Efficacy and Toxicity of Palliative Chemotherapy in Elderly Patients With Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to compare the efficacy and toxicity of palliative chemotherapy in elderly patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with those in younger patients.

METHODS

A total of 60 patients with locally advanced or metastatic PDAC who received FOLFIRINOX or nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine at our institution from January 2014 to December 2021 were analyzed. Patients 70 years or older were classified into an elderly group.

RESULTS

The elderly group included 16 patients (26.7%). In the elderly group, nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine was used more than FOLFIRINOX compared with the young group (75.0% and 25.0% vs 34.1% and 64.9%, respectively; P = 0.008). The overall survival was not significantly different between the 2 groups (15.6 vs 13.4 months, P = 0.259). However, the elderly group showed better progression-free survival (11.4 vs 7.4 months, P = 0.034). The incidence of adverse events including neutropenia (75.0% vs 81.8%, P = 0.716), thrombocytopenia (25.0% vs 31.3%, P = 0.743), and anemia (50.0% vs 43.2%, P = 0.771) was not different between the 2 groups. Peripheral neuropathy was more common in the elderly group (18.3% vs 2.3%, P = 0.054), though not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and toxicity of chemotherapy in elderly patients with advanced PDAC were comparable with those in younger patients.

Double-guidewire technique for selective biliary cannulation does not increase the rate of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis in patients with naïve papilla

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to compare the safety of the double-guidewire technique (DGT) with that of the conventional single-guidewire technique (SGT) in real-world situations.

METHODS

A total of 240 patients with naïve papilla who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) at Daegu Catholic University Medical Center between January 2021 and December 2021 were included. The primary outcome was the rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) in the SGT and DGT groups.

RESULTS

A total of 163 patients (67.9%) belonged to the SGT group, and 77 (32.1%) belonged to the DGT group. The rates of successful biliary cannulation were 95.7% and 83.1% in the SGT and DGT groups, respectively (p=0.002). In the study group, PEP occurred in 14 patients (5.8%). The PEP rates were not significantly different between the SGT and DGT groups (4.3% vs. 9.1%, p=0.150). In the multivariate analysis, the age of <50 years (odds ratio [OR], 9.305; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.367-63.358; p=0.023) and hyperlipidemia (OR, 7.384; 95% CI, 1.103-49.424; p=0.039) were significant risk factors for PEP in the DGT group.

CONCLUSION

DGT did not increase the PEP rate in patients with naïve papilla. In addition, the age of <50 years and hyperlipidemia were significant risk factors for PEP in the DGT group.

Efficacy of GV1001 with gemcitabine/capecitabine in previously untreated patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma having high serum eotaxin levels (KG4/2015): an open-label, randomised, Phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

The TeloVac study indicated GV1001 did not improve the survival of advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the cytokine examinations suggested that high serum eotaxin levels may predict responses to GV1001. This Phase III trial assessed the efficacy of GV1001 with gemcitabine/capecitabine for eotaxin-high patients with untreated advanced PDAC.

METHODS

Patients recruited from 16 hospitals received gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2, D 1, 8, and 15)/capecitabine (830 mg/m2 BID for 21 days) per month either with (GV1001 group) or without (control group) GV1001 (0.56 mg; D 1, 3, and 5, once on week 2-4, 6, then monthly thereafter) at random in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) and secondary end points included time to progression (TTP), objective response rate, and safety.

RESULTS

Total 148 patients were randomly assigned to the GV1001 (n = 75) and control groups (n = 73). The GV1001 group showed improved median OS (11.3 vs. 7.5 months, P = 0.021) and TTP (7.3 vs. 4.5 months, P = 0.021) compared to the control group. Grade >3 adverse events were reported in 77.3% and 73.1% in the GV1001 and control groups (P = 0.562), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

GV1001 plus gemcitabine/capecitabine improved OS and TTP compared to gemcitabine/capecitabine alone in eotaxin-high patients with advanced PDAC.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02854072.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Dose-Escalation Safety and Tolerability Trial

BACKGROUND

We conducted a preliminary phase I, dose-escalating, safety, and tolerability trial in the population of patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) by using human allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria included nontraumatic supratentorial hematoma less than 60 mL and Glasgow Coma Scale score greater than 5. All patients were monitored in the neurosciences intensive care unit for safety and tolerability of mesenchymal stem/stromal cell infusion and adverse events. We also explored the use of cytokines as biomarkers to assess responsiveness to the cell therapy. We screened 140 patients, enrolling 9 who met eligibility criteria into three dose groups: 0.5 million cells/kg, 1 million cells/kg, and 2 million cells/kg.

RESULTS

Intravenous administration of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells to treat patients with acute ICH is feasible and safe.

CONCLUSIONS

Future larger randomized, placebo-controlled ICH studies are necessary to validate this study and establish the effectiveness of this therapeutic approach in the treatment of patients with ICH.

Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Receiving Palliative Chemotherapy: Incidence and Effect on Prognosis

Background/Aims

This study evaluated the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) at the authors' institution and analyzed the risk factors associated with VTE and the overall survival (OS).

Methods

One hundred and seventy patients with locally advanced or metastatic PDAC who received palliative chemotherapy at Daegu Catholic University Medical Center from January 2011 to December 2020 were included.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 341 days, 24 patients (14.1%) developed VTE. Cumulative incidence values of VTE were 4.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.39-9.22) at 90 days, 9.9% (95% CI, 6.14-15.59) at 180 days, and 16.9% (95% CI, 11.50-24.36) at 360 days. Multivariate analysis showed that a carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) level over 1,000 U/mL (hazard ratio [HR], 2.666; 95% CI, 1.112-6.389; p=0.028) and a history of alcohol consumption (HR, 0.327; 95% CI, 0.109-0.981; p=0.046) were significant factors associated with VTE. Patients with VTE showed a shorter median survival (347 days vs. 556 days; p=0.041) than those without VTE. Multivariate analysis revealed VTE (HR, 1.850; 95% CI, 1.049-3.263; p=0.033) and CA 19-9 level over 1,000 U/mL (HR, 1.843; 95% CI, 1.113-3.052; p=0.017) to be significant risk factors associated with OS.

Conclusions

The cumulative incidence of VTE in patients with advanced PDAC was 16.9% at 360 days. While a history of alcohol consumption was a protective factor, a high CA19-9 level was a risk factor for VTE. In addition, the occurrence of VTE was associated with poor prognosis.

Natural Course of Early Detected Acute Peripancreatic Fluid Collection in Moderately Severe or Severe Acute Pancreatitis

Background and Objectives: Acute peripancreatic fluid collection (APFC) is an acute local complication of acute pancreatitis (AP) according to the revised Atlanta classification. Sometimes APFC resolves completely, sometimes it changes into a pseudocyst or walled-off necrosis (WON), so called late complications. The aim of this study is to investigate the natural course of APFC detected on early computed tomography (CT) in moderately severe (MSAP) or severe AP (SAP). Materials and Methods: From October 2014 to September 2015, patients with MSAP or SAP were enrolled if there was APFC within 48 h of onset on imaging studies at six medical centers. The status of fluid collection was followed 4–8 weeks after onset. Initial laboratory findings, CT findings and clinical scoring systems were analyzed. Results: A total of 68 patients were enrolled and APFC was completely resolved in 32 (66.7%) patients in the MSAP group and 9 (34.6%) in the SAP group. Patients with a high bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP) score (≥3 points) were common in the SAP group. C-reactive protein (CRP) after 48 h from admission and BUN level were also high in the SAP group. In multivariate analysis, BISAP score (≥3 points), elevation of CRP after 48 h (≥150 mg/L) and nasojejunal feeding after 48 h were risk factors for the development of late complications. Conclusions: Spontaneous resolution of APFC was more common in MSAP group and APFC can be changed to pseudocyst or WON in patients with elevated BISAP score, CRP level after 48 h, and non-improved abdominal pain.

The effect and therapeutic compliance of adjuvant therapy in patients with cholangiocarcinoma after R0 resection: a retrospective study

BACKGRUOUND

This study aimed to compare clinical outcomes between surveillance and adjuvant therapy (AT) groups after R0 resection for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

METHODS

A total of 154 patients who underwent R0 resection for CCA at the Daegu Catholic University Medical Center between January 2010 and December 2019 were included. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median follow-up duration was 899 days. There were 109 patients in the AT group and 45 patients in the surveillance group. The patients in the AT group were younger (67 years vs. 74 years, p<0.001) and included more males (64.2% vs. 46.7%, p=0.044). The proportion of patients with stage III CCA was larger in the AT group than in the surveillance group (13.8% vs. 2.2%, p=0.005). In addition, AT did not improve OS (5-year OS rate, 69.3% in the AT group vs. 64.2% in the surveillance group, p=0.806) or PFS (5-year PFS rate, 42.6% in the AT group vs. 48.9% in the surveillance group, p=0.113). In multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model, stage III CCA (hazard ratio [HR], 10.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.92-40.00; p<0.001) was a significant predictor of OS. American Society of Anesthesiologists classification II (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.31-0.81; p=0.005), and American Joint Committee on Cancer stages II (HR, 3.14; 95% CI, 1.25-7.89; p=0.015) and III (HR, 8.08; 95% CI, 2.80-23.32; p<0.001) were independent predictors of PFS.

CONCLUSION

AT after R0 resection for CCA did not improve OS or PFS.

Changing Patterns of Causative Pathogens over Time and Efficacy of Empirical Antibiotic Therapies in Acute Cholangitis with Bacteremia

Background/Aims

To select appropriate empirical antibiotics, updates on the changes in pathogens are essential. We aimed to investigate the changes in pathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility in acute cholangitis (AC) with bacteremia over a period of 15 years. Furthermore, the efficacy of empirical antibiotic therapies and the risk factors predicting antibiotic-resistant pathogens (ARPs) were analyzed.

Methods

A total of 568 patients with AC and bacteremia who were admitted to Daegu Catholic University Medical Center from January 2006 to December 2020 were included. Their medical records were retrospectively reviewed. In addition, the data were grouped and analyzed at 3-year intervals under the criteria of Tokyo Guideline 2018.

Results

During the study period, 596 pathogens were isolated from blood cultures of 568 patients. The three most common pathogens were Escherichia coli (50.5%), Klebsiella species (24.5%), and Enterococcus species (8.1%). The proportion of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) has increased since the mid-2010 (0.0% to 4.3%, p=0.007). There was emergence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in 2018 to 2020, albeit not statistically significant (1.3%, p=0.096). Risk factors predicting ARP were healthcare-associated infection, history of previous biliary intervention, and the severity of AC. For patients with these aforementioned risk factors, imipenem was the most effective antibiotic and piperacillin-tazobactam was also effective but to a lesser degree (susceptibility rates of 92.1% and 75.0%, respectively).

Conclusions

The proportion of VRE has increased and CRE has emerged in AC. In addition, healthcare-associated infection, history of previous biliary intervention, and the severity of AC were independent risk factors predicting ARP. For patients with these risk factors, the administration of imipenem or piperacillin-tazobactam should be considered.

[Clinical and Technical Guideline for Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Tissue Acquisition of Pancreatic Solid Tumor: Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor requires a strict recommendation for its proper use in clinical practice because of its technical difficulty and invasiveness. The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy appointed a Task Force to draft clinical practice guidelines for EUS-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor. The strength of recommendation and the level of evidence for each statement were graded according to the Minds Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development 2014. The committee, comprising a development panel of 16 endosonographers and an expert on guideline development methodology, developed 12 evidence-based recommendations in eight categories intended to help physicians make evidence- based clinical judgments with regard to the diagnosis of pancreatic solid tumor. This clinical practice guideline discusses EUS-guided sampling in pancreatic solid tumor and makes recommendations on circumstances that warrant its use, technical issues related to maximizing the diagnostic yield (e.g., needle type, needle diameter, adequate number of needle passes, sample obtaining techniques, and methods of specimen processing), adverse events of EUS-guided tissue acquisition, and learning-related issues. This guideline was reviewed by external experts and suggests best practices recommended based on the evidence available at the time of preparation. This guideline may not be applicable for all clinical situations and should be interpreted in light of specific situations and the availability of resources. It will be revised as necessary to cover progress and changes in technology and evidence from clinical practice.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Endoscopic Management of Peripancreatic Fluid Collections

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided intervention has gradually become a standard treatment for peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs). However, it is difficult to popularize the procedure in Korea because of restrictions on insurance claims regarding the use of endoscopic accessories, as well as the lack of standardized Korean clinical practice guidelines. The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (KSGE) appointed a Task Force to develope medical guidelines by referring to the manual for clinical practice guidelines development prepared by the National Evidence-Based Healthcare Collaborating Agency. Previous studies on PFCs were searched, and certain studies were selected with the help of experts. Then, a set of key questions was selected, and treatment guidelines were systematically reviewed. Answers to these questions and recommendations were selected via peer review. This guideline discusses endoscopic management of PFCs and makes recommendations on Indications for the procedure, pre-procedural preparations, optimal approach for drainage, procedural considerations (e.g., types of stent, advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal stents, and accessories), adverse events of endoscopic intervention, and procedural quality issues. This guideline was reviewed by external experts and suggests best practices recommended based on the evidence available at the time of preparation. This will be revised as necessary to address advances and changes in technology and evidence obtained in clinical practice and future studies.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Endoscopic Management of Peripancreatic Fluid Collections

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided intervention has gradually become a standard treatment for peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs). However, it is difficult to popularize the procedure in Korea because of restrictions on insurance claims regarding the use of endoscopic accessories, as well as the lack of standardized Korean clinical practice guidelines. The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy appointed a Task Force to develop medical guidelines by referring to the manual for clinical practice guidelines development prepared by the National Evidence-Based Healthcare Collaborating Agency. Previous studies on PFCs were searched, and certain studies were selected with the help of experts. Then, a set of key questions was selected, and treatment guidelines were systematically reviewed. Answers to these questions and recommendations were selected via peer review. This guideline discusses endoscopic management of PFCs and makes recommendations on Indications for the procedure, pre-procedural preparations, optimal approach for drainage, procedural considerations (e.g., types of stent, advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal stents, and accessories), adverse events of endoscopic intervention, and procedural quality issues. This guideline was reviewed by external experts and suggests best practices recommended based on the evidence available at the time of preparation. This will be revised as necessary to address advances and changes in technology and evidence obtained in clinical practice and future studies. (Gut Liver 2021;15:-693)

KG 4/2015: A randomized, controlled, multicenter, open-label phase III clinical trial of GV1001 with gemcitabine/capecitabine in previous untreated, eotaxin-high patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

4020

Background: In the TeloVac study, GV1001 with Gemcitabine/capecitabine (G/C) did not show increased overall survival (OS) than G/C in patients (pts) with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). But cytokine examination suggested high serum eotaxin level may predict improved survivals in pts received GV1001 with G/C. This phase III trial was designed to assess the efficacy of GV1001 with G/C for previous untreated eotaxin-high Korean pts with advanced PDA. Methods: Eligible pts with histologically proven locally advanced and metastatic PDA (except peritoneal carcinomatosis), age > 18 years, and ECOG PS 0–2 were recruited. Pts were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either G/C or G/C with GV1001 (G/C/GV). All pts receiving G/C/GV were with high serum eotaxin level (≥81.02 ng/mL), and the pts receiving G/C were randomly assigned again (1:1) to eotaxin-high and eotaxin-low pts. Study was designed according to Korean MFDS guidance for approval of clinical trial. G/C treatment included G (1000 mg/m2, 30 min IVF, D 1, 8, & 15) and C (830 mg/m2 BID for 21 days per month (m). G/C/GV treatment included an intradermal injection of GM-CSF (75 μg) and GV1001 (0.56 mg; D 1, 3, & 5, once on week 2–4, & 6, then monthly thereafter) from the start of G/C. The primary endpoint was OS. The secondary endpoints included time to progression (TTP), objective response rate, and safety. Survival data was analyzed using the copula graphic estimate method under dependent censoring. The response was independently assessed per RECIST v1.1. Under the one-sided significance level of 2.5% and to achieve the power of 80% of the statistical significance with the median OS difference from 7.9 to 14.9 m (HR = 0.53), 85 events and 118 registrations needed. Considering 20% drop-outs, 148 registrations were required. Results: Between Nov 2015 and Apr 2020, of 511 pts screened in 16 centers, eotaxin-high pts were identified as 34.7% (174 / 502 pts). 148 pts randomly assigned to G/C/GV (n = 75; all eotaxine-high) and G/C (n = 73; 37 eotaxine-high, 36 eotaxine-low). Median OS was significantly improved in the G/C/GV group with 11.3m [95% CI 8.6-14.0] than G/C group with 7.5 m [95% CI 5.1-10.0] (p = 0.021). Also, median TTP was significantly improved in the G/C/GV group (7.3 m [95% CI 5.0-9.7]) than in the G/C group (4.5 m [95% CI 3.2-5.8], p = 0.021). In other secondary endpoints, no statistical significance was confirmed between the two groups. Grade 3-4 treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in 49 pts (73.13%) vs. 58 pts (77.33%) in the G/C and G/C/GV group, without significant differences (p = 0.562). Conclusions: G/C/GV treatments significantly extend OS and TTP in advanced PDA than G/C, and specific safety-related issues had not been found. GV1001 should be considered as one of the options in PDA pts with high serum eotaxin levels. Clinical trial information: NCT02854072.

Difficult Biliary Cannulation from the Perspective of Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis: Identifying the Optimal Timing for the Rescue Cannulation Technique

Background/Aims

Recently, the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) proposed criteria for “difficult biliary cannulation” during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This study aimed to investigate the clinical relevance of the ESGE criteria from the perspective of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP).

Methods

An ERCP database was prospectively maintained between November 2014 and December 2015 across six teaching hospitals in South Korea. The ESGE criteria (biliary cannulation time, the number of cannulation attempts, and inadvertent pancreatic duct [PD] manipulation) were recorded in this database as well as other technical factors. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for PEP. Then, the PEP prediction model was investigated using decision tree analysis.

Results

We analyzed 1,067 consecutive patients with naïve papilla. The overall rate of PEP was 6.6%. Multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (odds ratio [OR], 1.860; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.124 to 3.078), a selective biliary cannulation duration >5 minutes (OR, 3.282; 95% CI, 1.641 to 6.566), and inadvertent PD manipulation (OR, 2.614; 95% CI, 1.480 to 4.617) were significant factors affecting PEP. Decision tree analysis revealed that biliary cannulation time (χ²=49.857, p<0.001) and inadvertent PD manipulation (χ²=8.556, p=0.010) were decisive factors. PEP occurred in 3.9%, 11.8%, and 16.2% of patients with biliary cannulation duration lasting 3 to 5 minutes, >5 minutes, and >5 minutes with inadvertent PD manipulation, respectively.

Conclusions

Biliary cannulation time and inadvertent PD manipulation could be relevant indicators of PEP, and 5 minutes might be used as a cutoff value for the implementation of the rescue cannulation technique. (Gut Liver 2021;15-465)

Clinical and Technical Guideline for Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-Guided Tissue Acquisition of Pancreatic Solid Tumor: Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (KSGE)

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor requires a strict recommendation for its proper use in clinical practice because of its technical difficulty and invasiveness. The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (KSGE) appointed a task force to draft clinical practice guidelines for EUS-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor. The strength of recommendation and the level of evidence for each statement were graded according to the Minds Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development 2014. The committee, comprising a development panel of 16 endosonographers and an expert on guideline development methodology, developed 12 evidence-based recommendations in eight categories intended to help physicians make evidence-based clinical judgments with regard to the diagnosis of pancreatic solid tumor. This clinical practice guideline discusses EUS-guided sampling in pancreatic solid tumor and makes recommendations on circumstances that warrant its use, technical issues related to maximizing the diagnostic yield (e.g., needle type, needle diameter, adequate number of needle passes, sample obtaining techniques, and methods of specimen processing), adverse events of EUS-guided tissue acquisition, and learning-related issues. This guideline was reviewed by external experts and suggests best practices recommended based on the evidence available at the time of preparation. This guideline may not be applicable for all clinical situations and should be interpreted in light of specific situations and the availability of resources. It will be revised as necessary to cover progress and changes in technology and evidence from clinical practice. (Gut Liver 2021;15:-374)

Clinical and Technical Guideline for Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-Guided Tissue Acquisition of Pancreatic Solid Tumor: Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (KSGE)

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor requires a strict recommendation for its proper use in clinical practice because of its technical difficulty and invasiveness. The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (KSGE) appointed a Task Force to draft clinical practice guidelines for EUS-guided tissue acquisition of pancreatic solid tumor. The strength of recommendation and the level of evidence for each statement were graded according to the Minds Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development 2014. The committee, comprising a development panel of 16 endosonographers and an expert on guideline development methodology, developed 12 evidence-based recommendations in 8 categories intended to help physicians make evidence-based clinical judgments with regard to the diagnosis of pancreatic solid tumor. This clinical practice guideline discusses EUS-guided sampling in pancreatic solid tumor and makes recommendations on circumstances that warrant its use, technical issues related to maximizing the diagnostic yield (e.g., needle type, needle diameter, adequate number of needle passes, sample obtaining techniques, and methods of specimen processing), adverse events of EUS-guided tissue acquisition, and learning-related issues. This guideline was reviewed by external experts and suggests best practices recommended based on the evidence available at the time of preparation. This guideline may not be applicable for all clinical situations and should be interpreted in light of specific situations and the availability of resources. It will be revised as necessary to cover progress and changes in technology and evidence from clinical practice.

Impact of Hospital Volume and the Experience of Endoscopist on Adverse Events Related to Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Prospective Observational Study

Background/Aims

Few studies have addressed the relationship between the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and hospital case volume or endoscopist’s experience with inconsistent results. The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of hospital case volume and endoscopist’s experience on the AEs associated with ERCP and to analyze patient- and procedure-related risk factors for post-ERCP AEs.

Methods

From January 2015 to December 2015, we prospectively enrolled patients with naïve papilla who underwent ERCP at six centers. Patient- and procedure-related variables were recorded on data collection sheets at the time of and after ERCP.

Results

A total of 1,191 patients (median age, 71 years) were consecutively enrolled. The overall success rate of biliary cannulation was 96.6%. Overall, 244 patients (20.5%) experienced post-ERCP AEs, including pancreatitis (9.0%), bleeding (11.8%), perforation (0.4%), cholangitis (1.2%), and others (0.9%). While post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) was more common when the procedure was performed by less experienced endoscopists, bleeding was more common in high-volume centers and by less experienced endoscopists. Multivariate analysis showed that a less experience in ERCP was significantly associated with PEP (odds ratio [OR], 1.630; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.050 to 2.531; p=0.030) and post-ERCP bleeding (OR, 1.439; 95% CI, 1.003 to 2.062; p=0.048).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that overall AEs following ERCP were associated with the experience of the endoscopist. To minimize post-ERCP AEs, rigorous training with a sufficient case volume is required, and treatment strategies should be modified according to the endoscopist’s expertise.

[Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Antithrombotic Agents in Patients Undergoing Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]

Antithrombotic agents, including antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants, are increasingly used in South Korea. The management of patients using antithrombotic agents and requiring gastrointestinal endoscopy is an important clinical challenge. Although clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the management of patients receiving antithrombotic agents and undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy have been developed in the Unites States, Europe, and Asia Pacific region, it is uncertain whether these guidelines can be adopted in South Korea. After reviewing current CPGs, we identified unmet needs and recognized significant discrepancies in the clinical practice among regions. This is the first CPG in Korea providing information that may assist endoscopists in the management of patients on antithrombotic agents who require diagnostic or elective therapeutic endoscopy. This guideline was developed through the adaptation process as an evidence-based method, with four guidelines retrieved by systematic review. Eligible guidelines were evaluated according to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II process, and 13 statements were established using a grading system. This guideline was reviewed by external experts before an official. It will be revised as necessary to cover changes in technology, evidence, or other aspects of clinical practice.

Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Antithrombotic Agents in Patients Undergoing Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Antithrombotic agents, including antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants, are increasingly used in South Korea. The management of patients using antithrombotic agents and requiring gastrointestinal endoscopy is an important clinical challenge. Although clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the management of patients receiving antithrombotic agents and undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy have been developed in the Unites States, Europe, and Asia Pacific region, it is uncertain whether these guidelines can be adopted in South Korea. After reviewing current CPGs, we identified unmet needs and recognized significant discrepancies in the clinical practice among regions. This is the first CPG in Korea providing information that may assist endoscopists in the management of patients on antithrombotic agents who require diagnostic or elective therapeutic endoscopy. This guideline was developed through the adaptation process as an evidence-based method, with four guidelines retrieved by systematic review. Eligible guidelines were evaluated according to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II process, and 13 statements were established using a grading system. This guideline was reviewed by external experts before an official. It will be revised as necessary to cover changes in technology, evidence, or other aspects of clinical practice.

Dedicated Cold Snare vs. Traditional Snare for Polypectomy of Diminutive and Small Lesions in a Porcine Model: A Research Group for Endoscopic Instruments and Stents (REIS) Study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The aim of this in vivo animal study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dedicated cold snare (DCS) compared with those of traditional snare (TS) for cold snare polypectomy (CSP).

METHODS

A total of 36 diminutive (5 mm) and 36 small (9 mm) pseudolesions were made by electrocoagulation in the colons of mini-pigs.

RESULTS

For the diminutive lesions, there were no significant differences in technical success rate, procedure time, or complete resection rate between the DCS and TS groups; the rate of uneven resection margin in the DCS group was significantly lower than that of the TS group. For small lesions, technical success rate and complete resection rate were significantly higher in the DCS group than in the TS group (100% [18/18] vs. 55.6% [10/18], p=0.003; 94.4% [17/18] vs. 40% [4/10], p=0.006). In addition, the procedure duration was significantly shorter, and the rate of uneven resection margin was significantly lower in the DCS group (28.5 sec vs. 66.0 sec, p=0.006; 11.1% [2/18] vs. 100% [10/10], p<0.001). Two cases of perforation occurred in the DCS group. Multivariate analysis revealed that DCS use was independently associated with complete resection.

CONCLUSION

DCS is superior to TS in terms of technical success, complete resection, and reducing the duration of the procedure for CSP of small polyps.

Clinicopathologic analysis of intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct: Korean multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

IPNB is very rare disease and most previous studies on IPNB were case series with a small number due to low incidence. The aim of this study is to validate previously known clinicopathologic features of intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct (IPNB) based on the first largest multicenter cohort.

METHODS

Among 587 patients previously diagnosed with IPNB and similar diseases from each center in Korea, 387 were included in this study after central pathologic review. We also reviewed all preoperative image data.

RESULTS

Of 387 patients, 176 (45.5%) had invasive carcinoma and 21 (6.0%) lymph node metastasis. The 5-year overall survival was 80.9% for all patients, 88.8% for IPNB with mucosal dysplasia, and 70.5% for IPNB with invasive carcinoma. According to the "Jang & Kim's modified anatomical classification," 265 (68.5%) were intrahepatic, 103 (26.6%) extrahepatic, and 16 (4.1%) diffuse type. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor invasiveness was a unique predictor for survival analysis. (p = 0.047 [hazard ratio = 2.116, 95% confidence interval 1.010-4.433]).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first Korean multicenter study on IPNB through central pathologic and radiologic review process. Although IPNB showed good long-term prognosis, relatively aggressive features were also found in invasive carcinoma and extrahepatic/diffuse type.

Child-Pugh, MELD, MELD-Na, and ALBI scores: which liver function models best predicts prognosis for HCC patient with ascites?

OBJECTIVE

It remains controversial whether certain treatments should apply to HCC patients with ascites due to concerns about worsening liver function. The objective of the present study is to compare the prognostic performance of 4 liver function models currently in use for HCC patients with ascites.

METHODS

A total of 437 treatment-naïve, newly diagnosed HCC patients were analyzed. The predictive performance of Child-Pugh, MELD, MELD-Na, and ALBI scores were examined using ROC curve analysis.

RESULTS

MELD-Na score showed good performance in predicting 1-, 2-, and 3-year mortality, particularly 1-year mortality. MELD-Na score significantly increased at 30 days after treatment in cases initially receiving best supportive care (14-17, p < .001), TACE (9-11, p < .001), and other treatment (radiotherapy, sorafenib, or systemic chemotherapy) (9-11, p = .021). For patients with advanced tumor stage and MELD-Na score ≥12, HCC-specific treatment did not offer significantly better prognosis compared with only the best supportive care (median survival: 2.2 vs. 1.8 months for HCC-specific treatment vs. best supportive care, p = .15).

CONCLUSION

MELD-Na can effectively identify liver functional reserve and prognosis in HCC patients with ascites. MELD-Na, together with the tumor stage, may help establish a therapeutic strategy for them.

Evaluating Tissue Contrast and Detecting White Matter Injury in the Infant Brain: A Comparison Study of Synthetic Phase-Sensitive Inversion Recovery

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Synthetic MR imaging enables the acquisition of phase-sensitive inversion recovery images. The aim of this study was to compare the image quality of synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery with that of other sequences in infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Brain MR imaging with 3D T1-weighted fast-spoiled gradient recalled, synthetic T1WI, and synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery of 91 infants was compared. Contrast between unmyelinated WM and myelinated WM and between unmyelinated WM and cortical GM was calculated. Qualitative evaluation of image quality and myelination degree was performed. In infants with punctate white matter injuries, the number of lesions was compared.

RESULTS

The contrast between unmyelinated WM and myelinated WM was higher in synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery compared with fast-spoiled gradient recalled or synthetic T1WI (P < .001). Compared with synthetic T1WI, synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery showed higher gray-white matter differentiation (P < .001) and myelination degree in the cerebellar peduncle (P < .001). The number of detected punctate white matter injuries decreased with synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery compared with fast-spoiled gradient recalled sequences (1.2 ± 3.2 versus 3.4 ± 3.6, P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery has the potential to improve tissue contrast and image quality in the brain MR imaging of infants. However, we have to be aware that synthetic phase-sensitive inversion recovery has limited value when assessing punctate white matter injuries compared with 3D fast-spoiled gradient recalled imaging.

Risk factor of bleeding after endoscopic sphincterotomy in average risk patients

BACKGROUND

For therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) is necessary but it can lead to complications such as bleeding. Thus, we investigated the risk factors of post-ES bleeding in average risk patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who had been treated for ERCP between April 2006 and March 2013. The length of the ES incision was defined as minimal (up to proximal hooding fold), medium (between minimal and full length), and full (up to superior margin of sphincter opening). Exclusion criteria were as follows: if performed precut sphincterotomy or balloon dilatation, patients having altered anatomy or anticoagulant medications.

RESULTS

A total of 3620 patients underwent ERCP and 1121 patients who underwent biliary ES were enrolled. Post-ES bleeding occurred in 108 of 1121 patients (9.6%) and mostly minor bleeding (94 patients, 87%). Length of ES was the only risk factor for post-ES bleeding in multivariate analysis. Complete hemostasis was achieved by endoscopic modalities and no serious complication developed after hemostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

In average risk patients, length of ES was independent risk factor for post-ES bleeding and endoscopic hemostasis was safe and effective.

Multicenter phase II trial of modified FOLFIRINOX in gemcitabine-refractory pancreatic cancer

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of modified FOLFIRINOX as a second-line treatment for gemcitabine (GEM)-refractory unresectable pancreatic cancer (PC).

METHODS

This study was a prospective, multicenter, one-arm, open-label, phase II trial. Patients with unresectable PC, who showed disease progression during GEM-based chemotherapy were enrolled. All patients were administered FOLFIRINOX with reduced irinotecan and oxaliplatin (RIO; irinotecan 120 mg/m² and oxaliplatin 60 mg/m²), which was set according to the phase I study of FOLFIRINOX. The objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), adverse events were evaluated. Additionally, changes in quality of life (QoL) were assessed using a questionnaire on QoL.

RESULTS

Between August 2015 and May 2016, a total of 48 patients were enrolled. The median follow-up time was 259 d with a median of 8.5 cycles. The ORR and DCR were 18.8% and 62.5%, respectively, including one patient who showed complete remission. The median PFS was 5.8 mo [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.7-7.9] and median OS was 9.0 mo (95%CI: 6.4-11.6). Neutropenia (64.6%) was the most common grade 3-4 adverse event, followed by febrile neutropenia (16.7%). Although 14.6% of patients experienced grade 3 fatigue, most non-hematologic AEs were under grade 2. In the QoL analysis, the global health status score before treatment was not different from the score at the last visit after treatment (45.43 ± 22.88 vs 48.66 ± 24.14, P = 0.548).

CONCLUSION

FOLFIRINOX with RIO showed acceptable toxicity and promising efficacy for GEM-refractory unresectable PC. However, this treatment requires careful observation of treatment-related hematologic toxicities.

Multidelay Arterial Spin-Labeling MRI in Neonates and Infants: Cerebral Perfusion Changes during Brain Maturation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Arterial spin-labeling with multiple postlabeling delays can correct transit times. We tried to evaluate CBF in neonates and infants using multidelay arterial spin-labeling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multidelay arterial spin-labeling was applied to 13 preterm neonates (mean postmenstrual age, 34.9 weeks), 13 term-equivalent-age neonates (mean postmenstrual age, 39.2 weeks), and 6 infants (mean postmenstrual age, 57.8 weeks). Transit time-corrected CBF in the caudate, thalamus, frontal GM, occipital GM, frontal WM, and occipital WM was measured, and relative CBF compared with the whole-brain CBF was calculated. Inter- and intragroup comparisons were performed among the 3 age groups. A correlation and nonlinear regression analysis were performed between postmenstrual age and CBF.

RESULTS

Intergroup comparisons showed significantly higher whole-brain CBF in infants (38.3 mL/100 g/min) compared with preterm (15.5 mL/100 g/min) and term-equivalent-age (18.3 mL/100 g/min) neonates (P < .001). In the intragroup comparison, all 3 groups showed significantly higher relative CBF values in the occipital WM (63.6%-90.3%) compared with the frontal WM (46.3%-73.9%). In term-equivalent-age neonates, the occipital GM (120.8%) had significantly higher relative CBF values than the frontal GM (103.5%). There was a significant negative correlation between postmenstrual age and the relative CBF of the thalamus (r = - 0.449, P = .010). There were significant positive relationships between postmenstrual age and the relative CBF of the frontal WM (R ² = 0.298, P = .001) and occipital WM (R ² = 0.452, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Multidelay arterial spin-labeling with transit time-corrected CBF showed developmental changes and regional differences of CBF in neonates and infants.

Diagnosis of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) are relatively rare; however, the incidence has increased over the last few decades. They are classified as functional or non-functional tumors according to the presence of associated clinical symptoms. The majority are non-functional tumors. For classification and staging, the World Health Organization 2010 classification system is the most commonly accepted. Chromogranin A is the most sensitive marker but has insufficient specificity. In general, PNETs are hypervascular tumors, and multiphasic contrast-enhanced computed tomography is considered the first choice for imaging study. Multiphasic magnetic resonance imaging can detect PNETs smaller than 2 cm and small liver metastasis compared with other modalities. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy is often used in cases where functional PNETs are suspected. Positron emission tomography (PET) scan with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose cannot visualize PNETs, but PET with 68-Ga DOTATATE can. Endoscopic ultrasonography can characterize smaller PNETs using contrast and confirm histology through fine needle aspiration or biopsy. In this article, we review the characteristics of grading systems and diagnostic modalities commonly used for PNETs.

Association between Smoking and the Progression of Computed Tomography Findings in Chronic Pancreatitis

Background/Aims

Smoking and alcohol intake are two well-known risk factors for chronic pancreatitis. However, there are few studies examining the association between smoking and changes in computed tomography (CT) findings in chronic pancreatitis. The authors evaluated associations between smoking, drinking and the progression of calcification on CT in chronic pancreatitis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 59 patients with chronic pancreatitis who had undergone initial and follow-up CT between January 2002 and September 2010 were included. Progression of calcification among CT findings was compared according to the amount of alcohol intake and smoking.

Results

The median duration of follow-up was 51.6 months (range, 17.1 to 112.7 months). At initial CT findings, there was pancreatic calcification in 35 patients (59.3%). In the follow-up CT, progression of calcification was observed in 37 patients (62.7%). Progression of calcification was more common in smokers according to the multivariate analysis (odds ratio [OR], 9.987; p=0.006). The amount of smoking was a significant predictor for progression of calcification in the multivariate analysis (OR, 6.051 in less than 1 pack per day smokers; OR, 36.562 in more than 1 pack per day smokers; p=0.008).

Conclusions

Continued smoking accelerates pancreatic calcification, and the amount of smoking is associated with the progression of calcification in chronic pancreatitis.

Therapeutic outcomes of endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary neoplasms: retrospective analysis of a multicenter study

Background

Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) is reported to be a relatively safe and reliable procedure for complete resection of ampullary neoplasms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic outcomes and complications of EP for ampullary neoplasms.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted with 5 participating centers from January 2007 to July 2014. A total of 104 patients who underwent EP for ampullary neoplasms were reviewed retrospectively. EP was performed by snare resection with or without submucosal lifting of the lesion.

Results

The mean age of patients was 60.5 ± 12.1 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 2.0:1. En bloc resection was possible in 94 patients (90.3%). A biliary and a pancreatic stent were placed after EP in 42 patients and in 60 patients, respectively. A pathologically incomplete resection was noted in 11 cases (10.6%), and 5 of these patients were treated with additional endoscopic procedure. Histology of resected specimens was as follows: low grade adenoma (43.2%), high grade adenoma (14.4%), adenocarcinoma (16.3%), hyperplastic polyp (7.7%), and others (18.4%). Of the 75 cases with low grade adenoma on biopsy specimen, 21.3% turned out to have high grade adenoma (12%) or adenocarcinoma (9.3%). Procedure-related complications occurred in 33 patients (31.7%); bleeding (18 cases, 17.3%), pancreatitis (16 cases, 15.4%), and perforation (8 cases, 7.7%). Pre-EP ERCP, saline lifting, sphincterotomy, biliary stenting, pancreatic stenting, specimen size, and cauterization were not related to post EP complications. Surgery was performed in 6 cases with pathological incomplete resection and 2 cases with complications after EP, and there were 2 cases of mortality due to complications. During follow-up endoscopy after initial success of EP, remnant tumors were found in 7 patients, one of whom underwent surgery and the others were treated endoscopically. Consequently, the overall endoscopic success rate of EP was 89.4%.

Conclusions

Endoscopic papillectomy appears to be an effective treatment for ampullary neoplasms, and can be considered as an alternative to surgery. However, relatively high risk of procedure related complications is a problem that must be considered.

[A Case of Gastro-Gastric Intussusception Secondary to Primary Gastric Lymphoma]

In adults, most intussusceptions develop from a lesion, usually a benign or malignant neoplasm, and can occur at any site in the gastrointestinal tract. Intussusception in the proximal gastrointestinal tract is uncommon, and gastro-gastric intussusception is extremely rare. We present a case of gastro-gastric intussusception secondary to a primary gastric lymphoma. An 82-year-old female patient presented with acute onset chest pain and vomiting. Abdominal CT revealed a gastro-gastric intussusception. We performed upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, revealing a large gastric mass invaginated into the gastric lumen and distorting the distal stomach. Uncomplicated gastric reposition was achieved with endoscopy of the distal stomach. Histological evaluation of the gastric mass revealed a diffuse large B cell lymphoma that was treated with chemotherapy.

Sex differences in prevalence and risk factors of asymptomatic cholelithiasis in Korean health screening examinee: A retrospective analysis of a multicenter study

The aim of this study was to evaluate sex difference in the prevalence and risk factors for asymptomatic cholelithiasis in Korean health screening examinees.Examinees who underwent examination through health promotion center at 5 hospitals of Daegu-Gyeongbuk province in 2014 were analyzed retrospectively. All examinees were checked for height, weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure, and underwent laboratory tests and abdominal ultrasound. Diagnosis of cholelithiasis was made by ultrasound.Of the total of 30,544 examinees, mean age was 47.3 ± 10.9 years and male to female ratio was 1.4:1. Asymptomatic cholelithiasis was diagnosed in 1268 examinees with overall prevalence of 4.2%. In age below 40 years, females showed higher prevalence of asymptomatic cholelithiasis than males (2.7% vs. 1.9%, P = 0.020), whereas prevalence of asymptomatic cholelithiasis was higher in males than females older than 50 years (6.2% vs. 5.1%, P = 0.012). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed age (≥50 years), obesity, and high blood pressure as risk factors for asymptomatic cholelithiasis in males and age, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and chronic hepatitis B infection in females (P < 0.05).Overall prevalence of asymptomatic cholelithiasis was 4.2% in Korean health screening examinees. Females showed higher prevalence of asymptomatic cholelithiasis than males younger than 40 years, whereas it was higher in males older than 50 years. Age and obesity were risk factors for asymptomatic cholelithiasis in both sexes. Males had additional risk factors of high blood pressure and females had hypertriglyceridemia and chronic hepatitis B infection.

A randomized, multicenter, phase III study of gemcitabine combined with capecitabine versus gemcitabine alone as first-line chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer in South Korea

BACKGROUND

This phase III trial compared the efficacy and safety of gemcitabine plus capecitabine (GemCap) versus single-agent gemcitabine (Gem) in advanced pancreatic cancer as first-line chemotherapy.

METHODS

A total of 214 advanced pancreatic cancer patients were enrolled from 16 hospitals in South Korea between 2007 and 2011. Patients were randomly assigned to receive GemCap (oral capecitabine 1660 mg/m plus Gem 1000 mg/m by 30-minute intravenous infusion weekly for 3 weeks followed by a 1-week break every 4 weeks) or Gem (by 30-minute intravenous infusion weekly for 3 weeks every 4 weeks).

RESULTS

Median overall survival (OS) time, the primary end point, was 10.3 and 7.5 months in the GemCap and Gem arms, respectively (P = 0.06). Progression-free survival was 6.2 and 5.3 months in the GemCap and Gem arms, respectively (P = 0.08). GemCap significantly improved overall response rate compared with Gem alone (43.7% vs 17.6%; P = 0.001). Overall frequency of grade 3 or 4 toxicities was similar in each group. Neutropenia was the most frequent grade 3 or 4 toxicity in both groups.

CONCLUSION

GemCap failed to improve OS at a statistically significant level compared to Gem treatment. This study showed a trend toward improved OS compared to Gem alone. GemCap and Gem both exhibited similar safety profiles.

Dual-patterned immunofiltration (DIF) device for the rapid efficient negative selection of heterogeneous circulating tumor cells

The analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is an emerging field for estimating the metastatic relapse and tumor burden of cancer patients. However, the isolation of CTCs is still challenging due to their ambiguity, rarity, and heterogeneity. Here, we present an anti-CD45 antibody based dual-patterned immunofiltration (DIF) device for the enrichment of heterogeneous CTC subtypes by effective elimination of leukocytes. Our uniquely designed dual-patterned layers significantly enhance the binding chance between immuno-patterns and leukocytes due to the fluidic whirling and the increased binding sites, thus achieving superior negative selection in terms of high-throughput and high purity. From the experiments using lung cancer cells, 97.07 ± 2.79% of leukocytes were eliminated with less than 10% loss of cancerous cells at the flow rate of 1 mL h^-1. To verify the device as a potential diagnostic tool, CTCs were collected from 11 cancer patients' blood and an average of 283.3 CTC-like cells were identified while less than 1 CTC-like cells were found from healthy donors. The samples were also analyzed by immunohistochemistry and the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to identify their heterogeneous characteristics. These remarkable results demonstrate that the present device could help to understand the unknown properties or undiscovered roles of CTCs with a non-biased view.

[Comparison of blood leptin concentration and colonic mucosa leptin expression in colon adenoma patients and healthy control]

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Obesity increases the risk of colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyp, and one of the underlying mechanisms of this increase is considered to be due to the growth promoting effects of adipokines, such as leptin. In order to investigate this finding, leptin expression in the colonic tissue and blood leptin concentration of the colonic adenoma patients were compared to those of the control group.

METHODS

Colonic adenoma tissues were obtained by polypectomy (n=60). In these patients, normal colonic mucosa at remote areas from the polyp was also obtained and blood samples were collected as well. Age and sex matched control subjects were selected among those who showed normal colonic mucosa in health screening colonoscopy (n=60).

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in serum leptin concentration between the colonic adenoma patients and control subjects. Leptin expression was noted in 43.3% of the colonic adenomas, but only in 6.7% of normal colonic mucosa from the control subjects (p<0.01). There were ten cases of concurrent adenocarcinoma in situ in adenoma patients, eight cases of which expressed leptin (p=0.01). In adenoma group, leptin expression rate was significantly high in larger adenomas and in obese patients (p<0.05). However, there was no statistically significant relationship between leptin expression in colonic mucosa and serum leptin level.

CONCLUSIONS

Leptin expression was more frequently observed in colonic adenomas, especially in larger adenomas associated with adenocarcinoma in situ, but blood leptin level was not related to tissue leptin expression. Leptin expression was more frequently observed in obese patients from the adenoma group. Therefore, leptin may play an important role in colonic tumorigenesis and progression, especially in obese patient.

Changes in causative pathogens of acute cholangitis and their antimicrobial susceptibility over a period of 6 years

BACKGROUND/AIMS

We evaluated changes of causative pathogen in acute cholangitis and their antimicrobial susceptibility over six years and differences between community-acquired and hospital-acquired acute cholangitis at our institution.

METHODS

Medical records of 1,596 patients with acute cholangitis and biliary drainage between August 2006 and August 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Cases were divided according to time: period 1 (August 2006-December 2008, n=645, 40.4%), period 2 (January 2009-August 2012, n=951, 59.6%). Cases were divided according to community-acquired cholangitis (n=1,397, 87.5%) and hospital-acquired cholangitis (n=199, 12.5%). Causative pathogens and antimicrobial susceptibility were investigated in each group.

RESULTS

Causative pathogen was isolated from bile culture in 1,520 out of 1,596 cases (95.2%). The three most frequently isolated Gram-negative bacteria were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (n=485, 30.4%), E. coli (n=237, 13.2%), and Citrobacter freundii (n=110, 6.9%). Between periods 1 and 2, prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae did not show significant change (36.7% vs. 32.1%, p=0.073; 6.6% vs. 6.2%, p=0.732). C. freundii showed a significant increase from period 1 to period 2 (1.7% vs. 13.2%, p=0.000). In both time periods, imipenem was the antimicrobial agent showing the highest rate of susceptibility (93.3% vs. 93.9%, p=0.783). Higher prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and C. freundii was observed in the hospital-acquired cholangitis group (52.1% vs. 31.2%, p=0.000; 15.9% vs. 7.3%, p=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The most common causative pathogen of acute cholangitis was ESBL-producing E. coli. Prevalence of C. freundii increased over the time period. Imipenem should be reserved as an alternative for resistant pathogens.

Therapeutic targeting of tetraspanin8 in epithelial ovarian cancer invasion and metastasis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) invasion and metastasis are complex phenomena that result from the coordinated action of many metastatic regulators and must be overcome to improve clinical outcomes for patients with these cancers. The identification of novel therapeutic targets is critical because of the limited success of current treatment regimens, particularly in advanced-stage ovarian cancers. In this study, we found that tetraspanin 8 (TSPAN8) is overexpressed in about 52% (14/27) of EOC tissues and correlates with poor survival. Using small interfering RNA-mediated TSPAN8 knockdown and a competition assay with purified TSPAN8 large extracellular loop (TSPAN8-LEL) protein, we identified TSPAN8-LEL as a key regulator of EOC cell invasion. Furthermore, monotherapy with TSPAN8-blocking antibody we developed shows that antibody-based modulation of TSPAN8-LEL can significantly reduce the incidence of EOC metastasis without severe toxicity in vivo. Finally, we demonstrated that the TSPAN8-blocking antibody promotes the internalization and concomitant downregulation of cell surface TSPAN8. Collectively, our data suggest TSPAN8 as a potential novel therapeutic target in EOCs and antibody targeting of TSPAN8 as an effective strategy for inhibiting invasion and metastasis of TSPAN8-expressing EOCs.

Bioavailability of the Nano-Unit 14C-Agrochemicals Under Various Water Potential

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of water potential on bioavailability of the nano-unit 14C-cafenstrole, 14C-pretilachlor, 14C-benfuresate, 14C-simetryn and 14C-oxyfluorfen applied with or without dimepiperate or daimuron under various water potential conditions. The highest bioavailable concentration in soil solution (BCSS) was found at 60% soil moisture, while the lowest occurred at 50% soil moisture for soil-applied alone or in combination. All water potential conditions differed significantly from each other with variations in total bioavailable amount in soil solution (TBSS) when either dimepiperate or daimuron were added to the soil, and changes were directly proportional to variations in water potential. Across all treatments, TBSS at 80% soil moisture was three to four times greater than that at 50% soil moisture when applied alone or in combination with dimepiperate or daimuron. Cafenstrole and simetryn had distribution coefficient (Kd) values <64 ml g-1 and a TBSS ranging from 10 to 44 ng g-1 soil, regardless of water potential conditions applied alone or in combination. Pretilachlor and benfuresate had Kd values <15 ml g-1 and a TBSS range of 38 to 255 ng g-1 soil when applied with or without dimepiperate or daimuron.

Thermal neutron response of a boron-coated GEM detector via GEANT4 Monte Carlo code

In this work, we report the design configuration and the performance of the hybrid Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM) detector. In order to make the detector sensitive to thermal neutrons, the forward electrode of the GEM has been coated with the enriched boron-10 material, which works as a neutron converter. A total of 5×5cm² configuration of GEM has been used for thermal neutron studies. The response of the detector has been estimated via using GEANT4 MC code with two different physics lists. Using the QGSP_BIC_HP physics list, the neutron detection efficiency was determined to be about 3%, while with QGSP_BERT_HP physics list the efficiency was around 2.5%, at the incident thermal neutron energies of 25meV. The higher response of the detector proves that GEM-coated with boron converter improves the efficiency for thermal neutrons detection.

Recent advances in endoscopic papillectomy for ampulla of vater tumors: endoscopic ultrasonography, intraductal ultrasonography, and pancreatic stent placement

Since it was first described nearly three decades ago, endoscopic papillectomy (EP) has been utilized as a less invasive, alternative therapy for adenoma of the major duodenal papilla. In this article, we review the recent advances in EP, especially those pertaining to endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS), and pancreatic stent placement for the prevention of postpapillectomy pancreatitis. Because EUS and IDUS have similar diagnostic accuracies, either modality can be used for the preprocedural evaluation of ampullary tumors. Nevertheless, further technical refinements are required for a more precise evaluation. Given the paucity of data on the usefulness of EUS and/or IDUS during follow-up after EP, a well-designed study is warranted. Furthermore, pancreatic stent placement appears to have a protective effect against postpapillectomy pancreatitis; however, a prospective, randomized, controlled study with a larger number of patients is needed to assess this finding. Moreover, since pancreatic stent placement after EP is not always successful, various novel techniques have been developed to ensure reliable stent placement. Despite the recent advances in EP, further technical refinements and studies are needed to confirm their efficacy.

Conformable covered versus uncovered self-expandable metallic stents for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction: a randomized prospective study

BACKGROUND

A conformable self-expandable metallic stent was developed to overcome the limitation of previous self-expandable metallic stents. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes after placement of conformable covered and uncovered self-expandable metallic stents for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction.

METHODS

A single-blind, randomized, parallel-group, prospective study were conducted in 4 medical centres between March 2009 and July 2012. 134 patients with unresectable malignant gastroduodenal obstruction were assigned to a covered double-layered (n=66) or uncovered unfixed-cell braided (n=68) stent placement group. Primary analysis was performed to compare re-intervention rates between two groups.

RESULTS

120 patients were analysed (59 in the covered group and 61 in the uncovered group). Overall rates of re-intervention were not significantly different between the two groups: 13/59 (22.0%) in the covered group vs. 13/61 (21.3%) in the uncovered group, p=0.999. Stent migration was more frequent in the covered group than in the uncovered group (p=0.003). The tumour ingrowth rate was higher in the uncovered group than in the covered group (p=0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

The rates of re-intervention did not significantly differ between the two stents. Conformable covered double-layered and uncovered unfixed-cell braided stents were associated with different patterns of stent malfunction.

Staging accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound performed by nonexpert endosonographers in patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: is it possible?

The accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is operator-dependent. According to learning curve study, the accuracy of EUS T-staging for esophageal cancer has been reported to be greater in an investigator who had performed at least 100 EUS examinations. We determined comparative study regarding T-staging accuracy of EUS for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma between expert and nonexpert endoscopic ultrasonographers. We retrospectively identified 73 consecutive patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent EUS and endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, or surgery. EUS was performed by expert (Group 1) and nonexpert (Group 2) endoscopic ultrasonographers in multitertiary hospitals. Groups 1 and 2 were 37 and 36 patients during 2005-2011, respectively. Forty-two patients (57.5%) of the overall patients underwent surgical exploration. Correct endoscopic ultrasonographic T-staging of Group 1 was observed in 34 (91.9%) patients, while that of Group 2 was observed in 26 (72.2%) patients. And there was significant difference in correct endoscopic ultrasonographic T-staging between Group 1 and Group 2 (P = 0.035). The incorrect endoscopic ultrasonographic T-staging of Group 1 were three cases that were overstaging (8.1%), but in Group 2 there were seven overstaging (19.4%) and three understaging (8.3%). There was no significant difference in overstaging or understaging of incorrect endoscopic ultrasonographic T-staging between Group 1 and Group 2 (P = 0.528). This study first provides evidence that endoscopic ultrasonographic T-staging of nonexpert endoscopic ultrasonographers was inferior to be correct, compared with that of expert endoscopic ultrasonographers. EUS staging for esophageal cancer should be performed by expert endoscopic ultrasonographers to provide appropriate management strategy.

Incidence, risk factors and clinical course of pancreatic fluid collections in acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas with variable involvement of other regional tissues or remote organ systems. Acute fluid collections and pseudocyst formation are the most frequent complications of acute pancreatitis.

AIMS

The aims of this study were to evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and clinical course of pancreatic fluid collections and pseudocyst formation following acute pancreatitis.

METHODS

A prospective multicenter study was conducted in five participating centers with 302 patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis from January 2011 to July 2012.

RESULTS

The incidence of pancreatic fluid collections and pseudocyst was 42.7 and 6.3 %, respectively. Patients with fluid collections were significantly younger, compared to those without fluid collections (51.5 ± 15.9 vs. 60.4 ± 16.5 years, P = 0.000). The proportion of alcoholic etiology (54.3 %) in patients with fluid collections was significantly higher compared to other etiologies (P = 0.000). C-reactive protein (CRP) (48 h) was significantly higher in patients with fluid collections, compared to patients without fluid collections (39.2 ± 77.4 vs. 15.1 ± 36.2 mg/dL, P = 0.016). LDH (48 h) was significantly higher in patients with pseudocyst formation, compared to patients with complete resolution (1,317.6 ± 706.4 vs. 478.7 ± 190.5 IU/L, P = 0.000). Pancreatic fluid collections showed spontaneous resolution in 69.8 % (90/129) and 84.2 % of the pseudocysts disappeared or decreased in size during follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Age, CRP (48 h), and alcohol etiology are risk factors for pancreatic fluid collections. LDH (48 h) appears to be a risk factor for pseudocyst formation. Most pseudocysts showed a decrease in size or spontaneous resolution with conservative management.

High-resolution impedance manometry facilitates assessment of pharyngeal residue and oropharyngeal dysphagic mechanisms

The utility of high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) for evaluating oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) has been investigated. These approaches are limited because of the sophisticated methodology. A method of transforming HRIM into a simple and useful diagnostic tool for evaluating OPD is needed. A videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and HRIM were performed by independent blinded examiners in 26 consecutive healthy volunteers (12 men; median age, 56.5 years) and 10 OPD patients (five men; median age, 59.5 years). Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) relaxation parameters were measured using a standard HRIM protocol. Peristalsis and bolus transit of the pharyngoesophageal (PE) segment were assessed using an HRIM-modified protocol in which the catheter was pulled back 10 cm. PE bolus transits were evaluated with an impedance contour pattern (linear vs. stasis) method. A significant difference was observed between the manometric measures of healthy volunteers and OPD patients for only the duration of pharyngeal contraction (0.49 ± 0.19 vs. 0.76 ± 0.33 s, P = 0.04). The percentage agreement and kappa value for detecting pharyngeal residue between the VFSS and the impedance analysis were 100% and 1.00, respectively. HRIM allowed for comprehensive assessment of abnormal pharyngeal components that caused pharyngeal residue on VFSS in two patients; reduced base of the tongue versus weak pharyngeal contraction in one, and reduced relaxation of the UES versus reduced laryngeal elevation in the remaining patient. Our findings demonstrated that HRIM using a simple methodology (i.e., pull-back of the catheter) detected pharyngeal residue through a simple analysis of the impedance contour pattern (linear vs. stasis). Furthermore, HRIM facilitated a comprehensive assessment of OPD mechanisms and recognition of subtle abnormalities not yet visible to the naked eye on VFSS.

Is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography safe in patients 90 years of age and older?

Background/Aims

This case-control study evaluated the safety and efficacy of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients 90 years of age and older.

Methods

From January 2005 to August 2011, 5,070 cases of ERCP were performed at our institution. Of these, 43 cases involved patients 90 years of age and older (mean age, 91.7±1.9 years). A control group of 129 cases (mean age, 65.7±14.8 years) was matched by the patient sex, sphincterotomy, and presence of choledocholithiasis using a propensity score. The patients’ medical records were retrospectively reviewed for comorbidity, periampullary diverticulum, urgent procedure, conscious sedation, technical success, procedure duration, ERCP-related complication, and death.

Results

Between the case and control groups, there was no significant difference with regard to comorbidity, periampullary diverticulum, and urgent procedure. Conscious sedation was performed significantly less in the patient group versus the control group (28 [65%] vs 119 [92%], respectively; p=0.000). There was no significant difference in the technical success, procedure duration, or ERCP-related complications. In both groups, there was no major bleeding or perforation related to ERCP. Post-ERCP pancreatitis occurred significantly less in the patient group compared to the control group (0 vs 13 [10%], respectively; p=0.004). One death occurred from respiratory arrest in the case group.

Conclusions

ERCP can be performed safely and successfully in patients aged 90 years and older without any significant increase in complications.