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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents heterogeneous and relapsing intestinal conditions with a severe impact on the quality of life of individuals and a continuously increasing prevalence. In recent years, the development of sequencing technology has provided new means of exploring the complex pathogenesis of IBD. An ideal solution is represented by the approach of precision medicine that investigates multiple cellular and molecular interactions, which are tools that perform a holistic, systematic, and impartial analysis of the genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and microbiomics sets. Hence, it has led to the orientation of current research towards the identification of new biomarkers that could be successfully used in the management of IBD patients. Multi-omics explores the dimension of variation in the characteristics of these diseases, offering the advantage of understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that affect intestinal homeostasis for a much better prediction of disease development and choice of treatment. This review focuses on the progress made in the field of prognostic and predictive biomarkers, highlighting the limitations, challenges, and also the opportunities associated with the application of genomics and epigenomics technologies in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the contemporary era of medicine, exploring the complexity of the human body and its intricate interactions has become a central concern for health researchers. The main purpose of this article is to summarize the current understanding of relevant pathophysiological factors such as chronic inflammation, dysbiosis (microbial imbalance), and metabolic disorders, as well as etiological factors including dietary habits, lifestyle choices, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and genetic predispositions, as well as to emphasize potential avenues for upcoming studies and their medical significance. Additionally, this article aims to assess the potential impact of integrated treatment approaches on patient outcomes, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between gastroenterologists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans that address both oral and digestive health issues simultaneously. Among the branches with a significant impact on general well-being are oral cavity health and digestive diseases, which have been the subject of intensive research in recent decades. In this context, analysis of the current state of knowledge on oral cavity disorders in relation to "modern" digestive diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) becomes essential for a deeper understanding of the interconnections between oral and digestive health. The temporal overlap or succession, whether preceding or following, of oral manifestations and digestive disorders should be taken seriously by both gastroenterologists and dentists to facilitate early diagnosis and explain to patients the correlation between these two body systems. In summary, this article underscores the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between oral and digestive health, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes and guide future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Increases in both the prevalence and severity of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and obesity are closely related. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist approved for the treatment of T2DM and has an important role in weight loss. Also, it may represent a new therapeutic option for the treatment of MASH in obese diabetic patients. The main outcomes were changes from baseline in liver steatosis and fibrosis at week 24. Material and methods: A total of one hundred eighty-seven patients with T2DM were eligible for this prospective study; ninety-five subjects were treated with oral semaglutide, and ninety-two patients were treated with dapagliflozin as an add-on to metformin. All the subjects were evaluated using Vibration Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) from June to December 2022. Results: From our cohort, 54% of the patients were females, with a mean age of 59.92 ± 11.89 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 29.53 ± 5.33 kg/m2. Following a six-month medication period, we observed a substantial reduction in anthropometric measurements, including the BMI, waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WtHr), in both groups. Regarding HbA1c, a notable decrease was observed in the semaglutide group (p < 0.001) when compared to the dapagliflozin group (p = 0.011). In addition, the liver stiffness measurement (LSM) according to VCTE improved significantly in the semaglutide group participants from 8.07 ± 2.90 kPa at baseline to 6.51 ± 3.09 kPa after medication (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The superior metabolic effects of semaglutide, correlated to dapagliflozin, may contribute to a more efficient decrease in hepatic stress and injury, leading to a substantial enhancement of liver function in T2DM patients. Further investigations conducted over an ideal timeframe are necessary to confirm the evidence presented in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portal hypertension from chronic liver disease leads to the formation of collateral blood vessels called spontaneous portosystemic shunts (SPSS). These shunts may form from existing vessels or through neo-angiogenesis. Their location affects clinical outcomes due to varying risks and complications. This review summarizes current knowledge on SPSS, covering their clinical impact and management strategies. Recent data suggest that SPSS increases the risk of variceal bleeding, regardless of shunt size. The size of the shunt is crucial in the rising incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) linked to SPSS. It also increases the risk of portopulmonary hypertension and portal vein thrombosis. Detecting and assessing SPSS rely on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging. CT enables precise measurements and the prediction of cirrhosis progression. Management focuses on liver disease progression and SPSS-related complications, like HE, variceal bleeding, and portopulmonary hypertension. Interventional radiology techniques such as balloon-occluded, plug-assisted, and coil-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration play a pivotal role. Surgical options are rare but are considered when other methods fail. Liver transplantation (LT) often resolves SPSS. Intraoperative SPSS ligation is still recommended in patients at high risk for developing HE or graft hypoperfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children remains a significant public health challenge. The natural history and treatment outcomes of HBV can vary widely, influencing management strategies. This retrospective study was conducted in Northeast Romania and involved a cohort of 148 pediatric patients diagnosed with chronic viral Hepatitis B. Of these, 59 children underwent antiviral treatment while 89 were not treated. One of the main objectives was the rate of HBeAg (Hepatitis B-e antigen) seroconversion, a marker of disease progression and response to therapy. Among the treated group, 26 children (44%) achieved HBeAg seroconversion following therapy. In contrast, 44 of the untreated children (49%) experienced spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion, indicating a substantial rate of natural resolution within this population subset. The findings highlight a significant proportion of spontaneous seroconversion in untreated pediatric patients, suggesting a potential re-evaluation of treatment criteria and timing for children with chronic HBV infection. The comparable rates of seroconversion between treated and untreated cohorts underscore the need for individualized treatment approaches based on a combination of virological, biochemical, and clinical parameters. Further studies are required to refine management strategies to optimize long-term outcomes in pediatric HBV infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) poses a medical challenge, causing moderately severe to life-threatening episodes with high short- and long-term mortality. This study aimed to explore real-world corticosteroid utilization in severe AH, response predictors, and patient outcomes. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on patients admitted for severe AH, defined as a Maddrey Discriminant Function score equal to or above 32, at a tertiary care center. We reviewed patients' medical observation charts to identify corticosteroid prescriptions, reasons for ineligibility, and response rates. Responders were defined based on the Lille score, and predictors of non-response were identified. Short-term (one-month) and long-term (one-year) mortality rates were calculated according to treatment and response. Results: Out of 310 patients enrolled with severe AH, 59% received corticosteroids, achieving a response rate of 75.4%. The reasons for not administering corticosteroids were as follows: uncontrolled infections (27.6%), renal dysfunction (20.4%), gastrointestinal bleeding (18.9%), acute pancreatitis (7.1%), uncontrolled diabetes (3.1%), and other or unknown causes (22.8%). The overall 1-month mortality rate was 12.2%, higher in non-responders (35.3%) and patients who did not receive corticosteroids (13.4%) compared to responders (3.6%). The overall 1-year mortality rate was 62.5%, similar between patients who did not receive corticosteroids (78.7%) and non-responders (77.7%) and higher compared to responders (42.8%). Predictive factors for non-response included older age (OR = 1.05, 95%CI: 1.01–1.08), concomitant cirrhosis (OR= 2.11, 95% CI: 1.064–4.20), MELD scores exceeding 30 (OR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.21–4.80), severe hypoalbuminemia (OR = 2.46, 95%CI: 1.12–5.37), and increased serum creatinine (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1–2.03). Among the prognostic scores, MELD 3.0 score exhibited superior efficacy for short-term (AUC = 0.734, 95% CI 0.656–0.811) and long-term mortality (AUC = 0.777, 95% CI: 0.724–0.830) compared to alternative scoring systems. Conclusions: Low eligibility rate and poor prognosis underscore the need for effective therapies. Our findings contribute to refining risk stratification and early prediction of non-response, aiding clinicians in identifying more beneficial therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Alcohol consumption (AC) represents a widespread cause of liver diseases affecting 10–20% of the population. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between advanced liver fibrosis (ALF) measured by transient elastography (TE), laboratory parameters, and the amount of AC depending on non-modifiable risk factors such as age and gender. Methods: We examined 689 patients with an average age of 49.32 ± 14.31 years, 72.9% males, without liver pathology, who admitted a moderate/high consumption (female ≤ 7 versus > 7 drinks/week; male ≤ 14 versus > 14 drinks/week) for at least five years. The fibrosis level was adjusted according to transaminase levels. Predictive factors were established using univariate regression analysis. Results: ALF (≥F3) was detected in 19.30% of subjects, predominantly males (14.1%) and patients over 55 years (12.5%). Excessive consumption of distilled spirits is associated with ALF in females (OR = 4.5), males (OR = 6.43) and patients over 55 years (OR = 3.73). A particularity highlighted in both genders, regardless of the age group, was the negative correlation between the decrease in the number of platelets, the albumin concentration, and the appearance of AFL. Conclusions: Screening using TE represents an approach for early detection of ALF in asymptomatic populations and the development of a risk stratification scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional methods have their limitations when it comes to unraveling the mysteries of the small bowel, an area historically seen as the "black box" of the gastrointestinal tract. This is where capsule endoscopy and enteroscopy have stepped in, offering a remarkable synergy that transcends the sum of their individual capabilities. From their introduction, small bowel capsule endoscopy and device-assisted enteroscopy have consistently evolved and improved, both on their own and interdependently. Each technique's history may be told as a success story, and their interaction has revolutionized the approach to the small bowel. Both have advantages that could be ideally combined into a perfect technique: safe, non-invasive, and capable of examining the entire small bowel, taking biopsies, and applying therapeutical interventions. Until the realization of this perfect tool becomes a reality, the key for an optimal approach lies in the right selection of exploration method. In this article, we embark on a journey through the intertwined development of capsule endoscopy and enteroscopy, exploring the origins, technological advancements, clinical applications, and evolving inquiries that have continually reshaped the landscape of small bowel imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are idiopathic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) without a unique, gold standard diagnostic test. UC and Crohn's colitis are impossible to distinguish in approximately 10% of cases. The term IBD type unclassified (IBD-U) is recommended for cases of chronic colitis showing overlapping endoscopic, radiological, and biopsy histological features between UC and CD, while indetermined colitis is reserved for colectomy specimens. Our aim was to assess the role of small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) in the diagnostic work-up of IBD-U. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively studied the cases of IBD-U explored by SBCE in a tertiary referral gastroenterology center. Patients were investigated using SBCE after contraindications were excluded. Diagnostic criteria for small bowel CD consisted in more than three ulcerations, irregular ulcers, or stenosis, and the Lewis score was used for the quantification of inflammation. The immediate impact of reclassification and outcome data was recorded over a follow-up period of more than one year. Results: Twenty-eight patients with IBD-U were examined using SBCE. Nine patients had small bowel lesions that met the diagnostic criteria for CD, resulting in a reclassification rate of 32.1%. In five of these cases, the treatment was subsequently changed. In the remaining nineteen examinations, no significant findings were observed. There were no complications associated with SBCE. Median follow-up time was 32.5 months (range 12–60). During follow-up, twelve patients were classified as having UC, and seven remained as having an unclassified type; one case of colectomy, for medically refractory UC, was recorded. Conclusions: SBCE is a useful safe tool in the work-up of IBD-U, allowing reclassification in about one third of cases, with subsequent treatment modifications. SBCE may provide a definite diagnosis, enhance the comprehension of the disease's progression, and optimize the short- and long-term management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) represent a global phenomenon, with a continuously rising prevalence. The strategies concerning IBD management are progressing from clinical monitorization to a targeted approach, and current therapies strive to reduce microscopic mucosal inflammation and stimulate repair of the epithelial barrier function. Intestinal permeability has recently been receiving increased attention, as evidence suggests that it could be related to disease activity in IBD. However, most investigations do not successfully provide adequate information regarding the morphological integrity of the intestinal barrier. In this review, we discuss the advantages of confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE), which allows in vivo visualization of histological abnormalities and targeted optical biopsies in the setting of IBD. Additionally, CLE has been used to assess vascular permeability and epithelial barrier function that could correlate with prolonged clinical remission, increased resection-free survival, and lower hospitalization rates. Moreover, the dynamic evaluation of the functional characteristics of the intestinal barrier presents an advantage over the endoscopic examination as it has the potential to select patients at risk of relapses. Along with mucosal healing, histological or transmural remission, the recovery of the intestinal barrier function emerges as a possible target that could be included in the future therapeutic strategies for IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although high mortality is associated with liver cirrhosis, patients usually have a good quality of life in the compensated phase, and the disease may progress undiagnosed for many years. Vibration-controlled transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameter is a useful noninvasive tool used to estimate both the severity of fibrosis and steatosis. Hence, we aimed to establish the prevalence of significant liver fibrosis diagnosed by vibration-controlled transient elastography in an apparently healthy population. Between December 2021 and March 2022, we conducted a prospective screening of liver fibrosis in apparently healthy participants from different counties of Northeastern Romania. All subjects' medical history was recorded through a comprehensive questionnaire and underwent a liver stiffness measurement. Participants with abnormal liver stiffness measurement values were further evaluated by laboratory tests to identify the etiology of chronic liver disease. A total of 127 apparently healthy subjects were enrolled, mainly females (59.8%), with a mean age of 56 ± 11 years. Overall, 12.6% of participants were found to have significant to advanced fibrosis, and 5.4% had liver cirrhosis. Among 184 participants with clinically significant fibrosis (= 8.0 kPa), 26.1% had a history of heavy alcohol intake, 22.3% tested positive for hepatitis B and C infection, and 2.1% with other etiologies. The remaining 49.5% participants with clinically significant fibrosis were diagnosed with NAFLD, with a mean controlled attenuation parameter value of 282±34 dB/m. The high prevalence of significant liver fibrosis in the general population of Romania is alarming and should raise awareness among clinicians and public health systems. Vibration-controlled transient elastography has demonstrated its usefulness as a screening tool to identify advanced liver fibrosis in general population and should be used in liver disease prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hepatitis C infection is a systemic disease that affects over 71 million patients all over the world and it is to be considered nowadays as a new cardiometabolic risk factor. This study aimed to evaluate the weight and metabolic changes after viral eradication in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We conducted a prospective study between October 2017 to December 2021, in a tertiary care center, in which we included 132 patients with HCV or cirrhosis. All patients received treatment with direct antivirals (DAAs) and achieved sustained viral response at 12 weeks (SVR12). During the study, clinical laboratory data and Fibroscan examinations were recorded in all patients. The study group was evaluated at the initiation of antiviral treatment, at SVR12, and within an average follow-up period of 6 months to 12 months after the previous evaluation. Evaluation at SVR12 and the data recorded in the post-SVR surveillance period show a further increase in BMI compared with baseline measurements with a statistically significant difference (27.11 ± 3.22 vs. 27.415 ± 3.03 vs. 28.04 ± 1.11 kg/m2, p = 0.012). The same observation was noticed for waist circumference (WC) at post-SVR evaluation (87.6 ± 13.1 vs. 88.4 ± 13.6 cm, p = 0.031). Moreover, the study population registered an increase in the average total cholesterol (TC) values at post-SVR evaluation (177.01 ± 42.2 mg/dL, p = 0.014) compared to baseline. In addition, the serum level of triglycerides had been modified after viral clearance, with a minimal decrease in the mean values of triglycerides (TGD) at SVR-12 assessment (133.48 ± 41.8 mg/dL, p = 0.78), followed by a significant increase to the mean value of 145.4 ± 47.2 mg/dL (p = 0.026) in the third evaluation. Our study highlights that HCV eradication does not improve the lipid profile in the short term, and these patients still have an additional cardiovascular risk factor due to high levels of TC, TGD, and weight gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is a disease with multiple complications and is associated with poor prognosis and significant mortality. Identifying risk factors associated with a poor outcome is important to ensure effective treatment and increase life expectancy. We aimed to evaluate the predictive values of complications regarding mortality in ALC. We retrospectively analyzed 1429 patients with ALC hospitalized between January 2019 and April 2022 at the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Iasi. The electronic medical records were interrogated to obtain information about demographic data, complications, comorbidities, and prognostic scores: MELD-Na (model for end-stage liver disease-sodium) and CTP (Child–Turcotte–Pugh). Based on uni- and multivariate analysis, independent predictors of mortality were identified. The mean age at diagnosis was 56.15 ± 11.49 years with a ratio of 2:1 in favor of males. There were 296 deaths (20.8%), most of them during the first hospitalization (208/14.6%). It was observed during the univariate analysis that complications of the disease negatively affected the survival rate, significant values being related to infections (sepsis; OR = 21.98; p < 0.001; spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) (OR = 11.94; p < 0.001) and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) (OR = 9.35; p < 0.001). The independent predictors, confirmed by multivariate analysis, were the association of variceal bleeding, infections, and hepatic encephalopathy or ascites, each combination being responsible for two out of 10 of the deaths during the first admission. The prognosis of the disease was negatively influenced by the worsening of liver dysfunction and the appearance of complications. The main predictors of mortality were infections, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal bleeding, and hepatorenal syndrome. Improving compliance and strict application of specific follow-up and treatment strategies could contribute to a better prognosis of patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are frequently associated with extraintestinal manifestations, hepatic injury being of concern in these patients. Current literature reports an increased prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis in subjects with IBD and the pathophysiology is yet to be completely understood. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with IBD, as well as to determine the factors that connect these two disorders. Methods: From September 2021 to June 2022, 82 consecutive IBD patients were enrolled from a tertiary care center hospital in Iasi. Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) was used to assess the presence of NAFLD, with a cut-off score for CAP of 248 dB/m. Significant liver fibrosis was considered at a cut-off for liver stiffness measurements (LSM) of 7.2 kPa. Results: In total, 82 IBD patients (54.8% men, mean age of 49 ± 13 years) were included, 38 (46.3%) of them being diagnosed with NAFLD, with a mean CAP score of 286 ± 35.4 vs. 203 ± 29.7 in patients with IBD only. Age (β = 0.357, p = 0.021), body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.185, p = 0.048), disease duration (β = 0.297, p = 0.041), C—reactive protein (β = 0.321, p = 0.013), fasting plasma glucose (β = 0.269, p = 0.038), and triglycerides (β = 0.273, p = 0.023) were strongly associated with the presence of liver steatosis. The multivariate analysis showed that older age, BMI, and disease duration were strongly associated with significant liver fibrosis in our group. Conclusions: NAFLD is a multifaced pathology with growing prevalence among IBD patients. Additional studies are needed to completely understand this problem and to create a solid evidence-based framework for more effective preventative and intervention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common finding among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Between NAFLD and T2DM exist a bidirectional relationship. Patients with T2DM are at high risk for NAFLD, and evidence suggests that T2DM is linked to progressive NAFLD and poor liver outcomes. NAFLD promotes the development of T2DM and leads to a substantial increase in the risk of T2DM complications. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis in patients with T2DM from north-eastern Romania by using Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP), which is a non-invasive method and can assess simultaneously liver steatosis and fibrosis. In total, 424 consecutive patients with T2DM were enrolled and evaluated using VCTE with CAP from January 2020 to January 2022. Clinical and laboratory data were recorded in all patients. For the CAP score, we used the following cut-offs: mild steatosis (S1)—274 dB/m, moderate steatosis (S2)—290 dB/m, and severe steatosis (S3)—302 dB/m. For liver fibrosis, to differentiate between fibrosis stages, the cut-off values were F ≥ 8.2 kPa for significant fibrosis (F2), F ≥ 9.7 kPa for advanced fibrosis (F3), and F ≥ 13.6 kPa for cirrhosis (F4). In total, 380 diabetic patients (72.6%) had liver steatosis (51.3% females, the mean age of 55.22 ± 10.88 years, mean body mass index (BMI) 29.12 ± 5.64 kg/m2). Among them, 26 (8.4%) patients had moderate liver steatosis (S2) and 242 (78.5%) patients had severe hepatic steatosis (S3). According to VCTE measurements, 176 (57.14%) patients had liver fibrosis, 36 (11.7%) of them had advanced fibrosis (F3), and 42 (13.6%) diabetic patients had cirrhosis (F4). Univariate analyses showed that severe steatosis was significantly associated with ferritin (β = 0.223, p = 0.022), total cholesterol (β = 0.159, p = 0.031), and HDL-cholesterol (β = −0.120, p = 0.006). In multivariate analyses, BMI (β = 0.349, p < 0.001), fasting plasma glucose (β = 0.211, p = 0.006), and triglycerides (β = 0.132, p = 0.044) were predictors of S3. Patients with T2DM have a high prevalence of severe steatosis and advanced fibrosis which can lead to the development and progression of complications with high morbidity and mortality rates. Hence, it is necessary to implement screening strategies to prevent advanced liver disease in patients with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection induces hepatic steatosis due to viral and host factors. However, information regarding the effects of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy on liver steatosis and fibrosis is limited. Vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) with a controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) represents a non-invasive method, which has been used in the last few years for the detection of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis before and at a sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12). The aim of this study was to assess the modifications of liver steatosis and fibrosis in HCV-infected patients who achieved SVR12. Consecutive patients with chronic HCV infection that were treated with DAAs in a tertiary gastroenterology center from Romania were included. Demographics, laboratory data, and VCTE evaluation were recorded in all patients. Patients with previous hepatic decompensation and those who did not achieve SVR were excluded. Two hundred and eighty patients (67.1% females) who achieved SVR12 were included. Regarding the changes in biological parameters, including liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), reduced to normal levels at SVR12 compared to the baseline (28.72 ± 24.71 U/L vs. 40.72 ± 27.34 U/L for ALT, p < 0.013 and 27.21 ± 11.15 U/L vs. 33.35 ± 23.37 U/L for AST, p = 0.029). On the contrary, the levels of triglycerides increased significantly from the baseline to SVR12 (124.03 ± 113.49 mg/dL to 153.78 ± 94.53, p = 0.004). Regarding hepatic steatosis by CAP evaluation, at SVR12, 186 (66.4%) of the individuals had a CAP score of ≥248 dB/m, an increase of 4.6% from the baseline. After viral eradication with DAAs, we observed an increase in hepatic steatosis. Hence, a long-term follow-up is mandatory to identify HCV-infected patients with hepatic steatosis post-SVR and the risk factors for more severe outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a life-threatening complication of liver cirrhosis. Antibiotic prophylaxis is effective but can lead to an increased incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of CDI and the risk factors in cirrhotic patients with a previous episode of SBP receiving norfloxacin as secondary prophylaxis. Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective, cohort study including patients with liver cirrhosis and SBP, successfully treated over a 2-year period in a tertiary university hospital. All the patients received secondary prophylaxis for SBP with norfloxacin 400 mg/day. Results: There were 122 patients with liver cirrhosis and SBP included (mean age 57.5 ± 10.8 years, 65.5% males). Alcoholic cirrhosis was the major etiology accounting for 63.1% of cases. The mean MELD score was 19.7 ± 6.1. Twenty-three (18.8%) of all patients developed CDI during follow-up, corresponding to an incidence of 24.8 cases per 10,000 person-years. The multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that alcoholic LC etiology (HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.104–2.441, p = 0.029) and Child-Pugh C class (HR 2.50, 95% CI 1.257–3.850, p = 0.034) were independent risk factors for CDI development during norfloxacin secondary prophylaxis. The development of CDI did not influence the mortality rates in cirrhotic patients with SBP receiving norfloxacin. Conclusions: Cirrhotic patients with SBP and Child-Pugh C class and alcoholic liver cirrhosis had a higher risk of developing Clostridioides difficile infection during norfloxacin secondary prophylaxis. In patients with alcoholic Child-Pugh C class liver cirrhosis, alternative prophylaxis should be evaluated as SBP secondary prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common digestive pathologies, with worldwide spread and increasing incidence. Due to the chronic nature of this condition, the dreaded complications that can occur during evolution and the negative impact on patients' quality of life, it is imperative to administer symptomatic treatment to eliminate or improve symptoms, cure erosive esophagitis and prevent recurrences and complications. Alginic acid formulations have a unique, particular mechanism of action, acting as a long-lasting physical barrier floating on the surface of the gastric pool, displacing the postprandial gastric acid pocket and protecting esophagus mucosa during reflux episodes. Numerous studies evaluated the efficacy of alginate treatment in GERD, by comparison to antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), or placebo. While most studies found superiority of alginate treatment when compared to antacids or to placebo, PPIs treatment was overall more effective than alginate in controlling GERD symptoms. There were some trials that reported alginate non-inferiority when compared to PPIs, especially in the setting of NERD. Thus, alginate could represent a therapeutic alternative to PPIs in this category of patients. The current trends according to the current guidelines promote as the first recommendation in GERD management the treatment with PPIs. However, alginate/antacid therapy has a well-established place as additional therapy for PPIs or in mild forms with less than two episodes of heartburn per week as the first administration therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Suspected small-bowel bleeding may be overt or occult. In the absence of clinically obvious hemorrhagic manifestations, the anemic syndrome secondary to chronic occult loss is often the alarm signal. We present the case of a patient with severe iron deficiency anemia, diagnosed by small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) with hemorrhagic ileal polyp, with further succesfull surgical solution. Clinical presentation. 74-year-old male patient with significant associated cardiovascular diseases - arterial hypertension, permanent atrial fibrillation, heart failure NYHA class III, undergoing oral anticoagulant therapy. The worsening of the cardiac symptoms lead to the detection of a severe iron deficiency anemia (Hb 6.4/dL), with no overt bleeding. Consequently, the exploration of the gastrointestinal tract was decided. After negative upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal CT examination, SBCE was performed. An irregular sessile protruding lesion, developped on less than a quarter of the circumference, with active bleeding, in the distal third of the small intestine, was seen. Consequently, the surgeon performed a cuneiform ileal resection, with anatomo-pathological result of ulcerated hyperplastic polyp. The immediate and long-term postoperative evolution was favorable, both clinically and biologically, with the amelioration and then remission of the anemia. Conclusions. Infrequent benign tumors, with extremely rare sporadic occurrence, ileal hyperplastic polyps may present with occult hemorrhage as complication, probably having as risk factor the associated anticoagulant treatment, with occult hemorrhage, responsible for severe secondary iron deficiency anemic syndrome. Applying the investigational algorithm for unexplained iron deficiency anemia allows the etiological diagnosis and the application of the curative therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There is no unique diagnostic test for Crohn's disease, and the diagnosis of isolated small bowel Crohn's disease (SBCD) is even more challenging, due to non-patognomonic clinical picture and low availability of accurate exploration methods. Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) revolutionized the approach of middle gastrointestinal tract, becoming the first investigation tool when small bowel pathology is suspected. Objective of the study. The aim of our study was to assess the value of SBCE in diagnosing isolated SBCD. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively studied the patients undergoing SBCE for suspected isolated SBCD, in a six-year period, including in our analysis only the patients with a minimum one-year follow-up period. We calculated the diagnostic yield of SBCE, defined as number of capsule endoscopy exams whith positive findings, and we also assessed its yearly variation in time over the six-year period. Subsequently, analyzing follow-up data, positive and negative predictive values were assessed. Results. 78 patients were investigated by SBCE for suspected isolated SBCD. SBCE showed lesions compatible with the diagnosis of SBCD in 49 patients, corresponding to a specific diagnostic yield of 62.8%, while for the remaining 29 patients (37.2%), no CD lesions were found. Following additional investigations, three of the 49 patients initially thought as having isolated SBCD were reclassified as SB lymphoma, eosinophilic gastroenteritis and intestinal tuberculosis, respectively, corresponding to a positive predictive value of 93.8%. During followup, none of the 29 patients with negative SBCE was diagnosed with CD, corresponding to a negative predictive value of 100%. We found a progressively increase of the diagnostic yield over time (from 42.6% in the first year to 70.2% in the last year of the analyzed period), corresponding the most probably to the refinement of the indication. Conclusions. Despite a relatively low diagnostic yield, SBCE has a good positive predictive value for isolated SBCD. However, as CE is a purely visual technique with no capability of taking biopsies, final diagnosis needs confirmation by additional investigations. Nevertheless, SBCE has a 100% negative predictive value, being an excellent tool for rulling out isolated SBCD. Refinement of the indication could ensure a better diagostic yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of the new interferon-free direct acting antivirals represents a revolutionary stage in the management of hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection. Treatment with direct acting antivirals is limited in several countries due to high costs. There is a strategy for prioritizing patients with advanced liver fibrosis in order to control HCV-related health expenditure. HCV infected patients have also a social burden due to the patient's knowledge of what the disease implies: chronicity and dependence on health-care institutions and natural progression to liver cirrhosis and death. In this study we aimed to highlight the perception of untreated patients with HCV on the healthcare system and professionals involved in care or therapy as well as the social impact on this particular category. We included 140 patients with chronic HCV infection which were investigated using a designed satisfaction survey that consisted of 13 questions. Our study highlights that patients with chronic HCV infection have a significant degree of impairment in quality of life The majority of the study lot consider that the delay in receiving viral treatment is also an economic burden on the healthcare system due to frequent visits to the physician and hospitalizations needed for the periodical evaluation of their liver disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most important medical-surgical emergencies. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), defined as hemorrhage having its origin above Treitz'angle, is the most frequent type, and is suspected when the patient present with hemethemesis and/or melena. Etiological diagnosis is vital for the patients'prognosis, and it relies mostly on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE). However, endoscopy can show more than one bleeding or potentially bleeding lesion. Aim. The objective of our study was to analyze the frequence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions as seen in emergencies upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. Material and Methods. We performed a retrospective study on patients with acute UGIB presented in the Emergency Department of „St. Spiridon" Clinical County Hospital, investigated by UGIE, in the last six months; epidemiological, clinical and biologic data were recorded, as well as the results of UGIE. Furthermore, correlations between the presence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions and clinical and biological factors were made. Results. 480 patients with suspected acute UGIB were investigated by emergency UGIE. The bleeding source was found in 375 (78%) patients; among them, 278 (58%) patients had one single bleeding lesion, while in 97 (14%) patients more than one potentially bleeding lesion was found. For the remaining 105 (22%) patients, no obvious causal lesion were found, and they were further investigated. The most frequent unique lesions were peptic ulcers and gastro-oesophageal varices, while the most encountered associations were Mallory-Weiss syndrome and peptic ulcer, and gastrooesophageal varices and gastro-duodenal ulcer. The factors correlated with the presence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions were: age, alcohol consumption, the presence of cirrhosis and Charleson comorbidity index. Conclusions. Even if in most cases UGIE is diagnostic for UGIB, there are cases when no lesions are found and also cases with more than one potentially bleeding lesion. Older age, the alcohol consumption, cirrhotic patients and the presence of comorbidities are associated with multiple potentially bleeding lesion. Thorough clinical examination and accurate endoscopic exam are mandatory for the right diagnosis and treatment, to ensure the most favorable patients' outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Specific Baveno VII consensus recommendations are based on the reliability of noninvasive criteria to rull out or rull in clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Aim. We aimed to assess the translation into the real-world clinical practice of the main Baveno VII consensus recommendations. Material and Methods. We launched a brief online survey, and we invited physicians to respond to several questions related to advanced chronic liver disease patients' care (the use of non-invasive criteria to avoid endoscopy when CSPH is rulled out, the prevention of decompensation when CSPH is rulled in, and the type of non-selective beta-blocker). Results. 108 gastroenterologist and hepatologist practitionners answered our survey. According to the type of the medical unit in which they developed their clinical activity, there was an uniform distrubution between municipal, county and universitary hospitals. For clarity and reproducibility, we present the questions and answers as they were originally formulated. Question A. Do you perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for variceal screening to patients with Thrombocyte count <150.000/mmc and liver stiffness measurement < 15 kPa? Answers: 1. Yes: 67 (62%); 2. No: 41 (38%). Question B. Do you initiate non-selective beta-blockers to your patients when liver stifness measurement is more than 25 kPa, for the prevention of the decompensation? Answers: 1. Yes: 99 (85%); 2. No: 9 (15%). Question C. If yes, what NSBB do you prefer? Answer: 1. Carvedilol: 92 (85%); 2. Propranolol: 16 (15%). Conclusions. Baveno VII consensus recommendation regarding avoidance of UGIE in patients with NIT rulling out CSPH is not generally adopted in the clinical practice. The majority of gastroenterologists and hepatologists preffer however performing UGIE, which can be explained by the fear of possibly missing oesophageal varices, and also by the wide acessibility of UGIE in Romania, both in general hospitals, but especially in universitary centers. However, the NSBB (Carvedilol being the most frequently the first choice) are generally recommended by non-invasive criteria, proving the awareness of the practitioners regarding the prevention of decompensation BAVENO VII takeaway message. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its introduction to clinical practice in 2001, small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) has become an important investigation procedure in many small bowel pathologies, including both suspected and known Crohn's disease (CD). SBCE has higher diagnostic yield than other radiologic and endoscopic modalities used in evaluation of patients with suspected CD. In addition, SBCE has proved useful, in a non-invasive and safe manner, as a monitoring method for evaluating the severity and extent of lesions, postoperative recurrence, and mucosal healing in patients with known CD. Monitoring of colonic inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) using second-generation of colon capsule endoscopy (CCE-2) has also been reported. Besides its advantages, CE also has several limitations such as the inability to obtain biopsies and lack of therapeutic capabilities, hopefully to be overcome in the near future by advances in modern technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The true incidence of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is difficult to discern because of an unknown denominator of individuals receiving a drug, lack of a simple objective test for the diagnosis of DILI, lack of consensus on what liver test abnormalities constitute DILI, difficulty in attribution of causation to a single drug in those on many medicines, and lack of systematic reporting. Over 1000 medications and herbal products have been involved in causing liver injury, and the list continues to grow. Regarding the biologic therapy with infliximab, according to specialized studies, usually there were mild to moderate elevations of liver enzymes. Hereby, we present a clinical case of drug-induced hepatitis, after the administration of monoclonal antibodies over six months, with a remarkable contrast between the major biochemical changes and the absence of any symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) has a high incidence in patients with liver cirrhosis and determines a poor prognosis of hepatic disease. The aim of our study was to define the natural course of partial PVT in cirrhotic patients, including survival and decompensation rates. Patients and Methods: We performed a prospective, cohort study, in a tertiary referral center. There were 22 cirrhotic patients with partial nonmalignant PVT, without anticoagulant treatment, who were followed‑up between January 2011 and October 2013. All patients were evaluated by Doppler abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography. Kaplan-Meier method was used to determine the difference in clinical events between the study subgroups. Results: After a mean follow‑up period of 20.22 months, partial PVT improved in 5 (22.73%), was stable in 11 (50%), and worsened in 6 (27.27%) patients. Hepatic decompensation rate at 6 and 18 months was higher in patients with worsened PVT than in those with stable/improved PVT (50% vs. 25%, P < 0.0001 and 100% vs. 56.25%, P < 0.0001, respectively). The survival rate at 6 months was 66.66% in worsened PVT group vs. 81.25% (P = 0.005) in stable/improved group, and 16.66% vs. 81.25% (P < 0.0001) at 18 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that Model of End‑Life Disease was the independent predictor of hepatic decompensation [hazard ratio (HR) 1.42; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08-1.87, P = 0.012] and survival (HR 1.76; 95% CI: 1.06-2.92, P = 0.028). Conclusions: Nonmalignant partial PVT remained stable/ improved in over half of cirrhotic patients and aggravated in more than one fourth in whom it negatively influenced the survival and decompensation rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 37-year-old patient who developed hepatic toxicity following the administration of infliximab for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. The treatment of the patient with topical medications after skin biopsy ruled out a pustular type of psoriasis. A discussion on the incidence and management of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is provided.

Background and Aims: Small bowel tumors (SBTs) are rare, accounting for 1-3% of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Since the introduction of capsule endoscopy (CE), several studies have suggested that their frequency may be substantially higher. The present study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence, clinical presentation, laboratory parameters, endoscopic appearance, and diagnostic work-up of SBTs in patients undergoing CE in a single referral center. Patients and Methods: During 2003 - 2009, 102 patients underwent CE. For each patient with lesions suggesting SBT at CE, with subsequent diagnostic/ therapeutic work-up leading to histological confi rmation, we registered: clinical presentation, hemoglobin level, small bowel follow-through, red blood cells scintigraphy, CT-enterography, enteroscopy, histological confi rmation and management. Results: SBTs were detected in 5 patients (mean age 55.2 ± 15.8 years) of 102 undergoing CE (4.9%). The main indication for CE was obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, occult or overt. All patients had undergone, before CE, at least one procedure evaluating the small bowel after negative upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. All patients had iron-defi ciency anemia, three had abdominal pain, two had episodes of nausea /vomiting and one had diarrhoea and abdominal distension. The main SBT type was gastrointestinal stromal tumor. After CE, 3 patients underwent single-balloon enteroscopy; surgery was performed in all patients. Mean follow-up time was 19 ± 17 (range 2- 36) months; one patient died during follow-up. No retention of capsule occurred. Conclusions: CE could be used as fi rst choice for diagnostic investigation in patients suspected to have SBTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) is used as a non-invasive method for evaluating liver steatosis and fibrosis simultaneously. In this prospective study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis, as well as the associated risk factors in Romanian medical students by VCTE and CAP score. We used a cut-off CAP score of ≥248 dB/m for the diagnosis of mild steatosis (S1), ≥268 dB/m for moderate steatosis (S2), and ≥280 dB/m to identify severe steatosis (S3). For liver fibrosis, the cut-off values were: ≤5.5 kPa, indicating no fibrosis (F0), 5.6 kPa for mild fibrosis (F1), 7.2 kPa for significant fibrosis (F2), 9.5 kPa for advanced fibrosis (F3), and 12.5 kPa for cirrhosis (F4). In total, 426 Romanian medical students (67.8% females, mean age of 22.22 ± 1.7 years) were evaluated. Among them, 352 (82.6%) had no steatosis (S0), 32 (7.5%) had mild steatosis (S1), 13 (3.1%) had a moderate degree of steatosis (S2), and 29 (6.8%) had severe steatosis (S3). Based on liver stiffness measurements (LSM), 277 (65%) medical students did not have any fibrosis (F0), 136 (31.9%) had mild fibrosis (F1), 10 (2.4%) participants were identified with significant fibrosis (F2), 3 (0.7%) with advanced fibrosis (F3), and none with cirrhosis (F4). In conclusion, the prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis is low among Romanian medical students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) is a widely used non-invasive technique for concomitant assessment of liver steatosis and fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to evaluate the level both of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis as well as the associated risk factors in patients referred to our unit with clinically suspected NAFLD or diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography. Two hundred four patients were prospectively included in this study and assessed by VCTE with CAP. The final analysis included 181 patients with reliable liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) (53% female, mean age 57.62 ± 11.8 years and BMI 29.48 ± 4.85 kg/m2). According to the cut-off values for steatosis grading, there were 10 (5.5%) patients without steatosis (S0), 30 (16.6%) with mild (S1), 45 (24.9%) moderate (S2), and 96 (53%) severe (S3) steatosis. Based on LSM, there were 73 (40.3%) patients without fibrosis (F0), 42 (23.2%) with mild (F1), 32 (17.7%) significant (F2), 19 (10.5%) advanced (F3) fibrosis, and 15 (8.3%) with cirrhosis (F4). In addition, we found an association between several metabolic components and hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Thus, in the multivariate analysis, higher BMI, fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and serum uric were associated with increased CAP. Furthermore, higher serum uric acid and alpha-fetoprotein together with lower platelets count and albumin levels were associated with increased LSM. The assessment of steatosis and fibrosis using VCTE and CAP should be performed in all patients with suspected or previously diagnosed NAFLD in units with available facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]