[Choosing wisely - perspectives: what are the key questions?]

Gastroenterology offers a wide field for future "choosing wisely" recommendations (CWR). They should refer not only to an under- or overuse of diagnostic tools like laboratory or imaging tests but also to an evidence-based application of drug therapies und endoscopic interventions. Drugs like antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors are both often prescribed in the absence of clearly defined underlying diseases and not given when an indication is clear. Similar is true for the ordering of abdominal imaging methods. Computerized tomography of the abdomen too often is preferred over a qualified ultrasound study. Laboratory tests like amylase or lipase should not be ordered for asymptomatic patients since false positive values often end up with further useless and occasionally invasive examinations. Ordering both enzymes in acute pancreatitis will not provide any additional information. Similarly, CEA, ammonia or procalcitonin have either limited or no value in gastroenterology. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy should not be performed in asymptomatic people without any risk factors. On the other hand, colonoscopy is still underused as a valuable screening tool for detection and secondary prevention of colorectal carcinomas in people over 50 years old.The dramatic rise in people suffering from obesity is paralleled by an enormous increase in severe cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. This calls for CWRs addressing this causal relationship and offering not only patient centered therapeutic solutions but also calling for effective measures to regulate the marketing of highly processed food or sugar enriched soft drinks. Published guidelines in Gastroenterology will continue to be a rich source for delineating new CWRs. Nevertheless, CWRs are also needed in daily practice offering solutions for clinical problems not covered by guidelines. These, however, have to be based both on a broad interdisciplinary consent of experts in the field and on scientific evidence.

Evidence-Based Follow-up for Adults With Cancer

BACKGROUND

The objectives of follow-up care for cancer patients include psycho- social assistance and the detection of health problems. The concept of follow-up care rests on the assumption that the early detection of cancer recurrences and disease- or treatment-related complications is beneficial to patients. In this article, we provide an overview of the scientific evidence supporting current recommen- dations for the follow-up care of patients with colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and lymphoma.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications that were retrieved by a selective search in PubMed, supplemented by the authors' own experience in patient care and guideline creation.

RESULTS

As recurrences usually arise soon after initial treatment, the recommended follow-up interval is shorter in the first two years (3-6 months) and longer thereafter (6-12 months). The question of which particular follow-up studies should be per- formed has only been systematically analyzed in a few cases. For patients with colorectal cancer, colonoscopy is the most important study. Intensive follow-up care is associated with a statistically non-significant increase in the survival rate compared to minimal follow-up care (77.5% versus 75.8%). Intensive diagnostic follow-up studies have been found to lead to a doubling of the frequency of operations for recurrence with curative intent, yet without any effect on the average survival time. The findings in lung cancer are similar. However, after tumor resection with curative intent, regularly repeated CT scanning leads to a survival advantage. In lymphoma patients, the longer the interval from primary treatment, the greater the likelihood of treatment-related secondary illnesses. It is not yet known how follow-up care should be provided to these patients in order to help them best.

CONCLUSION

The evidence supporting the efficacy of currently recommended modalities of follow-up care for cancer patients is weak. Until more data from clinical studies become available, the current guidelines should be followed.

[Long-term drug treatments to improve prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis and to prevent complications due to portal hypertension]

Portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis can be improved, not only by surgical or interventional shunt placements, but also by drug-only treatment. Many recent studies addressed the question whether any of these substances can improve survival of patients with liver cirrhosis when administered continuously for months and years. Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBB), statins, antibiotics, enoxaparin and albumin have been shown to possess many beneficial effects in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension or on events leading to decompensation of liver cirrhosis. Accordingly, they represent candidate drugs for long-term treatment to improve patient survival. In contrast to NSBB, antibiotics and albumin, which have clearly defined indications in the treatment of complications related to portal hypertension, the role of statins and anticoagulants in the management of these patients remains to be further elucidated. Recent studies came to opposing results when a permanent treatment was tested to improve patient prognosis or to prevent liver decompensation. At present, there is no reason to change our everyday practice beyond established management proposals published in practice guidelines. This paper gives an overview of present and future indications for treatment with NSBB, antibiotics, statins, anticoagulants and albumin with special reference to studies aiming at improving prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis.

[Updated S2k-Guideline "Complications of liver cirrhosis". German Society of Gastroenterology (DGVS)]

This guideline provides evidence-based key recommendations for diagnosis and therapy of complications of liver cirrhosis and upgrades the 2011 version. An interdisciplinary team of medical experts and patient support groups developed the guideline following the AWMF recommendations for evidence based consensus guidelines. New chapters concerning diagnosis and therapy of hepatic encephalopathy were added.

[Elevated liver enzymes]

Elevated liver enzymes are a frequent finding in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients necessitating further evaluation to clarify the underlying disease. Three different patterns of increased liver enzymes can be defined to allow for a more precise and rational further diagnostic approach. A predominant increase in transaminase activities reflects a disturbance of hepatocellular integrity which can be found in patients with viral hepatitis, genetic liver diseases like Wilson`s disease or hemochromatosis, and drug-induced liver diseases. A second pattern is characterized by high serum alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase activities indicating cholestatic liver diseases. The next important diagnostic measure in this group is an ultrasound study discerning intra- from extrahepatic cholestasis. Intrahepatic cholestatic diseases include primary and secondary sclerosing cholangitis, genetic disturbances of canalicular membrane transporters or drug-induced liver dieseases. Extrahepatic cholestasis involves obstruction of the large bile ducts by gall stones or tumors. The third enzym pattern is defined by a predominant rise in γ-glutamyl transpeptidase which is observed in alcoholic or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and infiltrating liver diseases. A rise in liver enzymes is not necessarily indicative of a primary hepatic origin. Extrahepatic diseases often cause similarly increased serum activities. In addition even higher values can be observed under normal conditions during pregnancy or in adolescens. Lower values in asymptomatic patients should only be controlled since more than 30% of elevated transaminases spontaneously normalize during follow-up.

[Severe dyspnea by combination of cervical spondylosis and struma]

CASE HISTORY PHYSICAL EXAMINATION: A 79-years-old female suffered from cervical pain for several years which radiated in both shoulders. A nodular goiter was already known and therefore a radio iodine treatment had been planned. Eight months ago the patient noticed a progressing breathlessness. Emergency admission happened due to inspiratory stridor and severe attacks of dyspnoea. Sufficient breathing was only possible by wearing a rigid cervical collar. There were no neurological deficits.

EXAMINATION

Tracheoscopy showed a mass in the dorsal cervical region. The cervical x-ray, computed tomography and magnet resonance imaging conformed a distinct spondylopathy at the leading edge of the cervical vertebral bodies including ventralisation of the oesophagus and narrowing of the trachea (>50%).

THERAPY AND COURSE

Simultaneously a total thyroidectomy, including neuromonitoring of the N. vagus, and ventral microsurgical resection of the spondylopathy was performed. There was no relapse of dyspnoea in the following year.

CONCLUSION

The coincidence of a goiter and ventral cervical spondylopathy accompanied by significant dyspnoea is remarkable. The order of diagnostic steps in this emergency case displays a major problem. The patient was scheduled for goiter surgery and admitted as emergency due to a stridor. The cervical spondylopathy was diagnosed by tracheoscopy and cervical x-ray. This case report emphasizes the importance to think about cervical lesions in the presence of a goiter and dyspnoea. To find out quickly whether there is a cervical lesion or not a x-ray should be obtained. Missing these lesions can result in a fatal course.

An unusual colonic lesion associated with chronic gastrointestinal bleeding

A 71-year-old woman suffering from mild anemia with an hemoglobin level of 10.7 g/dL (normal ≥ 12 g/dL) was referred to our unit for further endoscopic evaluation. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed no abnormal findings. Colonoscopy detected a smoothly lined, thin and worm-like polyp measuring 6 cm in length with minor erosions on its surface. It was located in the left transverse colon. Microscopic examination of the resected specimen disclosed the very rare case of a colonic polypoid cavernous hemangioma. Recurrent latent bleeding from this lesion could be responsible for the observed mild anemia in this patient. A review of the literature and suggestions for endoscopic treatment are given.

Giant cell hepatitis: an unusual cause of fulminant liver failure

Giant cell hepatitis is a very rare disease of unknown origin. It has been hypothesized that drugs, viral infections, or autoimmune reactions may play a pathogenetic role. Here, we describe a 33 year old patient with bacterial bronchitis who was treated with doxycycline (100 mg/d) for one week. Furthermore the patient complained of malaise and a distinct jaundice. Liver parameters increased dramatically (AST 4670 U/l, ALT 5350 U/l, bilirubin 226 µmol/l) and liver function was impaired (INR = 1,45). The ultrasound scan showed a hepatomegaly with no signs of cirrhosis, normal spleen size and normal bile ducts; liver perfusion was normal. No evidence of Wilson's disease, hemochromatosis, autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, hepatitis A, B, C and E, HIV, CMV, VZV, adenoviral infections, or paracetamol intoxication was found. Subsequently, the patient developed acute liver failure (AST 2134 U/l, ALT 2820 U/l, bilirubin 380 µmol/l, INR 3.0) and a beginning renal failure. Therefore, he was transferred to our transplant center. Due to increasing confusion and somnolence due to cerebral edema mechanical ventilation was needed. Because of an acute renal failure and severe hepatic encephalopathia MARS-hemodialysis was performed. Three weeks after the appearance of the jaundice he underwent liver transplantation (MELD 40). Surprisingly, in the explanted liver the diagnosis of giant cell hepatitis was made. Today--2 years after successful liver transplantation--the patient is in very good condition with normal liver function. In conclusion, giant cell hepatitis is a rare cause of acute liver failure that is often recognized only histologically.

The patient with unexplained elevated serum liver enzymes

The pattern of elevated serum liver enzymes in symptomatic or asymptomatic patients allows for an initial classification of liver diseases into cholestatic or hepatocellular diseases. A female patient with extrahepatic cholestasis due to segmental bile duct strictures and a localized mass lesion within the pancreas is presented. Although many diagnostic procedures were performed in this case the diagnosis was not obtained before surgical laparotomy was initiated with bioptic sampling from bile ducts, lymph nodes and pancreatic tissue. Microscopic examination of the specimen revealed extensive biliary and pancreatic scarring together with periductal infiltrates composed of lymphocytes and plasma cells consistent with sclerosing cholangitis in systemic autoimmune pancreatitis. The patient completely recovered upon treatment with prednisone and azathioprine. The difficult approach to the final diagnosis is discussed in light of established and modern diagnostic tools.

Randomized phase III trial of gemcitabine plus cisplatin compared with gemcitabine alone in advanced pancreatic cancer

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness and tolerability of gemcitabine plus cisplatin with single-agent gemcitabine as first-line chemotherapy for locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas were randomly assigned to receive either gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 and cisplatin 50 mg/m2 given on days 1 and 15 of a 4-week cycle (GemCis arm) or gemcitabine alone at a dose of 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 4-week regimen (Gem arm). The primary end point was overall survival; secondary end points were progression-free survival, response rate, safety, and quality of life.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-five patients were enrolled and showed baseline characteristics well balanced between treatment arms. Combination treatment in the GemCis arm was associated with a prolonged median progression-free survival (5.3 months v 3.1 months; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.75; P = .053). Also, median overall survival was superior for patients treated in the GemCis arm as compared with the Gem arm (7.5 v 6.0 months), an advantage which did not, however, reach statistical significance (HR = 0.80; P = .15). Tumor response rates were comparable between treatment arms (10.2% v 8.2%). The rate of stable disease was, however, greater in the combination arm (60.2% v 40.2%; P < .001). Grade 3 to 4 hematologic toxicity did not exceed 15% in both treatment arms.

CONCLUSION

These results support the efficacy and safety of an every-2-weeks treatment with gemcitabine plus cisplatin. Median overall survival and progression-free survival were more favorable in the combination arm as compared with gemcitabine alone, although the difference did not attain statistical significance.

Ursodeoxycholic acid induced activation of the glucocorticoid receptor in primary rat hepatocytes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a hydrophilic bile acid, improves biochemical, immunopathological and histological parameters in chronic cholestatic liver diseases. The immunomodulatory properties of UDCA show interesting similarities with the effects of glucocorticoids. We investigated the activation of the glucocorticoid receptor by UDCA and the glucocorticoid receptor dependent gene expression in primary rat hepatocytes as well as binding of radiolabelled UDCA to the glucocorticoid receptor ligand binding site expressed in a glucocorticoid receptor fusion protein.

METHODS

Primary rat hepatocytes in culture were co-transfected with a luciferase reporter gene construct (GRE-luc) containing a glucocorticoid receptor responsive element (GRE) and a glucocorticoid receptor expression vector (6RGR) followed by stimulation with dexamethasone or UDCA. Luciferase activity was determined and specific binding of glucocorticoid receptor to the GRE was confirmed by an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). The glucocorticoid receptor binding site was expressed in a GR-myc fusion protein and binding of radiolabelled UDCA to the fusion protein was determined.

RESULTS

Incubation of co-transfected hepatocytes with 0.1-1.000 microM dexamethasone or 0.1-1.000 microM UDCA led to an 11.9- to 20.85-fold (dexamethasone) and 2.6- to 4.3-fold (UDC) increase of luciferase activity. Mobility shift assays using nuclear extracts from transfected and stimulated hepatocytes also showed a dose dependent increase of DNA binding after stimulation with UDCA. However, incubation of the GR-myc fusion protein with radiolabelled UDCA yielded no specific binding of UDCA to the glucocorticoid receptor binding site, whereas dexamethasone showed specific binding of the fusion protein.

CONCLUSIONS

UDCA activates the intracellular glucocorticoid receptor in a dose-dependent manner. Direct binding of the glucocorticoid receptor by radiolabelled UDCA at the glucocorticoid receptor binding site could be excluded as the mechanism of activation. The mechanisms involved in UDCA-mediated glucocorticoid receptor activation and possible targeted glucocorticoid receptor activation due to partial UDCA tissue specificity warrant further elucidation.

Gallbladder motility in healthy volunteers: effects of age, gender, body mass index, and hair color

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Ultrasonographic determination of gallbladder motility is sparsely performed in clinical practice as the examination is considered to be time consuming and there is uncertainty about a number of parameters possibly influencing the results. The aims of this study were a) to establish normal values for a simple ultrasonographic test and b) to evaluate the influence of different parameters on gallbladder motility.

METHODOLOGY

In 62 systematically age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers, ultrasonographic measurements of gallbladder volume (ellipsoid method, planimetry and sum-of-cylinders method) were performed fasting and 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and up to 75 min after stimulation with a standardized high-caloric liquid meal.

RESULTS

Using the ellipsoid method, gallbladder fasting volume (V0) reached a mean value (+/- SD) of 24.6 +/- 10.0 mL with an ejection fraction of 65.9 +/- 19.1%. Age, gender and hair color did not influence parameters of gallbladder contraction. Body mass index showed a weak correlation with V0 but not with ejection fraction. There was a highly significant correlation between the ellipsoid method and longitudinal planimetry and the sum-of-cylinders method, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonographic measurement of gallbladder motility in healthy volunteers shows a very wide scattering of normal values. In the interpretation of gallbladder emptying, age, gender and body mass index do not have to be considered. Determination of gallbladder motility may be performed by a rather simple approach with oral stimulation and ellipsoid method or longitudinal planimetry as easily applicable ultrasonographic measurements.

[Acute liver failure]

Acute liver failure represents a serious life-threatening event comparable to acute heart failure with cardiogenic shock or acute renal failure. Underlying acute liver diseases leading to hepatic failure differ between different geographic regions and in their incidence rates. In Europe etiological agents like viruses, drugs and toxins predominate over other much rarer causes. The different noxious agents lead to hepatocellular necrosis and/or apoptosis with loss of liver cell specific functions subsequent to a fall of functioning hepatocytes below a critical number. The syndrome is clinically characterized by the rapid onset of hepatic encephalopathy within 7 days after a first manifestation of liver disease (fulminant liver disease). Liver failure in patients with preexisting chronic liver disease is largely defined by the time which elapses between the occurrence of jaundice and encephalopathy (hyperacute, acute, subacute liver failure). The acute loss of liver specific functions is accompanied by a number of severe life-threatening complications like cerebral edema, circulatory failure, infections, renal failure and defective coagulation. Management of patients with fulminant liver disease requires a profound knowledge of hepatology and intensive care medicine. A close cooperation with a liver transplant unit is an absolute prerequisite for successful therapy. Permanent or temporary auxiliary liver replacement by a healthy human liver allows for a survival of 60 to 70% of patients selected for such a transplant procedure. Progress has been made in the temporary substitution of specific liver cell functions bridging the time period between liver failure and resumption of hepatocellular functions or availability of a donor liver. Different artificial livers have been designed and introduced into clinical trials. However, further evaluation is urgently needed.

[Indications for liver transplantation in chronic liver diseases]

Surgical resection of the diseased liver together with the implantation of a new donor organ allows patients with chronic liver failure to survive longer as well as to achieve a better quality of life. In life-threatening acute and chronic hepatic failure liver transplantation represents the only causal and long-term therapeutic option. This is also true for several genetically defined liver diseases. Five-year survival approaches 70 % in most cases. Three of four patients regain a nearly normal life with complete reintegration into their professional work. Drawbacks of this therapeutic option relate to a life-long dependence on drugs and medical services as well as to the risks associated with the surgical procedure and the side-effects of a continuous drug-induced immunosuppression. Mortality and morbidity are considerably increased during the first three months after operation. These limitations and the dramatically low availability of donor organs necessitate the application of all conservative measures before a transplantation procedure should be performed. However, the surgical option should be evaluated early enough to allow for a good chance of success. Profound knowledge of prognosis and medical treatment of each individual liver disease is a prerequisite for correct indication and timing of liver transplantation.

Brain electrical activity mapping of EEG for the diagnosis of (sub)clinical hepatic encephalopathy in chronic liver disease

We studied the role of brain electrical activity mapping (BEAM) in the assessment of neuropsychiatric disturbances in 48 cirrhotic patients without clinical evidence of hepatic encephalopathy (no HE, n = 19), with subclinical HE (grade 0, denoting pathological psychometric tests, n = 13) and mild-to-moderate HE (grade I, n = 6; grade II, n = 10). Results were compared with 23 healthy controls. BEAM variables quantified were: (i) the peak frequency (PF); (ii) the amplitude of PF; and (iii) the topographic localization of the maximum peak amplitude digitized for quantification by using a coordinate system. Mean amplitudes and their topographic localization in the following frequency-bands were analysed: delta (1.0-3.5 Hz), theta (4.0-7.5 Hz), alpha 1 (8.0-9.5 Hz), alpha 2 (10.0-11.5 Hz), beta 1 (12.0-15.5 Hz), beta 2 (16.0-19.5 Hz), and beta 3 (20.0-23.5 Hz). The PF was significantly slower in all HE patients than in healthy controls (8.5 +/- 2.0 Hz v. 10.1 +/- 1.0 Hz, P< 0.001). Even in no HE, the PF was significantly slower than in controls (8.6 +/- 1.5 Hz v. 10.1 +/- 1.0 Hz, P< 0.01). No relevant topographic differences of PF were observed. The mean amplitudes of the following bands differed significantly between controls and patients: theta (increased in HE, P< 0.05), alpha 2 (decreased in HE, P< 0.05), and beta 2 and beta 3 (increased in HE, (P < 0.05). In HE patients, the topographic localization of all beta bands showed a significant shift from parieto-occipital areas to central areas of the cortex. We conclude that BEAM is a sensitive tool for detecting neuropsychiatric disturbances in cirrhotics with no HE and with subclinical HE. The combination of PF in the theta band, increased mean amplitude in the beta 2 band, and the localization of the latter band in the frontocentral area of the cortex is an objective and sensitive tool for identifying neuropsychiatric disturbances in 85% of cirrhotic patients with no HE. Further studies are required to determine the clinical implications of these abnormal findings in the absence of overt clinical symptoms.

Prevalence of markers of hepatitis B in the adult German population

The prevalence of hepatitis B virus markers was investigated in 5305 individuals considered to be representative for the adult German population. After adjustment of the data according to the age and sex distribution in the whole German population an anti-HBc prevalence of 8.71% (95% confidence interval, 7.94-9.48%) and an HBsAg carrier rate of 0.62% (95% confidence interval, 0.40-0.84%) were calculated. Anti-HBc prevalence increased with age from 4.12% in the youngest group to 15.66% in the 61-70-year-old. The percentage of HBsAg carriers showed a maximum of 1.12% in the 41-50-year-old individuals and decreased significantly in the older age groups. 1.40% (95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.72%) of individuals had anti-HBc only. There was a trend to higher rates of this pattern in males than in females; a significantly higher percentage of persons with anti-HBc only was found in anti-HBc-positive individuals below 31 years than in older individuals. Five participants with anti-HBc only (7.7%, or about 0.1% of the whole population) showed HBV-DNA despite the absence of HBsAg. 3.1% of anti-HBc positive individuals where also positive for anti-HCV, that was significantly higher than the percentage of anti-HCV-positives among persons without any HBV marker (0.46%). This study provides a comprehensive picture of the current hepatitis B situation in Germany, showing new data especially on the distribution of HBsAg in the general population and on the subgroup of individuals with anti-HBc only.

Rapid effects of lipopolysaccharides on indocyanine green clearance in rat liver

BACKGROUND

Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) are thought to be one of the triggers of organ reactions to sepsis, which causes hepatocellular dysfunction. This dysfunction can be demonstrated by a reduction of organic anion transport. The aim of our study was to assess whether the transport of indocyanine green (ICG) is affected by LPS, and whether Kupffer cells are involved.

METHODS

Single-pass liver perfusion with ICG at a concentration of 57.8 mg/kg/min was performed for 130 min. pH, oxygen tension and perfusion pressure were continuously measured in influent and effluent. Taurocholate was infused at 48.3 mg/kg/min to achieve a stable bile flow. LPS was added at concentrations of 0.45, 0.9 and 1.44 mg/kg/min for 30 min. ICG was determined photometrically in perfusate and bile. To depress the function of Kupffer cells male Wistar rats were treated with GdCl3 24 h in advance. Primary cultured hepatocytes were used for studying the direct effect of LPS on the uptake rate of ICG.

RESULTS

Forty-five minutes after administration of LPS a significant dose-dependent decrease of ICG uptake was seen in animals treated with LPS. Livers of animals pretreated with GdCl3 did not show this decrease. LPS had no direct effect on the uptake of ICG into primary cultured hepatocytes, whereas treatment of these cells with 8-bromo-cGMP resulted in a significant increase of ICG uptake.

CONCLUSION

LPS has a rapid dose-dependent effect on the detoxification properties of the liver for ICG. The rapid effect of LPS on ICG uptake in hepatocytes is mediated by Kupffer cells.

Pharmacokinetic interaction between proton pump inhibitors and roxithromycin in volunteers

BACKGROUND

Triple therapy including two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor is a rational approach to the treatment of Helicobacter pylori induced peptic ulcer disease. The interaction of antimicrobial therapy and acid suppression is not yet well elucidated.

AIMS

To investigate the effects of proton pump inhibitors on roxithromycin levels in plasma and gastric tissue under steady-state conditions in volunteers.

METHODS

In two crossover studies omeprazole 20 mg b.d., lansoprazole 30 mg b.d., roxithromycin 300 mg b.d., and the combination of roxithromycin with either omeprazole or lansoprazole were administered to 12 healthy volunteers over 6 days. Blood plasma levels of the drugs were measured. In addition, roxithromycin concentrations were also determined in gastric juice and gastric tissue obtained during endoscopy.

RESULTS

The proton pump inhibitors and roxithromycin did not alter the blood plasma pharmacokinetics of each other. When compared to roxithromycin administered alone, its combination with a proton pump inhibitor significantly increased the roxithromycin concentrations in gastric juice (3.0-5.0 microg/mL vs. 0.3-0.4 microg/mL) and gastric tissue (antrum: 3.8-4.0 vs. 2.8 microg/g, fundus: 5.9-7.4 vs. 4.2-4.4 microg/g).

CONCLUSIONS

Proton pump inhibitors and roxithromycin do not alter the systemic bioavailability of each other. However, proton pump inhibitors increase the local concentration of roxithromycin in the stomach which may contribute to the clinically proven synergic beneficial action in eradication therapy of H. pylori.

Prevalence of antibodies against hepatitis C virus in the adult German population

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of anti-HCV in Germany has been determined for blood donors and certain risk groups, but the burden of disease in the general population remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anti-HCV in a study group representing the normal adult German population.

DESIGN

A total of 5312 individuals aged 18-70 years were randomly selected from small, middle-sized and big cities in five different German states. Sera were tested for anti-HCV by enzyme immunoassay and immuno dot assay, as well as for anti-HBc and, in the case of a positive result, for anti-HBs and HBsAg. Serological typing was performed in anti-HCV-positive persons.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine individuals were anti-HCV positive; indeterminate results (with antibodies against the viral core protein only) were obtained in 20. There was a tendency to higher prevalence rates with increasing age as well as to a higher prevalence in women. Serological typing revealed the presence of genotype 1 in the vast majority of participants (82%); only a minority showed genotype 3 (7.2%) or other genotypes (7.2%). Markers of HBV were seen in 43.6% of the anti-HCV positive individuals, with nearly one third (29.4%) of the double-infected showing anti-HBc as the only marker for HBV.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our data, an anti-HCV prevalence of 0.63% (95% confidence interval, CI, 0.42-0.84%) can be assumed in the general adult German population, with higher values in older people and women. Nearly half of the anti-HCV positive individuals also show markers of hepatitis B virus.

Prospective, randomised, double blind trial of prophylaxis with single dose of co-amoxiclav before percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of antibacterial prophylaxis in preventing infectious complications after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomised, placebo controlled, double blind, multicentre study.

SETTING

Departments of internal medicine at six German hospitals.

SUBJECTS

Of 106 randomised adult patients with dysphagia, 97 received study medication, and 84 completed the study. The median age of the patients was 65 years. Most had dysphagia due to malignant disease (65%), and many (76%) had serious comorbidity.

INTERVENTIONS

A single intravenous 2.2 g dose of co-amoxiclav or identical appearing saline was given 30 min before percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy performed by the thread pull method.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Occurrence of peristomal wound infections and other infections within one week after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy.

RESULTS

The incidence of peristomal and other infections within one week after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy was significantly reduced in the antibiotic group (8/41 (20%) v 28/43 (65%), P<0.001). Similar results were obtained in an intention to treat analysis. Several peristomal wound infections were of minor clinical significance. After wound infections that required no or only local treatment were excluded from the analysis, antibiotic prophylaxis remained highly effective in reducing clinically important wound infections (1/41 (2%) v 11/43 (26%), P<0.01) and non-wound infections (2 (5%) v 9 (21%), P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Antibiotic prophylaxis with a single dose of co-amoxiclav significantly reduces the risk of infectious complications after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and should be recommended.

In situ detection of lipid peroxidation by-products as markers of renal ischemia injuries in rat kidneys

PURPOSE

Lipid peroxidation is an autocatalytic mechanism leading to oxidative destruction of cellular membranes. In renal transplantation, this mechanism is triggered by ischemia/reperfusion and may be of relevance in graft failure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using specific antibodies directed against malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) adducts, major aldehydic metabolites of lipid peroxidation, we investigated, in situ, by means of an immunohistochemical procedure, the occurrence of lipid peroxidation during different warm ischemic periods of 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes in rat kidneys prior to reperfusion. The same experiments included followup of the rats after nephrectomy and reperfusion for 10 days.

RESULTS

We observed superficial and deep cortex immunostaining with both antibodies against MDA and HNE after 30 minutes of warm ischemia. This immunostaining was observed in the absence of any histological lesions, as assessed by routine staining. After 45 and 60 minutes of warm ischemia, lipid peroxidation byproducts were detected both in the cortex and in the medulla, which is associated with 33% and 66% of rat deaths respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the involvement of the lipid peroxidation process in kidney damage during anoxia before reperfusion, and its extension to the whole organ. Lipid peroxidation byproducts were detectable in warm ischemic kidney, and the presence of medulla immunostaining was associated with the animals' death. Lipid peroxidation immunostaining might thus be useful as a sensitive tool to detect ischemic damage after warm ischemia prior to reperfusion, as well as in the decision to carry out kidney transplantation in humans.

Endoscopic fluorescence detection of dysplasia in patients with Barrett's esophagus, ulcerative colitis, or adenomatous polyps after 5-aminolevulinic acid-induced protoporphyrin IX sensitization

BACKGROUND

Surveillance of patients with Barrett's esophagus or ulcerative colitis for dysplasia is confined to biopsy specimens taken randomly during endoscopy because dysplasia remains undetectable by visual inspection. We attempted to visualize dysplastic tissue during endoscopy after sensitization with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) leading to accumulation and formation of protoporphyrin IX and induction of characteristic red fluorescence of the latter substance using blue light illumination.

METHODS

Six patients with histologically proven low- or high-grade dysplasia (Barrett's esophagus 2, ulcerative colitis 1, Billroth-II stomach 1, rectal polyps 2) were treated with oral administration of different concentrations of 5-ALA (10 to 20 mg/kg) or by local instillation of 3 gm 5-ALA in the rectum. Endoscopic fluorescence detection was performed 1 to 6 hours after sensitization using a blue light source and compared with conventional white light endoscopy. Biopsies of fluorescent and nonfluorescent areas were compared with histologic findings.

RESULTS

Normal duodenal mucosa and squamous epithelium showed more intense 5-ALA-induced background red fluorescence compared with normal mucosa in the stomach or Barrett's mucosa. Histologically, dysplasia was exclusively found in areas with red fluorescence. False-positive fluorescence was associated with microscopic inflammation of the mucosa or feces in the colon.

CONCLUSIONS

5-ALA-induced protoporphyrin IX fluorescence may be useful in the detection of dysplasia in the gastrointestinal tract by enhancement of endoscopic surveillance of patients at a high risk for dysplasia.

Air oesophagogram: a frequent, but not a specific sign of oesophageal involvement in connective tissue diseases

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the role of the air oesophagogram in conventional chest X-rays for the diagnosis of oesophageal dysmotility in patients with connective tissue diseases.

METHODS

Fifty-one patients with connective tissue diseases were studied by oesophageal manometry and lateral and posterior-anterior chest X-rays. The presence or absence of oesophageal air on chest X-rays were evaluated separately in the upper, middle and distal segment of the oesophagus. Forty-seven chest X-rays of patients without connective tissue diseases, who had undergone manometry for the evaluation of oesophagus-related symptoms and who had normal oesophageal function, were analysed as a control.

RESULTS

A total of 23/51 patients with connective tissue diseases showed oesophageal dysfunction in manometry; 16/51 patients (31%) had air in two or more oesophageal segments on the lateral chest X-ray. There was a significant association of manometrically proven oesophageal dysmotility and air in two or three oesophageal segments (P < 0.05; sensitivity 48%, specificity 82%). However, the prevalence of an air oesophagogram showed no significant difference between patients with connective tissue diseases and the control group (10/47; 21%).

CONCLUSION

The radiological sign of an air oesophagogram is neither sensitive nor specific enough to omit oesophageal motility studies in patients with connective tissue diseases.

Effect of programmed endoscopic follow-up examinations on the rebleeding rate of gastric or duodenal peptic ulcers treated by injection therapy: a prospective, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

A second-look endoscopy is often performed to evaluate the efficacy of a prior injection therapy in patients with bleeding peptic gastric or duodenal ulcers. Although this strategy is widely established, it does not rely on unequivocal data from controlled studies. In a prospective, randomized, controlled multicenter trial we assessed the effect of programmed endoscopic follow-up examinations with eventual retreatment on the outcome of bleeding ulcers in these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred and five patients with gastric or duodenal peptic ulcers presenting with active (Forrest type I) or recent (Forrest type IIa and IIb) bleeding upon endoscopy within four hours after admission were included in the study. Emergency treatment consisted of the sequential injection of both epinephrine (1:10,000 v/v) and up to 2 ml of fibrin/thrombin around the ulcer base. Fifty-two patients were randomized to receive programmed endoscopic monitoring with eventual retreatment in cases of Forrest type I, IIa, or IIb ulcers beginning within 16-24 hours after the index bleed. Follow-up endoscopies were continued until the macroscopic appearance revealed a Forrest type IIc or III ulcer. Fifty-three patients in the control group were closely monitored, and only received a second endoscopy when there was clinical or biochemical evidence of recurrent bleeding. The groups did not differ with respect to age, sex, site and severity of bleeding.

RESULTS

The numbers of patients with recurrent bleeding were similar whether they were endoscopically monitored or not (21% versus 17%, P=0.80 chi-squared test). In addition, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with respect to the number of blood units transfused, need for surgical intervention, hospital stay or number of deaths (Mann-Whitney U-test). Improving local ulcer stigmata was not related to a better outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Programmed endoscopic follow-up examinations with eventual retreatment in patients locally injected for an acute or recent hemorrhage from a gastric or duodenal ulcer did not influence their outcome when compared to patients receiving only a second endoscopic intervention upon evidence for recurrent hemorrhage. Scheduled control endoscopies cannot be recommended after an initial successful endoscopic treatment of peptic ulcer bleeding when selection of the patients for second-look endoscopy is directed by the Forrest criteria.

Association of autonomic nervous dysfunction and esophageal dysmotility in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

The primary event in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been hypothesized to be an early neural lesion. We investigated the association of autonomic nervous dysfunction and esophageal involvement in SSc.

METHODS

Thirty-six consecutive patients with SSc were investigated by esophageal manometry and autonomic nervous function tests for cardiovascular and pupillary autonomic dysfunction.

RESULTS

In 27 of 36 patients, esophageal manometry showed esophageal dysfunction. Twelve patients had either pupillary (n = 6) or cardiovascular (n = 5) dysfunction or both (n = 1). All patients with autonomic dysfunction had esophageal dysfunction. Patients with autonomic dysfunction had significantly reduced mean distal esophageal contraction amplitudes compared to patients without autonomic nervous dysfunction (p < 0.05). The association of autonomic dysfunction and esophageal dysfunction was significant (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Our results support the concept of a role for neurogenic defects in the development of esophageal dysfunction in SSc.

Detection of dysplastic lesions by fluorescence in a model of colitis in rats after previous photosensitization with 5-aminolaevulinic acid

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Endoscopic diagnosis of dysplastic lesions and early cancers in chronic ulcerative colitis is a major problem. Identification of suspicious lesions is influenced by the macroscopic appearance of the colon, but also by the endoscopist's experience. In this study we evaluated the identification of dysplastic lesions by the naked eye in an animal model of colitis after 5-aminoaevulinic acid-induced photosensitization.

METHODS

80 male Wistar rats were examined. Acute and chronic colitis were induced by oral application of 5% dextrane sulfate sodium (DSS) in 1-7 cycles (1 cycle = seven days DSS and 10 days water). For sensitisation 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA) at different doses (0, 10, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 200 mg/kg) was used. The colonic fluorescence was examined under a blue light (390-436 nm) for excitation. Histological findings of fluorescent and non-fluorescent biopsy specimens were recorded.

RESULTS

Using 100 mg/kg 5-ALA intravenously for photosensitization, all dysplastic lesions (5/5) showed fluorescence (sensitivity 100%). However, at this concentration of 5-ALA, 60 false positive lesions were found out of 76 specimens taken from lesions that were not dysplastic--only 16 specimens of non-dysplastic lesions did not fluoresce (specificity 21%). Using 75 and 50 mg/kg 5-ALA intravenously sensitivity decreased to 92% (36/39) and 42% (5/12), respectively, while specificity increased to 35% (29/82) and 62% (45/73). Using 50 mg/kg 5-ALA intravenously, fluorescence-positive biopsy specimens showed inflammation of the colon in 31% whereas only 12% contained normal mucosa (p < 0.01). The distribution of fluorescence-positive biopsy specimens with histologically confirmed inflammation was similar for different grades of inflammation after sensitisation with 75 and 100 mg/kg 5-ALA, whereas with 50 mg/kg 5-ALA fluorescence-positive biopsy specimens contained significantly (p < 0.05) more moderate, massive, or ulcerative inflammation (79%) than mild inflammation (21%).

CONCLUSION

5-ALA induced photosensitization gave a high sensitivity, but low specificity in identifying dysplastic lesions in DSS-induced colitis in rats. In this animal model inflammation is a major factor in disturbing the fluorescence localisation of dysplasia after sensitisation with 5-ALA.

Association of esophageal dysfunction and pulmonary function impairment in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between esophageal dysfunction and pulmonary involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

Pulmonary function parameters were compared between groups of patients with and without manometric evidence for SSc-induced esophageal dysmotility.

RESULTS

Twenty-six of 43 patients (60.5%) exhibited a marked hypo- or aperistalsis of the smooth muscle portion of the esophagus. Total lung capacity, inspiratory vital capacity, and forced vital capacity were significantly lower in patients with esophageal dysfunction compared with those with normal esophageal peristalsis (p < 0.001). Patients with the diffuse form of SSc (n = 20) had significantly lower values for total lung capacity and inspiratory vital capacity compared with patients with the limited type of SSc (n = 23; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There is a significant association of esophageal dysmotility with reduced lung volumes in SSc. Possible explanations for these findings are pulmonary damage due to increased gastroesophageal reflux and, more likely, simultaneous involvement of the lungs and the esophagus in the disease process.

Anorectal function in systemic sclerosis: correlation with esophageal dysfunction?

PURPOSE

This study was designed to compare esophageal and anorectal function parameters in patients with systemic sclerosis and to define the role of anorectal manometry in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal involvement of systemic sclerosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-six consecutive patients (22 females) with systemic sclerosis originally referred for assessment of esophageal function were evaluated by esophageal and anorectal manometry. Anorectal function parameters were compared between patients with normal and those with disturbed esophageal function.

RESULTS

A total of 17 of 26 patients (65 percent) had severe esophageal dysfunction with aperistalsis of the lower two-thirds of the esophagus, whereas 9 patients (35 percent) had normal esophageal manometry. Only three patients (11.5 percent) suffered from occasional fecal incontinence. Anorectal function parameters (resting pressure, maximum squeeze pressure, perception threshold) were not significantly different between patients with normal and those with disturbed esophageal motility. Rectoanal inhibitory reflex was excitable in nearly 90 percent of patients.

CONCLUSION

In an unselected group of patients with systemic sclerosis, fecal incontinence and abnormal anorectal function are rather rare findings. Anorectal manometry cannot differentiate between patients with and without gastrointestinal involvement of systemic sclerosis.

[After-care of colorectal carcinoma: what has efficacy?]

The efficacy of standardized follow-up examinations after surgery for colorectal carcinoma has been repeatedly questioned. Although many studies have assessed the value of different diagnostic tools none of these procedures proved to have a predictive value high enough to accurately predict the recurrence of disease and to justify its regular use in these patients. Even a combined diagnostic approach provided a benefit only for a minority of these patients (3.5 to 4.5%). Considering the physical and psychological strain imposed by this approach risk-adapted follow-up schemes are urgently needed. Prognostic parameters indicating the individual risk for disease recurrence can be deduced from increasing CEA values as well as from classification and grading of the primary tumor. Colonoscopy is an effective procedure for early detection of intraluminal relapse or metachronous tumors with potential impact on survival of the patient. An abdominal ultrasound study appears to be the method of choice for detection of metastasis of the liver due to its high sensitivity and low invasiveness. Other imaging procedures are not indicated in routine follow-up for colorectal carcinoma. It remains to be demonstrated whether molecular biology or new scintigraphic techniques will be helpful in follow-up examinations of patients with colorectal carcinomas.

Spontaneous rupture of liver in a patient with Ehlers Danlos disease type IV

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) type IV is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disease caused by mutations in the type III collagen gene resulting in extreme tissue fragility. Affected individuals are at risk of dramatic and often fatal complications, mostly spontaneous arterial, uterine, or colonic ruptures. Phenotypic expression of EDS type IV is variable and clinical signs are generally quite subtle, thus making a prompt diagnosis difficult. The case of a 33-year-old woman is described who presented with a wide range of clinical features and sequelae that eventually led to the diagnosis of EDS type IV. She presented with spontaneous liver rupture, renal infarction, and pneumothorax, all representing rare complications of EDS type IV. Prior history revealed a uterine rupture in advanced pregnancy associated with ischemic necrosis of the descending and sigmoid colon. EDS type IV should be suspected in young individuals who present with such unusual complications. Early diagnosis is essential if severe or even lethal complications are to be avoided in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of such patients.

In situ detection of lipid peroxidation by-products in chronic liver diseases

Lipid peroxidation is an autocatalytic mechanism leading to oxidative destruction of cellular membranes. The deleterious consequences of this mechanism are related in part to the formation of reactive aldehydic products that bind to intra- or extracellular molecules to form adducts. Specific antibodies directed against malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) adducts, major aldehydic metabolites of lipid peroxidation, allowed us to investigate in situ, with an immunohistochemical procedure, the occurrence of lipid peroxidation in a panel of different chronic liver diseases. Intracellular HNE and MDA adducts were detected respectively in 24 of 39 cases (62%) and in 12 of 34 cases investigated (35%). They were localized mainly in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, with the strongest staining observed in hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, and in areas of acute alcoholic hepatitis in cases of alcoholic liver diseases. A peculiar pattern of immunostaining was observed in primary biliary cirrhosis where biliary cells of destroyed but also intact bile ducts strongly expressed HNE adducts. The liver extracellular matrix also displayed MDA adducts (30 of 34 cases, 88%) and HNE adducts (23 of 39 cases, 59%). While HNE adducts were specifically localized on large bundles of collagen fibers, MDA adducts were detected in a thin reticular network and in sinusoidal cells around portal tracts or fibrous septa. In conclusion, lipid peroxidation by-products are detectable in chronic liver diseases. Immunohistochemical results suggest that this mechanism is implicated very early in the pathogenesis of some of these diseases.

In situ detection of lipid peroxidation by-products in chronic liver diseases

Lipid peroxidation is an autocatalytic mechanism leading to oxidative destruction of cellular membranes. The deleterious consequences of this mechanism are related in part to the formation of reactive aldehydic products that bind to intra- or extracellular molecules to form adducts. Specific antibodies directed against malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) adducts, major aldehydic metabolites of lipid peroxidation, allowed us to investigate in situ, with an immunohistochemical procedure, the occurrence of lipid peroxidation in a panel of different chronic liver diseases. Intracellular HNE and MDA adducts were detected respectively in 24 of 39 cases (62%) and in 12 of 34 cases investigated (35%). They were localized mainly in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, with the strongest staining observed in hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, and in areas of acute alcoholic hepatitis in cases of alcoholic liver diseases. A peculiar pattern of immunostaining was observed in primary biliary cirrhosis where biliary cells of destroyed but also intact bile ducts strongly expressed HNE adducts. The liver extracellular matrix also displayed MDA adducts (30 of 34 cases, 88%) and HNE adducts (23 of 39 cases, 59%). While HNE adducts were specifically localized on large bundles of collagen fibers, MDA adducts were detected in a thin reticular network and in sinusoidal cells around portal tracts or fibrous septa. In conclusion, lipid peroxidation by-products are detectable in chronic liver diseases. Immunohistochemical results suggest that this mechanism is implicated very early in the pathogenesis of some of these diseases.

Auditory event-related cerebral potentials (P300) in hepatic encephalopathy--topographic distribution and correlation with clinical and psychometric assessment

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Early cognitive disturbances in patients with cirrhosis (Ci) are difficult to assess. Therefore, we evaluated the role of topographic auditory evoked cerebral potentials (P300-EP).

METHODOLOGY

Prospective longitudinal study.

SETTING

Tertiary clinical care institution.

PARTICIPANTS

45 patients with cirrhosis were compared to 22 healthy subjects.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) was assessed using the clinical grading, standardized psychometric tests, and auditory evoked P300-EP by multichannel EEG recordings.

RESULTS

In the patients, the mean P300 peak latency was significantly increased (386.7 +/- 26.7 versus 318.6 +/- 22.2 ms in controls, p < 0.00001). Even in patients with cirrhosis but no HE (n = 18) the P300 peak latency was abnormally prolonged (> 384 ms) in 8 cases (44%). In addition, P180 peak latency was significantly longer in patients with liver cirrhosis as compared to controls (p = 0.021). The maximal P300 amplitude was significantly lowered in patients with liver cirrhosis in the frontocentral and central cortical regions (FZ: p < 0.008; Cz: p < 0.04). Liver function and etiology of liver disease were not related to the increased peak latencies of the P300 and P180 peaks.

CONCLUSIONS

P300-EP is a sensitive measure to detect functional cognitive impairment in cirrhotic patients with subclinical HE and clinically apparent HE. Typical changes include latency prolongation and decreased central peak amplitude. Some 40% of patients with no clinical evidence of HE and normal psychometric tests show abnormal results during P300 testing, which is likely to reflect early impairment of cognitive function. Auditory evoked P300 potentials are more sensitive than psychometric testing alone.

Modified serum pancreolauryl test in chronic pancreatitis: evaluation in comparison to endoscopic retrograde pancreatography

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the applicability and accuracy of the modified serum pancreolauryl test (sPLT) in patients with chronic pancreatitis (cP).

METHODOLOGY

We compared the results of a modified serum pancreolauryl test to morphological changes as detected by endoscopic retrograde pancreatography (ERP) in 60 patients with a history suggesting chronic pancreatitis were compared. Serum fluorescein was measured 30, 60, 120, 150, 180 and 240 minutes after the ingestion of fluoresceindilaureat, a standardized breakfast, and i.v. administration of secretin (1 U/kg) and metoclopramide (10 mg). Furthermore, the results of sPLT and ERP were compared to the findings on abdominal ultrasonography.

RESULTS

Forty of 60 patients suffered from cP according to ERP criteria. With a fluorescein cut-off point of 4.5 micrograms/ml, sPLT reached a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 50%. According to the ROC curve, the optimal cut-off point was at a fluorescein level of 4.1 micrograms/ml; however, predictive accuracy was only slightly improved at this point. In the subgroup of patients with advanced pancreatic duct changes (n = 23), however, sPLT reached a sensitivity of 87% with 16 patients showing a peak fluorescein concentration below 2.5 micrograms/ml.

CONCLUSION

Like other indirect pancreatic function tests, modified sPLT provides good recognition of patients with advanced cP but poor identification of patients with mild or moderate cP, leading to an unsatisfying overall performance of the test.

Gastrointestinal manifestations of progressive systemic sclerosis

Management of patients with progressive systemic sclerosis requires a thorough gastroenterological examination and a profound knowledge of possible gastrointestinal manifestations of the disease. The esophagus is the gastrointestinal segment most often involved. Smooth muscle atrophy leads to a loss of esophageal peristalsis, a defect of the lower esophageal sphincter, and gastric hypomotility, thus predisposing to severe reflux esophagitis. A rational diagnostic approach includes standard manometry and endoscopy. The prevention of strictures is the main aim of therapeutic efforts that may consist of lifestyle changes, prokinetic drugs, long-term application of proton pump inhibitors, and, if inevitable, surgical intervention. Involvement of the small intestine and colon is less common but may lead to life-threatening complications like chronic pseudoobstruction or pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis. The main therapeutic options consist of antibiotics for bacterial overgrowth and nutritional supplementation. Recently, a preliminary study with octreotide yielded promising results. Anorectal dysfunction can lead to fecal incontinence or rectal prolapse.

Enhanced effectiveness of photodynamic therapy with laser light fractionation in patients with esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The fractionated application of laser light has been shown to enhance the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on normal rat colon after photosensitization with 5-aminolevulinic acid. In a pilot study, we examined whether this modified laser treatment can also enhance the effect of PDT in patients with esophageal cancer after sensitization with hematoporphyrins.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Six patients (four cases of early esophageal carcinoma and two cases of advanced esophageal carcinoma, one of the latter patients having tumor overgrowth on a metal stent) were treated in nine sessions. In four sessions, laser energy was fractionated to enhance the PDT effect using a hematoporphyrin polyester. Irradiation was carried out 48 hours after sensitization. The total laser energy of 150 J/cm2 was applied either continuously or in fractions, with a single break of five minutes after 75 J/cm2.

RESULTS

Among the three patients who underwent continuous laser light irradiation, one patient experienced a complete remission of two of three superficial esophageal cancers. The patient with tumor overgrowth on an implanted metal stent showed a partial response, with improvement of dysphagia without destruction of the stent, while in another patient with advanced esophageal cancer, the dysphagia did not improve after continuous laser treatment. Fractionated laser therapy led to complete remission in all three patients with early cancers, one of whom had failed to respond to previous treatment with continuous PDT. A partial remission was obtained in a fourth patient with a uT2 cancer who had also shown no remission after continuous PDT treatment. However, after fractionated laser therapy, three mild esophageal stenoses occurred, in comparison with none after continuous PDT.

CONCLUSIONS

Light fractionation during PDT improved the effectiveness of the treatment in a small number of patients, and increased side effects such as the occurrence of mild esophageal stenosis. This modified treatment can be a promising approach in the effort to reduce the dose of hematoporphyrins or other sensitizers required, and to avoid prolonged skin sensitization or local stenosis.

In situ detection of lipid peroxidation in chronic hepatitis C: correlation with pathological features

AIMS

To assess the occurrence of lipid peroxidation in chronic hepatitis C and to evaluate its relation to pathological features and liver iron concentrations.

METHODS

Liver biopsy samples of 43 patients with untreated chronic hepatitis C were studied by immunohistochemistry using specific antibodies directed against two major aldehyde metabolites of lipid peroxidation, malondialdehyde (MDA), and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE).

RESULTS

MDA and HNE adducts (aldehydes covalently linked to another molecule) were detected in the liver samples in 77% and 30% of cases, respectively. MDA adducts were detected both in the extracellular matrix and sinusoidal cells localised in areas of periportal and lobular necrosis. HNE adducts appeared in the cytoplasm of only a few hepatocytes. Comparison of the semiquantitative assessment of adducts (MDA and HNE indexes) with the grading and the staging of chronic hepatitis showed that the MDA index was correlated with fibrosis score (p < 0.001) and the grade of activity (p < 0.01). There was also a tendency to correlation with liver iron concentration (p = 0.09). No correlation was observed between the HNE index and pathological features or liver iron concentration.

CONCLUSION

Lipid peroxidation products are detectable in the liver of chronic hepatitis C patients. The presence of MDA adducts in areas of active fibrogenesis and the correlation between the MDA index and fibrosis score suggest a role for lipid peroxidation in liver fibrosis.