Risk factors for adverse outcomes at various phases of endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatment of pancreatic fluid collections: Data from a multi-institutional consortium

OBJECTIVES

No comprehensive study has examined short- and long-term adverse outcomes of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatment of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) including walled-off necrosis (WON) and pseudocysts.

METHODS

In a multi-institutional cohort of 357 patients receiving EUS-guided treatment of PFCs (228 with WON and 129 with pseudocysts), we examined PFC type-specific risk factors for procedure-related adverse events (AEs), clinical failure, and recurrence. Odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using the logistic and Cox regression models, respectively, adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Adverse events were observed predominantly in WON, and risk factors were WON extension to the pelvis (OR 2.49; 95% CI 1.00-6.19) and endoscopic necrosectomy (OR 5.15; 95% CI 1.61-16.5). Risk factors for clinical failure in WON treatment included higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR for ≥3 vs. ≤2, 2.58; 95% CI 1.05-6.35), extension to the pelvis (OR 3.63; 95% CI 1.57-8.43), nonuse of a lumen-apposing metal stent (OR 2.88; 95% CI 1.10-7.54), and percutaneous drainage (OR 3.73; 95% CI 1.27-10.9). Patients with pseudocysts extending to the paracolic gutter and the need for more than two endoscopic/percutaneous procedures had ORs for clinical failure of 5.28 (95% CI 1.10-25.3) and 5.52 (95% CI 1.61-18.9), respectively. Pseudocysts requiring the multigateway approach were associated with a high risk of recurrence (HR 4.00; 95% CI 1.11-11.6).

CONCLUSION

The adverse outcomes at various phases of EUS-guided PFC treatment may be predictable based on clinical parameters. Further research is warranted to optimize treatment strategies for high-risk patients.

Comparison of covered self-expandable metallic stents with 12-mm and 10-mm diameters for unresectable malignant distal biliary obstructions: a prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Covered self-expandable metallic stents have longer patency than uncovered self-expandable metallic stents for unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction because of the prevention of tumor ingrowth, and they are removable during reintervention. One main cause of recurrent biliary obstruction in covered self-expandable metallic stents is sludge formation, which can be prevented by using large-bore stents. We evaluated the treatment results of 12-mm and 10-mm covered self-expandable metallic stents for unresectable malignant distal biliary obstructions using a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

This study was conducted between May 2016 and January 2019 and included 81 consecutive patients with unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction. The primary endpoint was the rate of nonrecurrent biliary obstruction at 6 months after stent placement.

RESULTS

The primary endpoint in the 12-mm group was significantly higher than that in the 10-mm group (P = .0369). Therefore, the median time to recurrent biliary obstruction was 172 days in the 12-mm group and 120 days in the 10-mm group. The median time to recurrent biliary obstruction in the 12-mm group was significantly longer than that in the 10-mm group (P = .0168). Using the 12-mm covered self-expandable metallic stents and receiving chemotherapy were factors affecting the rate of recurrent biliary obstruction in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The 12-mm covered self-expandable metallic stents provide a longer time to recurrent biliary obstruction than do 10-mm covered self-expandable metallic stents for managing unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN000016911.).

Peroral Pancreatoscopy-Guided Lithotripsy Compared with Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy in the Management of Pancreatic Duct Stones in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a common treatment for pancreatic stones in chronic pancreatitis. In contrast, peroral pancreatoscopy-guided lithotripsy (POPS-L) remains underexplored, with limited comparative studies to ESWL. This study compared the treatment outcomes of disposable POPS-L tools and ESWL for pancreatic stones.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 66 patients who had undergone pancreatic stone treatment at three institutions between 2006 and 2022. The treatment outcomes of POPS-L and ESWL were compared.

RESULTS

This study included 19 and 47 patients who had undergone POPS-L and ESWL, respectively. In a comparison between POPS-L and ESWL, the stone clearance rates were 78.9% vs. 70.2% (p = 0.55), while the procedure-related complication rates were 21% vs. 6.3% (p = 0.09). The median total session counts were 1 vs. 5 (p < 0.01). The cumulative stone recurrence rates were comparable in both groups. Multivariate analysis revealed no significant factors influencing the stone clearance rates, and the choice between POPS-L and ESWL did not affect the stone clearance rates.

CONCLUSIONS

POPS-L and ESWL exhibited comparable treatment outcomes in terms of stone clearance, complications, and recurrence rates. Furthermore, POPS-L is advantageous due to the need for fewer sessions to achieve pancreatic stone clearance.

Impact of post-progression survival in second-line treatment with molecular target agents for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM

Sequential therapies are essential to extend overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Several second-line treatments with molecular target agents have shown survival benefits. However, the significance of post-progression survival (PPS) in extending OS in patients with HCC given such treatments remains uncertain.

METHODS

Through a systematic review of the literature in the PubMed database, this study investigated the correlation between PPS and OS and that between progression-free survival (PFS) and OS in patients with HCC given second-line treatments.

RESULTS

In total, 3935 patients who had received second-line treatment with regorafenib, ramucirumab, or cabozantinib, which are approved molecular target agents, were identified. In the patients treated with regorafenib, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2 = 0.729, R = 0.854, p < 0.001) whereas PFS showed a weak correlation (R2 = 0.218, R = 0.467, p = 0.021). In the patients treated with ramucirumab, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2 = 0.800, R = 0.894, p = 0.016) whereas PFS showed a negligible correlation (R2 = 0.020, R = 0.140, p = 0.791). In the patients treated with cabozantinib, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2 = 0.856, R = 0.925, p = 0.003) as did PFS (R2 = 0.946, R = 0.973, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PPS plays a more significant role than PFS in extending OS in patients given second-line treatment for unresectable HCC. Sequential therapies after disease progression in second-line treatment are essential to acquire good OS. Maintenance of hepatic reserve function and the patient's general condition is essential during systemic treatments for unresectable HCC.

Comparison of unilateral and bilateral intraductal plastic stent placement for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction: A propensity score-matched cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Although intraductal plastic stent (IS) placement is an effective treatment for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction (UMHBO), the effectiveness of unilateral and bilateral IS drainage remains controversial. This retrospective study investigated the effectiveness of bilateral IS placement for UMHBO using the propensity score matching method.

METHODS

Patients who underwent transpapillary endoscopic stenting for UMHBO were analyzed for technical and clinical success, adverse events, and time to recurrent biliary obstruction (TRBO).

RESULTS

A total of 321 patients were enrolled in the study with 27 patients in each unilateral and bilateral IS group in the propensity score-based cohort. Technical success was 100%, while clinical success was 93% and 96% in the unilateral and bilateral IS groups, respectively (p = 1.0). Cholecystitis occurred in 4% and 7%, respectively (p = 1.0). The median TRBO was shorter in the unilateral group (129 [5-383] days) than that in the bilateral group (226 [16-563] days) (p = .0281). Bilateral IS placement was an independent long TRBO factor (hazard ratio [HR] 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21-0.97; p = .041).

CONCLUSIONS

Unilateral and bilateral IS placement had high technical and clinical success rates in primary stent placement. However, bilateral IS placement showed a longer TRBO. Bilateral IS placement may be a good option for initial UMHBO drainage.

Development of a novel endoscopic hemostasis-assisted navigation AI system in the standardization of post-ESD coagulation

Background and study aims While gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become a treatment with fewer complications, delayed bleeding remains a challenge. Post-ESD coagulation (PEC) is performed to prevent delayed bleeding. Therefore, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI) to detect vessels that require PEC in real time. Materials and methods Training data were extracted from 153 gastric ESD videos with sufficient images taken with a second-look endoscopy (SLE) and annotated as follows: (1) vessels that showed bleeding during SLE without PEC; (2) vessels that did not bleed during SLE with PEC; and (3) vessels that did not bleed even without PEC. The training model was created using Google Cloud Vertex AI and a program was created to display the vessels requiring PEC in real time using a bounding box. The evaluation of this AI was verified with 12 unlearned test videos, including four cases that required additional coagulation during SLE. Results The results of the test video validation indicated that 109 vessels on the ulcer required cauterization. Of these, 80 vessels (73.4%) were correctly determined as not requiring additional treatment. However, 25 vessels (22.9%), which did not require PEC, were overestimated. In the four videos that required additional coagulation in SLE, AI was able to detect all bleeding vessels. Conclusions The effectiveness and safety of this endoscopic treatment-assisted AI system that identifies visible vessels requiring PEC should be confirmed in future studies.

CA125 Kinetics as a Potential Biomarker for Peritoneal Metastasis Progression following Taxane-Plus-Ramucirumab Administration in Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer

Currently, no established marker exists for predicting peritoneal metastasis progression during chemotherapy, although they are major interruptive factors in sequential chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). This multicenter retrospective study was conducted from June 2015 to July 2019, analyzing 73 patients with AGC who underwent taxane-plus-ramucirumab (TAX/RAM) therapy and had their serum carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) concentrations measured. Of 31 patients with elevated CA125 levels above a cutoff of 35 U/mL, 25 (80.6%) had peritoneal metastasis. The CA125 concentrations before TAX/RAM treatment were associated with ascites burden. The overall survival was significantly shorter in the CA125-elevated group. CA125 kinetics, measured at a median of 28 days after chemotherapy, were associated with the ascites response (complete or partial response: -1.86%/day; stable disease: 0.28%/day; progressive disease: 2.33%/day). Progression-free survival in the CA125-increased group, defined by an increase of 0.0067%/day using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, was significantly poorer among patients with peritoneal metastases. In conclusion, this study highlights that CA125 kinetics can serve as an early predictor for the progression of peritoneal metastasis during TAX/RAM treatment.

ERCP using balloon-assisted endoscopes versus EUS-guided treatment for common bile duct stones in Roux-en-Y gastrectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We compared ERCP using a balloon-assisted endoscope (BE-ERCP) with EUS-guided antegrade treatment (EUS-AG) for removal of common bile duct (CBD) stones in patients with Roux-en-Y (R-Y) gastrectomy.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who had previous R-Y gastrectomy undergoing BE-ERCP or EUS-AG for CBD stones in 16 centers were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

BE-ERCP and EUS-AG were performed in 588 and 59 patients, respectively. Baseline characteristics were similar, except for CBD diameter and angle. The technical success rate was 83.7% versus 83.1% (P = .956), complete stone removal rate was 78.1% versus 67.8% (P = .102), and early adverse event rate was 10.2% versus 18.6% (P = .076) in BE-ERCP and EUS-AG, respectively. The mean number of endoscopic sessions was smaller in BE-ERCP (1.5 ± .8 vs 1.9 ± 1.0 sessions, P = .01), whereas the median total treatment time was longer (90 vs 61.5 minutes, P = .001). Among patients with biliary access, the complete stone removal rate was significantly higher in BE-ERCP (93.3% vs 81.6%, P = .009). Negative predictive factors were CBD diameter ≥15 mm (odds ratio [OR], .41) and an angle of CBD <90 degrees (OR, .39) in BE-ERCP and a stone size ≥10 mm (OR, .07) and an angle of CBD <90 degrees (OR, .07) in EUS-AG. The 1-year recurrence rate was 8.3% in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Effectiveness and safety of BE-ERCP and EUS-AG were comparable in CBD stone removal for patients after R-Y gastrectomy, but complete stone removal after technical success was superior in BE-ERCP.

Risk of recurrence with or without plastic stent after EUS-guided treatment of peripancreatic fluid collections: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and study aims Recent advances in endoscopic transmural treatment have improved the clinical outcomes of patients with pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs). However, there is still a debate about the preventive effect of long-term placement of a transmural plastic stent (PS) on recurrence after successful endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatment of PFCs. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate PFC recurrence rates with and without a transmural PS after EUS-guided treatment. Patients and methods A systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane database was conducted to identify clinical studies comparing outcomes with and without transmural PS published until September 2022. Data on PFC recurrence and adverse events (AEs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Results Nine studies including 380 patients with long-term transmural PS and 289 patients without PS were identified. The rate of PFC recurrence was significantly lower in patients with transmural PS (pooled odds ratio [OR] = 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.08-0.65], P = 0.005). In a subgroup analysis limited to studies focusing on patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome, which has been reported to be a risk factor for PFC recurrence, the OR was numerically lower than that for the entire cohort (OR = 0.14, 95% CI [0.04-0.46]). The rate of AEs was significantly higher with long-term transmural PS (OR = 14.77, 95% CI [4.21-51.83]). Conclusions In this meta-analysis, long-term PS placement reduced the risk of PFC recurrence. Given the potential AEs of indwelling PS, further research is required to evaluate the overall benefits of long-term PS placement.

The Efficacy and Safety of Nivolumab Plus mFOLFOX6 in Gastric Cancer with Severe Peritoneal Metastasis

(1) Background: Nivolumab plus chemotherapy is established as a first-line treatment for advanced gastric cancer (AGC). While mFOLFOX6 is commonly used for AGC with severe peritoneal metastasis, the efficacy of nivolumab combined with it remains uncertain. We evaluated the outcomes of nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6 for AGC with severe peritoneal metastasis in clinical practice. (2) Methods: This multicenter retrospective study was conducted between December 2021 and June 2023. We investigated AGC patients with massive ascites or inadequate oral intake due to severe peritoneal metastasis and who received nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6. (3) Results: Among 106 patients treated with nivolumab plus chemotherapy, 21 (19.8%) had severe peritoneal metastasis, with 14 receiving nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6. The median progression-free survival was 7.4 months (95%CI 1.9-10.1), and the median overall survival was 10.7 months (95%CI 5.3-NA), with four patients (28.5%) surviving more than 12 months. Improved ascites and oral intake were observed in 6/14 patients (42.8%) and 10/11 patients (90.9%), respectively. The major grade 3 or more adverse events included leukopenia (28.5%) and neutropenia (21.4%), with no severe immune-related adverse events reported. (4) Conclusions: The safety and moderate efficacy of nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6 were suggested even in AGC patients with severe peritoneal metastasis.

A Case of Immune-Related Aseptic Meningitis during Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are sometimes associated with immune-related adverse events during or after treatment. Among these, aseptic meningitis is a rare and serious complication. We report the first case of atezolizumab-induced aseptic meningitis, which occurred during treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Case Presentation

A 74-year-old woman diagnosed with advanced HCC and treated with first-line atezolizumab plus bevacizumab developed anorexia, fatigue, and fever, after three treatment cycles. Cerebrospinal fluid examination showed slightly increased cell count and protein level but no infection or malignancy. Contrast enhancement along the cerebral sulcus was evident in contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, and the patient was diagnosed with aseptic meningitis associated with atezolizumab. Steroid therapy soon improved her clinical symptoms, and the contrast enhancement along the cerebral sulcus disappeared.

Conclusion

Clinicians should monitor to avoid serious immune-related adverse events, such as aseptic meningitis, in patients during treatment of HCC with immune checkpoint inhibitors and make the diagnosis as soon as possible.

Early versus delayed EUS-guided drainage for postoperative pancreatic fluid collections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fluid collections (POPFCs) are common adverse events (AEs) after pancreatic surgery and may need interventions. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage for POPFCs is increasingly reported, but its appropriate timing has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate treatment outcomes of POPFCs according to the timing of EUS-guided drainage.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, we identified clinical studies published until December 2022 with data comparing outcomes of early and delayed EUS-guided drainage for POPFCs. We pooled data on AEs, mortality, and technical and clinical success rates, using the random-effects model.

RESULTS

From 1415 papers identified in the initial literature search, we identified 6 retrospective studies, including 128 and 107 patients undergoing early and delayed EUS-guided drainage for POPFCs. The threshold of early and delayed drainage ranged from 14 to 30 days. Distal pancreatectomy was the major cause of POPFCs, ranging from 44 to 100%. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for AEs was 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.40-1.64, P = 0.55) comparing early to delayed drainage. There was no procedure-related mortality. Technical success was achieved in all cases and a pooled OR of clinical success was 0.60 (95% CI 0.20-1.83, P = 0.37).

CONCLUSION

POPFCs can be managed by early EUS-guided drainage without an increase in AEs.

[A case of small intestinal endometriosis with bowel obstruction and perforation]

A 47-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with recurring lower abdominal pain persisting for more than 2 weeks. Imaging modalities showed small bowel obstruction caused by a mass lesion in the terminal ileum. Despite undergoing fasting, rehydration, and decompression through an ileus tube, her symptoms persisted. Furthermore, the condition deteriorated on day 4, with the onset of her menstrual period. An emergency surgery was conducted on the 7th day after hospitalization. Surgical observations indicated severe stenosis around the ileocecal valve and ileal perforation approximately 40cm from the oral stricture. As a result, ileocecal resection was performed. Pathological examination revealed endometrial tissue infiltration through the mucosal lamina propria to the ileal subserosa. Thus, the patient was identified with intestinal endometriosis of the ileocecum. Endometriosis of the small bowel is an uncommon condition that eventually causes intractable bowel obstruction. Although preoperative diagnosis is considered challenging, intestinal endometriosis should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases of bowel obstruction in women of childbearing age.

Post-procedure serum amylase or lipase levels predict post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: a meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies and utility assessment

OBJECTIVES

To clarify the clinical utility of measuring serum pancreatic enzymes after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for the purpose of predicting post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) by a meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies.

METHODS

Studies on the prediction accuracy of PEP by serum amylase or lipase measured 2, 3, and 4 hours after ERCP were collected. A literature search was performed in PubMed and the Cochrane Library database for studies published between January 1980 and March 2023. The quality of individual studies was evaluated using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2. Data were analyzed using Meta-DiSc 2.0 software.

RESULTS

We searched databases and identified 20 observational studies (12,313 participants). PEPs were defined according to criteria by Cotton or modified Cotton, revised Atlanta criteria, or the Japanese criteria. Meta-analysis of 8 studies (4,389 participants) showed pooled sensitivity of 71.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 56.1-82.5) and pooled specificity of 91.2% (95% CI: 85.9-94.6) for serum amylase cutoff value at 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Another meta-analysis of 5 studies (1,970 participants) showed pooled sensitivity of 85.8% (95% CI: 61.9-95.7) and pooled specificity of 85.3% (95% CI: 81.9-88.1) for serum lipase cutoff value at 3 times ULN.

DISCUSSION

Despite a high risk of bias due to various reference standards, this updated meta-analysis and the utility assessment by a decision tree showed utility of serum amylase or lipase levels more than 3 times ULN measured 2 to 4 hours after ERCP for predicting PEP.

Utility of bilateral intraductal plastic stent for malignant hilar biliary obstruction compared with bilateral self-expandable metal stent: a propensity score-matched cohort analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Intraductal plastic stent (IS) placement for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction (UMHBO) is an effective option for biliary drainage. However, the effectiveness of bilateral IS placement compared with bilateral self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement remains unclear.

METHODS

Overall, 301 patients with UMHBO were enrolled; 38 patients underwent bilateral IS placement (IS group) and 38 patients underwent SEMS placement (SEMS group) in the propensity score-based cohort. Both groups were compared for technical and clinical success, adverse events (AEs), recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO), time to RBO (TRBO), overall survival (OS), and endoscopic reintervention (ERI).

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding technical and clinical success, AEs and RBO occurrence rates, TRBO, or OS. The median initial endoscopic procedure time was significantly shorter in the IS group (23 vs 49 minutes, P < .01). ERI was performed on 20 and 19 patients in the IS and SEMS groups, respectively. The median ERI procedure time was significantly shorter in the IS group (22 vs 35 minutes, P = .04). Median TRBO after ERI with plastic stent placement tended to be longer in the IS group (306 vs 56 days, P = .068). A Cox multivariate analysis showed that the IS group was the significant related factor for TRBO after ERI (hazard ratio, .31; 95% confidence interval, .25-.82; P = .035).

CONCLUSIONS

Bilateral IS placement can reduce the duration of the endoscopic procedure and provide sufficient stent patency both initially and after ERI stent placement, and the stents are removable. Bilateral IS placement is considered a good option for initial UMHBO drainage. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN000050546.).

Inverse association of hospital volume with in-hospital mortality rate of patients receiving EUS-guided interventions for pancreatic fluid collections

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

EUS-guided interventions currently serve as first-line treatment for symptomatic pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) but require high-level expertise and multidisciplinary care. Hospital caseload has not been fully examined in relation to clinical outcomes of patients with endoscopically managed PFCs.

METHODS

Using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database (a Japanese nationwide inpatient database), we identified 4053 patients receiving EUS-guided treatment of PFCs at 486 hospitals between 2010 and 2020 and examined an association of hospital volume (average annual number of cases at a hospital) with in-hospital mortality. Associations with bleeding, length of stay, and total costs were examined as secondary analyses. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted with adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

The hospital volume was inversely associated with the risk of in-hospital mortality (Ptrend < .001). The adjusted odds ratio for in-hospital mortality comparing the extreme quintiles of hospital volume was .17 (95% confidence interval, .09-.33). A restricted cubic spline analysis yielded no statistically significant evidence on the nonlinear relationship (Pnonlinearity = .19). The types of stents (plastic vs lumen-apposing metal stent) seemed to have no effect modification on the volume-mortality relationship (Pinteraction = .58). Higher hospital volume was also associated with lower risk of bleeding, shorter length of stay, and lower medical costs of inpatient care.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher hospital volume was associated with a lower risk of in-hospital mortality of patients receiving EUS-guided treatment of PFCs. A further investigation is warranted to justify the volume-based selective referral of the patients.

Liver metastasis affects progression pattern during immune checkpoint inhibitors monotherapy in gastric cancer

Introduction

The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is heterogeneous at each metastatic site, and tumor progression pattern is associated with survival; however, it remains unclear in gastric cancer (GC). Therefore, we aimed to clarify the progression pattern in response to ICIs in patients with GC, and we analyzed its mechanism focusing on the intratumoral immune cells.

Methods

Patients who received ICIs were retrospectively classified into non-systemic and systemic progression groups based on their radiological assessments. Moreover, the best percentage change in target lesions from each organ was compared.

Results

Among 148 patients, the non-systemic progression group showed a significant improvement in overall survival (OS) compared with the systemic progression group (median, 5.6 months vs. 3.3 months; HR, 0.53; 95%CI, 0.32-0.89; p = 0.012). Poor performance status (HR, 1.73, 95%CI, 1.00-2.87) and systemic progression (HR, 3.09, 95%CI, 1.95-4.82) were associated with OS. Of all metastatic sites, the liver showed the poorest percentage change, and liver metastasis (OR, 2.99, 95%CI, 1.04-8.58) was associated with systemic progression. Hence, intratumoral CD8+ T-cell density was lower in patients with liver metastasis than in those without liver metastasis after ICIs, although the density of CD4+ T-cells (Th1, Th17, and Treg) and CD163+ cells (TAM) were not significantly different.

Conclusion

The new progression pattern was associated with OS in GC. Liver metastasis may be a predictive factor of systemic progression during ICIs by regulating intratumoral CD8+ T-cells.

Objective Response and Progression-Free Survival Contribute to Prolong Overall Survival in Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab Treatment for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) is a standard treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its good antitumor and survival prolongation effects. Post-progression survival (PPS) has been reported to be a great contributor in the treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors for unresectable HCC. This study aimed to clarify the significance of progression-free survival (PFS) or PPS of Atez/Bev treatment for HCC.

METHODS

We analyzed the correlations of PFS and PPS with overall survival (OS) in studies of HCC patients treated with Atez/Bev and evaluated the contribution to OS in Atez/Bev treatment with patients at our institutions as clinical practice.

RESULTS

Analysis of 18 studies involving 3,752 patients treated with Atez/Bev found that PPS had a stronger correlation with OS (R2 = 0.872, p < 0.001) than did PFS (R2 = 0.605, p = 0.001). Analysis of 80 patients with unresectable HCC treated with Atez/Bev found that presence of antitumor responses during Atez/Bev was the most significant contributor to OS, and post-progression treatment after Atez/Bev also significantly contribute to OS.

CONCLUSION

The presence of antitumor response with tumor shrinkage during Atez/Bev treatment contributes to good OS through its durable response. Atez/Bev treatment could be considered as first-line treatment for unresectable HCC. However, there is a need for optimal biomarkers for good antitumor response.

Time to think prime times for treatment of necrotizing pancreatitis: Pendulum conundrum

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) typically develop as local complications of acute pancreatitis and complicate the clinical course of patients with acute pancreatitis and potentially fatal clinical outcomes. Interventions are required in cases of symptomatic walled-off necrosis (WON) (matured PFCs with necrosis) and pancreatic pseudocysts (matured PFCs without necrosis). In the management of necrotizing pancreatitis and WON, endoscopic ultrasound-guided transluminal drainage combined with on-demand endoscopic necrosectomy (i.e. the step-up approach) is increasingly used as a less invasive treatment modality compared with a surgical or percutaneous approach. Through the substantial research efforts and development of specific devices and stents (e.g. lumen-apposing metal stents), endoscopic techniques of PFC management have been standardized to some extent. However, there has been no consensus about timing of carrying out each treatment step; for instance, it is uncertain when direct endoscopic necrosectomy should be initiated and finished and when a plastic or metal stent should be removed following clinical treatment success. Despite emerging evidence for the effectiveness of noninterventional supportive treatment (e.g. antibiotics, nutritional support, irrigation of the cavity), there has been only limited data on the timing of starting and stopping the treatment. Large studies are required to optimize the timing of those treatment options and improve clinical outcomes of patients with PFCs. In this review, we summarize the current available evidence on the indications and timing of interventional and supportive treatment modalities for this patient population and discussed clinical unmet needs that should be addressed in future research.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis 2021

The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology first published evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis in 2010, followed by a revision in 2016. Currently, the revised third edition was published to reflect recent evidence on the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cholelithiasis conforming to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Following this revision, the present English version of the guidelines was updated and published herein. The clinical questions (CQ) in the previous version were reviewed and rearranged into three newly divided categories: background questions (BQ) dealing with basic background knowledge, CQ, and future research questions (FRQ), which refer to issues that require further accumulation of evidence. Finally, 52 questions (29 BQs, 19 CQs, and 4 FRQs) were adopted to cover the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and prognosis. Based on a literature search using MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases for the period between 1983 and August 2019, along with a manual search of new information reported over the past 5 years, the level of evidence was evaluated for each CQ. The strengths of recommendations were determined using the Delphi method by the committee members considering the body of evidence, including benefits and harms, patient preference, and cost-benefit balance. A comprehensive flowchart was prepared for the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder stones, common bile duct stones, and intrahepatic stones, respectively. The current revised guidelines are expected to be of great assistance to gastroenterologists and general physicians in making decisions on contemporary clinical management for cholelithiasis patients.

Comparing endoscopic ultrasound-guided antegrade treatment and balloon endoscopy-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of bile duct stones in patients with surgically altered anatomy: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided antegrade treatment (EUS-AG) and balloon endoscopy-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (BE-ERCP) have emerged as useful procedures for managing bile duct stones (BDS) in patients with surgically altered anatomy. However, the comparison between these two procedures has not been well studied. The aim of our study was to compare the clinical outcomes of EUS-AG and BE-ERCP for managing BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

METHODS

The database was retrospectively evaluated at two tertiary care centers to identify patients with surgically altered anatomy who underwent either EUS-AG or BE-ERCP for BDS. Clinical outcomes were compared between the procedures. The success rate of each procedure was evaluated in three steps: endoscopic approach, biliary access, and stone extraction.

RESULTS

Among the 119 identified patients, 23 had EUS-AG, and 96 had BE-ERCP. The overall technical success rates of EUS-AG and BE-ERCP were 65.2% (15/23) and 69.8% (67/96), respectively (P = .80). The comparison of each step between the procedures EUS-AG versus BE-ERCP was as follows: endoscopic approach, 100% (23/23) versus 88.5% (85/96) (P = .11); biliary access, 73.9% (17/23) versus 80.0% (68/85) (P = .57); stone extraction, 88.2% (15/17) versus 98.5% (67/68) (P = .10). The overall adverse event rate was 17.4% (4/23) versus 7.3% (7/96) (P = .22).

CONCLUSIONS

Both EUS-AG and BE-ERCP are effective and relatively safe procedures in the management of BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy. The challenging steps of each procedure might be different, which could help decide which one to use to manage BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

Long term changes in thrombocytopenia and leucopenia after HCV eradication with direct-acting antivirals

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytopenia due to hypersplenism is a major complication of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated cirrhosis. HCV eradication improves these complications in some patients, but the long-term effects of HCV eradication on these complications remain unclear, especially in patients treated with direct acting antivirals (DAAs). The aim was to evaluate long term changes in thrombocytopenia and leucopenia after HCV eradication with DAAs.

METHODS

The present multicenter study retrospectively evaluated changes over 5 years in thrombocytopenia and leukocytopenia, as well as changes in liver fibrosis markers and spleen size, in 115 patients with HCV-cirrhosis treated with DAAs.

RESULTS

Thrombocytopenia and leukocytopenia were improved 4 weeks after DAA administration, with thrombocytopenia show further gradual improvement over the next year. Fib-4 index was markedly reduced 1 year after DAA, followed by subsequent gradual reduction over the next 4 years. Spleen size showed gradual annual reductions, with patients experiencing spleen size reduction characterized at baseline by bilirubinemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Rapid DAA-associated HCV eradication might lead to rapid disappearance of liver inflammation and bone marrow suppression due to HCV infection. HCV eradication may gradually improve portal hypertension, reducing spleen size.

WONDER-01: immediate necrosectomy vs. drainage-oriented step-up approach after endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of walled-off necrosis-study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

With the increasing popularity of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transmural interventions, walled-off necrosis (WON) of the pancreas is increasingly managed via non-surgical endoscopic interventions. However, there has been an ongoing debate over the appropriate treatment strategy following the initial EUS-guided drainage. Direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN) removes intracavity necrotic tissue, potentially facilitating early resolution of the WON, but may associate with a high rate of adverse events. Given the increasing safety of DEN, we hypothesised that immediate DEN following EUS-guided drainage of WON might shorten the time to WON resolution compared to the drainage-oriented step-up approach.

METHODS

The WONDER-01 trial is a multicentre, open-label, superiority, randomised controlled trial, which will enrol WON patients aged ≥ 18 years requiring EUS-guided treatment in 23 centres in Japan. This trial plans to enrol 70 patients who will be randomised at a 1:1 ratio to receive either the immediate DEN or drainage-oriented step-up approach (35 patients per arm). In the immediate DEN group, DEN will be initiated during (or within 72 h of) the EUS-guided drainage session. In the step-up approach group, drainage-based step-up treatment with on-demand DEN will be considered after 72-96 h observation. The primary endpoint is time to clinical success, which is defined as a decrease in a WON size to ≤ 3 cm and an improvement of inflammatory markers (i.e. body temperature, white blood cell count, and C-reactive protein). Secondary endpoints include technical success, adverse events including mortality, and recurrence of the WON.

DISCUSSION

The WONDER-01 trial will investigate the efficacy and safety of immediate DEN compared to the step-up approach for WON patients receiving EUS-guided treatment. The findings will help us to establish new treatment standards for patients with symptomatic WON.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05451901, registered on 11 July 2022. UMIN000048310, registered on 7 July 2022. jRCT1032220055, registered on 1 May 2022.

Novel anti-reflux biliary metal stent with a distal tapered end for distal malignant biliary obstruction: a feasibility study

Background and study aims  We developed a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) with a distal tapered end to reproduce the physiological bile flow with a pressure gradient due to the difference in the diameter. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the newly developed distal tapered covered metal stent (TMS) for distal malignant biliary obstruction (DMBO). Patients and methods  This single-center, prospective, single-arm study was conducted in patients with DMBO. The primary endpoint was time to recurrent biliary obstruction (TRBO), and the secondary endpoints were the survival time and incidence of adverse events (AEs). Results  Thirty-five patients (15 men, 20 women; median age, 81 years [range: 53-92]) were enrolled between December 2017 and December 2019. The primary diseases were pancreatic head cancer in 25 cases, bile duct cancer in eight cases, and ampullary cancer in two cases. TMS was successfully placed in all cases. Acute cholecystitis occurred as an early AE (within 30 days) in two cases (5.7 %). The median TRBO was 503 days, median survival time was 239 days. RBO was observed in 10 cases (28.6 %), and the causes were distal migration in six cases, proximal migration in two cases, biliary sludge in one case, and tumor overgrowth in one case. Conclusions  Endoscopic placement of the newly developed TMS in patients with DMBO is technically feasible and safe, and the TRBO was remarkably long. The anti-reflux mechanism based on the difference in diameter may be effective, and a randomized controlled trial with a conventional SEMS is required.

Clinical significance of CA125 in unresectable pancreatic cancer treated with first-line chemotherapy

745

Background: Serum CA125 is a potential biomarker for diagnosis of peritoneal metastasis in gastric cancer. However, its significance of pancreatic cancer (PC) has not been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to clarify association between serum CA125 and ascites burden, and its kinetics during first-line chemotherapy for PC. Methods: This multicenter retrospective study comprised PC patients who received FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in first-line setting between Jan 2014 and Dec 2021. Patient background and treatment outcome was assessed in CA125 elevated and non-elevated group before chemotherapy. The CA125 kinetics after chemotherapy was calculated based on baseline and first measure of CA125. Further, the association between early CA125 change and clinical response during chemotherapy were evaluated based on optimal cut off value calculated receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: A total 109 patients from 3 hospitals were assessable. The overall survival (OS) was significantly shorter in elevated group than that in non-elevated group (median, 10.7 vs. 21.3 months, p = 0.0002). The median value of CA125 before chemotherapy was elevated according to ascites burden (Non, 36U/ml; mild, 173U/ml; moderate/severe, 575U/ml; p < 0.0001). CA125 elevation, CA19-9 elevation, poor performance status and poor glasgow prognostic score were independent prognostic factors in multivariate analysis. After chemotherapy, the median first-time measure of CA125 was performed in day 41. Among patients with peritoneal dissemination, the median change of CA125 was correlated with clinical response (CR/PR, -0.55%/day; SD, -0.24%/day; PD, 3.35%/day, p = 0.004). After chemotherapy, first-time measure of CA125 was performed in a median of day 41. According to the ROC curve analysis, the optimal cut-off value of increase in CA125 for progressive disease was 1.56 %/day (specificity 94.1%, sensitivity 80%). The median PFS and OS were 1.4 and 6.6 months in increased group and 3.3 months and 14.0 months in non-increased group, respectively (p = 0.016 and p = 0.028). Conclusions: CA125 is considered a clinically useful marker in unresectable PC treated with first-line chemotherapy because CA125 above the ULN is a poor prognostic factor for OS and an increased CA125 can be an early predictor of progression in patients with peritoneal dissemination.

CA125 kinetics as a potential biomarker of prognosis in nivolumab monotherapy for patients with advanced gastric cancer and peritoneal metastasis

445

Background: The ascites develop in large proportion of patients during salvage-line chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer (AGC). Serum CA125 is reported to be potential biomarker in peritoneal metastasis and associate with prognosis in first-line treatment for AGC. Therefore we aimed to clarify the association between serum CA125 and therapeutic efficacy for AGC treated with third of later-line nivolumab monotherapy (Nivo). Methods: This multicenter retrospective study comprised AGC patients who received Nivo in third line or later setting between Jun. 2015 to May 2019. Patient background and treatment outcome was assessed in CA125 elevated and non-elevated group before Nivo (cut-off, 37 U/ml). The CA125 kinetics after chemotherapy was calculated based on baseline and first measure of CA125. Further, the association between CA125 kinetics and ascites burden during chemotherapy were evaluated based on optimal cut off value calculated receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: A total 50 patients from 5 hospitals were assessable. The proportion of poor PS, moderate/severe peritoneal effusion, low albumin was significantly larger in CA125 elevated group (n=29) than those in non-elevated group. The median value of CA125 before Nivo was elevated according to ascites burden (none, 31.0 U/ml; mild, 49.4 U/ml; moderate/severe, 187.0 U/ml; p<0.001). The overall survival was significantly shorter in elevated group than that in non-elevated group (median, 3.2 vs. 9.4 months, p=0.035). After Nivo, first-time measure of CA125 was performed in a median of day 27. The median change of CA125 was correlated with ascites response (CR/PR, 0.04%/day; SD, 2.06%/day; PD, 4.17 %/day, p=0.013). ROC curve analysis showed that the optimal cut-off value of CA125 kinetics for ascites progression was 2.4%/day (specificity 75%, sensitivity 70%). The progression free survival in increased group was significantly shorter than that of non-increased group in patients with peritoneal dissemination (median, 1.4 vs 3.3 months, p=0.016). Conclusions: The serum CA125 before Nivo was associated with ascites burden. Further, CA125 kinetics after Nivo was associated with prognosis in AGC patients with peritoneal dissemination.

Randomized multicenter phase III trial of neoadjuvant gemcitabine + cisplatin + S-1 (GCS) versus surgery first for resectable biliary tract cancer (JCOG1920: NABICAT)

TPS621

Background: Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is a highly lethal disease. The prognosis remains poor even after macroscopically curative resection due to the high recurrence rate. Therefore, developing effective adjuvant therapy is essential to improve treatment outcomes. In 2021, a phase III trial (JCOG1202: ASCOT) showed the superiority of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy to surgery alone in the overall survival (OS) in BTC patients with curative resection (hazard ratio [HR] 0.694, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.514–0.935; p=0.008). Consequently, adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy has become the standard of care for resected BTC. In contrast, only a few studies have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapy for BTC until now. Recently, a phase III trial (KHBO1401-MITSUBA) demonstrated the superiority of gemcitabine + cisplatin + S-1 (GCS) therapy to gemcitabine + cisplatin in patients with advanced unresectable BTC in terms of OS (HR 0.79, 90% CI: 0.628–0.996; p=0.046). The GCS arm showed a high response rate (41.5%), with promise in a neoadjuvant setting. This phase III trial aims to confirm the superiority of neoadjuvant GCS to surgery first in patients with resectable BTC. Methods: The main eligibility criteria are: (1) histologically diagnosed with adenocarcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma; (2) diagnosed as resectable BTC with clinical stage II–IVA for perihilar bile duct cancer, stage IB–III for distal bile duct cancer, stage IIIA–IVA for gallbladder cancer, stage IIA–III for ampullary cancer, or stage III–IVA/stage IVB (T4N1M0) for intrahepatic bile duct cancer by diagnostic imaging; (3) Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status 0 or 1; and (4) age ≥20 years. Enrolled patients are randomized 1:1 to neoadjuvant GCS + surgery + adjuvant S-1 or surgery + adjuvant S-1 regarding the center and primary site (perihilar/distal/gall bladder/ampulla of Vater/intrahepatic) by the minimization method. The GCS regimen comprises gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2) and cisplatin (25 mg/m2) on day 1 and S-1 (80-120 mg/day) on days 1–7, every 2 weeks for 3 courses. After surgery, S-1 (80-120 mg/day) for 4 weeks-on, 2 weeks-off, for a total of 4 cycles, is administered in both arms. The primary endpoint is OS, and secondary endpoints are progression-free survival (PFS), OS and PFS in patients who underwent R0/R1 resection, incidence of non-resection, %R0 resection, %R0/R1 resection, %lymph node metastasis, postoperative complications of Clavien–Dindo Grade IIIa or severer, serious adverse events, and objective response rate in the GCS arm. We calculated a sample size of 330 patients to obtain 70% power at a one-sided alpha error of 5%, a hazard ratio of 0.698 (3-year OS 67% vs 75.6%), an accrual period of 5 years, and a follow-up period of 3 years. The patient accrual was started in March 2021, and 126 patients have been enrolled as of September 2022. Clinical trial information: jRCTs031200388 .

CA125 kinetics as a potential biomarker for ascites progression during taxane plus ramucirumab therapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer

437

Background: Ascites and peritoneal metastases are major interruptive factors in sequential chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer (AGC), although there are no established markers that predict ascites burden during treatment. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the association between serum CA125 and therapeutic efficacy for AGC treated with taxane plus ramucirumab (TAX/RAM). Methods: This multicenter retrospective study comprised AGC patients who received TAX/RAM in second or third line setting between Jun. 2015 to May 2019. Patient background and treatment outcome was assessed in CA125 elevated and non-elevated group before TAX/RAM (cut-off, 37 U/ml). The CA125 kinetics after chemotherapy was calculated based on baseline and first measure of CA125. Further, the association between early CA125 change and ascites burden during chemotherapy were evaluated based on optimal cut off value calculated receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: A total 73 patients from 5 hospitals were assessable. The proportion of poor PS, moderate/severe peritoneal effusion, low albumin was significantly larger in CA125 elevated group (n=31) than those in non-elevated group. The median value of CA125 before TAX/RAM was elevated according to ascites burden (none, 37.5 U/ml; mild, 57.9 U/ml; moderate/severe, 134.8 U/ml; p<0.001). The overall survival was significantly shorter in elevated group than that in non-elevated group (median, 8.2 vs. 14.6 months, p=0.0004). Baseline CA125 elevation and peritoneal metastasis were independent prognostic factors in multivariate analysis. After TAX/RAM, first-time measure of CA125 was performed in a median of day 28. The median change of CA125 was correlated with ascites response (CR/PR, -1.86%/day; SD, 0.28%/day; PD, 2.33 %/day, p<0.001). ROC curve analysis showed that the optimal cut-off value of CA125 kinetics for ascites progression was 0.0067%/day (specificity 74%, sensitivity 100%). The progression free survival in increased group was significantly shorter than that of non-increased group in patients with peritoneal dissemination (median, 2.5 vs 6.1 months, p=0.0008). Conclusions: The serum CA125 before TAX/RAM was associated with ascites burden. Further, early change of CA125 after TAX/RAM was associated with prognosis in AGC patients with peritoneal dissemination. CA125 monitoring may be biomarker in determining timing of treatment change.

The Impact of Lenvatinib on Tumor Blood Vessel Shrinkage of Hepatocellular Carcinoma during Treatment: An Imaging-Based Analysis

INTRODUCTION

When lenvatinib is administered to people with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), tumor blood flow is reduced due to the inhibition of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR). Few studies have examined the decrease in tumor blood flow with respect to changes in tumor blood vessels (TBVs) in clinical practice. We investigated the mechanism of tumor blood flow control by investigating changes in the diameter of relatively large TBVs in large-sized lesions with high blood flow.

METHODS

From January 2011 to October 2021, patients receiving lenvatinib for unresectable intrahepatic HCC at Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, were considered for inclusion. We investigated the TBV diameter in the arterial phase of dynamic computed tomography before treatment and its change over time (2-12 weeks after lenvatinib initiation). The relationship between changes in TBV diameter and prognosis was also examined.

RESULTS

Of 114 patients treated with lenvatinib for HCC, 26 patients who had intrahepatic lesions with a tumor diameter of 30 mm or more enrolled in the study. The median tumor and TBV diameters before treatment were 58 mm and 2.55 mm, respectively. Twenty-five patients (96%) had a shrinkage in TBV diameter 2-12 weeks after lenvatinib administration. The maximum TBV diameter shrinkage of 20% or more was observed in 19 patients (73%), and progression-free survival was prolonged in these patients compared to the group with less than 20% TBV diameter shrinkage (p = 0.039).

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Due to the antiangiogenic effect of lenvatinib, a shrinkage in the TBV diameter of HCC was observed. The shrinkage of TBV may be regarded as a process of normalization of TBVs. The shrinkage of TBVs in imaging analysis may be associated with improved prognosis; however, additional studies are still required.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy of solid pancreatic tumors with 3 versus 12 to-and-fro movements: A multicenter prospective randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A novel endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) needle enabled physicians to obtain sufficient pathological samples with fewer to-and-fro movements within the lesion. We compared the diagnostic yields of EUS-FNB with 3- and 12-to-and-fro movements (3-TAFs and 12-TAFs) at each puncture pass.

METHODS

The primary endpoint of this multicenter, non-inferiority, crossover, randomized controlled trial involving six centers was diagnostic sensitivity. Secondary endpoints included diagnostic accuracy and quantity and quality evaluation of EUS-FNB samples. Length of the macroscopically visible core (MVC) and microscopic histological quantity were used for quantitative evaluation. Macroscopic visual and microscopic histological evaluations were performed for qualitative evaluation.

RESULTS

Among 110 patients (220 punctures, 110 for 3-TAFs and 12-TAFs each), 105 (210 punctures) had malignant histology. Diagnostic sensitivity for malignancy of 3-TAFs (88.6%) was not inferior to that of 12-TAFs (89.5%) (difference: -0.9%; 95% confidence interval: -9.81-7.86). Diagnostic accuracy for malignancy was 92.7% and 94.6% for 3-TAFs and 12-TAFs, respectively. Overall median MVC length was 13.5 mm in both groups. The 3-TAFs group had a significantly higher rate of score ≥3 on macroscopic visual quality evaluation than the 12-TAFs group (71.8% vs. 52.7%, p=0.009). No significant inter-group differences existed in microscopic histological quantity and quality evaluations (quantity evaluation: 3-TAFs 88.2% vs. 12-TAFs 83.6%; quality evaluation: 3-TAFs 90.0% vs. 12-TAFs 89.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy of EUS-FNB with 3-TAFs were not inferior to those with 12-TAFs for solid pancreatic lesions. The 3-TAFs group showed significantly less blood contamination in sampled tissues than the 12-TAFs group.

Colonic TRPV4 overexpression is related to constipation severity

BACKGROUND

Chronic constipation is prevalent and involves both colon sensitivity and various changes in intestinal bacteria, particularly mucosa-associated microflora. Here we examined regulatory mechanisms of TRPV4 expression by co-culturing colon epithelial cell lines with intestinal bacteria and their derivatives. We also investigated TRPV4 expression in colon epithelium from patients with constipation.

METHODS

Colon epithelial cell lines were co-cultured with various enterobacteria (bacterial components and supernatant), folate, LPS, or short chain fatty acids. TRPV4 expression levels and promoter DNA methylation were assessed using pyrosequencing, and microarray network analysis. For human samples, correlation coefficients were calculated and multiple regression analyses were used to examine the association between clinical background, rectal TRPV4 expression level and mucosa-associated microbiota.

RESULTS

Co-culture of CCD841 cells with P. acnes, C. perfringens, or S. aureus transiently decreased TRPV4 expression but did not induce methylation. Co-culture with clinical isolates and standard strains of K. oxytoca, E. faecalis, or E. coli increased TRPV4 expression in CCD841 cells, and TRPV4 and TNF-alpha expression were increased by E. coli culture supernatants but not bacterial components. Although folate, LPS, IL-6, TNF-alpha, or SCFAs alone did not alter TRPV4 expression, TRPV4 expression following exposure to E. coli culture supernatants was inhibited by butyrate or TNF-alphaR1 inhibitor and increased by p38 inhibitor. Microarray network analysis showed activation of TNF-alpha, cytokines, and NOD signaling. TRPV4 expression was higher in constipated patients from the terminal ileum to the colorectum, and multiple regression analyses showed that low stool frequency, frequency of defecation aids, and duration were associated with TRPV4 expression. Meanwhile, incomplete defecation, time required to defecate, and number of defecation failures per 24 h were associated with increased E. faecalis frequency.

CONCLUSIONS

Colon epithelium cells had increased TRPV4 expression upon co-culture with K. oxytoca, E. faecalis, or E. coli supernatants, as well as TNFα-stimulated TNFαR1 expression via a pathway other than p38. Butyrate treatment suppressed this increase. Epithelial TRPV4 expression was increased in constipated patients, suggesting that TRPV4 together with increased frequency of E. faecalis may be involved in the pathogenesis of various constipation symptoms.

A ruptured sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma treated with combined immunotherapy

Sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma (sHCC) is a rare phenotype of HCC with extremely poor prognosis and no established pharmacological treatment. Interventional therapies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) have been shown to limit the development of sHCC through mechanisms involving hypoxia-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. This report describes an 83-year-old man who developed sHCC 2 years after RFA treatment for HCC and experienced sHCC rupture. Following TAE-induced hematostasis, he was administered lenvatinib for tumor control. Although his physical status had improved, due to loss of fever and attenuation of arterial enhancement in the tumor, for 1 month after lenvatinib administration, tumor re-growth was observed 2 months after lenvatinib treatment. His general condition was preserved, and he was treated with 10 courses of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez+Bev), resulting in tumor shrinkage that was maintained for 3-8 months after Atez+Bev. Findings in this patient showed that combined immunotherapy was effective for sHCC. Further investigation in additional patients is required to maximize prognosis in patients with sHCC.

Impact of COVID-19 infection and vaccination in pancreatobiliary IgG4-related disease patients: An international multicenter study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Dedicated studies evaluating the impact of COVID-19 on outcomes of pancreatobiliary IgG4 related disease (IgG4-RD) patients are scarce. Whether COVID-19 infection or vaccination would trigger IgG4-RD exacerbation remains unknown.

METHODS

Pancreatobiliary IgG4-RD patients ≥ 18 years old with active follow-up since January 2020 from nine referral centers in Asia, Europe, and North America were included in this multicenter retrospective study. Outcome measures include incidence and severity of COVID-19 infection, IgG4-RD disease activity and treatment status, interruption of indicated IgG4-RD treatment. Prospective data on COVID-19 vaccination status and new COVID-19 infection during the Omicron outbreak were also retrieved in the Hong Kong cohort.

RESULTS

Of the 124 pancreatobiliary IgG4-RD patients, 25.0% had active IgG4-RD, 71.0% were on immunosuppressive therapies and 80.6% had ≥ 1 risk factor for severe COVID. In 2020 (pre-vaccination period), two patients (1.6%) had COVID-19 infection (one requiring ICU admission), and 7.2% of patients had interruptions in indicated immunosuppressive treatment for IgG4-RD. Despite a high vaccination rate (85.0%), COVID-19 infection rate has increased to 20.0% during Omicron outbreak in the Hong Kong cohort. A trend towards higher COVID-19 infection rate was noted in the non-fully vaccinated/unvaccinated group (17.6% vs 33.3%, P = 0.376). No IgG4-RD exacerbation following COVID-19 vaccination or infection was observed.

CONCLUSION

While a low COVID-19 infection rate with no mortality was observed in pancreatobiliary IgG4-RD patients in the pre-vaccination period of COVID-19, infection rate has increased during the Omicron outbreak despite a high vaccination rate. No IgG4-RD exacerbation after COVID-19 infection or vaccination was observed.

An Autopsy Case of Ruptured Hepatic Angiosarcoma Treated by Transcatheter Arterial Embolization

An 80-year-old Japanese man presented to our hospital with intra-abdominal hemorrhage due to a ruptured liver tumor. Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) temporarily achieved hemostasis, but he died following re-rupture 4 days later. Based on autopsy findings, the liver tumor was diagnosed as hepatic angiosarcoma. Embolic agents used during embolization were identified within the hepatic small interlobular arteries. However, there were no findings of tumor cell necrosis or ischemic change in the angiosarcoma. In the present case, TAE alone did not induce ischemia-induced tumor necrosis, suggesting that TAE might be unsuitable to treat hepatic angiosarcoma. Treatment optimization for ruptured hepatic angiosarcoma is desired.

Current status of endoscopic ultrasound-guided antegrade intervention for biliary diseases in patients with surgically altered anatomy

Endoscopic management of biliary diseases in patients with surgically altered anatomy can be challenging because the altered anatomy makes it difficult to insert an endoscope into the biliary orifice. Even if insertion is feasible, the worse maneuverability of the endoscope and the restriction in available devices and techniques could complicate the procedure. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound-guided antegrade intervention (EUS-AG) has been reported as a useful management method for biliary diseases, especially in patients with surgically altered anatomy. In EUS-AG, the biliary disease is managed in an antegrade fashion through a temporal fistula created under EUS guidance between the intrahepatic biliary duct and upper intestine. In this article, we reviewed the current status of EUS-AG for each biliary diseases, malignant biliary obstruction, bile duct stones, and benign biliary stricture in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

Updates in narrow-band imaging for colorectal polyps: Narrow-band imaging generations, detection, diagnosis, and artificial intelligence

Narrow-band imaging (NBI) is an optical digital enhancement method that allows the observation of vascular and surface structures of colorectal lesions. Its usefulness in the detection and diagnosis of colorectal polyps has been demonstrated in several clinical trials and the diagnostic algorithms have been simplified after the establishment of endoscopic classifications such as the Japan NBI Expert Team classification. However, there were issues including lack of brightness in the earlier models, poor visibility under insufficient bowel preparation, and the incompatibility of magnifying endoscopes in certain endoscopic platforms, which had impeded NBI from becoming standardized globally. Nonetheless, NBI continued its evolution and the newest endoscopic platform launched in 2020 offers significantly brighter and detailed images. Enhanced visualization is expected to improve the detection of polyps while universal compatibility across all scopes including magnifying endoscopy will promote the global standardization of magnifying diagnosis. Therefore, knowledge related to magnifying colonoscopy will become essential as magnification becomes standardly equipped in future models, although the advent of computer-aided diagnosis and detection may greatly assist endoscopists to ensure quality of practice. Given that most endoscopic departments will be using both old and new models, it is important to understand how each generation of endoscopic platforms differ from each other. We reviewed the advances in the endoscopic platforms, artificial intelligence, and evidence related to NBI essential for the next generation of endoscopic practice.

Early versus delayed interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

Interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis are generally postponed until 4 weeks after the onset of acute pancreatitis, but there remains controversy about whether we should always wait >4 weeks or can intervene early when necessary. This meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate treatment outcomes of necrotizing pancreatitis according to the cut‐off defined in the revised Atlanta classification (≤4 vs. >4 weeks).

Methods

Using PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, we identified clinical studies published until March 2022 with data comparing outcomes of early and delayed interventions of necrotizing pancreatitis. We pooled data on adverse events, mortality, technical and clinical success rates, and needs for necrosectomy and open surgery, using the random‐effects model.

Results

We identified 11 retrospective studies, including 775 patients with early interventions and 725 patients with delayed interventions. Patients with early interventions tended to be complicated by organ failure. The rate of adverse events was comparable (OR 1.41, 95% CI 0.66–3.01; p = 0.38) but the rate of mortality was significantly higher (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.21–2.40; p < 0.01) in early interventions. Technical success rates were similarly high but clinical success rates tended to be low (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.15–1.00; p = 0.05) in early interventions, though not statistically significant. Pooled ORs for necrosectomy and open surgery were 2.14 and 1.23, respectively.

Conclusions

Early interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis were associated with higher mortality rates and did not reduce adverse events or improve clinical success. However, our results should be confirmed in prospective studies.

Factors, Including Clinical Trial Eligibility, Associated with Induction of Third-Line Treatment for Advanced Gastric Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Third-line chemotherapy has been suggested to improve survival in patients with gastric cancer. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the induction of third-line chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer, focusing on patient eligibility for clinical trial.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 335 patients treated for unresectable or recurrent gastric cancer between April 2009 and May 2020. The patients were grouped into those that met the key eligibility criteria for clinical trial (136 patients, 40.6%) and those that did not (199 patients, 59.4%) before receiving first-line chemotherapy.

RESULTS

The overall survival (OS) was 16.8 months (95% CI: 14.0-19.6) and 9.3 months (95% CI: 7.8-11.0) in the eligible and ineligible group, respectively. Multivariate analyses to identify the risk factors associated with the induction of third-line chemotherapy revealed ineligibility of clinical trial (OR 1.95; 95% CI: 1.15-3.31), number of metastatic sites (OR 1.99; 95% CI: 1.23-3.22), low albumin concentration (OR 2.24; 95% CI: 1.14-4.38), and a lack of complete or partial response to first-line treatment (OR 1.85; 95% CI: 1.05-3.26). Indeed, in responders to first-line treatment for ineligible patients, the median OS was 17.7 months (95% CI: 10.6-27.9), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment outcomes were different for those eligible for clinical trials and those who were not. However, this study suggested that patients who responded to first-line treatment have more favorable prognosis when treated with salvage chemotherapy, even if they were deemed ineligible for clinical trials.

Chronic liver disease questionnaire to manage patients with chronic liver diseases

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Although patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) usually show few symptoms, they exhibit decreased health-related QOL (HRQOL) with occurrence complications including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Health-related QOL is an important indicator in the management of CLD. The Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) was established as a tool for assessment of HRQOL. In this study, we evaluate its usefulness for the management of daily clinical practice.

METHODS

Patients (N = 190, median age 70 years old) treated between 2016 and 2019 were registered and prospectively followed-up with annual CLDQ. Associations of liver function and development of factors for admission or death were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 190 patients registered, median age 70 years old, 140 were Child-A, 121 were Fib-4 index >2.67 and showed 80 HCC. All 6 domains including Systemic Symptoms (SS) were negatively correlated with Child-Pugh score more than with albumin-bilirubin score and Fib-4 index. A hundred four admission events and 49 deaths were found during observation period, and median event-free survival was 34.3 months. Treatment for HCC was the most frequent cause of admission, and 37 liver-related deaths were found. Systemic Symptoms score 2 years after registration was decreased in both HCC- and non-HCC cohort. Systemic Symptoms decreased and SS < 4 might be predictive for event occurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

CLDQ is useful to assess HRQOL in patients with CLD and is well correlated with liver function especially Child-Pugh. Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire might be useful to predict the prognosis of CLD and can be a tool of management in clinical practice.

Protein-losing Enteropathy Complicated with Primary Intestinal Follicular Lymphoma

Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is a rare syndrome characterized by hypoproteinemia due to gastrointestinal (GI) protein loss. Primary intestinal follicular lymphoma (PIFL), a specific variant of follicular lymphoma with essential only GI involvement, has not been reported as an etiology of PLE. We herein report a case of PLE complicated with PIFL that was successfully treated with rituximab, resulting in rapid improvement of PLE and a complete response of PIFL. Macroscopic findings of ulcerative lesions with diffuse involvement, which were precisely described by capsule and double-balloon enteroscopy at the diagnosis, also improved following the treatment. This case provides a clue suggesting factors that promote PLE in PIFL.

Direct-acting antivirals for hepatitis C virus-infected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients has a high risk of recurrence. Although eradication of HCV is expected to reduce this risk, the risk in patients with a history of HCC may be high after treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).

AIM

To determine the risk factors for HCC recurrence in patients with HCV and a history of HCC.

METHODS

The risk of HCC recurrence in patients with a history of HCC and/or of HCC occurrence in patients without a history of HCC after DAA therapy was retrospectively analyzed in 311 HCV patients treated at our institution and several neighboring hospitals. The frequency and predictors of HCC recurrence/ occurrence after DAA treatment were included in these analyses. The clinical course of HCC before and after DAA treatment was also evaluated.

RESULTS

HCV patients with a history of HCC were older and had greater progression of liver fibrosis and diabetes than patients without a history of HCC. Median recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 1092 d in patients with a history of HCC, and post-DAA HCC recurrence/occurrence was observed in 29 patients (53.7%) with and 5 (1.9%) without a history of HCC over 6 years (P < 0.001). RFS in patients with a history of HCC did not differ significantly before and after DAA treatment. The frequency of HCC recurrence/occurrence in patients with a history of HCC was lower after than before DAA treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that the incidence rate of HCC recurrence/occurrence before DAA treatment was the only independent predictor of HCC recurrence/occurrence after DAA treatment. Liver function was well preserved and clinical course was good in patients with HCC recurrence/occurrence after DAA therapy.

CONCLUSION

DAA therapy in patients infected with HCV is also effective in patients with a history of HCC. Curative treatment for HCC is desirable before DAA therapy. The frequency of HCC recurrence/occurrence before DAA therapy was associated with a significantly increased risk of HCC recurrence after DAA therapy. Careful observation after DAA therapy is required in patients with a history of HCC.

Bilateral Serous Retinal Detachment Associated with a Mitogen-activated Protein KinaseKinase Inhibitor in a Patient with BRAF-mutant Colorectal Cancer

We herein report a 73-year-old woman with BRAF V600E-mutated colon cancer treated with encorafenib plus cetuximab with binimetinib as standard salvage therapy for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. She developed bilateral serous retinal detachment the next day, and the regimen was discontinued, resulting in complete resolution by the third day. Doublet therapy without binimetinib was initiated along with a weekly ophthalmologic examination for 10 weeks without recurrence of retinal detachment. Thus, binimetinib was presumed to have been the cause of the retinal detachment. This clinical course suggests the need for close monitoring of patients for vision impairment and close collaboration with ophthalmologists.

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome and outcomes of endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatment of pancreatic fluid collections: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS) frequently occurs in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis and resultant pancreatic fluid collection (PFC). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate outcomes of endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatment of PFCs according to the presence of DPDS.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane database, we identified clinical studies published until January 2021 with data comparing outcomes of endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of PFCs between DPDS and non-DPDS patients. We pooled data on technical and clinical success rates, PFC recurrence, and adverse events using the random-effects model.

RESULTS

We identified five eligible articles including 941 PFC patients treated with endoscopic ultrasound-guided interventions. Clinical success, defined as resolution of the PFC and symptoms, was achieved in a majority of the cases irrespective of DPDS (pooled odds ratio [OR] comparing DPDS to non-DPDS patients, 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33-1.81). Compared to patients without DPDS, patients with DPDS were more likely to undergo PFC recurrence (pooled OR 6.72; 95% CI 2.72-16.6) after clinical resolution of PFC. Prolonged plastic stent placement following the clinical resolution was more frequently performed in DPDS patients than in non-DPDS patients (pooled OR 15.9; 95% CI 2.76-91.9). No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of the rate of technical success, adverse events, or mortality.

CONCLUSION

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome was associated with higher rate of PFC recurrence after successful endoscopic treatment of PFCs. Future studies should evaluate effectiveness and optimal duration of long-term placement of transmural plastic stents for PFCs with DPDS.

The oncogene-dependent resistance to reprogramming unveils cancer therapeutic targets

The resistance to transcription factor-mediated reprogramming into pluripotent stem cells is one of the distinctive features of cancer cells. Here we dissect the profiles of reprogramming factor binding and the subsequent transcriptional response in cancer cells to reveal its underlying mechanisms. Using clear cell sarcomas (CCSs), we show that the driver oncogene EWS/ATF1 misdirects the reprogramming factors to cancer-specific enhancers and thereby impairs the transcriptional response toward pluripotency that is otherwise provoked. Sensitization to the reprogramming cue is observed in other cancer types when the corresponding oncogenic signals are pharmacologically inhibited. Exploiting this oncogene dependence of the transcriptional "stiffness," we identify mTOR signaling pathways downstream of EWS/ATF1 and discover that inhibiting mTOR activity substantially attenuates the propagation of CCS cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate that the early transcriptional response to cell fate perturbations can be a faithful readout to identify effective therapeutics targets in cancer cells.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy for the diagnosis of gastric linitis plastica

We report two cases of patients with gastric linitis plastica (GLP), in which the histopathological diagnosis was made by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) using a Franseen-tip needle. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy findings showed mucosal swelling and poor distensibility of the gastric antrum. Abdominal computed tomography findings showed significant thickening of the gastric wall at the antrum. Conventional endoscopic and bite-on-bite biopsy were attempted but resulted in failure to diagnose the lesions. We performed EUS-FNB to obtain histopathological samples from a deeper site, which confirmed the diagnosis. We considered this method safe and effective for the diagnosis of GLP.