is sometimes impossible and percutaneous access has the disadvantages of increased morbidity and patient discomfort. We present our first results with an alternative technique: endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)-guided transgastric biliary drainage.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

11 patients (7 men, mean age 64 years) were referred for failed ERCP and biliary obstruction (malignancy n = 8, benign conditions n = 3). The retrograde approach via the papilla had been impossible due to surgical anatomy, duodenal stenosis, and hilar stricture with occlusion of the left side. EUS-guided drainage was done with endoscopic and fluoroscopic monitoring. After puncture of the left biliary duct a guide wire was inserted into it followed by tract dilation using a cystostome. A plastic or a metallic stent was placed through this gastrobiliary fistula for bile drainage.

RESULTS

EUS-guided left hepaticogastrostomy was successfully performed in 10/11 cases, with one failure of guide wire insertion after puncture. Plastic and covered metal stents were inserted in seven and three patients, respectively. Complications in the plastic stent group included one early occlusion requiring stent replacement, and one transient ileus. In the metallic stent group there was one bilioma and one cholangitis, due to stent shortening. Clinically, the stent was efficacious in all 10 cases; during a mean follow-up of 213 days (range 3-610), two patients presented with stent occlusion and one with stent migration, with successful endoscopic treatment in all.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-guided hepaticogastrostomy is an efficient technique and could be a future alternative to percutaneous biliary drainage or palliative surgical drainage.

Circumferential endoscopic resection of Barrett's esophagus with high-grade dysplasia or early adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Barrett's esophagus-related high-grade dysplasia or mucosal cancer can be treated by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), but the adjacent metaplastic epithelium remains at risk for developing further lesions. Our objective was to evaluate the results of the circumferential EMR in removing not only the neoplastic lesion but also the remaining Barrett's epithelium.

METHODS

Forty-one consecutive patients (mean age: 66 years) with Barrett's esophagus were submitted to 63 EMR sessions in one single-referral endoscopic unit. All patients had high-grade dysplasia, and cancer was detected in 23 of these cases, most of them classified as T1N0 (20 patients) by endosonography. Mucosectomy after saline submucosal injection was performed for the neoplastic lesions and, if necessary, the residual Barrett's epithelium was removed by the same technique one month later.

RESULTS

A retrospective evaluation showed that, during a mean follow-up of 31.6 months, Barrett's epithelium was completely replaced by squamous epithelium in 31 (75.6%) cases. There were 10 complications, all of which were managed endoscopically: 8 cases of bleeding and two perforations occurred in 9 (14.3%) patients. One patient developed an esophageal stricture. Barrett's epithelium recurred in 10 (24.4%) patients and recurrent or metachronous early cancer was detected in 5 (12.2%), all but one of which were treated again by EMR; the fifth patient was referred to surgery. Argon plasma coagulation was used in 6 cases to treat Barrett's epithelium, and two patients received concomitant chemoradiotherapy as adjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Circumferential EMR provides an effective endoscopic approach to the management of Barrett's esophagus-related high-grade dysplasia and mucosal cancer. Additional studies are necessary to evaluate the long-term results.

Three-dimensional endorectal ultrasound using a new freehand software program: results in 35 patients with rectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

This paper describes experience in the staging of rectal cancer using a new software program for three-dimensional endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) that works without electromagnetic sensors and can be used even with electronic radial or linear rectal probes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From May 2003 to March 2004, 35 three-dimensional endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) examinations were carried out using this program. The indication for ERUS was local staging of rectal cancer in all cases. The three-dimensional software imaging program forms part of a new ultrasound scanning system (Hitachi 6500 or 8000) and allows reconstruction of the two-dimensional EUS images in six different scans.

RESULTS

Thirty-five rectal cancers were assessed using two-dimensional and three-dimensional EUS. Using two-dimensional imaging, it was not possible to assess precisely the degree of involvement of the mesorectum (more or less than 50%). No differences were evident with three-dimensional EUS for superficial tumors (T1 and T2N0), but in six of 15 patients classified as having T3N0 lesions, three-dimensional EUS revealed malignant lymph nodes, a finding that was confirmed surgically in five of the six cases. Three-dimensional EUS also made it possible to assess the degree of infiltration of the mesorectum precisely in all cases, demonstrating complete invasion of the mesorectum in eight cases. These findings were confirmed in all cases by the surgical data. Two-dimensional EUS correctly assessed 25 of the 35 rectal tumors (71.4%) in relation to the T and N classifications, and three-dimensional EUS increased this figure to 31 correct evaluations out of 35 (88.6%).

CONCLUSION

Three-dimensional ERUS is easy to carry out using this new software program. There is no need for an external sensor mounted at the tip of the probe, and manipulation of the rectal probe is facilitated. Three-dimensional ERUS can be carried out using linear and radial electronic probes with the same ultrasound equipment. Three-dimensional ERUS allows more precise staging of lesions and better definition of the mesorectal margins, and this has a direct impact on therapeutic decision-making in patients with rectal cancer.

Endoscopic ultrasound elastography: the first step towards virtual biopsy? Preliminary results in 49 patients

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

It is well known that some diseases, such as cancer, lead to changes in the hardness of tissue. Sonoelastography, a technique that allows the elasticity of tissue to be assessed during ultrasound examination, provides the ultrasonographer with important additional information that can be used for diagnosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of endoscopic ultrasound elastography to differentiate between benign and malignant pancreatic masses and lymph nodes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During a 12-month period, 49 patients underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) examinations with elastography, conducted by a single endoscopist. Twenty-four patients underwent evaluation of a pancreatic mass (mean diameter 24.7 +/- 11.1 mm) and 25 underwent evaluation of 31 lymph nodes. The mean diameter of the lymph nodes was 19.7 +/- 8.6 mm, and they were found in the cervical area (n = 3), mediastinum (n = 17), celiac arterial trunk region (n = 5), and aortocaval region (n = 6).

RESULTS

The sonoelastography images of pancreatic masses were interpreted as benign in four cases and malignant in 20. The sensitivity and specificity of sonoelastography in the diagnosis of malignant lesions were 100% and 67%, respectively. The sonoelastography images of the lymph nodes were interpreted as showing malignancy in 22 cases, benign conditions in seven, and indeterminate status in two. The sensitivity and specificity of sonoelastography for evaluating malignant lymph-node invasion were 100% and 50%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS elastography is potentially capable of further defining the tissue characteristics of benign and malignant lesions but specifity has to be improved. It can be used to guide biopsy sampling for diagnosis.

Endoscopic mucosal resection for advanced sessile adenoma and early-stage colorectal carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of treatment by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of patients with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1995 and January 2002, 50 patients (35 men, 15 women) were treated by EMR for 52 sessile polyps. The median size of the polyps was 27.5 mm (range 10-60). The "lift and cut" EMR technique was used. If the lesion was poorly differentiated or infiltrated the muscularis mucosae to more than 1000 microm, the patient was referred for colectomy. In the other cases, follow-up was proposed.

RESULTS

Complications occurred in 9.6 % of cases and were always treated conservatively. The rate of endoscopically complete resection was judged to be 98.1 %. Argon plasma coagulation was applied to the margins of the lesion in 21.6 % of cases. Histological examination showed 38 HGDs and 14 carcinomas. Seven patients had a lesion reaching the deep or lateral margin; four were referred for surgery; two patients for whom surgery would have been high risk were followed up, and both developed local recurrence; and one patient was followed up, without recurrence, because infiltration was less than 1000 microm. A total of 43 patients were followed up after complete excision. Two patients died during follow-up; neither death could be reliably attributed to colorectal carcinoma. Seven patients were lost during the follow-up. For 34 patients, information from a mean follow-up of 17.3 months (6 - 57) was available and recurrence was observed in five cases (15 %).

CONCLUSIONS

EMR appears to be a safe and efficient treatment of HGD and early colorectal cancer. However, correct analysis of submucosal infiltration is essential to assess the completeness of the resection.

Embolie gazeuse : une complication rare de la cholangiopancréatographie rétrograde endoscopique

We report the case of a 60-year-old-woman with a myeloma who was hospitalized with a cholestasis. An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was scheduled under general anaesthesia with oral intubation. As the biliary prothesis was placed an air embolism happened. The symptomatic treatment allowed a complete recovery. This complication is rare. The pathophysiology is not well known, we discuss the possible mechanisms.

[Major hepatectomy for metastasis of colorectal cancer improves survival in the elderly]

OBJECTIVE

Assessing impact of major liver resection (LR) for hepatic metastasis of colorectal cancer (HMCC) on post operative courses and long term survival in the elderly.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Thirty-three consecutive patients aged over 70 years-old were treated in our institution for up to 3 resectable metachronous HMCC. Fifteen patients had major LR (9 right hepatectomy, 3 extended right hepatectomy, 3 left hepatectomy) without pre or postoperative chemotherapy (group 1) and 18 patients were exclusively treated by chemotherapy (group 2) because of high ASA score (ASA 3) or patients refusal.

RESULTS

No patients died of another cause that colorectal cancer disease during observation time. All patients of group 2 died during observation time. Post operative mortality and morbidity of group 1 were respectively 0% and 33%. Survival at 1 and 2 years of group 1-2 were respectively 73-50% (P=0,04) and 47-15% (P=0,05). Median survival of group 1 and 2 were respectively 22 and 12 months (P=0,03).

CONCLUSIONS

Major LR for HMCC could be proposed regardless the age. High ASA score, multiple (more than 4) metastasis location, evolutive disease could justify an exclusive medical approach.

Circumferential endoscopic mucosal resection in Barrett's esophagus with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or mucosal cancer. Preliminary results in 21 patients

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Treatment by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has been established for early lesions in Barrett's esophagus. However, the remaining Barrett's esophagus epithelium remains at risk of developing further lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of circumferential endoscopic mucosectomy (circumferential EMR)s in removing not only the index lesion (high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) or mucosal cancer), but also the remaining Barrett's esophagus epithelium.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 21 patients were included in the study (11 men, 10 women), who had Barrett's esophagus and either HGIN (n = 12) or mucosal cancer (n = 9). Of the patients, 17/21 were at high surgical risk and five had refused surgery. On the basis of preprocedure endosonography their lesions were classified as T1N0 (n = 19) or T0N0 (n = 2). The lesions and the Barrett's esophagus epithelium were removed by polypectomy after submucosal injection of 10-15 ml of saline; a double-channel endoscope was used in 15/21 cases. Circumferential EMR was performed in two sessions, the lesion and the surrounding half of the circumferential Barrett's esophagus mucosa being removed in the first session. In order to prevent the formation of esophageal stenosis, the second half of the Barrett's esophagus mucosa was resected 1 month later.

RESULTS

Complications occurred in 4/21 patients (19 %), consisting of bleeding which was successfully managed by endoscopic hemostasis in all cases. No strictures were observed during follow-up (mean duration 18 months) and endoscopic resection was considered complete in 18/21 patients (86 %). For three patients, histological examination showed incomplete removal of tumor: one of these underwent surgery; two received chemoradiotherapy, and showed no evidence of residual tumor at 18 months' and 24 months' follow-up, respectively. Two patients in whom resection was initially classified as complete later presented with local recurrence and were treated again by EMR. Barrett's esophagus mucosa was completely replaced by squamous cell epithelium in 15/20 patients (75 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Circumferential EMR is a noninvasive treatment of Barrett's esophagus with HGIN or mucosal cancer, with a low complication rate and good short-term clinical efficacy. Further studies should focus on long-term results and on technical improvements.

A reappraisal of preoperative chemoradiation for localized pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma in a 5-year single-institution experience

Resection of localized pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma (LPHDA) has a limited impact on survival. Mechanisms of improvement provided by preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT) remain under debate. This study analyzes the outcome of patients treated for LPHDA to delineate the benefits of CRT. Among 87 patients with LPHDA, 17 had a pancreaticoduodenectomy alone (group I). Thirty-nine with initially resectable cancers received CRT with 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy (group II). Thirty-one with initially unresectable cancers were similarly treated by CRT (group III). Patients in groups II and III were restaged after completion of CRT. In patients with resectable disease, resection was planned. Patients in groups I and II were statistically comparable in terms of age, sex, and pretherapeutic stage. Median survival and 2-year overall survival in group I were 13.7 months and 31%, respectively. In group II, 23 patients (59%) had a pancreaticoduodenectomy (group IIa) and 16 patients (41%) did not have resection (group IIb). Median survival and 2-year overall survival were as follows: group IIa, 26.6 months and 51%; and group IIb, 6.1 months and 0%, respectively. In group IIa, pathologic examination revealed eight major responses (35%) including two sterilized specimens, and none of the patients had locoregional recurrence. In group III, none of the patients had resection, and median survival was 8 months with one 2-year survivor. Patient selection appears to play a major role with regard to results achieved with preoperative CRT followed by pancreaticoduodenectomy. However, a high histologic response rate and excellent local control can also be achieved.

Hepaticogastrostomy by echo-endoscopy as a palliative treatment in a patient with metastatic biliary obstruction

A palliative hepaticogastrostomy was performed under endoscopic ultrasound guidance in a patient with inoperable hepatic hilar obstruction, creating an anastomosis between the dilated left hepatic duct and the stomach, to relieve symptoms of cholangitis and to allow biliary drainage. This therapeutic procedure was used as an alternative method of drainage of the biliary tree because endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was not possible and because the percutaneous metallic stent which had been inserted earlier had become occluded (probably by tumor overgrowth). It was a two-step procedure. In the first step a hepatic duct was punctured through the gastric wall with placement of a plastic stent, which created a fistula between them. In a second step a covered, metallic, self-expandable stent was substituted for the plastic stent to maintain the anastomosis and to improve patency over the medium term. The patient's fever was relieved and the bilirubin level fell; the patient remained asymptomatic at the five-months-follow-up.

Docetaxel and radiotherapy and pancreatic cancer

PURPOSE

We conducted a phase 1 trial to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of weekly docetaxel delivered concurrently with radiation therapy for the treatment of locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirteen patients with histologically proven locally non-resectable advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas were enrolled in this study. Patients received 4 weekly doses of docetaxel by 1-hour intravenous (IV) infusion with 40 Gy of external beam radiation therapy during 4 weeks. Patients who were stabilized or in response, received 2 additional cycles of docetaxel with a 10 Gy boost of radiotherapy. Doses were escalated at 10 mg/m2 increments in successive cohorts of 3 new patients until MTD was observed.

RESULTS

Four patients received docetaxel at 20 mg/m2/week, 3 at 25 mg/m2/week, 3 at 30 mg/m2/week, and 3 at 35 mg/m2/week. All patients, except 2, were given the treatment in its integrity. The most common toxicities were nausea, vomiting, asthenia, and abdominal pains. Except for 1 patient, all toxicity was reversible and did not exceed grade 3. Hematologic toxicity was mild and has not required treatment interruption. 28% of the patients had to be rehospitalized. A total of 73 cycles was administered with a mean of 4 cycles per patient (2-6).

CONCLUSION

Even the MTD was not reached, dose escalation was stopped at 35 mg/m2/week. This dose is comparable to the ones previously published using docetaxel in combination with radiotherapy in other tumors. Three patients achieved stable disease and 1 patient an objective response. This combination of weekly docetaxel and radiotherapy shows a feasible and well-tolerated regimen, with, nonetheless, a significant rate of rehospitalization, for patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.

Drainage of deep pelvic abscesses using therapeutic echo endoscopy

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of endosonographically guided transrectal aspiration and drainage by plastic stent of deep pelvic abscesses, using a therapeutic echo endoscope device.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between September 2000 and June 2001, 12 patients (nine men, three women, mean age 67 years) were treated for a perirectal or a pelvic abscess using an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) technique. The drainage of these fluid collections was performed under EUS guidance, using therapeutic EUS scopes with a large working channel.

RESULTS

No major complication occurred during this study. Transrectal stent insertion succeeded in nine patients. In three patients, only aspiration was possible. Among the nine patients in whom a stent was successfully introduced into the fluid collection, complete drainage without relapse was achieved in eight patients (mean follow-up 10.6 months, range 6-14 months). The stent was removed endoscopically after 3 to 6 months. Drainage was incomplete in one patient (with a large abscess, diameter > 8 cm), who subsequently underwent surgical drainage. However, two out of the three patients in whom aspiration alone was performed developed a recurrence of the abscess and required surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

EUS-guided drainage of deep pelvic abscesses could offer an alternative treatment to surgery in the management of these postoperative complications.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided bilioduodenal anastomosis: a new technique for biliary drainage

Endoscopic biliary stenting is the most common method of treating obstructive jaundice. We present a new technique of biliary drainage using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS-guided puncture of the common bile duct (CBD). A 56-year-old man with obstructive jaundice was referred for EUS and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) because a computed tomography (CT) scan had shown a pancreatic mass in the head of the pancreas and a dilated CBD. The patient was enrolled in a preoperative chemoradiotherapy protocol and biliary stenting was required. Deep cannulation was not obtained even after a precut and the procedure was stopped. Using a therapeutic EUS scope (FG 38X Pentax), the CBD was punctured with a 5-F needle-knife under EUS guidance and a cholangiogram was obtained. A 0.35-inch guide wire was introduced into the CBD. The EUS scope was removed and a duodenoscope was introduced, allowing the placement through the duodenum of a 10-F plastic stent. The CBD was drained properly. No complication occurred.