Gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia: excerpts from the AGA/ANMS meeting

BACKGROUND

Despite the relatively high prevalence of gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia, the aetiology and pathophysiology of these disorders remain incompletely understood. Similarly, the diagnostic and treatment options for these two disorders are relatively limited despite recent advances in our understanding of both disorders.

PURPOSE

This manuscript reviews the advances in the understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia as discussed at a recent conference sponsored by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society (ANMS). Particular focus is placed on discussing unmet needs and areas for future research.

[Antibodies against staphylococcal nuclease--titres of persons with and without staphylococcal infections (author's transl)]

Rabbits were immunized against staphylococcal nuclease by repeated intramuscular injections. After five weeks the peak of the antibody response was reached, after 17 weeks the titres are on the level of the starting point. Persons without staphylococcal infections showed titres between 1:200 and 1:300 (titre of normal). In patients with proved staphylococcal infection the peak of the titres is reached three month post infection. The level of the titre is influenced by the site of infection; deep infections gave higher values than superficial processes. The method of the AStaN-reaction was examined with respect of their reproducibility, clearness, specificity and diagnostic relevance. In proved staphylococcal infections the AStaN-reaction is more often positive than the AStaL-reaction.