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Fisher NC, Rees J, Frost J. Nasal unsedated seated percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (nuPEG): a safe and effective technique for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement in high-risk candidates. Frontline Gastroenterol 2019; 11:171-172. [PMID: 32133119 PMCID: PMC7043076 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2019-101275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Neil C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley, UK
| | - James Rees
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley, UK
| | - John Frost
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley, UK
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Siau K, Hodson J, Ingram R, Baxter A, Widlak MM, Sharratt C, Baker GM, Troth T, Hicken B, Tahir F, Magrabi M, Yousaf N, Grant C, Poon D, Khalil H, Lee HL, White JR, Tan H, Samani S, Hooper P, Ahmed S, Amin M, Mahgoub S, Asghar K, Leet F, Harborne MJ, Polewiczowska B, Khan S, Anjum MR, McFarlane M, Mozdiak E, O'Flynn LD, Blee IC, Molyneux RM, Kurian A, Abbas SN, Abbasi A, Karim A, Yasin A, Khattak F, White J, Ahmed R, Morgan JA, Alleyne L, Alam MA, Palaniyappan N, Rodger VJ, Sawhney P, Aslam N, Okeke T, Lawson A, Cheung D, Reid JP, Awasthi A, Anderson MR, Timothy JR, Pattni S, Ahmad S, Townson G, Shearman J, Giljaca V, Brookes MJ, Disney BR, Guha N, Thomas T, Norman A, Wurm P, Shah A, Fisher NC, Ishaq S, Major G. Time to endoscopy for acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding: Results from a prospective multicentre trainee-led audit. United European Gastroenterol J 2018; 7:199-209. [PMID: 31080604 DOI: 10.1177/2050640618811491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endoscopy within 24 h of admission (early endoscopy) is a quality standard in acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (AUGIB). We aimed to audit time to endoscopy outcomes and identify factors affecting delayed endoscopy (>24 h of admission). Methods This prospective multicentre audit enrolled patients admitted with AUGIB who underwent inpatient endoscopy between November and December 2017. Analyses were performed to identify factors associated with delayed endoscopy, and to compare patient outcomes, including length of stay and mortality rates, between early and delayed endoscopy groups. Results Across 348 patients from 20 centres, the median time to endoscopy was 21.2 h (IQR 12.0-35.7), comprising median admission to referral and referral to endoscopy times of 8.1 h (IQR 3.7-18.1) and 6.7 h (IQR 3.0-23.1), respectively. Early endoscopy was achieved in 58.9%, although this varied by centre (range: 31.0-87.5%, p = 0.002). On multivariable analysis, lower Glasgow-Blatchford score, delayed referral, admissions between 7:00 and 19:00 hours or via the emergency department were independent predictors of delayed endoscopy. Early endoscopy was associated with reduced length of stay (median difference 1 d; p = 0.004), but not 30-d mortality (p = 0.344). Conclusions The majority of centres did not meet national standards for time to endoscopy. Strategic initiatives involving acute care services may be necessary to improve this outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Siau
- Joint Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Royal College of Physicians, London, UK.,West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - James Hodson
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard Ingram
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Andrew Baxter
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Monika M Widlak
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Caroline Sharratt
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Graham M Baker
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Tom Troth
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ben Hicken
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Faraz Tahir
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Malik Magrabi
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Nouman Yousaf
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Claire Grant
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Dennis Poon
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Hesham Khalil
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Hui Lin Lee
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Jonathan R White
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Huey Tan
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Syazeddy Samani
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Patricia Hooper
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Saeed Ahmed
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Muhammad Amin
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Sara Mahgoub
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Khayal Asghar
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Farique Leet
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Matthew J Harborne
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Beata Polewiczowska
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Sheeba Khan
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Muhammad R Anjum
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Michael McFarlane
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ella Mozdiak
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Lauren D O'Flynn
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ilona C Blee
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Rachel M Molyneux
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ashok Kurian
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Syed N Abbas
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Abdullah Abbasi
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Aadil Karim
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Asif Yasin
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Fawad Khattak
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Josephine White
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ruhina Ahmed
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - James A Morgan
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Lance Alleyne
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alam
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Naaventhan Palaniyappan
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Victoria J Rodger
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Paramvir Sawhney
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Nasar Aslam
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Theodore Okeke
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Adam Lawson
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Danny Cheung
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Jeremy P Reid
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ashish Awasthi
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Mark R Anderson
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Joe R Timothy
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Sanjeev Pattni
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Saqib Ahmad
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Gillian Townson
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Jeremy Shearman
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Vanja Giljaca
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Matthew J Brookes
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Ben R Disney
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Neil Guha
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Titus Thomas
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Anthony Norman
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Peter Wurm
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
| | - Ashit Shah
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Neil C Fisher
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Sauid Ishaq
- West Midlands Research in Gastroenterology Group (WMRIG) collaborative, West Midlands, UK
| | - Giles Major
- Gastroenterology Audit and Research Network East Midlands (GARNet) collaborative, East Midlands, UK
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Siau K, Li J, Fisher NC, Mulder CJJ, Ishaq S. Intubation failure during gastroscopy: incidence, predictors and follow-up findings. J Gastrointestin Liver Dis 2018; 26:339-344. [PMID: 29253046 DOI: 10.15403/jgld.2014.1121.264.isq] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intubation failure (IF) occurs when an endoscopist is unable to progress via the oropharynx into the upper oesophagus. AIM To assess incidence and aetiology of IF and predictors of structural pharyngeal abnormalities in patients with IF. METHODS All gastroscopies (n=26,130) performed in our centre, between August 2010 and August 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Barium radiology and repeat gastroscopy findings were evaluated for structural causes of IF. Patients were categorised into 'failure to tolerate' and 'failure to progress' based on endoscopy reports. RESULTS The incidence of IF was 0.95%. Rates of IF varied with endoscopist specialty (p=0.021), but not with patient age, sex or sedation dose. Among cases of IF, structural pharyngeal abnormalities were detected on barium radiology in 28.9%, consisting of cricopharyngeal hypertrophy and/or Zenker's diverticulum in 73.2%. 'Failure to progress' predicted pharyngeal pathology in 55.6%. Predictors of structural causes on barium radiology following IF included: age >/=65 (OR 4.0, 95% CI: 1.8-8.9, p<0.001); indication of dysphagia (OR 5.5, 95% CI: 2.5-11.8, p<0.001), and failure of endoscopic progression (OR 5.2, 95% CI: 2.3-12.0, p<0.001). CONCLUSION Patients with IF should be investigated owing to the high risk of underlying pathology, particularly if associated with age >/=65, dysphagia, and failure of endoscopic progression. We propose that IF rates of <1% could be used as a quality indicator in gastroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Siau
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley; JAG Quality Assurance Department, Royal College of Physicians, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessie Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley,United Kingdom
| | - Neil C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley,United Kingdom
| | | | - Sauid Ishaq
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley;Birmingham City University, United Kingdom.sauid.
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Siau K, Troth T, Gibson E, Dhanda A, Robinson L, Fisher NC. How long do percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding tubes last? A retrospective analysis. Postgrad Med J 2018; 94:469-474. [DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2018-135754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundPercutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes allow for long-term enteral feeding. Disk-retained PEG tubes may be suitable for long-term usage without planned replacement, but data on longevity are limited. We aimed to assess the rates and predictors of PEG longevity and post-PEG mortality.DesignSingle-centred retrospective cohort study of patients with disk-retained (Freka) PEG tubes.MethodsAll patients undergoing PEG between 2010 and 2013 were identified, and retrospective analysis of outcomes until 2017 (median 1062 days) was performed. Time-to-event data were plotted using Kaplan-Meier curves, with predictors of survival derived from multivariate Cox-regression analyses.Results277patients were studied, with a median age of 74 years (IQR 59–82). PEG tube failure occurred in 17.4%, due to: buried bumper syndrome (7.0%), split/broken tube (6.3%), peristomal infection (1.8%) and dislodged tube (1.1%). PEG tube longevity was 95.1% (1 year) and 68.5% (5 year), with age <70 (HR 2.65, 95% CI 1.25 to 5.62, p=0.011) being predictive of PEG failure. Post-PEG mortality was 10.5% (30 day), 35.4% (1 year) and 59.7% (5 year). Age ≥70 was associated with mortality (HR 2.79, 95% CI 1.92 to 4.05, p<0.001), whereas PEG failure (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.77, p=0.003) and elective PEG removal (HR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.64, p=0.005) were associated with reduced mortality.Conclusions68.5% of PEG tubes remain intact after 5 years. Younger age was associated with earlier PEG failure, whereas younger age, PEG replacement and elective PEG tube removal were associated with improved survival. These data may inform future guidance for elective PEG tube replacements.
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Siau K, Yew AC, Hingley S, Rees J, Trudgill NJ, Veitch AM, Fisher NC. The 2015 upper gastrointestinal "Be Clear on Cancer" campaign: its impact on gastroenterology services and malignant and premalignant diagnoses. Frontline Gastroenterol 2017; 8:284-289. [PMID: 29067155 PMCID: PMC5641852 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2017-100820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of the upper gastrointestinal 'Be Clear on Cancer' campaign launched by Public Health England between January and February 2015 on open-access gastroscopy referrals, incidence of target diagnoses (oesophagogastric cancer and Barrett's oesophagus), cancer staging at presentation, 1-year survival and cost per additional diagnosis. DESIGN We performed a retrospective study of patients referred for 2-week-wait (2WW), open-access endoscopy 3 months following the campaign with diagnoses, endoscopic findings, staging and 12-month survival compared with data from corresponding months in 2014. SETTING Three adjacent National Health Service trusts in the West Midlands with a combined population of 1.34 million in 2015. RESULTS 2WW open-access referrals increased by 48% (95% CI 1.35 to 1.61, p<0.001). The proportion of target diagnoses fell from 6.7% to 6.1% (p=0.62). There were no significant overall increases in target diagnoses (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.92, p=0.11) or cancer (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.07, p=0.36). There was no change in tumour, node, metastasis (TNM) staging for oesophageal or gastric cancer. Overall 1-year survival did not alter significantly (HR 1.10, 95% CI 0.56 to 2.19, p=0.76). DISCUSSION The 'Be Clear on Cancer' campaign led to a 48% increase in demand for 2WW gastroscopies but did not significantly affect the incidence of target diagnoses, cancer staging or 1-year survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Siau
- Department of Gastroenterology, Russell’s Hall Hospital, Dudley, UK
| | - Andrew Chong Yew
- Department of Gastroenterology, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Samantha Hingley
- Department of Gastroenterology, Russell’s Hall Hospital, Dudley, UK
| | - James Rees
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Lyndon, West Bromwich, UK
| | - Nigel John Trudgill
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Lyndon, West Bromwich, UK
| | - Andrew M Veitch
- Department of Gastroenterology, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Neil C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Russell’s Hall Hospital, Dudley, UK
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Menon S, Fisher NC. "Locked" pancreatic duct-wire technique for biliary cannulation. Gastrointest Endosc 2010; 72:668; author reply 669. [PMID: 20801293 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2009.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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Forrest EH, Morris AJ, Stewart S, Phillips M, Oo YH, Fisher NC, Haydon G, O'Grady J, Day CP. The Glasgow alcoholic hepatitis score identifies patients who may benefit from corticosteroids. Gut 2007; 56:1743-6. [PMID: 17627961 PMCID: PMC2095721 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2006.099226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is no consensus on the pharmacological treatment of alcoholic hepatitis. The Glasgow alcoholic hepatitis score (GAHS) has been shown to be more accurate than the modified Maddrey's discriminant function (mDF) in the prediction of outcome from alcoholic hepatitis. This study aimed to determine whether the GAHS was able to identify those patients who would benefit from corticosteroids. METHODS 225 patients with an mDF greater than or equal to 32 from five hospital centres in the United Kingdom were reviewed. Patient survival relative to the GAHS and the use of corticosteroids was recorded. RESULTS 144 patients with an mDF greater than or equal to 32 (64%) also had a GAHS greater than or equal to 9. There was no difference in survival between untreated or corticosteroid-treated patients for those with a GAHS less than 9. For patients with a GAHS greater than or equal to 9 the 28-day survival for untreated and corticosteroid-treated patients was 52% and 78% (p = 0.002), and 84-day survival was 38% and 59% (p = 0.02), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Among patients with an mDF greater than or equal to 32, there was no appreciable benefit from treatment with corticosteroids in patients with a GAHS less than 9. Patients with a GAHS greater than or equal to 9 have an extremely poor prognosis if they are not treated with corticosteroids, or if such treatment is contraindicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Forrest
- Department of Gastroenterology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, UK.
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Abstract
Commensal enteric bacteria stimulate innate immune cells and increase numbers of lamina propria and mesenteric lymph node (MLN) T and B lymphocytes. However, the influence of luminal bacteria on acquired immune function is not understood fully. We investigated the effects of intestinal bacterial colonization on T cell tolerogenic responses to oral antigen compared to systemic immunization. Lymphocytes specific for ovalbumin-T cell receptor (OVA-TCR Tg(+)) were transplanted into germ-free (GF) or specific pathogen-free (SPF) BALB/c mice. Recipient mice were fed OVA or immunized subcutaneously with OVA peptide (323-339) in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Although the efficiency of transfer was less in GF recipients, similar proportions of cells from draining peripheral lymph node (LN) or MLN were proliferating 3-4 days later in vivo in GF and SPF mice. In separate experiments, mice were fed tolerogenic doses of OVA and then challenged with an immunogenic dose of OVA 4 days later. Ten days after immunization, lymphocytes were restimulated with OVA in vitro to assess antigen-specific proliferative responses. At both high and low doses of OVA, cells from both SPF and GF mice fed OVA prior to immunization had decreased proliferation compared to cells from control SPF or GF mice. In addition, secretion of interferon (IFN)-gamma and interleukin (IL)-10 by OVA-TCR Tg(+) lymphocytes was reduced in both SPF and GF mice fed OVA compared to control SPF or GF mice. Unlike previous reports indicating defective humoral responses to oral antigen in GF mice, our results indicate that commensal enteric bacteria do not enhance the induction of acquired, antigen-specific T cell tolerance to oral OVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L W Walton
- Department of Medicine, SPIRE Program, Centre for Gastrointestinal Biology of Disease, Univeristy of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7032, USA.
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Saadeddin A, Freshwater DA, Fisher NC, Jones BJM. Antibiotic prophylaxis for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy for non-malignant conditions: a double-blind prospective randomized controlled trial. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2005; 22:565-70. [PMID: 16167973 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2005.02578.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of antibiotic prophylaxis prior to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion has been encouraged following development of guidelines by a number of professional societies within the past few years. However, not all evidence supports routine prophylaxis, particularly in patients with 'benign' disease indications for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion. AIM To identify whether prophylactic antibiotic usage is beneficial in patients undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion without malignant disease. METHODS Adult patients without malignant disease who were referred for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion at our unit were assessed for participation in this prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study. Patients were randomized to receive either placebo or 2.2 g co-amoxiclav (or 2 g cefotaxime if penicillin-allergic) at time of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion. Clinical endpoints studies were percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy site or systemic infection and death within 7 days of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion. Results : Ninety-nine patients completed the study (51 antibiotics, 48 placebo). Outcomes in the antibiotic and placebo groups respectively were: percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy site infection, 11% vs. 47% (P < 0.01); systemic infection, 16% vs. 38% (P < 0.05); and death, 8% vs. 15% (P = 0.5). CONCLUSIONS Antibiotic prophylaxis prior to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion reduces both percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy site and systemic infections in patients without malignant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Saadeddin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands, UK
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Forrest EH, Evans CDJ, Stewart S, Phillips M, Oo YH, McAvoy NC, Fisher NC, Singhal S, Brind A, Haydon G, O'Grady J, Day CP, Hayes PC, Murray LS, Morris AJ. Analysis of factors predictive of mortality in alcoholic hepatitis and derivation and validation of the Glasgow alcoholic hepatitis score. Gut 2005; 54:1174-9. [PMID: 16009691 PMCID: PMC1774903 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2004.050781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcoholic hepatitis is associated with a high short term mortality. We aimed to identify those factors associated with mortality and define a simple score which would predict outcome in our population. METHODS We identified 241 patients with alcoholic hepatitis. Clinical and laboratory data were recorded on the day of admission (day 1) and on days 6-9. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify variables related to outcome at 28 days and 84 days after admission. These variables were included in the Glasgow alcoholic hepatitis score (GAHS) and its ability to predict outcome assessed. The GAHS was validated in a separate dataset of 195 patients. RESULTS The GAHS was derived from five variables independently associated with outcome: age (p = 0.001) and, from day 1 results, serum bilirubin (p<0.001), blood urea (p = 0.019) and, from day 6-9 results, serum bilirubin (p<0.001), prothrombin time (p = 0.002), and peripheral blood white blood cell count (p = 0.001). The GAHS on day 1 had an overall accuracy of 81% when predicting 28 day outcome. In contrast, the modified discriminant function had an overall accuracy of 49%. Similar results were found using information at 6-9 days and when predicting 84 day outcome. The accuracy of the GAHS was confirmed by the validation study of 195 patients The GAHS was equally accurate irrespective of the use of the international normalised ratio or prothrombin time ratio, or if the diagnosis of alcoholic hepatitis was biopsy proven or on the basis of clinical assessment. CONCLUSIONS Using variables associated with mortality we have derived and validated an accurate scoring system to assess outcome in alcoholic hepatitis. This score was able to identify patients at greatest risk of death throughout their admission.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Forrest
- Department of Gastroenterology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Castle St, Glasgow G4 0SF, UK.
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Doherty MJ, Healy M, Richardson SG, Fisher NC. Total body iron overload in welder's siderosis. Occup Environ Med 2004; 61:82-5. [PMID: 14691279 PMCID: PMC1757815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Welder's siderosis occurs as a consequence of the inhalation of iron dust. The iron overload of welder's siderosis is usually considered to be confined to the lungs. Here we present three proven cases of welder's siderosis associated with evidence of increased total systemic iron stores, as evidenced by increased serum ferritin levels. Multiple investigations including molecular genotyping for the common mutations found in genetic haemochromatosis failed to prove this was due to haemochromatosis, nor was there any evidence of any other recognised cause of systemic iron overload. Thus the systemic iron overload described seems likely to be due to either occupational exposure, an uncharacterised genetic haemochromatosis, or a combination of both.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Doherty
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Dudley Group of Hospitals, West Midlands, UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 2HQ.
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Abstract
The purpose of this study is to prospectively evaluate a strategy in which prophylaxis with amphotericin B lipid complex at 3 different dosages was targeted to liver transplant recipients at high risk for the development of invasive fungal infection (IFI). High risk was defined as a postoperative requirement for prolonged (>/=5 days) intensive care unit (ICU) treatment. Consecutive high-risk patients were administered prophylaxis with amphotericin B lipid complex from day 5 after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) until ICU discharge or death. The first 10 eligible patients were administered 5 mg/kg/d, the next 10 patients were administered 2.5 mg/kg/d, and a final 10 patients were administered 1 mg/kg/d. Drug safety and efficacy were assessed before each dosage reduction. During the study period, 130 adult patients underwent 137 OLTs. Thirty patients fulfilled the entry criteria and were administered prophylaxis with amphotericin B lipid complex. No patient developed proven IFI during prophylaxis. Cultures from normally sterile sites (blood and abdominal drain fluid) always showed negative results. All fungal isolates were sensitive in vitro to amphotericin B. There was no significant difference in colonization scores among the groups of patients administered different dosages of amphotericin B lipid complex. No death, serious adverse reaction, or nephrotoxicity was attributed to amphotericin B lipid complex. We conclude that prophylaxis with amphotericin B lipid complex targeted to patients requiring prolonged ICU treatment after OLT appears to be well tolerated and may prevent IFI. Our current policy is to use amphotericin B lipid complex, 1 mg/kg/d, as antifungal prophylaxis in this high-risk group.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Singhal
- Liver and Hepatobiliary Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary deficiencies of natural anticoagulant proteins are implicated in the pathogenesis of portal vein thrombosis (PVT). Secondary deficiencies of these proteins have also been reported in PVT, making interpretation of concentrations difficult. AIMS To characterise the coagulation profiles in adult patients with PVT and to investigate the possible mechanisms of natural anticoagulant protein deficiency. PATIENTS Twenty nine adult patients with portal hypertension caused by PVT, and normal biochemical liver function tests. METHODS Routine coagulation profiles and concentrations of proteins C, S, and antithrombin were measured; where indicated, corresponding concentrations in parents were also measured. Synchronous peripheral and hepatic or splenic vein concentrations were compared in seven patients undergoing interventional procedures, as were peripheral concentrations before and after shunt surgery in three patients. RESULTS Deficiencies of one or more of the natural anticoagulant proteins occurred in 18 patients (62%), with six patients having combined deficiency of all three proteins. There were strong correlations between prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time ratios and concentrations of natural anticoagulant proteins. Family studies in nine cases of anticoagulant protein deficiency revealed possible hereditary deficiency in only three cases, and significantly lower concentrations of anticoagulant proteins in all PVT cases compared with parents. Levels of anticoagulant proteins tended to be lower in hepatic veins but higher in splenic veins compared with peripheral vein concentrations. Peripheral concentrations decreased after shunt surgery. CONCLUSIONS Deficiency of natural anticoagulant proteins is common in PVT and is probably a secondary phenomenon in most cases, occurring as part of a global disturbance of coagulation variables. The mechanism for this remains unclear but may result from a combination of reduced hepatic blood flow and portosystemic shunting itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Lachmann RH, Wight DG, Lomas DJ, Fisher NC, Schofield JP, Elias E, Cox TM. Massive hepatic fibrosis in Gaucher's disease: clinico-pathological and radiological features. QJM 2000; 93:237-44. [PMID: 10787452 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/93.4.237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatomegaly is frequent in patients with type 1 Gaucher's disease and is associated with infiltration of the liver with pathological macrophages. Most patients suffer no significant clinical consequences, but a few develop portal hypertension which may progress to parenchymal liver failure. We describe four patients with Gaucher's disease who have developed portal hypertension. We have reviewed their clinical histories and all available histological and radiological material. All had severe Gaucher's disease with multi-organ involvement, and had undergone splenectomy in childhood. Histologically, this advanced liver disease was characterized by a picture of extreme and advanced confluent fibrosis occupying the central region of the liver. This massive fibrosis is associated with characteristic radiological appearances. The liver histology in these cases is highly unusual and virtually unknown in other conditions. Our studies indicate that without specific treatment the liver disease is progressive and rapidly fatal. However, institution of enzyme replacement therapy with imiglucerase may have beneficial effects even when the condition is far advanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H Lachmann
- Departments of Medicine, Histopathology and. Radiology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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Williamson LM, Llewelyn CA, Fisher NC, Allain JP, Bellamy MC, Baglin TP, Freeman J, Klinck JR, Ala FA, Smith N, Neuberger J, Wreghitt TG. A randomized trial of solvent/detergent-treated and standard fresh-frozen plasma in the coagulopathy of liver disease and liver transplantation. Transfusion 1999; 39:1227-34. [PMID: 10604250 DOI: 10.1046/j.1537-2995.1999.39111227.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virus inactivation of pooled fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) by the solvent/detergent (SD) method results in a loss of approximately 20 percent of factor VIII. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of SD-treated plasma in correcting the coagulopathy associated with liver disease and liver transplantation. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Forty-nine patients with coagulation deficits due to liver disease, who required FFP for invasive procedures or liver transplantation, were randomly assigned to receive either FFP or SD-treated plasma. Patients were assessed for side effects, correction of coagulopathy over 24 hours, and seroconversion for viral markers 6 to 18 months after treatment. RESULTS In the liver disease group, equal correction of clotting factors and partial thromboplastin time was seen with FFP and SD-treated plasma, with a similar return to baseline values over 24 hours. There was greater correction of the International Normalised Ratio in patients receiving SD-treated plasma (p = 0.037), but this patient group had higher baseline values than recipients of FFP (p = 0.024). Liver transplant patients also showed equivalent correction of coagulopathy with the same dose of FFP and SD-treated plasma. The use of other blood components during transplantation was identical in the two treatment groups. No seroconversions were seen for HIV or hepatitis B or C virus. One patient who had received FFP seroconverted for human parvovirus B19. Apparent seroconversion for hepatitis A virus seen at 9 to 13 months in four other patients was probably due to detection of passively transferred antibodies, as later testing of these patients gave negative results. Minor side effects were rare in both groups. CONCLUSION SD-treated plasma is an efficacious source of coagulation factors for patients with liver disease who are undergoing biopsy or transplantation. Assessment of seroconversion for viral markers in recipients of plasma-derived products and plasma components should include consideration of the possibility that passively transferred antibodies were detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Williamson
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK.
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Fisher NC, Neil DA, Williams A, Adams DH. Serum concentrations and peripheral secretion of the beta chemokines monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 and macrophage inflammatory protein 1alpha in alcoholic liver disease. Gut 1999; 45:416-20. [PMID: 10446112 PMCID: PMC1727646 DOI: 10.1136/gut.45.3.416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcoholic liver disease is associated with increased hepatic expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and macrophage inflammatory protein 1alpha (MIP-1alpha). AIMS To determine whether concentrations of chemokines in the peripheral circulation reflect disease activity, and whether chemokine secretion is restricted to the liver or is part of a systemic inflammatory response in alcoholic liver disease. PATIENTS Fifty one patients with alcoholic liver disease and 12 healthy controls. METHODS Peripheral vein (and hepatic vein in patients undergoing transjugular liver biopsy) chemokine concentrations were measured by ELISA. Chemokine secretion and transcription in isolated peripheral mononuclear cells were assessed using ELISA and in situ hybridisation in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. RESULTS Serum MCP-1 concentrations were higher in alcoholic hepatitis compared with cirrhosis or healthy controls. MIP-1alpha concentrations were below the assay sensitivity in most patients. Serum MCP-1 concentrations correlated significantly with serum aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine. In severe alcoholic hepatitis, MCP-1 concentrations were higher in hepatic compared with peripheral veins; in mild alcoholic hepatitis there was no difference. Mononuclear cell secretion of both MCP-1 and MIP-1alpha was higher in severe alcoholic hepatitis compared with healthy controls, and chemokine mRNA was identified in monocytes. CONCLUSIONS Serum MCP-1 concentrations are raised in alcoholic liver disease and reflect severity of hepatic inflammation. Monocyte secretion of both MCP-1 and MIP-1alpha is increased in severe alcoholic hepatitis. Both intrahepatic sources and peripheral mononuclear cells contribute to the raised serum MCP-1 concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Research Laboratories, MRC Centre for Immune Regulation, Institute of Clinical Science, Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence of vascular complications associated with central venous cannulation in patients with liver disease and coagulopathy. DESIGN A prospective audit of all cannulation episodes in patients with liver disease and a prothrombin (INR) more than 1.5 and/or platelet count of 150 x 10(9)/l or less. SETTING A specialist liver unit between January 1996 and September 1997. PATIENTS Patients with acute or chronic liver diseases and patients undergoing liver transplantation or other hepatobiliary surgery. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS Vascular complications of central venous cannulation were classified as major (any haemodynamically significant haemorrhage) or minor (superficial oozing or haematoma). We recorded 658 cannulations (subclavian, 352, and internal jugular, 306). The median INR was 2.4 (range 1-16) in the subclavian group and 2.7 (1-17) in the internal jugular group (p < 0.05); median platelet counts were 81 x 10(9)/l (range 9-1088) and 83 x 10(9)/l (10-425), respectively (difference not significant). One patient developed a haemothorax after accidental subclavian artery puncture (INR was 1.5, platelets 68 and regional prostacyclin therapy was being given for haemofiltration). There were no other major vascular complications. Risk factors for minor vascular complications included internal jugular cannulation, more than one needle pass into the vein, failure to pass any guidewire, a high INR and low platelets for haematoma formation, and low platelets and heparin therapy for superficial oozing. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of major vascular complications following central venous cannulation in patients with liver disease and coagulopathy was low in this audit. In liver disease the presence of a raised INR alone should not be considered a contra-indication to central venous cannulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Fisher NC, Singhal S, Miller SJ, Hastings JG, Mutimer DJ. Fungal infection and liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome) therapy in liver transplantation: a 2 year review. J Antimicrob Chemother 1999; 43:597-600. [PMID: 10350395 DOI: 10.1093/jac/43.4.597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed the use of liposomal amphotericin B in 30 patients receiving therapy following liver transplantation over a 2 year period. Five of these patients were treated for presumed invasive aspergillosis: four of them died despite therapy, each having combined renal and respiratory failure at the time of diagnosis of presumed aspergillosis. Post-mortem examination of three of these patients confirmed the diagnosis of aspergillosis. Twenty-five patients were treated empirically; 11 died and supportive evidence for invasive fungal infection following commencement of therapy was found in only one case. Following liver transplantation, the use of liposomal amphotericin B following confirmation of aspergillus infection or for empirical therapy is of uncertain value, and strategies based on selective prophylaxis for high-risk cases may be preferable.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Fisher NC, McCafferty I, Dolapci M, Wali M, Buckels JA, Olliff SP, Elias E. Managing Budd-Chiari syndrome: a retrospective review of percutaneous hepatic vein angioplasty and surgical shunting. Gut 1999; 44:568-74. [PMID: 10075967 PMCID: PMC1727471 DOI: 10.1136/gut.44.4.568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of percutaneous hepatic vein angioplasty in the management of Budd-Chiari syndrome has not been well defined. Over a 10 year period at our unit, we have often used this technique in cases of short length hepatic vein stenosis or occlusion, reserving surgical mesocaval shunting for cases of diffuse hepatic vein occlusion or failed angioplasty. AIMS To review the outcome of angioplasty and surgical shunting to define their respective roles. PATIENTS All patients treated by angioplasty or surgical shunting for non-malignant hepatic vein obstruction over a ten year period from 1987 to 1996. METHODS A case note review of pretreatment features and clinical outcome. RESULTS Angioplasty was attempted in 21 patients with patent hepatic vein branches and was successful in 18; in three patients treatment was unsuccessful and these patients had surgical shunts. Fifteen patients were treated by surgical shunting only. Mortality according to definitive treatment was 3/18 following angioplasty and 8/18 following surgery; in most cases this reflected high risk status prior to treatment. Venous or shunt reocclusion rates were similar for both groups and were associated with subtherapeutic warfarin in half of these cases. Most surviving patients in both groups are asymptomatic although one surgical patient has chronic hepatic encephalopathy. CONCLUSION With appropriate case selection, many patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome caused by short length hepatic vein stenosis or occlusion may be managed successfully by angioplasty alone. Medium term outcome is good following this procedure provided that anticoagulation is maintained. Further follow up is required to assess for definitive benefits but we suggest that this should be included as a valid initial approach in the algorithm for management of Budd-Chiari syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Fisher NC, Green A, McKiernan PJ, Elias E. Authors' Reply. BJOG 1999. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1999.tb08225.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Fungal infection, particularly with Candida spp., has been identified as an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acute liver failure. Fungal colonisation of superficial mucosal sites usually precedes invasive infection. We investigated colonisation patterns in patients with acute liver disease receiving fluconazole therapy in order to investigate the possibility of emergence of fluconazole-resistant C. albicans or other species. METHODS During a 6-month study period, we studied all patients referred to our unit with acute liver disease by twice-weekly sampling and mycological analysis of specimens from superficial mucosal and other sites as appropriate. Patients were treated with prophylactic antimicrobials including 100 mg fluconazole daily in accordance with our usual protocol. RESULTS Twenty-two patients with acute liver disease were studied, eight of whom underwent transplantation. Eighteen patients were colonised by fungi at presentation, and six developed secondary colonisation during fluconazole therapy. Four of these patients (all transplanted) became colonised by resistant species; one of these was Aspergillus fumigatus, which led to death. There were no other invasive fungal infections identified during the study period, and no fluconazole-resistant C. albicans were identified. CONCLUSIONS Resistance to fluconazole is unlikely to develop in C. albicans during short-term fluconazole prophylaxis in acute liver disease, and in this study we did not find evidence of invasive disease from other Candida spp. during fluconazole therapy. However, in patients at particularly high risk, other strategies are required to prevent infection with Aspergillus spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver and Hepatobiliary Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Afford SC, Fisher NC, Neil DA, Fear J, Brun P, Hubscher SG, Adams DH. Distinct patterns of chemokine expression are associated with leukocyte recruitment in alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis. J Pathol 1998; 186:82-9. [PMID: 9875144 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1096-9896(199809)186:1<82::aid-path151>3.0.co;2-d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease is associated with three histologically distinct processes: steatosis (parenchymal fat accumulation), alcoholic hepatitis (characterized by parenchymal infiltration by neutrophil polymorphs), and alcoholic cirrhosis (in which chronic inflammation and fibrosis dominate). Chemokines are cytokines that promote subset-specific leukoycte recruitment to tissues and could therefore play a crucial role in determining which leukocyte subsets are recruited to the liver in alcoholic liver disease. This paper reports that chemokine expression is increased in the liver of patients with alcoholic liver disease and, moreover, that distinct patterns of chemokine expression are associated with the different inflammatory responses to alcohol. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1 alpha), and MIP-1 beta were all detected in the parenchyma at sites of inflammation in alcoholic hepatitis, whereas in alcoholic cirrhosis, chemokines were restricted to inflammatory cells and endothelium in the fibrous septa and portal tracts. In alcoholic hepatitis, chemokine transcription was localized to sinusoidal cells, leukocytes, and fibroblasts in areas of parenchymal inflammation, but hepatocytes, despite staining strongly for chemokine protein, were negative. In alcoholic cirrhosis, chemokine mRNA was detected in portal tract endothelium, leukocytes, and fibroblasts. Thus, alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis are associated with distinct patterns of chemokine expression that are likely to be important factors in determining whether a patient develops acute parenchymal inflammation and alcoholic hepatitis, or chronic septal inflammation and alcoholic cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Afford
- Liver Research Laboratories, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, U.K
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplant recipients are at risk of chronic renal disease, principally as a result of nephrotoxicity of the commonly used immunosuppressive agents cyclosporine and tacrolimus. We have investigated the incidence of chronic renal failure and its risk factors in our transplant population, which was treated predominantly with cyclosporine. METHODS A single-center retrospective study was done of 883 consecutive adult patients receiving a first liver transplant between 1982 and 1996. Potential risk factors for the development of chronic renal failure were recorded, including serial measurements of cyclosporine therapy and renal function. RESULTS Severe chronic renal failure (serum creatinine level >250 microM/L for at least 6 months) developed in 25 patients, representing 4% of patients surviving 1 year or more. Twelve of these patients developed end-stage renal failure and mortality was 44%. The predominant cause of renal failure was cyclosporine nephrotoxicity. Serum creatinine as early as 3 months after surgery was strongly associated with the eventual development of severe chronic renal failure (P=0.001), and this group could be further subdivided into two groups with differing risk factors. The first group had early (<1 year) renal dysfunction, with older age (P=0.03), cytomegalovirus infection (P=0.03), need for perioperative renal replacement therapy (P=0.06), and regrafting (P=0.06) as risk factors for eventual renal failure; the second group had late-onset (>1 year) renal dysfunction, with cyclosporine levels at 1 month after surgery (P=0.007) and daily and cumulative cyclosporine dosage at 5 years (P=0.01 for both) as risk factors. CONCLUSIONS With improved survival of liver transplant recipients, chronic renal failure has become an important cause of morbidity and is associated with a high mortality. Many patients at risk of severe chronic renal failure may be identified at an early stage. Treatment regimens that avoid or prevent cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity are urgently required for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Mendoza A, Fisher NC, Duckett J, McKiernan J, Preece MA, Green A, McKiernan PJ, Constantine G, Elias E. Successful pregnancy in a patient with type III glycogen storage disease managed with cornstarch supplements. Br J Obstet Gynaecol 1998; 105:677-80. [PMID: 9647162 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1998.tb10186.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Mendoza
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Fisher NC. IgM antibody against measles virus in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a marker of virus related disease? Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1998; 10:355-6. [PMID: 9855055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS The majority of gastrointestinal endoscopists in the United Kingdom routinely use intravenous sedation prior to diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. We conducted a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial to help determine whether the use of sedation influences the duration, safety, and tolerance of diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. PATIENTS AND METHODS Adults referred for outpatient diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were invited to participate in the study. Patients with a history of previous upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or dysphagia were excluded. Patients were prospectively randomized to sedation with intravenous midazolam (5 mg for those under 65 years or 3 mg for those aged 65 or more), or no sedation. All patients were given topical oropharyngeal anaesthesia with 100 mg lignocaine spray. Outcome measures included duration of procedure, ease of procedure (as assessed by medical and nursing staff), tolerance of procedure (as assessed by patients), and incidence of complications. RESULTS 100 patients were randomized to receive sedation or no sedation. The two groups were well matched for age, sex, and number of biopsies taken during the procedure. In the non-sedated group, the duration of endoscopy tended to be reduced and the procedure tended to be easier according to the endoscopists' assessment (neither of these observations was significant). The sedated group reported greater comfort for the procedure (P < 0.001), although both groups tolerated the procedure well, and the majority in both groups preferred to have any future procedure repeated in the same manner. There were no serious adverse events in either group. CONCLUSIONS In patients who are willing to contemplate upper gastrointestinal endoscopy without sedation, the avoidance of sedation may lead to faster and easier endoscopies, without any increased risk of procedural difficulties or adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Dept. of Gastroenterology, Stafford General Infirmary, United Kingdom
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence that measles virus infection in early life may predispose to Crohn's disease. AIMS To examine using serological methods a potential association between measles virus infection in early life and predisposition to Crohn's disease. SUBJECTS Forty five patients with Crohn's disease and forty five healthy controls were studied prospectively. METHODS Clinical data were recorded and serum was analysed for measles virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), adenovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV) antibody titres by a complement fixation test (CFT), and for measles virus IgM by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Reciprocal CFT titres for measles virus were lower in patients with Crohn's disease compared with controls (p < 0.05); there was no significant difference in titres for other viruses. None of the subjects studied had a level of measles virus IgM suggestive of acute infection, and there was no significant difference in measles virus IgM levels between patients and controls. The measles virus CFT titres and IgM levels in the patients with Crohn's disease did not correlate with any of the clinical features recorded. CONCLUSION This study does not provide supportive evidence for a role for measles virus in the aetiology of Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Staffordshire General Infirmary
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Department of Gastroenterology, North Staffordshire Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, England
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Abstract
Lymphocyte recruitment to tissue is regulated by homing molecules expressed on subsets of leukocytes that bind to endothelial adhesion molecules termed addressins in target tissues. The addressins and homing molecules involved in recruiting lymphocytes to inflamed human liver are not known. E-selectin, which acts as an addressin for a subset of skin-infiltrating T cells that express a distinct E-selectin ligand called the cutaneous lymphocyte antigen (CLA), can be detected on endothelium in inflammatory liver diseases suggesting it might also act as an addressin for liver-infiltrating lymphocytes. To determine whether E-selectin does play such a role we looked for concomitant expression of E-selectin on hepatic endothelium and E-selectin ligands on infiltrating lymphocytes in liver sections from patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), acute allograft rejection, alcoholic liver disease, and normal liver. E-selectin was detected on vascular endothelium in association with lymphocytic infiltrates in all three liver diseases but not on normal endothelium. However, less that 10% of infiltrating lymphocytes expressed the only known lymphocyte E-selectin ligand, CLA. We used E-selectin chimeric fusion proteins to probe for novel E-selectin ligands on liver-infiltrating lymphocytes; however, less than 10% of lymphocytes had t he ability to bind the fusion proteins. Thus, E-selectin is unlikely to act as an addressin for liver-infiltrating lymphocytes, suggesting that other molecules are involved in lymphocyte recruitment to the liver. Despite the lack of binding to lymphocytes other structures in the liver expressed CLA and bound the E-selectin fusion proteins. Inflamed, but not normal, intrahepatic bile ducts expressed CLA and bound E-selectin, suggesting that they express activation dependent carbohydrate binding receptors. Furthermore, Kupffer cells did not express CLA but bound to both E-selectin fusion proteins, suggesting that they express potentially novel E-selectin ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Adams
- Department of Medicine, University of Birmingham, England
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Fisher NC, Daggett PR. Haemochromatosis presenting with loss of libido and impotence. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1996; 8:705-7. [PMID: 8853262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Haemochromatosis may present in different ways according to the organ predominantly affected by iron overload. Presentation with symptoms caused by deficiency of pituitary gonadotrophins is recognized but rarely reported. We present such a case and argue that haemochromatosis may be a more common cause of impotence than is presently realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Fisher
- Department of Endocrinology, Staffordshire General Infirmary, Stafford, UK
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Abstract
We describe a cellulose sandwich fluoroimmunoassay for Factor VIII-related antigen (FVIIIR:Ag). Plasma is incubated with cellulose-antibody for 2 hours, fluorescent-labelled antiserum is added and the samples are allowed to react for an additional 2 hours. The fluorescence associated with the cellulose-antibody is measured after the tubes have been centrifuged, and the deposit washed and then digested with sodium hydroxide. Ninety-seven samples are assayed and the results are compared with radioimmunoassay (correlation coefficient 0.960) or electroimmunoassay (correlation coefficient 0.882). Between-run coefficients of variation are 8.0% to 9.9%. The cellulose-antibody reagent and the fluorescent-labelled antiserum were both stable over a period of 1 year, demonstrating a major advantage of fluoroimmunoassay over radioimmunoassay.
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