Search

Background: Despite widespread use of fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, data to guide test selection are limited., Objective: To compare the performance characteristics of 5 commonly used FITs, using colonoscopy as the reference standard., Design: Cross-sectional study. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03264898)., Setting: Three U.S. academic medical centers and affiliated endoscopy units., Participants: Patients aged 50 to 85 years undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy., Intervention: Participants completed 5 different FITs before their colonoscopy, including 4 qualitative tests (Hemoccult ICT, Hemosure iFOB, OC-Light S FIT, QuickVue iFOB) and 1 quantitative test (OC-Auto FIT, which was run at the manufacturer's threshold for positivity of >100 ng/mL)., Measurements: The primary outcome was test performance (sensitivity and specificity) for each of the 5 FITs for advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN), defined as advanced polyps or CRC. Positivity rates, positive and negative predictive values, and rates of unevaluable tests were compared. Multivariable models were used to identify factors affecting sensitivity., Results: A total of 3761 participants were enrolled, with a mean age of 62.1 years (SD, 7.8); 63.2% of participants were female, 5.7% were Black, 86.4% were White, and 28.7% were Hispanic. There were 320 participants with ACN (8.5%), including 9 with CRC (0.2%). The test positivity rate varied 4-fold (3.9% to 16.4%) across FITs. Rates of unevaluable FITs ranged from 0.2% to 2.5%. The sensitivity for ACN varied from 10.1% to 36.7%, and specificity varied from 85.5% to 96.6%. Differences in sensitivity between FITs were all statistically significantly different except between Hemosure iFOB and QuickVue iFOB, and specificity differences were all statistically significantly different from one another. In addition to FIT brand, distal location of ACN was also associated with higher FIT sensitivity., Limitation: The study did not assess the programmatic sensitivity of annual FIT., Conclusion: Although considered a single class, FITs have varying test performance for detecting ACN and should not be considered interchangeable., Primary Funding Source: National Institutes of Health., Competing Interests: Disclosures: Disclosures can be viewed at www.acponline.org/authors/icmje/ConflictOfInterestForms.do?msNum=M24-0080.

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the burden of suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in a predominantly Hispanic patient population and explore the utility of the American Gastroenterological Association's NAFLD Clinical Care Pathway (CCP)., Methodology: Electronic medical records ( n = 223) were used to divide patients into risk groups based on the amount of metabolic risk factors they presented, diabetic status, or if they presented other liver diseases. Fribosis-4 (FIB-4) scores were used to determine the risk for advanced fibrosis., Results: Most patients (83.8%) were considered at risk for NAFLD based on CCP criteria, and about a third of patients (33.2%) were found to be at indeterminate ( n = 60; 26.9%) or high risk ( n = 14; 6.3%) for advanced fibrosis. Most indeterminate-risk patients (78.3%) were not referred for liver imaging., Discussion: This study demonstrates the potential of the CCP as a corrective tool that could help to better identify and screen patients at risk for NAFLD., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Poorly cohesive carcinoma (PCC) is an uncommon neoplasm characterized by tumorous cells exhibiting a lack of adhesion. PCC has been reported rarely in the small intestine other than at the ampulla of Vater. We present a 40-year-old man with recurrent abdominal pain and small bowel obstruction. Imaging revealed an abnormal appearing distal small bowel, with only nonspecific mucosal changes discovered on antegrade and retrograde enteroscopy. On subsequent diagnostic laparoscopy, an ileal mass was found and resected with histopathology showing PCC with signet ring formation. This is an aggressive cancer with a worse prognosis than other small bowel adenocarcinomas., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American College of Gastroenterology.)

Context: Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening can significantly reduce incidence and mortality; however, screening rates are suboptimal. The lowest rates are among those with no usual source of care and the uninsured., Objective: We describe the implementation and evaluation of a community-based CRC screening program from 2012 to 2015 designed to increase screening within a predominantly Hispanic US-Mexico border population., Methods: The multicomponent, evidence-based program provided in-person, bilingual, culturally tailored health education facilitated by community health workers, no-cost primarily stool-based testing and diagnostic colonoscopy, and navigation. We recruited uninsured individuals due for CRC screening from clinics and community sites. An extensive qualitative and quantitative program process and outcome evaluation was conducted., Results: In total, 20 118 individuals were approached, 8361 were eligible for screening; 74.8% completed screening and 74.6% completed diagnostic testing; 14 cancers were diagnosed. The mean age of participants was 56.8 years, and the majority were Hispanic, female, and of low socioeconomic status. The process evaluation gathered information that enabled effective program implementation and demonstrated effective staff training, compliance with processes, and high patient satisfaction., Conclusions: This program used a population-based approach focusing on uninsured individuals and proved successful at achieving high fecal immunochemical test kit return rates and colonoscopy completion rates. Key factors related to its success included tailoring the intervention to our priority population, strong partnerships with community-based sites and clinics, expertise in clinical CRC screening, and an active community advisory board. This program can serve as a model for similar populations along the border to increase CRC screening rates among the underserved., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) cause a substantial health burden. Herein we studied the prevalence and characteristics of DGBI and symptoms of bloating/distension in El Paso, Texas on the US-Mexico border, providing a unique opportunity to study the effects of acculturation., Methods: Subjects from community centers completed the Rome IV questionnaire for DGBI, short acculturation scale for Hispanics questionnaire, and bloating/distention Pictograms. Data were presented as prevalence (95% CI) and compared using χ 2 ., Results: Of 216 participants, 197 (127 Hispanics, 90 with English acculturation) were included and 177 completed the Pictograms. Fifty-one [25.9% (20 to 32.6)] subjects fulfilled the criteria for at least one DGBI. Globus and functional dyspepsia were the most common upper DGBI, each in [3.0% (1.1 to 6.5)]. Unspecified functional bowel disorders [8.6% (5.1 to 13.5)], followed by functional abdominal bloating/distention [8.1% (4.7 to 12.9], and irritable bowel syndrome [6.1% (3.2 to 10.4] were the most common functional bowel disorder. Ninety-one (51.4%) reported bloating and/or distension with Pictograms; more frequently in those with DGBI (80.9% vs 40.8%, P < 0.001). Bloating and/or distension were reported by Pictograms in 30% of those not reporting it in the Rome IV Questionnaire. There were no differences based on acculturation or in Hispanics versus non-Hispanics., Conclusions: On the US-Mexico border, we found a lower prevalence of DGBI than in the US or Mexico. Functional abdominal bloating/distention was more prevalent on the US-Mexico border than in either country. Bloating/distension was more commonly reported with Pictograms than with verbal descriptors. There were no differences between Hispanics and non-Hispanics, suggesting shared environmental/acquired including dietary factors as the underlying mechanisms., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is an underdiagnosed disorder of the gut-brain interaction. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of CVS is evolving. Here, we tested the hypotheses that: (1) the levels of endocannabinoids and related lipids are altered in CVS, and (2) cephalic-vagal stimulation drive changes in endolipid levels. Ten adult patients with CVS and eight healthy controls were included. Indirect measurements of parasympathetic (RFa) functions were performed with spectral analysis of heart rate variability and respiratory activity. Plasma levels of endocannabinoids and related lipids were measured at baseline and during a sham feeding. Values are reported as mean ± standard error of the mean and compared using t -test or ANOVA. CVS patients had a lower parasympathetic tone and response to the Valsalva maneuver and deep breathing than the controls. The baseline 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) had a significantly higher concentration in CVS (5.9e-008 ± 3.7e-008 mol/L) than control (3.7e-008 ± 1.3e-008 mol/; p < 0.05). Sham feeding did not change the concentration of 2-AG. 2-oleoylglycerol (2-OG) was significantly higher in CVS than control and did not change with sham feeding. Levels of N-acylethanolamines, including anandamide (AEA), were not different in CVS vs control. After sham feeding, AEA showed a trend toward increasing (p = 0.08) in CVS, but not in control. With sham feeding, palmitoyl ethanolamine significantly increased in both CVS and control groups; oleoyl ethanolamine in CVS only, and stearoyl ethanolamine in the control group. Levels of endocannabinoids and related lipids are altered in CVS patients. Sham feeding affects endogenous signaling lipids in a disease and time-dependent manner., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: A community-based, colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program for uninsured/underinsured individuals was successfully implemented in El Paso, Texas to increase CRC screening rates. Our aim was to determine the colorectal neoplasia prevalence among program participants and between screening groups., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed participant records from 2012 to 2017. Average-risk patients were first screened with a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and included if positive. Above average-risk patients due to a family history of CRC were referred directly for screening colonoscopy. Patients were excluded if experiencing melena or hematochezia or had a personal history of colon polyps or CRC., Results: Of the 638 screening colonoscopies performed, 59.4% were in FIT-positive subjects and 40.6% were in subjects with a family history of CRC. Patients were predominantly female (72.9%), aged 50-65 years (84.2%), Hispanic (97.9%), and born in Mexico (92.4%). Overall, the detection rate for polyps, adenomas, and advanced adenomas was 46.2%, 34.3%, and 11.1%, respectively. Fifteen patients had adenocarcinoma (2.4%). Compared with colonoscopies in patients with a family history, FIT-positive patients demonstrated a higher prevalence of polyps (PR 1.39, 95% CI 1.09-1.78), adenomas (PR 1.55, 95% CI 1.15-2.07), advanced adenomas (PR 3.04, 95% CI 1.67-5.56)., Conclusions: This community-based CRC screening program in an enriched cohort of predominantly Mexican Americans was effective in identifying colorectal neoplasia and cancer. Additionally, there was an increased prevalence of colorectal neoplasia in average-risk, FIT-positive patients undergoing screening colonoscopy compared with above average-risk patients with a family history of CRC. Similar screening programs would likely benefit at-risk populations., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None of the authors have conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2022 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Many of the studies on COVID-19 severity and its associated symptoms focus on hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between acute GI symptoms and COVID-19 severity in a clustering-based approach and to determine the risks and epidemiological features of post-COVID-19 Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) by including both hospitalized and ambulatory patients., Methods: The study utilized a two-phase Internet-based survey on: (1) COVID-19 patients' demographics, comorbidities, symptoms, complications, and hospitalizations and (2) post-COVID-19 DGBI diagnosed according to Rome IV criteria in association with anxiety (GAD-7) and depression (PHQ-9). Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate tests., Results: Five distinct clusters of symptomatic subjects were identified based on the presence of GI symptoms, loss of smell, and chest pain, among 1114 participants who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. GI symptoms were found to be independent risk factors for severe COVID-19; however, they did not always coincide with other severity-related factors such as age >65 years, diabetes mellitus, and Vitamin D deficiency. Of the 164 subjects with a positive test who participated in Phase-2, 108 (66%) fulfilled the criteria for at least one DGBI. The majority (n = 81; 75%) were new-onset DGBI post-COVID-19. Overall, 86% of subjects with one or more post-COVID-19 DGBI had at least one GI symptom during the acute phase of COVID-19, while 14% did not. Depression (65%), but not anxiety (48%), was significantly more common in those with post-COVID-19 DGBI., Conclusion: GI symptoms are associated with a severe COVID-19 among survivors. Long-haulers may develop post-COVID-19 DGBI. Psychiatric disorders are common in post-COVID-19 DGBI., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Latin America has experienced a rise in the prevalence and incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Differences in IBD phenotype between Hispanics in Latin America and those in the USA have not been described. We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis of population-based and cohort studies comparing the phenotype of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) in Latin Americans and US Hispanics. A systematic search was conducted up to March 2019 using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Google Scholar. Inclusion criterion includes studies describing IBD phenotype in Latin Americans or in US Hispanics. Exclusion criterion includes prevalence or incidence studies not describing phenotype. A random effects model was chosen "a priori" for analysis of pooled proportions. A total of 46 studies were included from Latin America and 7 studies from the USA. The predominant IBD subtype in Latin America was UC with a more balanced UC:CD ratio noted in Puerto Rico (0.53) and Brazil (0.56). UC-related extensive colitis was more common in US Hispanics (0.64) than in Latin Americans (0.38), p<0.001. CD phenotype was similar between US Hispanics and Latin Americans. UC is the predominant IBD subtype in Latin America, with the exception of Puerto Rico and Brazil which demonstrate a more balanced UC:CD ratio. In UC, extensive colitis was more frequently seen in US Hispanics than in Latin Americans. CD phenotype was similar in both US Hispanics and Latin Americans., Competing Interests: Competing interests: AKD is an Associate Editor for the Journal of Investigative Medicine., (© American Federation for Medical Research 2022. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Obesity and its associated comorbidities are rapidly increasing in the US population. Therefore, metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), has become a leading indication for liver transplantation. Lifestyle modifications as a sole therapy have been insufficient to reduce the burden of chronic liver disease secondary to MAFLD. Endoscopic bariatric interventions (EBI) appear to be safe and effective therapies for obesity and chronic liver disease secondary to MAFLD. Gastric EBI include endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) and intragastric balloons (IGB). Small bowel EBI are also evolving in the field of bariatric endoscopy., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Acute variceal bleeding is a complication of portal hypertension, usually due to cirrhosis, with high morbidity and mortality. There are 3 scenarios for endoscopic treatment of esophageal varices: prevention of first variceal bleed, treatment of active variceal bleed, and prevention of rebleeding. Patients with cirrhosis should be screened for esophageal varices. Recommended endoscopic therapy for acute variceal bleeding is endoscopic variceal banding. Although banding is the first-choice treatment, sclerotherapy may have a role. Treatment with Sengstaken-Blakemore tube or self-expanding covered metallic esophageal stent can be used for acute variceal bleeding refractory to standard pharmacologic and endoscopic therapy., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease, predominantly seen in female patients, caused by mutations in the hydroxymethylbilane synthase gene. When impaired, elevated heme biosynthesis precursor levels accumulate in the liver, resulting in neurological symptoms, psychiatric disturbances, darkened urine color, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and ileus. We present a 22-year-old Hispanic female with diffuse abdominal pain and no bowel movements for 8 days. She reported recent antibiotic and oral contraceptive pill use. Computerized tomography of her abdomen revealed a dilated small bowel and marked colonic distension. A colonoscopy found mild nonspecific inflammation in the rectosigmoid and terminal ileum. Her abdominal pain persisted despite interventions and improvements in appetite, bowel movements, abdominal imaging, and treatment of an identified Clostridium difficile infection. A random urine porphobilinogen was then obtained and found to be elevated. Fractionation of plasma and urine porphyrins was suggestive of AIP. Her symptoms improved with 3 days of intravenous (IV) hematin and IV dextrose. This is a unique case of a rare disease due to her clinical presentation with ileus, unremarkable past medical history, family history, and the prehospitalization and intrahospitalization factors that likely exacerbated the patient AIP.

Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is a condition characterized by black appearance and inflammation of the esophagus. Our patient developed AEN presenting in the setting of alcohol intoxication and extensive inferior vena cava thrombosis. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed blood and black discoloration of the middle and lower esophagus with oozing. To control bleeding, a self-expandable fully covered metallic esophageal stent was placed. Multiple studies and reviews agree that the initial management for AEN is supportive care, resuscitation, and proton pump inhibitors to protect the esophageal mucosa from injury from acid reflux. Our case highlights the benefits of esophageal stent placement to manage AEN with active bleeding.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a cardiopulmonary disease with high mortality. In recent years, it has been recognized that PAH is a multi-organ system disease, involving the systemic circulation, kidneys, skeletal muscles, and the central nervous system, among others. Right heart failure produces congestive hepatopathy, a disease state that has direct consequences on liver biochemistry, histology, and systemic glucose and lipid metabolism. This article aims to summarize the consequences of congestive hepatopathy with an emphasis on liver biochemistry, histology, and PAH-targeted therapy. Furthermore, PAH-specific changes in glucose and lipid metabolism will be discussed., (© The Author(s) 2021.)

Background and Objective: Cirrhosis is the number one cause of non-cancer deaths among gastrointestinal diseases and is responsible for significant morbidity and healthcare utilisation. The objectives were to measure the 30-day readmissions rate following index hospitalisation, to determine the predictors of readmission, and to estimate the cost of 30-day readmission in patients with decompensated cirrhosis., Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with decompensated cirrhosis using 2014 Nationwide Readmission Database from January to November. Decompensated cirrhosis was identified based on the presence of at least one of the following: ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome. We excluded patients less than 18 years of age, pregnant patients, patients with missing length of stay data, and those who died during the index admission., Results: Among 57 305 unique patients with decompensated cirrhosis, the 30-day readmission rate was 23.2%. The top three predictors of 30-day readmission were leaving against medical advice (AMA), ascites and acute kidney injury, which increased the risk of readmission by 47%, 22% and 20%, respectively. Index admission for variceal bleeding was associated with a lower 30-day readmission rate by 18%. The estimated total cost associated with 30-day readmission in our study population was US$234.4 million., Conclusion: In a nationwide population study, decompensated cirrhosis is associated with a 30-day readmission rate of 23%. Leaving AMA, ascites and acute kidney injury are positively associated with readmission. Targeted interventions and quality improvement efforts should be directed toward these potential risk factors to reduce readmissions., Competing Interests: Competing interests: The authors have no commercial associations or sources of support that might pose a conflict of interest. All authors have made substantive contributions to the study, and all authors endorse the data and conclusions., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2022. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Background: There are nearly 50,000 colorectal cancer (CRC) deaths in the United States each year. CRC is curable if detected in its early stages. Fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) can detect precursor lesions and many can be analyzed at the point-of-care (POC) in physician offices. However, there are few data to guide test selection. Broader use of FITs could make CRC screening more accessible, especially in resource-poor settings., Methods: A total of 3600 racially and ethnically diverse individuals aged 50 to 85 years having either a screening or surveillance colonoscopy will be recruited. Each participant will complete five FITs on a single stool sample. Test characteristics for each FIT for advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN) will be calculated using colonoscopy as the gold standard., Results: We have complete data from a total of 2990 individuals. Thirty percent are Latino and 5.3% are black/African American. We will present full results once the study is completed., Conclusions: Our focus in this study is how well FITs detect ACN, using colonoscopy as the gold standard. Four of the five FITs being used are POC tests. Although FITs have been shown to have acceptable performance, there is little data to guide which ones have the best test characteristics and colonoscopy is the main CRC screening test used in the United States. Use of FITs will allow broader segments of the population to access CRC screening because these tests require no preparation, are inexpensive, and can be collected in the privacy of one's home. Increasing CRC screening uptake will reduce the burden of advanced adenomas and colorectal cancer., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Retrograde single balloon enteroscopy (SBE) is a minimally invasive procedure which is less frequently performed compared with antegrade SBE. There are few studies on the retrograde through-the-scope enteroscopy (TTSE), a novel technique for evaluation of the small bowel., Aim: To compare the clinical utility and safety of retrograde TTSE with retrograde SBE., Methods: Clinical data and complications of retrograde TTSE (2014-2018) and retrograde SBE (2011-2018) performed in a community hospital were reviewed and presented as mean ± SD or frequency (%) and compared using proper statistical tests. Technical success was defined as insertion of the enteroscope > 20 cm beyond ileocecal valve., Results: Data obtained from 54 retrograde SBE in 49 patients and 27 retrograde TTSE in 26 patients were studied. The most common indication for retrograde enteroscopy was iron deficiency anemia (41 patients) followed by gastrointestinal bleeding (37 patients), and chronic diarrhea (7 patients). The duration of retrograde SBE procedure (91.9 ± 34.2 min) was significantly longer compared with retrograde TTSE (70.5 ± 30.7 min) ( P = 0.04). Technical success was comparable in TTSE [23/27 (85.2%)] and SBE [41/54 (75.9%) ( P = 0.33)]. The mean depth of insertion beyond the ileocecal valve in retrograde SBE (92.5 ± 70.0 cm) tended to be longer compared with retrograde TTSE (64.6 ± 49.0 cm) ( P = 0.08). No complication was observed in this study., Conclusion: Both retrograde TTSE and retrograde SBE are feasible and safe. Retrograde TTSE takes a shorter time and has a comparable technical success with SBE. TTSE has a lower capacity of small bowel insertion., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors have nothing to disclose., (©The Author(s) 2020. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare a standard versus segmental withdrawal during screening colonoscopy and its effect on the adenoma detection rate (ADR)., Methods: We performed a single-center clinical trial of average-risk patients 50 years of age and older undergoing screening colonoscopy. Patients were randomized into four groups: a standard withdrawal of at least 6 or 8 minutes and a segmental withdrawal, in which ≥3 or ≥4 minutes were dedicated to the right side of the colon, with a minimum withdrawal time of at least 6 or 8 minutes, respectively., Results: There were 311 patients in the study. There was no difference in ADR between the standard and segmental groups (relative ratio [RR] 0.91, P = 0.50), even after stratifying for right-sided adenomas. During standard withdrawal, an increased continuous withdrawal time was associated with a higher ADR (RR 1.08, P <0.001) and total adenomas per patient (RR 1.12, P < 0.001). A binary analysis of ≥8 minutes or <8 minutes withdrawal was associated with an increased adenomas per colonoscopy (RR 1.86, P = 0.04). These differences were not observed in the segmental group., Conclusions: Overall, there was no benefit from a segmental withdrawal protocol on ADR, but this may have been the result of the inherent limitations in the study design. After sensitivity analysis, a segmental withdrawal protocol led to an improvement in the detection of adenomas per colonoscopy and polyps per colonoscopy. A larger sample size is needed to confirm these findings.

Background: Colonic mast cells have been proposed to be related to the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Whether mast cell counts are altered in the small intestine, a less-explored region in patients with IBS is not completely clear., Methods: PubMed and EMBASE were searched for case-control studies on mast cell count/density in the small intestine of patients with IBS vs controls through February 2019. Mast cell counts were separately analyzed in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Data were pooled using the standardized mean difference (SMD) method. When zero was not within the 95% confidence interval (CI), the SMD was considered significant., Key Results: Data from 344 patients with IBS and 229 healthy controls from three studies in the duodenum, six in the jejunum, and five in the ileum were pooled in this meta-analysis. The number of mast cells was significantly higher in the ileum (SMD: 1.78 [95% CI: 0.89, 2.66]) of patients with IBS. Mast cell counts were not significantly different in the duodenum (SMD: 0.81 [-0.06, 1.67]) or the jejunum (SMD: 0.58 [-0.03, 1.19]) of patients with IBS vs healthy controls., Conclusions and Inferences: Mast cells are increased in the small intestine of IBS vs controls, mainly in the ileum. Future studies should address whether such findings are IBS subtype or gender-dependent. Methodological variations, single-center bias, and the limited number of studies included in this meta-analysis may affect the final results., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background and Aims: Combining simethicone (SIM) with a colon preparation agent has been shown to improve mucosal visibility during screening colonoscopy, but its effect on the adenoma detection rate (ADR) remains unclear. SIM is commonly used through the endoscope to eliminate bubbles during endoscopy. However, this practice recently has been associated with endoscope-transmitted infections. Our aims were to determine the role of SIM added to a polyethylene glycol preparation on the ADR, procedure times, colon preparation, and intraprocedural use of SIM., Methods: This was a randomized, controlled, observer-blinded, clinical trial of patients undergoing screening colonoscopy. Patients with a high risk of colorectal cancer were excluded. Patients were randomly assigned to 2 different preparations: polyethylene glycol plus SIM or polyethylene glycol. Two endoscopists blinded to patient preparation regimens scored its quality by using the Boston Bowel Preparation scale (BBPS) and the bubble scale. Interobserver agreement was calculated. The polyp detection rate, ADR, intraprocedural use of SIM, cecal intubation time, and withdrawal time were recorded. For study purposes, cecal intubation time and withdrawal time were combined to determine the effective procedure time., Results: No significant difference between the polyethylene glycol plus SIM and polyethylene glycol arms was seen regarding the ADR (33.3% vs 38.8%; P = .881) and effective procedure time (759.3 ± 253.1 seconds vs 800.2 ± 459.6 seconds; P = .373), respectively. Intraprocedural use of SIM as well as the bubble scale score were significantly lower in the polyethylene glycol plus SIM arm (1.6% vs 48.9%; P ≤ .05) and (0.1 vs 2.1; P ≤ .05), respectively. Conversely, no difference was found in the BBPS scores. The interobserver agreement for both scores was strong (bubble scale score kappa = .537; P < .05; BBPS score kappa = .184; P <.05)., Conclusion: Adding SIM to a polyethylene glycol preparation did not improve the ADR or effective procedure time. Nevertheless, it resulted in lower bubble scale scores, and more importantly, in less intraprocedural use of SIM. This simple and inexpensive intervention may have the potential to reduce the risk of endoscope-transmitted infections. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT03119168.)., (Copyright © 2019 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: There have been conflicting reports comparing the prevalence of large polyps (>9 mm) between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites (NHW). Differences between Hispanic subpopulations may account for these variations., Aims: We aimed to assess the prevalence of large polyps (>9 mm) in Hispanics from Mexican- and non-Mexican-predominant states compared with NHW. As secondary outcome, we evaluated results by polyp location., Methods: The 2010 U.S. Census Bureau was used to identify states with a predominantly Mexican Hispanic (West) versus non-Mexican Hispanic (East) populations. Average-risk colonoscopies in those states from 2001 to 2014 were accessed using the Clinical Outcomes Research Initiative database. Military and Veteran's Administration sites were excluded. Hispanics were compared with NHW in each geographical location using hierarchical logistic regression analysis., Results: A total of 65,138 procedures were included with 33,425 procedures in the West (14.5% Hispanics) and 31,713 procedures in the East (44.0% Hispanics,). East Hispanics had significantly less odds of large polyps, OR 0.74, CI 0.58-0.94, p = 0.02, while West Hispanics exhibited no difference, OR 0.91, CI 0.76-1.10, p = 0.33, compared with NHW. Eastern Hispanics had less odds of large distal polyps, OR 0.69, CI 0.52-0.91, p = 0.01, and no difference in proximal polyps compared with NHW. Among Western Hispanics, no differences were seen in proximal, OR 1.06, CI 0.83-1.35, p = 0.66, or distal polyps, OR 0.83, CI 0.68-1.02, p = 0.08, compared with NHW., Conclusion: Using NHW as a reference, Hispanics from Mexican-predominant states have a similar prevalence of large polyps, while Hispanics from non-Mexican-predominant states have a lower prevalence. Differences in Hispanic subpopulations likely explain previous conflicting reports on the prevalence of large polyps in Hispanics and NHW.

Background: Comparative efficacy of same-day bowel preparations for colonoscopy remains unclear., Aims: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy of same-day versus split dose bowel preparations for colonoscopy., Methods: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, clinicaltrials.gov, Cochrane Registry, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and CINAHL. Studies were gathered using keywords: "morning preparation", "morning bowel preparation", "same day bowel preparation", and "colonoscopy." Pooled estimates of bowel preparation quality were analyzed among studies with categorical and continuous outcomes according to relative risk (RR) or mean difference (MD). A random effects model was chosen a priori for all analyses., Results: A total of 1216 studies were retrieved with 15 trials meeting inclusion criteria. The categorical outcome of high quality bowel preparation for any same-day bowel preparation versus any split preparation was no different with a RR 0.95 [0.90;1.00] (P=0.62). Adenoma detection rate (ADR) was not different between groups, RR 0.97 [0.79;1.20] (P=0.81). Willingness to repeat and tolerability did not differ (RR 1.14 [0.96,1.36] (P=0.14) and RR 1.00 [0.96;1.04] (P=0.98), respectively. Adverse events were similar except for bloating, which was less frequent among the same-day preparation group, RR 0.68 [0.40;0.94] (P=0.02)., Conclusion: No clinically significant differences were noted among recipients of same day or split dose regimens. Adenoma detection rate, willingness to repeat and tolerability were similar, but bloating and interference with sleep favored the same-day preparations. Given lack of clinical differences, patient preference should dictate timing of colonoscopy preparation.

Background & Aims: Although cholangioscopy is widely used during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatiography (ERCP), its safety and feasibility for elderly patients are not well established. We aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of cholangioscopy in elderly patients., Methods: We performed a retrospective study of all ERCPs with single-operator cholangioscopy (SOC) performed at 3 tertiary referral hospitals from March 2012 through October 2015. We collected data on patient demographics, procedure indications, findings, complications, and success rates (complete success was achieved if all intended diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were performed, such as tissue sample collection or complete removal of stones). The cohort was divided into 3 groups: patients younger than 65 years (group 1, n = 178), patients 65-75 years old (group 2, n = 86), and patients older than 75 years (group 3, n = 77). We used 1-way ANOVA, the χ 2 test, and the Wilcoxon sum rank test to compare study variables. The primary aim was to assess rates of complications from ERCP with SOC in elderly patients compared with younger patients., Results: Baseline clinical features were similar among groups, except for a higher prevalence of co-morbidities in group 3. The indication for and findings from ERCP with SOC differed among the groups; stricture or tumor was the most common indication in groups 1 and 3-the most common findings were strictures and masses, respectively. In group 2, choledocholithiasis was the most common indication and finding. The success rate, analyzed in a subset of 209 patients, was 88.5% overall and did not differ significantly among groups. The overall rate of complication was 7.33% with no significant difference among groups (7.30% for group 1, 6.98% for group 2, and 7.79% for group 3) (P < .17)., Conclusions: In a retrospective analysis of ERCPs with SOCs, we found this procedure to be safe for elderly patients (older than 75 years), who had rates of complications and hospital admission similar to those of younger patients., (Copyright © 2018 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Goals: To investigate the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and its association with health perception and health care-seeking behavior in this Mexican American population., Background: The prevalence of IBS ranges from 3% to 20.4% in the United States and 4.4% to 16% in Mexico, based on Rome III and II criteria. However, its epidemiological profile in the US Mexico border is unknown., Study: We conducted a survey in a randomly selected indigent population (N=521) recruited into a colon cancer screening program (ACCION). The prevalence of IBS was estimated and a multivariable logistic regression was carried out to determine the associated risk factors. Results are summarized using odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI)., Results: A total of 464 (89%) completed the survey (mean age, 56.7 y; female, 74.8%). Country of birth was Mexico in 90.5% and the United States in 8.2% and acculturation was more Spanish (94.8%) than English (5.2%). Overall, 5.6% (95% CI, 3.7-8.1) fulfilled criteria for IBS with a predominance among women (6.9%) versus men (1.7%) (P=0.03). On the basis of multivariable analysis, lower number of bowel movements/week (odds ratio, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-1.00), having a primary care physician: 4.09 (1.51-11.12), using herbal treatments: 2.76 (1.08-7.06) and a previous IBS diagnosis: 23.11 (3.44-155.45), were significantly associated with the presence of IBS., Conclusions: The prevalence of IBS on the US Mexico border is comparable with data obtained from studies in both countries. Consulting a primary care physician as an associated factor may reveal the high rate of health-care seeking in IBS patients, while herbal treatments may reflect a cultural influence.

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a devastating immune-mediated disease on the rise in Hispanics living in the USA. Prior observational studies comparing IBD characteristics between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites (NHW) have yielded mixed results., Aims: We performed a meta-analysis of observational studies examining IBD phenotype in Hispanics compared to NHW., Methods: We conducted a systematic search of US-based studies comparing IBD subtype (Ulcerative Colitis: UC or Crohn's disease: CD) and phenotype (disease location and behavior) between Hispanics and NHW. We evaluated differences in age at IBD diagnosis, the presence of family history and smoking history. A random effects model was chosen "a priori." Categorical and continuous variables were analyzed using odds ratio (OR) or standard mean difference (SMD), respectively., Results: Seven studies were included with 687 Hispanics and 1586 NHW. UC was more common in Hispanics compared to NHW (OR 2.07, CI 1.13-3.79, p = 0.02). Location of disease was similar between Hispanics and NHW except for the presence of upper gastrointestinal CD, which was less common in Hispanics (OR 0.58, CI 0.32-1.06, p = 0.07). Hispanics were less likely to smoke (OR 0.48, CI 0.26-0.89, p = 0.02) or have a family history of IBD (OR 0.35, CI 0.22-0.55, p < 0.001). CD behavior classified by Montreal classification and age at IBD diagnosis were similar between Hispanics and NHW., Conclusion: UC was more common among US Hispanics compared to NHW. Age at IBD diagnosis is similar for both Hispanics and NHW. For CD, disease behavior is similar, but Hispanics show a trend for less upper gastrointestinal involvement. A family history of IBD and smoking history were less common in Hispanics.

Objectives: The Sengstaken-Blakemore (SB) tube is used in cases of uncontrolled variceal bleeding. Because of the complexity of the procedure and the lack of visualization, various techniques have been described to avoid blind placement. We report an innovative and simple technique for placement of the SB tube under direct endoscopic visualization., Methods: A grasp-and-place technique for endoscopic placement of SB tubes is described and a retrospective cohort study chart review of endoscopies done for variceal bleeding in our medical center is reported. All patients with uncontrolled variceal bleeding who required placement of an SB tube from July 1, 2013 through December 31, 2015 were included. The primary outcome analyses were technical success of tube placement and achievement of hemostasis., Results: Of 143 endoscopies done for variceal bleeding, 10 were managed with SB tubes placed endoscopically after initial endoscopic therapy was unsuccessful. Successful placement of the tube was achieved in all of the patients. Hemostasis was achieved in 9 of the 10 patients., Conclusions: We propose a new grasp-and-place technique for endoscopic placement of SB tubes. Review of our experience shows that massive variceal bleeding can be managed effectively with this technique.

Objectives: Helicobacter pylori is prevalent worldwide, especially in Latin America. Triple and quadruple antibiotic therapies have been relatively effective; however, resistance has emerged in recent years. The treatment success rate of these regimens on the border of the United States and Mexico is unknown. Our study attempted to determine eradication rates of two major regimens based on urea breath test (UBT) results in patients previously diagnosed as having H. pylori in a single center in El Paso, Texas, a city on the geographic border with Mexico., Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with H. pylori who underwent UBT after being treated with triple therapy (amoxicillin/clarithromycin/proton pump inhibitor for 14 days), quadruple therapy (tetracycline/metronidazole/bismuth/proton pump inhibitor, usually for 10 days), or both for H. pylori from 2010 to 2015 in a county hospital. Patients were excluded if they did not complete therapy or if their treatment regimen was unknown. The Student t test and the χ 2 test were used to analyze the data. The cumulative incidence and 95% confidence interval (CI) for treatment success were estimated., Results: A total of 104 patients completed the treatment for H. pylori and had UBT. Mean age was 53 years, 76% were women, 85% were Hispanic, and mean body mass index was 30.5 kg/m 2 . Of the 104 patients diagnosed as having H. pylori , 88 received triple therapy (84.6%) and 16 received quadruple therapy: 12 (11.5%) standard quadruple therapy, 4 (3.9%) triple therapy plus metronidazole. There were no differences between groups regarding age, sex, body mass index, or ethnicity. Overall, 90 (86.5%, 95% CI 78-92) patients had negative UBT after initial treatment. Based on posttreatment UBT, the triple therapy group had a similar eradication rate compared with the quadruple therapy group (78/88, 88.6% vs 12/16, 75.0%, P = 0.22). Of the 14 patients with positive posttreatment UBT, 12 (85.7%) received retreatment (2 were lost to follow-up), 11 (91.7%) received quadruple therapy, and 1 (8.3%) received triple therapy. Eradication was successful in 9 of 12 (75%, 95% CI 43-95) patients at retreatment. As such, of the initial 104 patients, 99/104 (95.2%) achieved H. pylori eradication posttreatment (either initial or retreatment)., Conclusions: In a predominantly Hispanic population on the US-Mexico border, H. pylori eradication rates based on UBT results were relatively high and were similar for triple therapy and quadruple therapy. Quadruple therapy was effective for those who failed the initial H. pylori treatment. This may have implications for cost-effective therapy in our region.

Background and Aims: Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is the most validated quality indicator for colonoscopy. Calculating ADR may not yield information in regards to advanced adenoma detection rate (advanced ADR). In addition, calculating ADR for individual endoscopists cannot distinguish between those who find only one versus more than one adenoma per colonoscopy. Several novel quality indictors were recently proposed to ensure adequate assessment of quality during colonoscopy. Our study aims to determine the correlation between ADR and novel quality indicators., Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing screening colonoscopy in a university hospital setting. Patient characteristics and colonoscopy findings were combined and analyzed to calculate the correlation of ADR with novel quality indicators using Spearman's rank-order correlation were used., Results: A total of 1433 patients out of 2116 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was a significant positive correlation between ADR correlated with [advanced-ADR-2, nonadvanced-ADR, adenoma per colonoscopy, Multiplicity detection rate and ADR-Plus] r = (0.82, 0.99, 0.99, 0.07 and 0.85), respectively. However, ADR did not correlate with advanced-ADR and adenomas per positive participant., Conclusion: Adding advanced-ADR and adenomas per positive participant to ADR may create a more comprehensive quality indicators tool kit, which is sensitive and difficult to game. Future studies are needed to investigate the impact of the tool kit on the interval cancers and adenoma missing rate.

BACKGROUND Pancreatic-pleural fistula (PPF) is an uncommon complication of pancreatitis. Pleural effusions secondary to PPF are caused by fistulization of pancreatic secretions to the thorax derived from the rupture or leakage of a pseudocyst. CASE REPORT We describe the case of a 44-year-old male with recurrent right-sided pleural effusions and alcoholic pancreatitis who presented with epigastric pain and shortness of breath. Pleural fluid analysis revealed an amylase of 7002 U/lt. MRCP showed segmental narrowing and stricture of the proximal main pancreatic duct and an area of walled-off necrosis. The fistula was managed endoscopically with ERCP and placement of a plastic stent into the pancreatic duct. The pleural effusion resolved and subsequent examinations showed no evidence of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of PPF is challenging. Endoscopic treatment of PPF can be a safe and effective approach.

Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been the main therapy in acute coronary syndromes, and early antithrombotic agents as well as 1-year dual antiplatelet therapy are required for adjuvant therapy. However, the development of post-PCI gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding may increase all-cause mortality. We compared the characteristics and outcomes of patients with GI bleeding within 1 year after PCI to those who did not develop bleeding., Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 384 PCI procedures performed between January 2011 and December 2013 at our hospital. End points were identified after 30 days, 90 days and 1 year postprocedure for evidence of GI bleeding or new onset anemia. Variables were compared between patients with and without GI bleeding using t test and Fisher exact test. Kaplan-Meier curve was constructed for estimating bleeding-free survival probability., Results: In a more than 1-year follow-up period, there were 39 cases (10.2%, 95% CI: 0.073-0.136) of documented GI bleeds. Females were found to have a significantly higher frequency of GI bleeding than males (16.8% vs. 8.0%, P = 0.018), and Hispanics more than non-Hispanics (11.7% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.017). All patients with GI bleeding survived at 1 year., Conclusion: In our study of a predominantly Hispanic population, a high incidence of GI bleeding after PCI occurred. However, there was no association between the incidence of GI bleeding and all-cause mortality, whether PCI was performed in the setting of acute coronary syndrome or as an elective procedure. There is a need to conduct a larger prospective study to validate the findings of our study., (Copyright © 2017 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Cap-assisted colonoscopy (CAC) has been reported to increase the adenoma detection rate (ADR) in Asian population. However, CAC trials in non-Asian population have had conflicting results. Studies in North America have shown an improvement in ADRs with the use of CAC, but it mainly included white and African American patients. Given the lack of prospective studies of CAC in Hispanics, we conducted this randomized controlled trial., Materials and Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial comparing CAC with standard colonoscopy (SC) in patients undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy. Our primary outcome was the ADR. Secondary outcomes were polyp detection rate, mean polyp and ADR, advanced ADR (AADR) and detection rates based on polyp morphology and location., Results: A total of 440 patients were included in the study (88.5% Hispanic). Cecal and terminal ileum intubation rates were similar in both groups (CAC: 97% and 86% versus SC: 99% and 81%, respectively). CAC did not improve ADR in comparison with SC (0.65 versus 0.52; P = 0.079); however, CAC had a higher AADR in comparison with SC (9.9% versus 4.6%; P = 0.049). CAC detected significantly more pedunculated polyps as compared with flat and sessile polyps (P = 0.011). Complication rates were similar in the CAC and SC groups (0.9% versus 0%)., Conclusions: In a predominantly Hispanic population, no difference was seen in the mean ADR with the use of CAC. However, CAC, when compared with SC, resulted in an increased AADR and mean polyp detection rate., (Copyright © 2017 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is the most established indicator of the quality of screening colonoscopy. The effect of gastroenterology (GI) fellows on the quality of screening colonoscopies has been evaluated previously; however, the effect of starting a new GI fellowship program on the quality of screening colonoscopies has not been studied. The aim of our study was to assess the effects of starting a GI fellowship program and the participation of fellows in screening colonoscopies on ADR and other measures of quality., Methods: This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study of all screening colonoscopies performed 20 months before and 20 months after starting the GI fellowship at our medical center (November 2010-February 2014). Colonoscopy procedure notes and pathology records were reviewed for each patient. Data from the two periods were compared using either the Fisher exact test or the two-sample t test., Results: A total of 2127 complete colonoscopies were included in the analysis. The mean age of patients was 58.8 ± 6.6 years. Of the 2127 colonoscopies, GI fellows were involved in 385 (18%), whereas 1742 (82%) were performed solely by GI attendings (attending physicians). Multivariate analysis using relative risk (RR) of regression was done. The after starting the GI fellowship period was significantly associated with an increase in ADR (RR 1.19, 95% confidence interval 1.10-1.30, P < 0.001) and advanced adenoma detection rate (RR 1.17, 95% confidence interval 1.00-1.38, P < 0.001) compared with the before starting the GI fellowship period. In the after starting the GI fellowship period, the polyp detection rate and ADR for colonoscopies performed by the attending physicians with the fellows were significantly higher than colonoscopies performed solely by the same attendings (58.4% vs 44.5%, P = 0.001, 42.0% vs 32.9%, P = 0.017, respectively)., Conclusions: Starting a GI fellowship program significantly increased the polyp detection rate, ADR, and advanced ADR.

Objectives: Information regarding Hispanics with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is scarce. In this study we aimed to describe a predominantly Hispanic population with IBD in a city located along the US-Mexico border and to identify clinical or demographic differences between Hispanics and non-Hispanics., Methods: Retrospective cohort analysis of patients with IBD between 2003 and 2013 at a tertiary care center. Information collected included age, sex, ethnicity, diagnosis, diagnosis status (new vs old), endoscopic extent of disease (EOD), extraintestinal manifestations, medical treatment, and surgeries performed. Continuous and categorical variables were compared using a two-sided unpaired t test/Wilcoxon rank sum test and the Fisher exact test, respectively. Results with P ≤ 5% were considered statistically significant., Results: Hispanics accounted for 71% of the population sample. A total of 141 patients (68%) were diagnosed as having ulcerative colitis (UC) and 67 (32%) as having Crohn disease (CD). The only statistically significant differences between Hispanics and non-Hispanics were older age at diagnosis and a higher proportion of new diagnoses in Hispanics with CD ( P = 0.008 and 0.009, respectively) The most common EOD in patients with UC was extensive colitis, whereas isolated colonic disease predominated in CD, regardless of ethnicity. Immunomodulators and biologics were used in 3% and 1% of cases, respectively. Treatment regimens were similar in both ethnic groups. Patients with CD were more likely than those with UC to have undergone surgery (27% vs 11%, P = 0.004). Surgery rates did not differ between Hispanics and non-Hispanics., Conclusions: In our population, UC was more common than CD, and the EOD of both conditions differed from the one previously described in other Hispanic populations in the United States. The use of immunomodulators and biologics is the lowest reported to date in the country. No clinically relevant differences were seen between Hispanics and non-Hispanics.

The incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is steadily increasing across the world. Increasing morbidity and mortality rates associated with HCV are influencing research on treatment outcomes. The purpose of this project was to examine the effect of health insurance status and office visit compliance on sustained virologic response (SVR) in adult patients living along the Texas-Mexico border treated for HCV and who received dual or triple medication therapy between January 2010 and August 2013. The objective of this project was to determine whether there is an association between health insurance status, and/or office visit compliance, and SVR. We conducted a longitudinal retrospective chart review pilot study of patients who underwent treatment with dual and triple therapy in a border community in Texas. Results revealed that lack of insurance did not affect SVR in the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso-based clinic setting due to enrollment into a managed healthcare program. Providing a financial benefit may improve treatment compliance of HCV-infected individuals, reduce overall cost, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Background: Esophageal variceal banding may be less likely to cause bacteremia than sclerotherapy. The existing data about the frequency of bacteremia after esophageal variceal banding are conflicting, and few studies include both banding and sclerotherapy., Aims: We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to compare the frequency of bacteremia after esophageal variceal banding and sclerotherapy., Methods: Over a 2-year period, patients with liver disease admitted for upper gastrointestinal bleeding or for outpatient elective variceal therapy were enrolled. New patients were randomized preprocedure to either banding or sclerotherapy, and subsequent sessions utilized the initial procedure. The groups consisted of banding, sclerotherapy, and endoscopy without variceal therapy. Subjects underwent endoscopy by one out of three gastroenterologists. Blood cultures were obtained 5 min before and 30 min after endoscopy to check for bacteremia., Results: Postendoscopic blood cultures were positive following 4 out of 139 (2.9%) sessions: 1 sclerotherapy and 3 control sessions. All postendoscopic positive blood cultures were found following emergency sessions (4/92, 4.3%). One pre-endoscopic blood culture was positive in a patient with emergency banding. The rates of positive postendoscopic blood cultures among groups with emergency banding (0/22, 0%), emergency sclerotherapy (1/41, 2.3%), and emergency control (3/29, 10.3%) were not significantly different. Postendoscopic positive blood cultures were not found after elective sessions with either banding or sclerotherapy., Conclusions: Postendoscopic bacteremia was infrequent following emergency endoscopy in patients with esophageal variceal bleeding. Bacteremia was not found after esophageal variceal banding, although this was not significantly less frequent than after sclerotherapy. Postendoscopic bacteremia was not associated with elective variceal therapy.

Background: Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) is an uncommon cause of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in adults and accounts for only 0.1-0.5% of all malignant tumors of the colon and rectum. Very few cases of rectosigmoid and stomach BL have been reported in adults., Case Report: A 51-year-old Hispanic woman presented with a 1-month history of hematochezia, associated with a foreign-body sensation in the rectum and 7 kg weight loss. Initial laboratory workup showed normocytic anemia and positive fecal occult blood. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed an asymmetric appearance of the stomach and pylorus with nodularity of the mucosa and thickening of the posterior wall, and a 10.8-cm rectal mass. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy were performed and biopsies of the stomach and rectum were obtained; histopathology demonstrated involvement by Burkitt's lymphoma in the gastric body nodule and rectal mass. After 4 cycles of chemotherapy, a follow-up abdominal CT demonstrated complete resolution of the mural thickening of the rectum and no intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy., Conclusions: Our case illustrates the importance of considering BL in the extensive differential diagnosis of rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, and other lower and upper GI symptoms, since the rapidly growing nature of this rare malignancy requires a prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate therapy.

Purpose: Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a procedure that uses a wireless camera to take pictures of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. A wireless motility capsule (WMC) of a similar size has been developed, which measures pH, pressure, and temperature and can be used to assess regional and total GI transit times. VCE could also potentially be used as a tool for measuring small bowel transit time (SBTT)., Methods: This study was designed to obtain SBTT from VCE and compare it with historical data generated by WMC. Gastric transit time (GTT) was also measured. Patients were included if the indication for VCE was either iron deficiency anemia (IDA) or overt obscure GI bleed (OOGIB), and they did not have any known motility disorder. Results from VCE were also compared in diabetic vs. non-diabetic patients., Results: There were a total of 147 VCE studies performed, including 42 for OOGIB and 105 for IDA. Median GTT and SBTT were 0.3 and 3.6 h, respectively. The overall median GTT and SBTT were 0.3 and 3.6 h, respectively, in the IDA group compared with 0.3 and 3.4 h in the OOGIB group. When compared with WMC, the GTT and SBTT were significantly faster in both groups (GTT: 3.6 h and SBTT: 4.6 h). The median GTT and SBTT were not significantly different in diabetics vs. non-diabetics [GTT: 17.5 vs. 18.0 min (P = 0.86) and SBTT: 3.9 h (237 min) vs. 3.8 h (230 min), respectively (P = 0.90)]., Conclusion: SBTT as measured using VCE is not significantly different in OOGIB compared with IDA. Both GTT and SBTT are significantly faster as assessed by VCE, which is initiated in the fasting state, compared with WMC measurement, which is initiated after a standard meal. In summary, VCE could potentially be used for measuring SBTT in the fasting state.

Background Effective and safe treatments are needed for patients who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea. We conducted two phase 3 trials to assess the efficacy and safety of eluxadoline, a new oral agent with mixed opioid effects (μ- and κ-opioid receptor agonist and δ-opioid receptor antagonist), in patients with IBS with diarrhea. Methods We randomly assigned 2427 adults who had IBS with diarrhea to eluxadoline (at a dose of 75 mg or 100 mg) or placebo twice daily for 26 weeks (IBS-3002 trial) or 52 weeks (IBS-3001 trial). The primary end point was the proportion of patients who had a composite response of decrease in abdominal pain and improvement in stool consistency on the same day for at least 50% of the days from weeks 1 through 12 and from weeks 1 through 26. Results For weeks 1 through 12, more patients in the eluxadoline groups (75 mg and 100 mg) than in the placebo group reached the primary end point (IBS-3001 trial, 23.9% with the 75-mg dose and 25.1% with the 100-mg dose vs. 17.1% with placebo; P=0.01 and P=0.004, respectively; IBS-3002 trial, 28.9% and 29.6%, respectively, vs. 16.2%; P<0.001 for both comparisons). For weeks 1 through 26, the corresponding rates in IBS-3001 were 23.4% and 29.3% versus 19.0% (P=0.11 and P<0.001, respectively), and the corresponding rates in IBS-3002 were 30.4% and 32.7% versus 20.2% (P=0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). The most common adverse events associated with 75 mg of eluxadoline and 100 mg of eluxadoline, as compared with placebo, were nausea (8.1% and 7.5% vs. 5.1%), constipation (7.4% and 8.6% vs. 2.5%), and abdominal pain (5.8% and 7.2% vs. 4.1%). Pancreatitis developed in 5 (2 in the 75-mg group and 3 in the 100-mg group) of the 1666 patients in the safety population (0.3%). Conclusions Eluxadoline is a new therapeutic agent that reduced symptoms of IBS with diarrhea in men and women, with sustained efficacy over 6 months in patients who received the 100-mg dose twice daily. (Funded by Furiex Pharmaceuticals, an affiliate of Allergan; IBS-3001 and IBS-3002 ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT01553591 and NCT01553747 , respectively.).

Background: The use of gastrointestinal endoscopy in geriatric patients is rising as an increasing proportion of the population is reaching an advanced age. Most studies of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the elderly have been done in tertiary care or referral centers., Methods: We analyzed the clinical and endoscopic data on all ERCPs in patients aged 65 years and older in a retrospective review of medical records of patients at the county hospitals in El Paso and Lubbock, Texas between 2004 and 2008. ERCP data in patients aged 75 years and older were compared with those who were 65-74 years., Results: There were 125 ERCPs performed in 89 patients (74 procedures in 54 patients older than 75 years, 51 procedures in 35 patients younger than 75 years). The average age was 76.0 (range: 65-94), 62.4% were female and 79.2% were Hispanic. Indications were similar between groups: jaundice (66.9%), abnormal liver tests (87.2%), abdominal pain (79.2%), cholangitis (24.0%), pancreatitis (32.8%) and stent change (12.9%). Concomitant illnesses were also similar. Lower doses of midazolam and meperidine were used for moderate sedation in the older group (P < 0.01). ERCP findings were similar in both groups: stones (40.8%), stricture (18.4%) and stent placement (30.4%). Complications occurred in 6.4%., Conclusions: This study of ERCP in elderly predominantly Hispanic patients found similar indications, efficacy and safety in patients 75 years and older compared with those 65-74 years old. Advanced age is not a contraindication to ERCP, but issues related to sedation and the use of antithrombotic therapy need to be addressed in the elderly., (Copyright © 2016 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background and Aims: The frequency of bacteremia during ERCP with cholangioscopy has not been well studied. There are no formal guidelines regarding antibiotic prophylaxis before ERCP with cholangioscopy. The aim was to estimate the frequency of bacteremia and subsequent infectious adverse events after ERCP with cholangioscopy., Methods: This prospective nonrandomized study performed in a single tertiary referral center included adult patients who were undergoing ERCP with cholangioscopic examination of the common bile duct. Blood cultures were drawn from patients before the procedure and 5 and 30 minutes after the procedure. Antibiotics were not given before or after the procedure. Patients were followed up after 24 hours and 1 week after the procedure for infectious adverse events. The primary outcome was bacteremia rate, and secondary outcomes were cholangitis rate and adverse events., Results: Fifty-seven patients were enrolled in the study with 60 procedures performed. The first procedure from each patient was considered in the analysis, and thus we included 57 patients with 57 procedures in this study analysis. Postprocedure bacteremia was seen in 5 of 57 procedures (8.8%; 95% confidence interval, 2.9%-19.3%). Four patients were readmitted with cholangitis (7.0%). Bacteremia was more common in patients who had cholangioscopy with biopsy sampling compared with patients who had cholangioscopy without biopsy sampling (P = .011). Cholangitis was significantly more common in patients with bacteremia than in those patients with a negative blood culture (P = .035)., Conclusion: ERCP with cholangioscopy is associated with a bacteremia rate of 8.8% and a cholangitis rate of 7.0%. Preprocedural antibiotics may be considered before cholangioscopy, especially if tissue acquisition with biopsy sampling is expected. (, Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT01673269.)., (Copyright © 2016 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Invasive amebiasis is not frequently seen in the United States. It is associated with considerable morbidity in patients residing in or traveling to endemic areas. We report a case series of patients with amebic colitis in a United States-Mexico border city to alert physicians to the varied clinical manifestations., Case Presentation: Nine patients were diagnosed with amebic colitis. Mean age was 56 (38-83), 6 were males, and all were Hispanic. Common symptoms were diarrhea (56 %), hematochezia (33 %) and abdominal bloating (11 %). The diagnosis of amebic colitis was established in the following ways: 8 patients by colonoscopy with biopsy, 1 by surgery for colonic obstruction. The diagnosis of amebic colitis was confirmed in 8 patients (89 %) by amebic trophozoites present in histopathologic sections. One patient was diagnosed with amebic colitis based upon clinical symptoms, colitis on colonoscopy and visualization of amebic trophozoites on stool examination. In the 8 patients in whom colonoscopy was done, 6 (75 %) had inflammation with rectosigmoid involvement and 5 (62.5 %) had ulcerations. Infection resolved after treatment with metronidazole in most patients; however, one patient developed a liver abscess and another had a colonic perforation and later developed a liver abscess., Conclusion: The occurrence of amebic colitis in this United States-Mexico border city hospital population was low, but in some cases potentially life-threatening. Physicians should be alert to the less common presentations of amebic colitis, such as overt gastrointestinal bleeding, exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease, and the incidental finding of association with colon cancer, or a surgical abdomen. Rectosigmoid involvement was typically found on colonoscopy.

Invasive amebiasis is common worldwide, but infrequently observed in the United States. It is associated with considerable morbidity in patients residing in or traveling to endemic areas. We review the clinical and endoscopic manifestations of amebic colitis to alert physicians to the varied clinical manifestations of this potentially life-threatening disease. Copyright ©Most patients present with watery or bloody diarrhea. Less common presentations of amebic colitis include abdominal pain, overt gastrointestinal bleeding, exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease, or the incidental association with colon cancer. Amebic liver abscesses are the most frequent complication. Rectosigmoid involvement may be found on colonoscopy; however, most case series have reported that the cecum is the most commonly involved site, followed by the ascending colon. Endoscopic evaluation should be used to assist in the diagnosis, with attention to the observation of colonic inflammation, ulceration, and amebic trophozoites on histopathological examination.

Background: Streptococcus bovis bacteremia has been associated with gastrointestinal diseases, especially colon cancer, neoplastic colon polyps, and other malignancies of the GI tract in adults. Sporadic cases of S. bovis disease have also been reported in neonates and young infants. Although uncommon, S. bovis infection can cause fulminant neonatal sepsis and meningitis., Objectives: We report a series of pediatric patients with S. bovis bacteremia in a county hospital in a United States-Mexico border city in order to examine the demographic and clinical associations., Methods: We characterized the demographic and clinical features in all pediatric patients with blood cultures positive for S. bovis at University Medical Center in El Paso, TX, USA between January 2000 and December 2010. Hospital records were systematically reviewed by using a standardized protocol., Results: A total of seven episodes of S. bovis bacteremia were documented in seven pediatric patients (four female and three male). Mean age was 1.2 days (range 1-3 days), all were Hispanic, average birth weight (3.25 kg). Mode of delivery was spontaneous vaginal delivery (five) and Caesarian section (two). All of our patients developed early (<1 week) onset disease and presented with signs of respiratory distress. Five out of seven babies presented with abdominal distention and diarrhea. Six had clinical evidence of sepsis at presentation. Respiratory distress was the most common manifestation of sepsis (seven). Aspiration pneumonia was diagnosed in two of them. Most patients were treated with a combination of antibiotics (six), either ampicillin and gentamicin or ampicillin and cefotaxime, and one with ampicillin alone. None of the pediatric patients had endoscopy and none of them died., Conclusion: Streptococcus bovis is considered as an uncommon pathogen in the newborn, but can be associated with substantial morbidity and mortality if not identified and treated early. Physicians should be alert to the less common presentation of neonatal bacteremia due to S. bovis.

Background: Calculating the adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a complex process in contrast to the polyp detection rate (PDR) that can be easily calculated. The average adenoma to polyp detection rate quotient (APDRQ) was proposed as a conversion factor to estimate the ADR for individual endoscopists from the endoscopist's PDR. However, this conversion factor was not validated in different practice settings., Goal: To validate the use of the proposed conversion factor in a practice setting with a predominantly Hispanic population., Study: We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional study (December 2007 to November 2012) of screening colonoscopies at a university practice setting with an 86.9% Hispanic population. The actual ADR and PDR were calculated for all endoscopists. The weighted average of ADR to PDR ratio for each endoscopist was used to obtain APDRQ. The APDRQ was used as a conversion multiplier to estimate each endoscopist's ADR using the single endoscopist's PDR., Results: A total of 2148 screening colonoscopies were included. The average PDR for the whole group was 36.9% (range, 11% to 49%). The actual ADR was estimated as 25.5% (range, 11% to 37%). The average APDRQ for our group was 0.68. The estimated ADR was 25.48% (range, 8% to 33%). There was a high correlation between actual ADR and the estimated ADR (Pearson correlation=0.92)., Conclusions: In a practice setting with a predominantly Hispanic population, a conversion factor can be used to estimate ADR from PDR providing a high degree of correlation with the actual ADR.

Objectives: Streptococcus bovis bacteremia has been associated with gastrointestinal diseases, especially colon cancer, neoplastic colon polyps, and other malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have suggested an association with chronic liver parenchymal and biliary tract disorders. We report a series of patients with S. bovis bacteremia in a county hospital in a US city on the border of Mexico to examine the demographic and clinical associations., Methods: We characterized the demographics, clinical features, and the endoscopic and histopathologic findings in all patients with blood cultures positive for S. bovis at University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, between January 2000 and December 2010. Hospital records were systematically reviewed using a standardized protocol., Results: A total of 21 episodes of S. bovis bacteremia were documented in 21 adult patients. The mean age was 61 (range 25-97), 12 were women, and 20 were Hispanic. Presenting illnesses in these patients were gastrointestinal bleed (4), sepsis (4), cholangitis (3), hepatic encephalopathy (2), altered mental status (2), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (1), septic abortion (1), diarrhea (1), others (3). Chronic liver disease was present in 7 cases (33%), 6 of which were alcohol related (5 with concomitant hepatitis C infection). Infective endocarditis was found in 1 patient. Overall, 10 patients underwent either colonoscopy alone (3), upper endoscopy alone (3), or both (4), and 2 underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Of the 7 (33%) patients who had colonoscopy, pathology was identified in 4 of them, including colon polyps in 3 (43%) and colitis in 1 (14%). Mortality was 19% (4 patients)., Conclusions: Our finding in a series of predominantly Hispanic patients with S. bovis bacteremia in a county hospital setting was consistent with the previously reported association with gastrointestinal disease. Findings on colonoscopy included colonic polyps and colitis, although no cases of colon cancer were found. Chronic liver disease was a common concurrent illness and cholangitis also occurred. There was a significant mortality rate in adults.

Introduction: Invasive Aspergillus commonly involves the lungs, but can also affect other organs such as the skin, adrenal glands, central nervous system, liver, spleen and the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal aspergillosis is rare and is most often discovered in immunocompromised patients. There is only one other case report to our knowledge that describes the diagnosis being discovered on histopathological analysis of endoscopic biopsies of necrotic ulcers., Case Presentation: A 36-year-old Hispanic woman presented with septic shock secondary to extensive Fournier gangrene that required multiple surgical debridement of the perineal and retroperitoneal area. Her vital signs on admission were a temperature of 39.4°C and blood pressure of 85/56 mmHg, pulse rate of 108/min and respiratory rate of 25. An examination of the perineum/genital area revealed bilateral gluteal and perilabial edema, erythema and focal areas of necrotic tissue with purulent discharge. Other surgeries included small bowel resections with ileoileal anastomosis that later developed an anastomotic leak that required and diverting end ileostomy. Eleven weeks after admission, our patient developed hematochezia from the colostomy associated with a decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit to 6.4 g/dL and 20.2% respectively. Colonoscopy through the ostomy revealed blood throughout the colon and a 3 cm necrotic ulcer with an adherent clot in the transverse colon. Biopsies were taken from the edge of the ulcer. Histopathological analysis of the specimen with Grocott's methenamine silver stain revealed septated hyphae with the 45-degree-angle branching that is morphologically consistent with Aspergillus species. Our patient was treated with intravenous voriconazole for 30 days with a prolonged hospitalization but no recurrent bleeding., Conclusions: Gastrointestinal aspergillosis is an unusual presentation of invasive Aspergillus associated with a high mortality rate. Characteristic features of gastrointestinal aspergillosis include invasion of the mesenteric arteries, intravascular thrombosis and subsequent tissue ischemia. Clinical manifestations of invasive Aspergillus of the gastrointestinal tract can include fever, abdominal pain, ileus, peritonitis, bloody diarrhea or hematochezia. In an autopsy series of patients with invasive Aspergillus, 37 of 107 patients had Aspergillus involvement of the gastrointestinal system; the most common pathological findings included ulcers and abscesses. Although rare, invasive aspergillosis may present with gastrointestinal bleeding associated with necrotic ulcers on endoscopic examination.

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the polyp recurrence rate after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and factors contributing to increased recurrence., Methods: MEDLINE (from 1966 to 2013), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Scopus database were searched in December 2013. Studies evaluating the polyp recurrence rate after colonic EMR were included. All of the articles were assigned a quality score. Standard forms were used to extract data regarding study design, outcome measures, and adverse effects by two independent reviewers. We performed a meta-analysis with a random effects model. Separate analyses were performed for each main outcome by using odds ratio (OR) and risk difference. Heterogeneity was assessed by I(2) measure of inconsistency., Results: For the recurrence rate of colorectal lesions, 30 articles were included, with a total of 3404 patients. The polyp recurrence rate after EMR was 13.1%. Piecemeal resection was associated with a higher recurrence rate compared with en bloc resection (OR 4.39, 95% confidence interval 2.05-9.41; 14 studies). The use of argon plasma coagulation did not affect the polyp recurrence rate (OR 1.23, 95% confidence interval 0.39-3.88). Significant heterogeneity was present among studies., Conclusions: The recurrence rate of colorectal polyps after EMR is reasonably low; however, piecemeal resection was associated with a higher recurrence rate than en bloc resection after EMR.

Nutcracker esophagus is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by the presence of hypertensive contraction waves. These waves can have very high amplitudes, but they maintain a peristaltic pattern and therefore, bolus passage is minimally affected. Esophageal food impactions are rare in nutcracker esophagus. Our patient was a previously asymptomatic man who presented with an esophageal meat impaction due to nutcracker esophagus in which high-resolution manometry played a key role in the diagnosis. Although a rare etiology, nutcracker esophagus can result in esophageal food impaction. High-resolution manometry plays a critical role in the diagnosis of specific motility disorders, even in the setting of minimal symptoms.