This is a medical position statement developed by the Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency collaborative group which is a part of the Italian Association for the Study of the Pancreas(AISP).We covered the main diseases a...This is a medical position statement developed by the Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency collaborative group which is a part of the Italian Association for the Study of the Pancreas(AISP).We covered the main diseases associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency(EPI)which are of common interest to internists/gastroenterologists,oncologists and surgeons,fully aware that EPI may also occur together with many other diseases,but less frequently.A preliminary manuscript based on an extended literature search(Medline/PubMed,Cochrane Library and Google Scholar)of published reports was prepared,and key recommendations were proposed.The evidence was discussed at a dedicated meeting in Bologna during the National Meeting of the Association in October 2012.Each of the proposed recommendations and algorithms was discussed and an initial consensus was reached.The final draft of the manuscript was then sent to the AISP Council for approval and/or modification.All concerned parties approved the final version of the manuscript in June 2013.展开更多
Some authors have suggested that intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the bile duct(IPMN-B) could be the the biliary counterpart of IPMN of the pancreas(IPMN-P) since they share several clinical-pathological fe...Some authors have suggested that intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the bile duct(IPMN-B) could be the the biliary counterpart of IPMN of the pancreas(IPMN-P) since they share several clinical-pathological features.These include prominent intraductal papil-lary proliferation pattern,a gastrointestinal phenotype,frequent mucin hyper-secretion and progression to mu-cinous carcinoma.To date there are just four reported cases of patients with synchronous IPMN-B and IPMN-P all of which were treated surgically.We hereby report the case of a 76-year-old woman who was incidentally diagnosed with both an asymptomatic 3 cm bulky uid lesion obstructing the bile duct lumen,diagnosed as a malignant IPMN-B,and synchronous multiple pancreatic cystic lesions(10-13 mm) communicating with an irreg-ular Wirsung,diagnosed as branch duct IPMN-P.Since surgery was ruled-out because of the patient's age and preferences,she underwent a conservative manage-ment regimen comprising both chemotherapy and radio-therapy.This was effective in decreasing the mass size and in resolving subsequent jaundice.This is also the f irst reported case of IPMN-B successfully treated with chemoradiotherapy.Clinicians should consider medical treatment as an option in this clinical scenario,in pa-tients who may be unf it for surgery.展开更多
AIM:To assess the rate of spontaneous tube migration and to compare the effects of naso-gastric and nasointestinal(NI)(beyond the ligament of Treitz) feeding in severe acute pancreatitis(SAP).METHODS:After bedside int...AIM:To assess the rate of spontaneous tube migration and to compare the effects of naso-gastric and nasointestinal(NI)(beyond the ligament of Treitz) feeding in severe acute pancreatitis(SAP).METHODS:After bedside intragastric insertion,tube position was assessed,and enteral nutrition(EN) started at day 4,irrespective of tube localization.Patients were monitored daily and clinical and laboratory parameters evaluated to compare the outcome of patients with nasogastric(NG) or NI tube.RESULTS:Spontaneous tube migration to a NI site occurred in 10/25(40%) prospectively enrolled SAP patients,while in 15(60%) nutrition was started with a NG tube.Groups were similar for demographics and pancreatitis aetiology but computed tomography(CT) severity index was higher in NG tube patients than in NI(mean 6.2 vs 4.7,P=0.04).The CT index seemed a risk factor for failed obtainment of spontaneous distal migration.EN trough NG or NI tube were similar in terms of tolerability,safety,clinical goals,complications and hospital stay.CONCLUSION:Spontaneous distal tube migration is successful in 40% of SAP patients,with higher CT severity index predicting intragastric retention;in such cases EN by NG tubes seems to provide a pragmatic alternative opportunity with similar outcomes.展开更多
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-guided ablation procedures are emerging as a minimally invasive therapeutic alternative to radiological and surgical treatments for...Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-guided ablation procedures are emerging as a minimally invasive therapeutic alternative to radiological and surgical treatments for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNETs), and pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs). The advantages of treatment under endoscopic control are the real-time imaging guidance and the possibility to reach a deep target like the pancreas. Currently, radiofrequency probes specifically designed for ERCP or EUS ablation are available as well as hybrid cryotherm probe combining radiofrequency with cryotechnology. To date, many reports and case series have confirmed the safety and feasibility of that kind of ablation technique in the pancreatic setting. Moreover, EUS-guided fine-needle injection is emerging as a method to deliver ablative and anti-tumoral agents inside the tumuor. Ethanol injection has been proposed mostly for the treatment of PCLs and for symptomatic functioning PNETs, and the use of gemcitabine and paclitaxel is also interesting in this setting. EUS-guided injection of chemical or biological agents including mixed lymphocyte culture, oncolytic viruses, and immature dendritic cells has been investigated for the treatment of LAPC. Data on the long-term efficacy of these approaches, and large prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm the real clinical benefits of these techniques for the management of pancreatic lesions.展开更多
AIM To investigate the adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects of Lactobacil us rhamnosus GG (LGG) in the colonic mucosa of healthy and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, both in vivo and ex vivo in an organ culture mod...AIM To investigate the adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects of Lactobacil us rhamnosus GG (LGG) in the colonic mucosa of healthy and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, both in vivo and ex vivo in an organ culture model.METHODS For the ex vivo experiment, a total of 98 patients (68 UC patients and 30 normal subjects) were included. Endoscopic biopsies were collected and incubated with and without LGG or LGG-conditioned media to evaluate the mucosal adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects [reduction of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin (IL)-17 expression] of the bacteria, and extraction of DNA and RNA for quantification by real-time (RT)-PCR occurred after the incubation. A dose-response study was performed by incubating biopsies at "regular", double and 5 times higher doses of LGG. For the in vivo experiment, a total of 42 patients (20 UC patients and 22 normal controls) were included. Biopsies were taken from the colons of normal subjects who consumed a commercial formulation of LGG for 7 d prior to the colonoscopy,and the adhesion of the bacteria to the colonic mucosa was evaluated by RT-PCR and compared with that of control biopsies from patients who did not consume the formulation. LGG adhesion and TNFα and IL-17 expression were compared between UC patients who consumed a regular or double dose of LGG supplementation prior to colonoscopy.RESULTS In the ex vivo experiment, LGG showed consistent adhesion to the distal and proximal colon in normal subjects and UC patients, with a trend towards higher concentrations in the distal colon, and in UC patients, adhesion was similar in biopsies with active and quiescent inflammation. In addition, bioptic samples from UC patients incubated with LGG conditioned media (CM) showed reduced expression of TNFα and IL-17 compared with the corresponding expression in controls (P < 0.05). Incubation with a double dose of LGG increased mucosal adhesion and the anti-inflammatory effects (P < 0.05). In the in vivo experiment, LGG was detectable only in the colon of patients who consumed the LGG formulation, and bowel cleansing did not affect LGG adhesion. UC patients who consumed the double LGG dose had increased mucosal concentrations of the bacteria and reduced TNFα and IL-17 expression compared with patients who consumed the regular dose (48% and 40% reduction, respectively, P < 0.05).CONCLUSION In an ex vivo organ culture model, LGG showed consistent adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects. Colonization by LGG after consumption for a week was demonstrated in vivo in the human colon. Increasing the administered dose increased the adhesion and effectiveness of the bacteria. For the first time, we demonstrated that LGG effectively adheres to the colonic mucosa and exerts antiinflammatory effects, both ex vivo and in vivo.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the possible relationships between gastric autoimmune phenomena and clinical presentations of this disorder, in consecutive atrophic body gastritis patients. METHODS： A total of 140 atrophic body...AIM： To investigate the possible relationships between gastric autoimmune phenomena and clinical presentations of this disorder, in consecutive atrophic body gastritis patients. METHODS： A total of 140 atrophic body gastritis patients, diagnosed as consecutive outpatients presenting with macrocytic or iron deficiency anemia, or longstanding dyspepsia underwent gastroscopy with antral and body biopsies, assay of intrinsic factor, parietal cells and Helicobacter pylori （ H pylon） antibodies. Gastritis was assessed according to Sydney System. RESULTS： Parietal cell antibodies were equally distributed in all clinical presentations, whereas the positivity of intrinsic factor antibodies （49/140, 35%） was significantly higher in pernicious anemia patients （49.2%） than in iron deficiency （21.1%） and dyspeptic patients （27.8%）. No specific pattern of autoantibodies was related to the clinical presentations of atrophic body gastritis. A positive correlation was obtained between the body atrophy score and the intrinsic factor antibody levels （r=0.2216, P=0.0085）. Associated autoimmune diseases were present in 25/140 （17.9%） patients, but the prevalence of autoimmune diseases was comparable, irrespective of the clinical presentations. CONCLUSION： The so-called hallmarks of gastric autoimmunity, particularly in intrinsic factor antibody cannot be usefully employed in defining an autoimmune pattern in the clinical presentations of ABG.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus(HBV) reactivation(HBVr) in patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy is still a hot topic worldwide. Its prevention and management still represents a challenge for specialists dealing with immuno...Hepatitis B virus(HBV) reactivation(HBVr) in patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy is still a hot topic worldwide. Its prevention and management still represents a challenge for specialists dealing with immunosuppressed patients. Aim of this paper is to provide a critical review of the relevant information emerged in the recent literature regarding HBV reactivation following immunosuppressive treatments for oncohematological tumors. A computerized literature search in MEDLINE was performed using appropriate terms arrangement, including English-written literature only or additional relevant articles. Articles published only in abstract form and case reports not giving considerable news were excluded. Clinical manifestation of HBVr can be manifold, ranging from asymptomatic self-limiting anicteric hepatitis to life-threatening fulminant liver failure. In clusters of patients adverse outcomes are potentially predictable. Clinicians should be aware of the inherent risk of HBVr among the different virological categories(active carriers, occult HBV carriers and inactive carriers, the most intriguing category), and classes of immunosuppressive drugs. We recommend that patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatments for hematological malignancies should undergo HBV screening. In case of serological sign(s) of current or past infection with the virus, appropriate therapeutic or preventive strategies are suggested, according to both virological categories, risk of HBVr by immunosuppressive drugsand liver status. Either antiviral drug management and surveillance and pre-emptive approach are examined, commenting the current international recommendations about this debated issue.展开更多
AIM: To investigate whether ANNs and LDA could recognize patients with ABG in a database, containing only clinical and biochemical variables, of a pool of patients with and without ABG, by selecting the most predictiv...AIM: To investigate whether ANNs and LDA could recognize patients with ABG in a database, containing only clinical and biochemical variables, of a pool of patients with and without ABG, by selecting the most predictive variables and by reducing input data to the minimum.METHODS: Data was collected from 350 consecutive outpatients (263 with ABG, 87 with non-atrophic gastritis and/or celiac disease [controls]). Structured questionnaires with 22 items (anagraphic, anamnestic, clinical, and biochemical data) were filled out for each patient. All patients underwent gastroscopy with biopsies. ANNs and LDA were applied to recognize patients with ABG.Experiment 1: random selection on 37 variables, experiment 2: optimization process on 30 variables, experiment 3:input data reduction on 8 variables, experiment 4: use of only clinical input data on 5 variables, and experiment 5:use of only serological variables.RESULTS: In experiment 1, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were 96.6% and 94.6%, respectively, for predicting patients with ABG. In experiment 2, ANNs and LDA reached an overall accuracy of 98.8% and 96.8%,respectively. In experiment 3, overall accuracy of ANNs was 98.4%. In experiment 4, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were, respectively, 91.3% and 88.6%. In experiment 5, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were,respectively, 97.7% and 94.5%.CONCLUSION: This preliminary study suggests that advanced statistical methods, not only ANNs, but also LDA,may contribute to better address bioptic sampling during gastroscopy in a subset of patients in whom ABG may be suspected on the basis of aspecific gastrointestinal symptoms or non-digestive disorders.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects a large part of the world population. Within the different virological HBV categories that have been identified, patients with occult HBV infection represent a peculiar group....Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects a large part of the world population. Within the different virological HBV categories that have been identified, patients with occult HBV infection represent a peculiar group. These individuals harbor a replication competent virus, inhibited in its replicative function. Accordingly, cases of reactivations have been observed in immunosuppressed individuals who lose immunological control over the infection. Patients with hematological malignancies (HM) are treated with intense myeloand immunosuppres-sive chemotherapy regimens which favor HBV reactivation. This event can have severe consequences, such as hepatitis flare, hepatic failure and even death. In addition, it can lead to delays or interruptions of curative treatments, resulting in a decreased disease free and overall survival. In this review, we will examine the event of HBV reactivation in patients with signs of resolved HBV infection undergoing treatment for HM and propose possible management strategies.展开更多
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC) is a lethal neoplasia, for which secondary prevention(i.e., screening) is advisable for high-risk individuals with "familiar pancreatic cancer" and with other specific ...Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC) is a lethal neoplasia, for which secondary prevention(i.e., screening) is advisable for high-risk individuals with "familiar pancreatic cancer" and with other specific genetic syndromes(Peutz-Jeghers, p16, BRCA2, PALB and mismatch repair gene mutation carriers). There is limited evidence regarding the accuracy of screening tests, their acceptability, costs and availability, and agreement on whom to treat. Successful target of screening are small resectable PDAC, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with high-grade dysplasia and advanced pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Both magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) and endoscopic ultrasound(EUS) are employed for screening, and the overall yield for pre-malignant or malignant pancreatic lesions is of about 20% with EUS and 14% with MRI/magnetic resonance colangiopancreatography. EUS performs better for solid and MRI for cystic lesions. However, only 2% of these detected lesions can be considered a successful target, and there are insufficient data demonstrating that resection of benign or low grade lesions improves survival. Many patients in the published studies therefore seemed to have received an overtreatment by undergoing surgery. It is crucial to better stratify the risk of malignancy individually, and to better define optimal screening intervals and methods either with computerized tools or molecular biomarkers, possibly in large multicentre studies. At the moment, screening should be carefully performed within research protocols at experienced centres, offering involved individuals medical and psychological advice.展开更多
There is plenty of data confirming that hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a predisposing factor for a B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) outbreak, while relatively few reports have addressed the role of HCV ...There is plenty of data confirming that hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a predisposing factor for a B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) outbreak, while relatively few reports have addressed the role of HCV in affecting B-NHL patients' outcome. HCV infection may influence the short-term outcome of B-NHL because of the emergence of severe hepatic toxicity (HT) during immunochemotherapy. Furthermore, the long term outcome of HCV-related liver disease and patients' quality of life will possibly be affected by Rituximab maintenance, multiple-lines of toxicity during chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In this review, data dealing with aggressive and low-grade B-NHL were separately analyzed. The few retrospective papers reporting on aggressive B-NHL patients showed that HCV infection is a risk factor for the outbreak of severe HT during treatment. This adverse event not infrequently leads to the reduction of treatment density and intensity. Existing papers report that low-grade B-NHL patients with HCV infection may have a more widespread disease, more frequent relapses or a lower ORR compared to HCV-negative patients. Notwithstanding, there is no statistical evidence that the prognosis of HCV-positive patients is inferior to that of HCV-negative subjects. HCV-positive prospective studies and longer follow-up are necessary to ascertain if HCV-positive B-NHL patients have inferior outcomes and if there are long term sequels of immunochemotherapies on the progression of liver disease.展开更多
AIM： To evaluate the usefulness of pre-endoscopic serological screening for He//cobacter py/or/ （H py/or/} infection and celiac disease in women aged 〈 50 years affected by iron-deficiency anemia （IDA）. METHODS：...AIM： To evaluate the usefulness of pre-endoscopic serological screening for He//cobacter py/or/ （H py/or/} infection and celiac disease in women aged 〈 50 years affected by iron-deficiency anemia （IDA）. METHODS： One hundred and fifteen women aged 〈 50 years with IDA were tested by human recombinant tissue transglutaminase IgA antibodies （tTG） and anti-H pylori IgG antibodies, tTG and H pylori IgG antibody were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. All women were invited to undergo upper GI endoscopy. During gastroscopy, biopsies were collected from antrum （n = 3）, gastric body （n = 3） and duodenum （n = 4） in all patients, irrespective of test results. The assessment of gastritis was performed according to the Sydney system and celiac disease was classified by Marsh＇s System. RESULTS： 45.2% women were test-positive： 41 patients positive for H pylori antibodies, 9 patients for tTG and 2 patients for both. The gastroscopy compliance rate of test-positive women was significantly increased with respect to those test- negative （65.4% vs 42.8%; Fisher test P = 0.0239）. The serological results were confirmed by gastroscopy in 100% of those with positive H pylori antibodies, in 50% of those with positive tTG and in 81.5% of test- negative patient. Sensitivity and specificity were 84.8% and 100%, respectively for Hpylori infection and, 80% and 92.8% for tTG. Twenty-eight patients had positive H pylori antibodies and in all the patients, an active Hpylori infection was found. In particular, in 23 out of 28 （82%） patients with positive H pylori antibodies, a likely cause of IDA was found because of the active inflammation involving the gastric body. CONCLUSION： Anti-H pylori IgG antibody and tTG IgA antibody testing is able to select women with IDA to submit for gastroscopy to identify H pylori pangastritis and/or celiac disease, likely causes of IDA.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, collectively termed the inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD), are chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. A "dysbiotic" relationship between the ...Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, collectively termed the inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD), are chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. A "dysbiotic" relationship between the commensal gut flora and the intestinal mucosa-associated immune system has been at the core of the pathogenesis of these conditions. Probiotics are "good bacteria" with the ability to benefit the health of the host and their therapeutic application has been studied in IBD. The theoretical basis for such utilization relies upon the ability of probiotic microorganisms to interfere with the dysregulated homeostasis that takes place in IBD and restore the immune-bacterial interaction at the intestinal mucosa. Proposed mechanisms of action include the reconstitution of altered flora composition, enhancement of the integrity of the epithelial barrier, promotion of tolerogenic action by dendritic cells, strengthening of the defensive mechanisms of the innate immunity, and the suppression of pro-inflammatory adaptive immune responses. Despite this abundance of supporting experimental evidence, clinical application of probiotics in IBD has been disappointing. Possible explanations for such discrepancy include the great diversity of microorganisms that fall under the definition of probiotics, the lack of standardization of dosages and administration schemes, the heterogeneity between clinical trials, and the inclusion in the treatment arms of patients with a large variety of clinical phenotypes. Addressing these important issues will be critical for the optimal usage of probiotic-based therapies for patients with IBD.展开更多
AIM:To compare the site,age and gender of cases of colorectal cancer(CRC) and polyps in a single referral center in Rome,Italy,during two periods.METHODS:CRC data were collected from surgery/pathology registers,and po...AIM:To compare the site,age and gender of cases of colorectal cancer(CRC) and polyps in a single referral center in Rome,Italy,during two periods.METHODS:CRC data were collected from surgery/pathology registers,and polyp data from colonoscopy reports.Patients who met the criteria for familial adenomatous polyposis,hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease were excluded from the study.Overlap of patients between the two groups(cancers and polyps) was carefully avoided.Theχ 2 statistical test and a regression analysis were performed.RESULTS:Data from a total of 768 patients(352 and 416 patients,respectively,in periods A and B) who underwent surgery for cancer were collected.During the same time periods,a total of 1693 polyps were analyzed from 978 patients with complete colonoscopies(428 polyps from 273 patients during period A and 1265 polyps from 705 patients during period B).A proximal shift in cancer occurred during the latter years for both sexes,but particularly in males.Proximal cancer increased > 3-fold in period B compared to period A in males [odds ratio(OR) 3.31,95%CI:2.00-5.47;P < 0.0001).A similar proximal shift was observed for polyps,particularly in males(OR 1.87,95%CI:1.23-2.87;P < 0.0038),but also in females(OR 1.62,95%CI:0.96-2.73;P < 0.07).CONCLUSION:The prevalence of proximal proliferative colonic lesions seems to have increased over the last decade,particularly in males.展开更多
A 34-year-old male with hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer with a mutation in hMSH2 line is reported. Despite regular colonoscopic follow-up, he developed cecal cancer involving the extraluminal area. Due to sub-oc...A 34-year-old male with hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer with a mutation in hMSH2 line is reported. Despite regular colonoscopic follow-up, he developed cecal cancer involving the extraluminal area. Due to sub-occlusive symptoms, the patient was submitted to further colonoscopy, however with no clear evidence of neoplasia. Thin slice multiplanar reconstruction computed tomography CT scan performed thereafter revealed a transmural mass 2.5 cm in size localized near the cecal valve. Discussion is made on the reliability of colonoscopic examinations as well as the need for further investigations in the follow-up of patients at very high risk of right-sided colon cancer, such as male hMSH2 carrier affected by hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer.展开更多
AIM:To analyze the safety and the adequacy of a sample of liver biopsies(LB)obtained by gastroenterologist(G)and interventional radiologist(IR)teams.METHODS:Medical records of consecutive patients evaluated at our GI ...AIM:To analyze the safety and the adequacy of a sample of liver biopsies(LB)obtained by gastroenterologist(G)and interventional radiologist(IR)teams.METHODS:Medical records of consecutive patients evaluated at our GI unit from 01/01/2004 to31/12/2010 for whom LB was considered necessary to diagnose and/or stage liver disease,both in the setting of day hospital and regular admission(RA) care,were retrieved and the data entered in a database.Patients were divided into two groups:one undergoing an ultrasonography(US)-assisted procedure by the G team and one undergoing US-guided biopsy by the IR team.For the first group,an intercostal approach(US-assisted) and a Menghini modified type needle 16 G(length 90 mm) were used.The IR team used a subcostal approach(US-guided) and a semiautomatic modified Menghini type needle 18 G(length 150 mm).All the biopsies were evaluated for appropriateness according to the current guidelines.The number of portal tracts present in each biopsy was assessed by a revision performed by a single pathologist unaware of the previous pathology report.Clinical,laboratory and demographic patient characteristics,the adverse events rate and the diagnostic adequacy of LB were analyzed.RESULTS:During the study period,226 patients,126 males(56%) and 100 females(44%),underwent LB:167(74%) were carried out by the G team,whereas 59(26%) by the IR team.LB was mostly performed in a day hospital setting by the G team,while IR completed more procedures on inpatients(P < 0.0001).The groups did not differ in median age,body mass index(BMI),presence of comorbidities and coagulation parameters.Complications occurred in 26 patients(16 G team vs 10 IR team,P = 0.15).Most gross samples obtained were considered suitable for basal histological evaluation,with no difference among the two teams(96.4% G team vs 91.5% IR,P = 0.16).However,the samples obtained by the G team had a higher mean number of portal tracts(G team 9.5 ± 4.8; range 1-29 vs IR team 7.8 ± 4.1; range 1-20)(P = 0.0192) and a longer mean length(G team 22 mm ± 8.8 vs IR team 15 ± 6.5 mm)(P = 0.0001).CONCLUSION:LB can be performed with similar outcomes both by G and IR.Use of larger dimension needles allows obtaining better samples,with a similar rate of adverse events.展开更多
Rituximab has provided a revolutionary contribution to the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). A high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been described in B-cell NHL patients. Cases of...Rituximab has provided a revolutionary contribution to the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). A high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been described in B-cell NHL patients. Cases of liver dysfunction in HCV-positive patients have been reported with Rituximab-containing regimens. In this paper we review the recent data regarding the effects of Rituximab in NHL patients with HCV infection. We also added a section devoted to improving communication between oncohaematologists and hepatologists. Furthermore, we propose a common methodological ground to study hepatic toxicity emerging during chemotherapy.展开更多
In recent decades,the prominent role of endoscopy in the management of ulcerative colitis(UC)has been translated into the concept of mucosal healing(MH)as a fundamental therapeutic end-point.This is partially the cons...In recent decades,the prominent role of endoscopy in the management of ulcerative colitis(UC)has been translated into the concept of mucosal healing(MH)as a fundamental therapeutic end-point.This is partially the consequence of growing evidence of a positive prognostic role of MH on the disease course and partially due to market cues indicating a higher rate of MH in patients treated by novel potent biologic agents.The aim of the present review is to clarify the current knowledge of MH in UC,analyzing the definition,the putative prognostic role and the association of MH with the current drugs used to treat UC patients.Because solid data about the management of UC patients based solely on the healing of the mucosa are not yet available,a tailored approach for individual patients thatconsiders the natural history of UC and the presence of prognostic indicators of aggressive disease is desirable.Consequently,unnecessary examinations and treatment would be avoided and restricted to UC patients who require the maximum amount of effort to affect the disease course in the short and long term.展开更多
Oesophageal ulcers occur mainly as a result of gastrooesophageal reflux disease （GERD）. However, pillinduced oesophageal ulcers are a fairly common event. The lesion is mainly due to entrapment of the pill and/ or i...Oesophageal ulcers occur mainly as a result of gastrooesophageal reflux disease （GERD）. However, pillinduced oesophageal ulcers are a fairly common event. The lesion is mainly due to entrapment of the pill and/ or its chemical composition thereof. This case report describes an oesophageal mucosa ulcer occurred in a healthy 35-year old woman who had no previous history of oesophageal disorders and received homeopathic medication. The present case reveals that pill entrapment can occur even in the oesophagus of healthy young individuals and that oesophageal mucosal ulcer can be triggered by substances generally thought devoid of any potentially mucosal aggressive effect.展开更多
基金Supported by An unrestricted grant from Abbott Italia s.r.l
文摘This is a medical position statement developed by the Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency collaborative group which is a part of the Italian Association for the Study of the Pancreas(AISP).We covered the main diseases associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency(EPI)which are of common interest to internists/gastroenterologists,oncologists and surgeons,fully aware that EPI may also occur together with many other diseases,but less frequently.A preliminary manuscript based on an extended literature search(Medline/PubMed,Cochrane Library and Google Scholar)of published reports was prepared,and key recommendations were proposed.The evidence was discussed at a dedicated meeting in Bologna during the National Meeting of the Association in October 2012.Each of the proposed recommendations and algorithms was discussed and an initial consensus was reached.The final draft of the manuscript was then sent to the AISP Council for approval and/or modification.All concerned parties approved the final version of the manuscript in June 2013.
文摘Some authors have suggested that intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the bile duct(IPMN-B) could be the the biliary counterpart of IPMN of the pancreas(IPMN-P) since they share several clinical-pathological features.These include prominent intraductal papil-lary proliferation pattern,a gastrointestinal phenotype,frequent mucin hyper-secretion and progression to mu-cinous carcinoma.To date there are just four reported cases of patients with synchronous IPMN-B and IPMN-P all of which were treated surgically.We hereby report the case of a 76-year-old woman who was incidentally diagnosed with both an asymptomatic 3 cm bulky uid lesion obstructing the bile duct lumen,diagnosed as a malignant IPMN-B,and synchronous multiple pancreatic cystic lesions(10-13 mm) communicating with an irreg-ular Wirsung,diagnosed as branch duct IPMN-P.Since surgery was ruled-out because of the patient's age and preferences,she underwent a conservative manage-ment regimen comprising both chemotherapy and radio-therapy.This was effective in decreasing the mass size and in resolving subsequent jaundice.This is also the f irst reported case of IPMN-B successfully treated with chemoradiotherapy.Clinicians should consider medical treatment as an option in this clinical scenario,in pa-tients who may be unf it for surgery.
文摘AIM:To assess the rate of spontaneous tube migration and to compare the effects of naso-gastric and nasointestinal(NI)(beyond the ligament of Treitz) feeding in severe acute pancreatitis(SAP).METHODS:After bedside intragastric insertion,tube position was assessed,and enteral nutrition(EN) started at day 4,irrespective of tube localization.Patients were monitored daily and clinical and laboratory parameters evaluated to compare the outcome of patients with nasogastric(NG) or NI tube.RESULTS:Spontaneous tube migration to a NI site occurred in 10/25(40%) prospectively enrolled SAP patients,while in 15(60%) nutrition was started with a NG tube.Groups were similar for demographics and pancreatitis aetiology but computed tomography(CT) severity index was higher in NG tube patients than in NI(mean 6.2 vs 4.7,P=0.04).The CT index seemed a risk factor for failed obtainment of spontaneous distal migration.EN trough NG or NI tube were similar in terms of tolerability,safety,clinical goals,complications and hospital stay.CONCLUSION:Spontaneous distal tube migration is successful in 40% of SAP patients,with higher CT severity index predicting intragastric retention;in such cases EN by NG tubes seems to provide a pragmatic alternative opportunity with similar outcomes.
文摘Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-guided ablation procedures are emerging as a minimally invasive therapeutic alternative to radiological and surgical treatments for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNETs), and pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs). The advantages of treatment under endoscopic control are the real-time imaging guidance and the possibility to reach a deep target like the pancreas. Currently, radiofrequency probes specifically designed for ERCP or EUS ablation are available as well as hybrid cryotherm probe combining radiofrequency with cryotechnology. To date, many reports and case series have confirmed the safety and feasibility of that kind of ablation technique in the pancreatic setting. Moreover, EUS-guided fine-needle injection is emerging as a method to deliver ablative and anti-tumoral agents inside the tumuor. Ethanol injection has been proposed mostly for the treatment of PCLs and for symptomatic functioning PNETs, and the use of gemcitabine and paclitaxel is also interesting in this setting. EUS-guided injection of chemical or biological agents including mixed lymphocyte culture, oncolytic viruses, and immature dendritic cells has been investigated for the treatment of LAPC. Data on the long-term efficacy of these approaches, and large prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm the real clinical benefits of these techniques for the management of pancreatic lesions.
文摘AIM To investigate the adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects of Lactobacil us rhamnosus GG (LGG) in the colonic mucosa of healthy and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, both in vivo and ex vivo in an organ culture model.METHODS For the ex vivo experiment, a total of 98 patients (68 UC patients and 30 normal subjects) were included. Endoscopic biopsies were collected and incubated with and without LGG or LGG-conditioned media to evaluate the mucosal adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects [reduction of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin (IL)-17 expression] of the bacteria, and extraction of DNA and RNA for quantification by real-time (RT)-PCR occurred after the incubation. A dose-response study was performed by incubating biopsies at "regular", double and 5 times higher doses of LGG. For the in vivo experiment, a total of 42 patients (20 UC patients and 22 normal controls) were included. Biopsies were taken from the colons of normal subjects who consumed a commercial formulation of LGG for 7 d prior to the colonoscopy,and the adhesion of the bacteria to the colonic mucosa was evaluated by RT-PCR and compared with that of control biopsies from patients who did not consume the formulation. LGG adhesion and TNFα and IL-17 expression were compared between UC patients who consumed a regular or double dose of LGG supplementation prior to colonoscopy.RESULTS In the ex vivo experiment, LGG showed consistent adhesion to the distal and proximal colon in normal subjects and UC patients, with a trend towards higher concentrations in the distal colon, and in UC patients, adhesion was similar in biopsies with active and quiescent inflammation. In addition, bioptic samples from UC patients incubated with LGG conditioned media (CM) showed reduced expression of TNFα and IL-17 compared with the corresponding expression in controls (P < 0.05). Incubation with a double dose of LGG increased mucosal adhesion and the anti-inflammatory effects (P < 0.05). In the in vivo experiment, LGG was detectable only in the colon of patients who consumed the LGG formulation, and bowel cleansing did not affect LGG adhesion. UC patients who consumed the double LGG dose had increased mucosal concentrations of the bacteria and reduced TNFα and IL-17 expression compared with patients who consumed the regular dose (48% and 40% reduction, respectively, P < 0.05).CONCLUSION In an ex vivo organ culture model, LGG showed consistent adhesion and anti-inflammatory effects. Colonization by LGG after consumption for a week was demonstrated in vivo in the human colon. Increasing the administered dose increased the adhesion and effectiveness of the bacteria. For the first time, we demonstrated that LGG effectively adheres to the colonic mucosa and exerts antiinflammatory effects, both ex vivo and in vivo.
基金Supported by Grants From the Italian Ministry for the University (MIUR), No. 02/12/01/10 1999-2002 and No. 8.111.126.5
文摘AIM： To investigate the possible relationships between gastric autoimmune phenomena and clinical presentations of this disorder, in consecutive atrophic body gastritis patients. METHODS： A total of 140 atrophic body gastritis patients, diagnosed as consecutive outpatients presenting with macrocytic or iron deficiency anemia, or longstanding dyspepsia underwent gastroscopy with antral and body biopsies, assay of intrinsic factor, parietal cells and Helicobacter pylori （ H pylon） antibodies. Gastritis was assessed according to Sydney System. RESULTS： Parietal cell antibodies were equally distributed in all clinical presentations, whereas the positivity of intrinsic factor antibodies （49/140, 35%） was significantly higher in pernicious anemia patients （49.2%） than in iron deficiency （21.1%） and dyspeptic patients （27.8%）. No specific pattern of autoantibodies was related to the clinical presentations of atrophic body gastritis. A positive correlation was obtained between the body atrophy score and the intrinsic factor antibody levels （r=0.2216, P=0.0085）. Associated autoimmune diseases were present in 25/140 （17.9%） patients, but the prevalence of autoimmune diseases was comparable, irrespective of the clinical presentations. CONCLUSION： The so-called hallmarks of gastric autoimmunity, particularly in intrinsic factor antibody cannot be usefully employed in defining an autoimmune pattern in the clinical presentations of ABG.
文摘Hepatitis B virus(HBV) reactivation(HBVr) in patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy is still a hot topic worldwide. Its prevention and management still represents a challenge for specialists dealing with immunosuppressed patients. Aim of this paper is to provide a critical review of the relevant information emerged in the recent literature regarding HBV reactivation following immunosuppressive treatments for oncohematological tumors. A computerized literature search in MEDLINE was performed using appropriate terms arrangement, including English-written literature only or additional relevant articles. Articles published only in abstract form and case reports not giving considerable news were excluded. Clinical manifestation of HBVr can be manifold, ranging from asymptomatic self-limiting anicteric hepatitis to life-threatening fulminant liver failure. In clusters of patients adverse outcomes are potentially predictable. Clinicians should be aware of the inherent risk of HBVr among the different virological categories(active carriers, occult HBV carriers and inactive carriers, the most intriguing category), and classes of immunosuppressive drugs. We recommend that patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatments for hematological malignancies should undergo HBV screening. In case of serological sign(s) of current or past infection with the virus, appropriate therapeutic or preventive strategies are suggested, according to both virological categories, risk of HBVr by immunosuppressive drugsand liver status. Either antiviral drug management and surveillance and pre-emptive approach are examined, commenting the current international recommendations about this debated issue.
基金Supported by a grant from Bracco Imaging Spa, Milan, Italy, and a grant from the Italian Ministry of University and Research (No. 2002-2003)
文摘AIM: To investigate whether ANNs and LDA could recognize patients with ABG in a database, containing only clinical and biochemical variables, of a pool of patients with and without ABG, by selecting the most predictive variables and by reducing input data to the minimum.METHODS: Data was collected from 350 consecutive outpatients (263 with ABG, 87 with non-atrophic gastritis and/or celiac disease [controls]). Structured questionnaires with 22 items (anagraphic, anamnestic, clinical, and biochemical data) were filled out for each patient. All patients underwent gastroscopy with biopsies. ANNs and LDA were applied to recognize patients with ABG.Experiment 1: random selection on 37 variables, experiment 2: optimization process on 30 variables, experiment 3:input data reduction on 8 variables, experiment 4: use of only clinical input data on 5 variables, and experiment 5:use of only serological variables.RESULTS: In experiment 1, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were 96.6% and 94.6%, respectively, for predicting patients with ABG. In experiment 2, ANNs and LDA reached an overall accuracy of 98.8% and 96.8%,respectively. In experiment 3, overall accuracy of ANNs was 98.4%. In experiment 4, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were, respectively, 91.3% and 88.6%. In experiment 5, overall accuracies of ANNs and LDA were,respectively, 97.7% and 94.5%.CONCLUSION: This preliminary study suggests that advanced statistical methods, not only ANNs, but also LDA,may contribute to better address bioptic sampling during gastroscopy in a subset of patients in whom ABG may be suspected on the basis of aspecific gastrointestinal symptoms or non-digestive disorders.
文摘Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects a large part of the world population. Within the different virological HBV categories that have been identified, patients with occult HBV infection represent a peculiar group. These individuals harbor a replication competent virus, inhibited in its replicative function. Accordingly, cases of reactivations have been observed in immunosuppressed individuals who lose immunological control over the infection. Patients with hematological malignancies (HM) are treated with intense myeloand immunosuppres-sive chemotherapy regimens which favor HBV reactivation. This event can have severe consequences, such as hepatitis flare, hepatic failure and even death. In addition, it can lead to delays or interruptions of curative treatments, resulting in a decreased disease free and overall survival. In this review, we will examine the event of HBV reactivation in patients with signs of resolved HBV infection undergoing treatment for HM and propose possible management strategies.
文摘Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC) is a lethal neoplasia, for which secondary prevention(i.e., screening) is advisable for high-risk individuals with "familiar pancreatic cancer" and with other specific genetic syndromes(Peutz-Jeghers, p16, BRCA2, PALB and mismatch repair gene mutation carriers). There is limited evidence regarding the accuracy of screening tests, their acceptability, costs and availability, and agreement on whom to treat. Successful target of screening are small resectable PDAC, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with high-grade dysplasia and advanced pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Both magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) and endoscopic ultrasound(EUS) are employed for screening, and the overall yield for pre-malignant or malignant pancreatic lesions is of about 20% with EUS and 14% with MRI/magnetic resonance colangiopancreatography. EUS performs better for solid and MRI for cystic lesions. However, only 2% of these detected lesions can be considered a successful target, and there are insufficient data demonstrating that resection of benign or low grade lesions improves survival. Many patients in the published studies therefore seemed to have received an overtreatment by undergoing surgery. It is crucial to better stratify the risk of malignancy individually, and to better define optimal screening intervals and methods either with computerized tools or molecular biomarkers, possibly in large multicentre studies. At the moment, screening should be carefully performed within research protocols at experienced centres, offering involved individuals medical and psychological advice.
文摘There is plenty of data confirming that hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a predisposing factor for a B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) outbreak, while relatively few reports have addressed the role of HCV in affecting B-NHL patients' outcome. HCV infection may influence the short-term outcome of B-NHL because of the emergence of severe hepatic toxicity (HT) during immunochemotherapy. Furthermore, the long term outcome of HCV-related liver disease and patients' quality of life will possibly be affected by Rituximab maintenance, multiple-lines of toxicity during chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In this review, data dealing with aggressive and low-grade B-NHL were separately analyzed. The few retrospective papers reporting on aggressive B-NHL patients showed that HCV infection is a risk factor for the outbreak of severe HT during treatment. This adverse event not infrequently leads to the reduction of treatment density and intensity. Existing papers report that low-grade B-NHL patients with HCV infection may have a more widespread disease, more frequent relapses or a lower ORR compared to HCV-negative patients. Notwithstanding, there is no statistical evidence that the prognosis of HCV-positive patients is inferior to that of HCV-negative subjects. HCV-positive prospective studies and longer follow-up are necessary to ascertain if HCV-positive B-NHL patients have inferior outcomes and if there are long term sequels of immunochemotherapies on the progression of liver disease.
基金Supported by (in part) Grants from the Italian Ministry for University and Research, MIUR, COFIN 2005 No. 0011222 and University Sapienza Roma and in part by a grant from Centro Diagnostico Italiano Milano, Italy
文摘AIM： To evaluate the usefulness of pre-endoscopic serological screening for He//cobacter py/or/ （H py/or/} infection and celiac disease in women aged 〈 50 years affected by iron-deficiency anemia （IDA）. METHODS： One hundred and fifteen women aged 〈 50 years with IDA were tested by human recombinant tissue transglutaminase IgA antibodies （tTG） and anti-H pylori IgG antibodies, tTG and H pylori IgG antibody were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. All women were invited to undergo upper GI endoscopy. During gastroscopy, biopsies were collected from antrum （n = 3）, gastric body （n = 3） and duodenum （n = 4） in all patients, irrespective of test results. The assessment of gastritis was performed according to the Sydney system and celiac disease was classified by Marsh＇s System. RESULTS： 45.2% women were test-positive： 41 patients positive for H pylori antibodies, 9 patients for tTG and 2 patients for both. The gastroscopy compliance rate of test-positive women was significantly increased with respect to those test- negative （65.4% vs 42.8%; Fisher test P = 0.0239）. The serological results were confirmed by gastroscopy in 100% of those with positive H pylori antibodies, in 50% of those with positive tTG and in 81.5% of test- negative patient. Sensitivity and specificity were 84.8% and 100%, respectively for Hpylori infection and, 80% and 92.8% for tTG. Twenty-eight patients had positive H pylori antibodies and in all the patients, an active Hpylori infection was found. In particular, in 23 out of 28 （82%） patients with positive H pylori antibodies, a likely cause of IDA was found because of the active inflammation involving the gastric body. CONCLUSION： Anti-H pylori IgG antibody and tTG IgA antibody testing is able to select women with IDA to submit for gastroscopy to identify H pylori pangastritis and/or celiac disease, likely causes of IDA.
文摘Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, collectively termed the inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD), are chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. A "dysbiotic" relationship between the commensal gut flora and the intestinal mucosa-associated immune system has been at the core of the pathogenesis of these conditions. Probiotics are "good bacteria" with the ability to benefit the health of the host and their therapeutic application has been studied in IBD. The theoretical basis for such utilization relies upon the ability of probiotic microorganisms to interfere with the dysregulated homeostasis that takes place in IBD and restore the immune-bacterial interaction at the intestinal mucosa. Proposed mechanisms of action include the reconstitution of altered flora composition, enhancement of the integrity of the epithelial barrier, promotion of tolerogenic action by dendritic cells, strengthening of the defensive mechanisms of the innate immunity, and the suppression of pro-inflammatory adaptive immune responses. Despite this abundance of supporting experimental evidence, clinical application of probiotics in IBD has been disappointing. Possible explanations for such discrepancy include the great diversity of microorganisms that fall under the definition of probiotics, the lack of standardization of dosages and administration schemes, the heterogeneity between clinical trials, and the inclusion in the treatment arms of patients with a large variety of clinical phenotypes. Addressing these important issues will be critical for the optimal usage of probiotic-based therapies for patients with IBD.
基金Supported by Grants from "Ateneo Federato" University "La Sapienza" Rome,Italy,Year 2009-Protocol C26F098MZM
文摘AIM:To compare the site,age and gender of cases of colorectal cancer(CRC) and polyps in a single referral center in Rome,Italy,during two periods.METHODS:CRC data were collected from surgery/pathology registers,and polyp data from colonoscopy reports.Patients who met the criteria for familial adenomatous polyposis,hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease were excluded from the study.Overlap of patients between the two groups(cancers and polyps) was carefully avoided.Theχ 2 statistical test and a regression analysis were performed.RESULTS:Data from a total of 768 patients(352 and 416 patients,respectively,in periods A and B) who underwent surgery for cancer were collected.During the same time periods,a total of 1693 polyps were analyzed from 978 patients with complete colonoscopies(428 polyps from 273 patients during period A and 1265 polyps from 705 patients during period B).A proximal shift in cancer occurred during the latter years for both sexes,but particularly in males.Proximal cancer increased > 3-fold in period B compared to period A in males [odds ratio(OR) 3.31,95%CI:2.00-5.47;P < 0.0001).A similar proximal shift was observed for polyps,particularly in males(OR 1.87,95%CI:1.23-2.87;P < 0.0038),but also in females(OR 1.62,95%CI:0.96-2.73;P < 0.07).CONCLUSION:The prevalence of proximal proliferative colonic lesions seems to have increased over the last decade,particularly in males.
基金Supported by Ricerche Ateneo 2004 n.C26A044873,University "La Sapienza",Rome,and PRIN 2003,n.2003063877_002
文摘A 34-year-old male with hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer with a mutation in hMSH2 line is reported. Despite regular colonoscopic follow-up, he developed cecal cancer involving the extraluminal area. Due to sub-occlusive symptoms, the patient was submitted to further colonoscopy, however with no clear evidence of neoplasia. Thin slice multiplanar reconstruction computed tomography CT scan performed thereafter revealed a transmural mass 2.5 cm in size localized near the cecal valve. Discussion is made on the reliability of colonoscopic examinations as well as the need for further investigations in the follow-up of patients at very high risk of right-sided colon cancer, such as male hMSH2 carrier affected by hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer.
文摘AIM:To analyze the safety and the adequacy of a sample of liver biopsies(LB)obtained by gastroenterologist(G)and interventional radiologist(IR)teams.METHODS:Medical records of consecutive patients evaluated at our GI unit from 01/01/2004 to31/12/2010 for whom LB was considered necessary to diagnose and/or stage liver disease,both in the setting of day hospital and regular admission(RA) care,were retrieved and the data entered in a database.Patients were divided into two groups:one undergoing an ultrasonography(US)-assisted procedure by the G team and one undergoing US-guided biopsy by the IR team.For the first group,an intercostal approach(US-assisted) and a Menghini modified type needle 16 G(length 90 mm) were used.The IR team used a subcostal approach(US-guided) and a semiautomatic modified Menghini type needle 18 G(length 150 mm).All the biopsies were evaluated for appropriateness according to the current guidelines.The number of portal tracts present in each biopsy was assessed by a revision performed by a single pathologist unaware of the previous pathology report.Clinical,laboratory and demographic patient characteristics,the adverse events rate and the diagnostic adequacy of LB were analyzed.RESULTS:During the study period,226 patients,126 males(56%) and 100 females(44%),underwent LB:167(74%) were carried out by the G team,whereas 59(26%) by the IR team.LB was mostly performed in a day hospital setting by the G team,while IR completed more procedures on inpatients(P < 0.0001).The groups did not differ in median age,body mass index(BMI),presence of comorbidities and coagulation parameters.Complications occurred in 26 patients(16 G team vs 10 IR team,P = 0.15).Most gross samples obtained were considered suitable for basal histological evaluation,with no difference among the two teams(96.4% G team vs 91.5% IR,P = 0.16).However,the samples obtained by the G team had a higher mean number of portal tracts(G team 9.5 ± 4.8; range 1-29 vs IR team 7.8 ± 4.1; range 1-20)(P = 0.0192) and a longer mean length(G team 22 mm ± 8.8 vs IR team 15 ± 6.5 mm)(P = 0.0001).CONCLUSION:LB can be performed with similar outcomes both by G and IR.Use of larger dimension needles allows obtaining better samples,with a similar rate of adverse events.
文摘Rituximab has provided a revolutionary contribution to the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). A high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been described in B-cell NHL patients. Cases of liver dysfunction in HCV-positive patients have been reported with Rituximab-containing regimens. In this paper we review the recent data regarding the effects of Rituximab in NHL patients with HCV infection. We also added a section devoted to improving communication between oncohaematologists and hepatologists. Furthermore, we propose a common methodological ground to study hepatic toxicity emerging during chemotherapy.
文摘In recent decades,the prominent role of endoscopy in the management of ulcerative colitis(UC)has been translated into the concept of mucosal healing(MH)as a fundamental therapeutic end-point.This is partially the consequence of growing evidence of a positive prognostic role of MH on the disease course and partially due to market cues indicating a higher rate of MH in patients treated by novel potent biologic agents.The aim of the present review is to clarify the current knowledge of MH in UC,analyzing the definition,the putative prognostic role and the association of MH with the current drugs used to treat UC patients.Because solid data about the management of UC patients based solely on the healing of the mucosa are not yet available,a tailored approach for individual patients thatconsiders the natural history of UC and the presence of prognostic indicators of aggressive disease is desirable.Consequently,unnecessary examinations and treatment would be avoided and restricted to UC patients who require the maximum amount of effort to affect the disease course in the short and long term.
文摘Oesophageal ulcers occur mainly as a result of gastrooesophageal reflux disease （GERD）. However, pillinduced oesophageal ulcers are a fairly common event. The lesion is mainly due to entrapment of the pill and/ or its chemical composition thereof. This case report describes an oesophageal mucosa ulcer occurred in a healthy 35-year old woman who had no previous history of oesophageal disorders and received homeopathic medication. The present case reveals that pill entrapment can occur even in the oesophagus of healthy young individuals and that oesophageal mucosal ulcer can be triggered by substances generally thought devoid of any potentially mucosal aggressive effect.
