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Antecedentes: La presencia de antecedentes familiares implica un riesgo aumentado de presentar colorrectal (CCR), lo que condiciona una estrategia de cribado diferente. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las lesiones halladas en las colonoscopias de pacientes que se sometieron a esta exploración y que tuvieron antecedentes familiares para CCR. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo incluyendo las colonoscopias consecutivas realizadas en un centro de referencia desde abril del 2000 hasta enero del 2012 en pacientes con antecedentes familiares de CCR. Los hallazgos encontrados en la colonoscopia se analizaron en función del sexo, la edad y la presencia o ausencia de síntomas. Resultados: Se recogieron datos de 3,792 colonoscopias. La edad media ± desviación estándar de los pacientes fue de 53.14 ± 12.22 años, siendo el 57,4% mujeres. La colonoscopia fue normal en el 71.7% de los casos, se detectaron pólipos hiperplásicos en el 7.1% y pólipos adenomatosos en el 19.8% (39.4% de ellos, de alto riesgo). La presencia de adenocarcinomas se evidenció en el 1.5% de los sujetos. La presencia de pólipos y CCR predomina en varones (p = 0.001 y p = 0.027, respectivamente) y aumentan de forma lineal con la edad. En los pacientes sintomáticos hubo mayor tasa de detección de CCR (p

Objectives: we analyzed the characteristics of patients with gastric tumors diagnosed with multiple malignant primary neoplasm (MMPN) in the Health District of León. Material and methods: using the information in the Tumor Registry at León Hospital patients selected were those with gastric neoplasms diagnosed between 1993 and 2002. A follow-up was performed until December 31, 2004, and the characteristics of patients diagnosed with a second neoplasm were analyzed. Results: MMPN prevalence was 1,96%; 56% of patients had a history of cancer in first-degree relatives. The most frequent second neoplasms were digestive (26%) and urologic (21%); 87% of patients were diagnosed with a second neoplasm within the first two years. No significative differences in survival were observed among patients with synchronous or metachronous MMPN. Conclusions: MMPN in patients with gastric neoplasms is a relevant problem. While external carcinogenic agents could act as promoters in the development of second neoplasms, these patients seem to have a genetic background favoring the development of MMPN. Secondary prevention is the best measure to avoid MMPN development.Objetivos: analizar las características de los pacientes con tumores gástricos diagnosticados de una neoplasia primaria maligna múltiple (NPMM) en el área sanitaria de León. Pacientes y método: utilizando los datos del Registro de Tumores del Hospital de León se han seleccionado aquellos pacientes con tumores gástricos diagnosticados entre 1993 y 2002. Se realizó un seguimiento hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2004 analizando las características de los pacientes diagnosticados de una segunda neoplasia durante el periodo de seguimiento. Resultados: la prevalencia de NPMM fue del 1,96%. El 56% de los pacientes tenían antecedentes oncológicos en familiares de primer grado. Las segundas neoplasias más frecuentes fueron las digestivas (26%) y las urológicas (21%). El 87% de los pacientes fueron diagnosticados del segundo tumor en los primeros dos años. No se observaron diferencias respecto a la supervivencia entre los pacientes con NPMM sincrónicas y metacrónicas. Conclusiones: las NPMM en los pacientes con cáncer gástrico son un problema relevante. Aunque los agentes carcinógenos externos puedan actuar como promotores en el desarrollo de una segunda neoplasia, en estos pacientes parece existir una base genética que favorece el desarrollo del una NPMM. La prevención secundaria es la mejor medida para evitar el desarrollo de una NPMM.

La obstrucción gastroduodenal neoplásica puede causar una significativa morbilidad. La inserción de prótesis enterales como tratamiento paliativo es una aceptable opción para conseguir un adecuado vaciamiento gástrico sin la morbilidad asociada a la cirugía paliativa, con menor mortalidad relacionada con el procedimiento y menor coste, proporcionando una mejor calidad de vida. Es importante unificar y consolidar la técnica endoscópica de colocación de las prótesis enterales evitando variaciones que impidan un adecuado análisis de los resultados de esta técnica.Malignant gastroduodenal obstruction may cause significant morbidity. Insertion of enteral prostheses as a palliative treatment is an acceptable option to achieve an appropriate gastric voiding without the morbidity associated to palliative surgery, with a lesser procedure-related mortality and a lower cost, while providing a better quality of life. Its is important to unify and consolidate the endoscopic procedure for the placement of enteral prostheses, avoiding variations that may preclude an adequate analysis of this procedure outcome.

Objetivos: El objeto de este estudio es valorar el efecto que la suplementación de dietas parenterales con L-glutamina o con L-alanil-L-glutamina ejerce sobre el equilibrio oxidante/antioxidante hepático y sobre los sistemas de destoxificación mediados por el citocromo P-450 en ratas. Material y métodos: Los animales (n = 60) se cateterizaron centralmente y se asignaron aleatoriamente a uno de los siguientes grupos: grupo control con alimentación oral e infusión i.v. de solución salina (C), grupo de nutrición parenteral total sin glutamina (NPT sin GLN), grupo de nutrición parenteral suplementada con glutamina (NPT GLN) y grupo de nutrición parenteral total suplementada con dipéptido alanina-glutamina (20 g/L) (NPT ALA-GLN). Las nutriciones parenterales eran isocalóricas e isonitrogenadas y las infusiones se administraron a una velocidad de infusión de 2 ml/h durante 5 días. Resultados: En los animales del grupo sin GLN disminuyó la concentración hepática de glutatión y los niveles de los productos de reacción del ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) se incrementaron. Tanto la suplementación con glutamina como con alanina-glutamina normalizaron los niveles de glutatión pero sólo en el grupo del dipéptido disminuyeron los niveles de TBARS. Este efecto era paralelo a la recuperación parcial de las actividades enzimáticas antioxidantes analizadas. La concentración hepática del citocromo P-450, de las monooxigenasas dependientes del citocromo P-450 y el aclaramiento de antipirina no se modificaron por la suplementación de glutamina o de alanina-glutamina. Conclusiones: Nuestros datos sugieren una mayor protección de la suplementación con alanina-glutamina contra el daño producido por radicales libres durante la NPT y una ausencia de efectos tanto de la suplementación con glutamina como con alanina-glutamina sobre el metabolismo oxidativo hepático.Goals: The goal of this study is to assess the effect that supplementing parenteral diets with L-glutamine or with L-alanyl-L-glutamine has on the balance of oxidants/antioxidants in the liver and on detoxification systems mediated by P-450 cytochrome in rats. Material and methods: Central catheters were inserted in the animals (n = 60) and they were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: a control group (C) with oral feeding and I.V. infusion of saline solution, a total parenteral nutrition group without glutamine (TPN without GLN), a parenteral nutrition group with glutamine supplement (TPN GLN), and a total parenteral nutrition group with a supplement of alanine-gluta-mine dipeptide (20 g/L) (TPN ALA-GLN). The parenteral nutrition provided was all isocaloric and isonitrogenated, and the infusions were administered at a speed of 2 ml/h over 5 days. Results: In the animals of the group without GLN, the liver concentration of glutathione was reduced while the levels of thiobarbituric acid reaction products (TBARS) increased. Supplementing with either glutamine or ala-nine-glutamine normalized the levels of glutathione but the TBARS levels only fell in the group with the dipeptide. This effect was parallel to the partial recovery of the antioxidant enzyme activities analyzed. The liver concentrations of P-450 cytochrome, P-450 cytochrome dependent mono-oxygenases and the clearance of antipyrine were not modified by the supplements of glutamine or alanine-glutamine. Conclusions: Our data suggest a greater protection by alanine-glutamine supplements against the injury produced by free radicals during TPN and the absence of any effect with either glutamine or alanine-gluta-mine supplements on the oxidative metabolism of the liver.

Background and Aim of the Study: There are still patients with hepatitisC in Spain who have yet to be diagnosed, but their clinical profile is unclear. In 2021, 21.93% of patients diagnosed had cirrhosis and were mostly treatment-naïve., Methods: This sub-analysis describes the clinical profile of the 60Spanish treatment-naïve patients with compensated cirrhosis who were included in the CREST study., Major Results: Sixty percent of patients were male, median age 56years, and 33% had a history of drug use. Almost three-quarters (71.3%) had more than one comorbidity and 78.3% took concomitant medication. At treatment initiation, median platelet count was 139×10 3 /μL and FibroScan® 17kPa. No virological failure was observed and no patient discontinued treatment due to adverse events. No clinically significant changes were noted during or after treatment in the median platelet, albumin, bilirubin, and transaminase levels., Conclusions: Treatment with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir for 8weeks in this cohort of treatment-naïve patients with compensated cirrhosis in Spain was safe and effective. This information reinforces the use of this short antiviral regimen even when there is compensated cirrhosis, simplifying the approach to hepatitisC among those patients still to be diagnosed and treated in Spain., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Background: colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent tumors in terms of incidence and mortality. Several elements, both inherited and environmental, have been related with its pathogenesis. Aims: to analyze the influence of age, gender and nutritional factors on the diagnosis of colonic polyps and CRC. Methods: a prospective, descriptive study over outpatients from the Health Area of León who took a colonoscopy between 09/09/2012 and 06/30/2013. Patients were asked to fill a semiquantitative food frecuency questionnaire with data such a sociodemographic, toxic and dietetic facts. Differences in diagnosis according to sociodemographic and hygiene-dietetic data were analyzed with a multivariate analysis by forward stepwise logistic regression. Results: data were collected from 1390 patients. Mean age was 57.88 (15.17) years and 47.8 % were male. CRC was diagnosed in 5 % of colonoscopies, and polyps in 20.4 %, with 9.4 % of them being HRA. Risk of polyps and HRA was higher in males (26.9 % vs 14.5 %) and (12.6 % vs 6.3 %), respectively (p < 0.001). Mean age was significantly higher in patients who presented polyps (56.51 (15.45) vs 63.22 (12.69) years; p < 0.001). Among the group who reported intake of smoked and salted food, the risk of polyps doubled (2.9 % vs 6.7 %, p = 0.002). In relation to alcohol intake we found that subjects with daily alcohol consumption showed a higher incidence of polyps whe compared to occasional drinkers and teetotallers (32 % vs 20 % vs 18.6 %, p = 0.002) Conclusions: age correlated with higher risk of polyps, HRA and CRC. Moreover, male gender also was associated with a high risk of polyps and HRA. Alcohol and red and processed meat intake increased polyp risk.

The Spanish Society of Digestive Pathology (SEPD), the Spanish Association for the Study of the Liver (AEEH), the Spanish Society of Infections and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) and its Viral Hepatitis Study Group (GEHEP), and with the endorsement of the Alliance for the Elimination of Viral Hepatitis in Spain (AEHVE), have agreed on a document to carry out a comprehensive diagnosis of viral hepatitis (B, C and D), from a single blood sample; that is, a comprehensive diagnosis, in the hospital and/or at the point of care of the patient. We propose an algorithm, so that the positive result in a viral hepatitis serology (B, C and D), as well as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), would trigger the analysis of the rest of the virus, including the viral load when necessary, in the same blood draw. In addition, we make two additional recommendations. First, the need to rule out a previous hepatitis A virus (VHA) infection, to proceed with its vaccination in cases where IgG-type studies against this virus are negative and the vaccine is indicated. Second, the determination of the HIV serology. Finally, in case of a positive result for any of the viruses analyzed, there must be an automated alerts and initiate epidemiological monitoring., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Aims: To evaluate the results of a hepatitis B and C screening program in hospitalized COVID-19 patients., Method: Transversal prospective study conducted in two Spanish hospitals. Patients admitted from March 1st to December 31st 2020 with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were tested for markers of hepatitis B (HBsAg, anti-HBc) and C (anti-HCV, HCV RNA) infection., Results: In this period, 4662 patients with COVID-19 were admitted to our centers: 56.3% were male, median age was 76 (0-104) years. Data regarding HBV infection was available in 2915 (62.5%) patients; 253 (8.75%) were anti-HBc+ and 11 (0.38%) HBsAg+. From these, 4 patients did not have a previous diagnosis of hepatitis B, 7 received corticosteroids and one received prophylaxis. There was one HBV reactivation. Anti-HCV was available in 2895 (62%) patients; 24 (0.83%) were positive. From these, 13 patients had a previous hepatitis C diagnosis: 10 patients had been treated with SVR, one achieved spontaneous cure and 2 did not receive treatment. From the 11 previously unknown anti-VHC+patients, 10 had a negative HCV RNA. Overall, only 3 (0.10%) patients tested RNA HCV+. However, none received HCV treatment (2 older than 90 years with comorbidities, 1 died from COVID-19)., Conclusion: Screening of hepatitis C infection in hospitalized COVID-19 patients seems less useful than expected. The low prevalence of active infection after antiviral treatments and the high age of our population limit the detection of potential candidates for treatment. HBV screening should be aimed to prevent reactivation under immunosuppressive treatments., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

The set of measures proposed by SEPD, AEEH, GETECCU and AEG are aimed to help departments in their resumption of usual activity. We have prepared a number of practical recommendations regarding patient management and the stepwise resumption of healthcare activity. These recommendations are based on the sparse, changing evidence available, and will be updated in the future according to daily needs and the availability of expendable materials to suit them; in each department they will be implemented depending upon the cumulative incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in each region, and the burden the pandemic has represented for each hospital. The general objectives of these recommendations include: (a)To protect our patients against the risks of infection with SARS-CoV-2 and to provide them with high-quality care. (b)To protect all healthcare professionals against the risks of infection with SARS-CoV-2. (c)To resume normal functioning of our departments in a setting of ongoing risk for infection with SARS-CoV-2., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is the most prevalent cause of advanced liver disease and liver cirrhosis in Europe, including Spain. According to the World Health Organization the fraction of liver cirrhosis attributable to alcohol use in Spain is 73.8% among men and 56.3% among women. ARLD includes various stages such as steatohepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer. In addition, patients with underlying ARLD and heavy alcohol intake may develop alcoholic hepatitis, which is associated with high mortality. To date, the only effective treatment to treat ARLD is prolonged withdrawal. There are no specific treatments, and the only treatment that increases life expectancy in alcoholic hepatitis is prednisolone. For patients with alcoholic hepatitis who do not respond to treatment, some centres offer the possibility of an early transplant. These clinical practice guidelines aim to propose recommendations on ARLD taking into account their relevance as a cause of advanced chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis in our setting. This paper aims to answer the key questions for the clinical practice of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, as well as Internal Medicine and Primary Health Centres, making the most up-to-date information regarding the management and treatment of ARLD available to health professionals. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the clinical management of this disease., (Copyright © 2019. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U.)

The advents of current direct-acting antiviral treatments has revolutionised the therapeutic approach to hepatitis C, increasing cure rates to above 90% and substantially simplifying treatment, which translates into benefits for patients, clinicians and the health system. These new drugs allow cure to be achieved, irrespective of the patient's characteristics, with tolerability similar to that of placebo and few drug reactions with concomitant medication. This in turn improves patients' quality of life and wellbeing. Moreover, these drugs allow multidisciplinary optimisation of the approach to patients with hepatitis C, thus reducing both short- and long-term costs. All these factors facilitate treatment universality, with treatments that are less influenced by specific factors and that allow better results to be obtained in a larger number of patients. Elimination of hepatitis C is now a real possibility. Supplement information: This article is part of a supplement entitled "The value of simplicity in hepatitis C treatment", which is sponsored by Gilead. © 2019 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier España, S.L.U. Todos los derechos reservados.)

Introduction: one of the main extradigestive manifestations of celiac disease is the decrease in bone mineral density (BMD). Bone densitometry performed with DXA is the method of choice for BMD assessment. Indications for its use in celiac children are controversial., Objective: analyzing BMD and various clinical-analytical variables in celiac children when diagnosed and after a gluten-free diet. Define a profile of patients who are more likely to present BMD involvement based on several individual characteristics, to perform DXA indications., Methods: study performed in 24 celiac children (12 boys) (age: 8.7 ± 3.3 years). Their BMD was determined at diagnosis and after a gluten-free diet using DXA. The BMD was compared in each patient in the two moments of the study and at the moment of diagnosis between groups of patients stratified according to severity criteria dependent on clinical, analytical and histological variables., Results: BMD was normal in all patients studied at the time of diagnosis and after treatment, with no difference between the two moments of the analysis. Children who presented symptomatology when diagnosed with celiac disease had lower spine and femur BMD than asymptomatic ones. The calcemia had an inverse correlation with the time of evolution of the disease before its diagnosis., Conclusions: in general, in our setting, the study of bone mineralization in celiac children is not indicated, unless there has been a prolonged clinical course before diagnosis.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main cause of liver diseases in Spain and the incidence is raising due to the outbreak of type 2 diabetes and obesity. This CPG suggests recommendation about diagnosis, mainly non-invasive biomarkers, and clinical management of this entity. Life-style modifications to achieve weight loss is the main target in the management of NAFLD. Low caloric Mediterranean diet and 200 minutes/week of aerobic exercise are encouraged. In non-responders patients with morbid obesity, bariatric surgery or metabolic endoscopy could be indicated. Pharmacological therapy is indicated in patients with NASH and fibrosis and non-responders to weight loss measures. NAFLD could influence liver transplantation, as a growing indication, the impact of steatosis in the graft viability, de novo NAFLD rate after OLT and a raised cardiovascular risk that modify the management of this entity. The current CPG was the result of the First Spanish NAFLD meeting in Seville., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

The only accepted treatment for coeliac disease is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. This type of diet may give rise to reduced patient quality of life with economic and social repercussions. For this reason, dietary transgressions are common and may elicit intestinal damage. Several treatments aimed at different pathogenic targets of coeliac disease have been developed in recent years: modification of gluten to produce non-immunogenic gluten, endoluminal therapies to degrade gluten in the intestinal lumen, increased gluten tolerance, modulation of intestinal permeability and regulation of the adaptive immune response. This review evaluates these coeliac disease treatment lines that are being researched and the treatments that aim to control disease complications like refractory coeliac disease., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Vitamin D (VD) is known to have multiple extra-skeletal health functions. There is emerging interest in exploring the relationship between vitamin D and chronic liver disease (CLD)., Objectives: To determine the prevalence of VD deficiency in patients with CLD in our setting and to assess whether VD supplementation influences plasma levels and is associated with improved liver function., Material and Methods: We conducted a study in 2 phases. First, we analysed clinical and epidemiological characteristics in 94 patients with CLD; second, different doses of calcifediol (25-OH-VD) were administered to patients with VD deficiency (<20ng/mL) and insufficiency (20-30ng/mL). Plasma concentrations and liver function (Child-Pugh and MELD) at the end of treatment were compared with baseline data., Results: Deficient or insufficient VD levels were found in 87% of the patients, with an average concentration of 18.8ng/mL. Levels were lower in patients with cirrhosis (15.9ng/mL) (P=.002) and in alcoholic liver disease. VD levels were inversely proportional to the degree of liver function: Child A (16.52ng/mL) vs C (7.75ng/mL). After VD supplementation, optimal serum levels were achieved in 94% of patients and significant improvements were observed in platelet count, albumin levels (P<.05) and functional status assessed by the Child-Pugh scale (P<.05)., Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of VD deficiency or insufficiency, the need for screening should be considered in the population with CLD. VD supplementation could be safe and effective., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.)

Background: The presence of a family history implies an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC), and may require a different screening strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate lesions found during colonoscopies of patients that had a family history of CRC., Material and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted that included consecutive colonoscopies performed on patients with a family history of CRC at a referral center within the period from April 2000 to January 2012. The colonoscopic findings were analyzed in relation to sex, age, and the presence or absence of symptoms., Results: Data from 3,792 colonoscopies were collected. The mean age of the patients was 53.14 years (SD 12.22), and 57.4% were women. Colonoscopy was normal in 71.7% of the cases, with hyperplastic polyps being detected in 7.1%, and adenomatous polyps in 19.8% (39.4% of them were high risk). There was a 1.5% presence of adenocarcinomas in the subjects. Polyps and CRC were predominant in men (P=.001 and P=.027, respectively) and there was a linear increase with age. Symptomatic patients had a higher CRC detection rate (P<.001), but no differences were observed in relation to polyp diagnosis., Conclusions: Age and male sex increased the risk for presenting with CRC or adenomas in the group of patients with a family history of CRC, and the presence of symptoms was associated with a greater risk for presenting with CRC., (Copyright © 2014 Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.)

Cereals are considered a basic food. Through the development of cooking, the human being has produced high- gluten-content food, so that it could make the most of its nutritional properties. Wheat is becoming one of the key elements of the Mediterranean diet. Amongst gluten- intake-related pathologies- gluten is present mainly in wheat, barley and rye- celiac disease (CD) is the most well-known. CD is a chronic inflammatory condition which affects gastrointestinal tract which develops in genetically predisposed individuals. The most common manifestation of CD is nutrients malabsorption. This protein trigger other pathology, wheat allergy (WA), which is an adverse immunological effect to gluten due to E immunoglobulin. A recent increased in non celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) has also been noticed, defined as the emergence of a range of gluten-intake related symptoms in patients for which celiac disease and wheat allergy have been ruled out. This article discusses these three conditions with their phatogenic mecanisms and the different clinic manifestations., (Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.)

The treatment plan for chronic hepatitis C in special populations varies according to comorbidity and the current evidence on treatment. In patients with hepatitis C virus and HIV coinfection, the results of dual therapy (pegylated interferon plus ribavirin) are poor. In patients with genotype 1 infection, triple therapy (dual therapy plus boceprevir or telaprevir) has doubled the response rate, but protease inhibitors can interact with some antiretroviral drugs and provoke more adverse effects. These disadvantages are avoided by the new, second-generation, direct-acting antiviral agents. In patients who are candidates for liver transplantation or are already liver transplant recipients, the optimal therapeutic option at present is to combine the new antiviral agents, with or without ribavirin and without interferon. The treatment of patients under hemodialysis due to chronic renal disease continues to be dual therapy (often with reduced doses of pegylated interferon and ribavirin), since there is still insufficient information on triple therapy and the new antiviral agents. In mixed cryoglobulinemia, despite the scarcity of experience, triple therapy seems to be superior to dual therapy and may be used as rescue therapy in non-responders to dual therapy. However, a decision must always be made on whether antiviral treatment should be used concomitantly or after immunosuppressive therapy., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Background: There is an excess incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) and mortality from this disease in the health area of Leon. The aim of the present study was to determine trends in CRC and its geographical distribution., Methods: Cases included in the Hospital Registry of Tumors of the Centro Asistencial Universitario de León from 1994-2008 and occurring in patients residing in the health area of Leon were studied. Time trends were evaluated with a Poisson regression model. To analyze geographical distribution, the smoothed relative risks (RR) of the municipalities adjusted by the Besag, York and Mollié model were calculated, and their subsequent probability of an RR>1 (PP) was calculated using Bayesian methods., Results: A total of 4,136 cases were included. Rates standardized to the European standard population ranged from 49.6 (1994-6) to 63.5 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants in men (2006-8) and from 29.6 to 33.8 in women. An annual 2% increase was found for all localizations, ranging from 1.8% in the rectum to 3.6% in the proximal colon. In all localizations, the increase was greater in men than in women. Several municipalities in the health area of Leon showed an excess risk. The geographical pattern observed was due especially to the distribution of colon cancer., Conclusions: The incidence rates observed were high and were increasing. Special attention should be paid to CRC in the health area of Leon, mainly in the municipalities with excess risk., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España, S.L. and AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.)

We present the case of a 57-year-old man with mononeuritis multiplex and high transaminase levels. After investigations, the patient was diagnosed with acute hepatitis B infection and polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). The symptoms of PAN are nonspecific. Nervous system involvement in the form of mononeuritis multiplex can be one of the forms of presentation. PAN is one of the extrahepatic manifestations of hepatitis B, but since the introduction of the hepatitis B vaccine, its incidence has markedly declined. After 1 year of follow-up, the patient is asymptomatic following treatment with antiviral drugs and steroids.

Objectives: We analyzed the characteristics of patients with gastric tumors diagnosed with multiple malignant primary neoplasm (MMPN) in the Health District of León., Material and Methods: Using the information in the Tumor Registry at León Hospital patients selected were those with gastric neoplasms diagnosed between 1993 and 2002. A follow-up was performed until December 31, 2004, and the characteristics of patients diagnosed with a second neoplasm were analyzed., Results: MMPN prevalence was 1,96%; 56% of patients had a history of cancer in first-degree relatives. The most frequent second neoplasms were digestive (26%) and urologic (21%); 87% of patients were diagnosed with a second neoplasm within the first two years. No significative differences in survival were observed among patients with synchronous or metachronous MMPN., Conclusions: MMPN in patients with gastric neoplasms is a relevant problem. While external carcinogenic agents could act as promoters in the development of second neoplasms, these patients seem to have a genetic background favoring the development of MMPN. Secondary prevention is the best measure to avoid MMPN development.

Objective: We analyzed the characteristics of the patients with bladder neoplasms who developed a multiple malignant primary neoplasm (MMPN) in the health district of León, the impact on survival and the prognostic variables., Material and Methods: We have used the data from the Tumor Registry of the Hospital of León and selected all those patients who were diagnosed of a bladder tumor between 1993 and 2002. They were classified into two groups: the first with 71 patients with MMPN and a second group with 159 patients with single bladder tumors diagnosed between 1996 and 1997., Results: Incidence of MMPN was of 7.1 percent. More than half of the patients had familial oncologic background. The second most frequently diagnosed neoplasms were urologic, followed by gastrointestinal and respiratory. Survival of patients with MMPN was 21 percent lower than single neoplasms. Variables with prognosis significance were the stage of the second neoplasm, diagnosis of a second urologic neoplasm and surgery treatment for the second tumor., Conclusions: MMPN in patients with bladder tumors are frequent in our geographic area. The high frequency of familial oncologic antecedents in these patients suggest a genetic background. Prognosis of MMPN patients is worse than single tumors patients, but no differences were observed regarding prognosis in patients with synchronous or metachronous MMPN.

Objective: Needle-knife sphincterotomy (NKS) is used to achieve biliary access when routine cannulation methods have been unsuccessful. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of NNS in patients with an inaccessible common bile duct (difficult cannulation) using standard techniques in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and the factors associated with the success of this procedure and complications., Material and Methods: We performed a prospective study of 72 patients who underwent NKS performed by the same endoscopist (J.E.) because of difficult cannulation of the common bile duct between January 1998 and December 2004. The results were analyzed in terms of successful biliary access, whether this was achieved in one or more sessions, its possible association with the underlying disease, and the incidence and severity of complications., Results: Seventy-two NKS were performed from a total of 1062 sphincterotomies (6.7%). A total of 77.7% of the patients underwent prior implantation of a pancreatic prosthesis (NKS-PP). The final diagnosis was: choledocholithiasis (31.9%), cancer of the pancreas (16.6%), cholangiocarcinoma (13.8%), benign stenosis (8.3%), dysfunction of the sphincter of Oddi (6.9%), normal (6.9%), and miscellaneous (13.8%). Cannulation was successful in 87.5% (63/72), and was achieved in the first session in 73% (46/63). Biliary access was achieved in 72.7% of patients (16/22) with biliopancreatic neoplasms versus 94% (47/50) of those with other diagnoses (p = 0.03). Eleven patients (15.2%) presented 12 complications (16.6%) (6 pancreatitis, 4 cholangitis, 1 papillary hemorrhage, and 1 portal vein filling). The use of a pancreatic prosthesis was related to a higher success rate and significantly fewer complications (p = 0.03)., Conclusions: NKS-PP can be a safe procedure in patients with difficult cannulation of the common bile duct. The presence of biliopancreatic neoplasm is a risk factor for failure to achieve biliary access compared with other diagnoses. The complication rate was similar to that found in other studies. No cases of severe pancreatitis or perforations were found.

Malignant gastroduodenal obstruction may cause significant morbidity. Insertion of enteral prostheses as a palliative treatment is an acceptable option to achieve an appropriate gastric voiding without the morbidity associated to palliative surgery, with a lesser procedure-related mortality and a lower cost, while providing a better quality of life. Its is important to unify and consolidate the endoscopic procedure for the placement of enteral prostheses, avoiding variations that may preclude an adequate analysis of this procedure outcome.

Objective: We analyze the characteristics of the patients with prostate tumours who developed a multiple malignant primary neoplasms (MMPN) in the health district of León, the impact on survival and the prognostic variables., Material and Methods: We have used the data from the Tumour Registry of the Hospital of León and we have selected all those patients who were diagnosed of a prostate tumor between 1993 and 2002. Later we made two groups: the first with 67 patients with MMPN and a second group with 145 patients with single prostate tumours diagnosed during 1996 and 1997., Results: Prevalence of MMPM was of 5.57 percent. Patients with MMPN were 3 years younger than those with single tumours, with a high frequency (41 percent) of familial oncologic antecedents on first degree parents. The more frequent association was the synchronous urologic neoplasm. During the next two years from diagnosed of prostate tumour, 86 percent of patients with MMPN were diagnosed of their second neoplasm. Survival of metachronous MMPN patients was lower than synchronous MMPN patients, being the variables with prognosis significance the age, metachronous MMPN, stage of second neoplasms and if the second neoplasms was or not urologic., Conclusions: MMPN in patients with prostatic tumours are frequent in our medium. A genetic base may be associated in these patients. Prognosis of metachronous MMPN patients is worse. No differences were observed about prognosis with single tumour patients.

Goals: The goal of this study is to assess the effect that supplementing parenteral diets with L-glutamine or with L-alanyl-L-glutamine has on the balance of oxidants/antioxidants in the liver and on detoxification systems mediated by P-450 cytochrome in rats., Material and Methods: Central catheters were inserted in the animals (n = 60) and they were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: a control group (C) with oral feeding and I.V. infusion of saline solution, a total parenteral nutrition group without glutamine (TPN without GLN), a parenteral nutrition group with glutamine supplement (TPN GLN), and a total parenteral nutrition group with a supplement of alanine-glutamine dipeptide (20 g/L) (TPN ALA-GLN). The parenteral nutrition provided was all isocaloric and isonitrogenated, and the infusions were administered at a speed of 2 ml/h over 5 days., Results: In the animals of the group without GLN, the liver concentration of glutathione was reduced while the levels of thiobarbituric acid reaction products (TBARS) increased. Supplementing with either glutamine or alanine-glutamine normalized the levels of glutathione but the TBARS levels only fell in the group with the dipeptide. This effect was parallel to the partial recovery of the antioxidant enzyme activities analyzed. The liver concentrations of P-450 cytochrome, P-450 cytochrome dependent mono-oxygenases and the clearance of antipyrine were not modified by the supplements of glutamine or alanine-glutamine., Conclusions: Our data suggest a greater protection by alanine-glutamine supplements against the injury produced by free radicals during TPN and the absence of any effect with either glutamine or alanine-glutamine supplements on the oxidative metabolism of the liver.

Objective: To prospectively analyze the results obtained with papillary balloon dilatation (PBD) in the treatment of common bile duct stones in patients at risk of complications if endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) were performed., Patients and Method: Thirty-three patients were included between January 2001 and June 2003 (mean age 76.2 years). The criteria for PBD were: choledocholithiasis < or =10 mm in patients with peripapillary diverticula, hemostatic alterations, Billroth-II, and preservation of Oddi's sphincter. In 79% of the patients sedation was performed by an anesthetist. PBD was performed with a balloon catheter dilator with a diameter of 8 or 10 mm for 2 minutes. The efficacy and duration of the procedure as well as complications at 30 days and patient satisfaction were evaluated., Results: Stone extraction was achieved in all patients (100%). The mean duration of the procedure was 26 minutes. Two patients (6%) presented mild pancreatitis. Serum amylase was elevated in 16 patients (48%): > or =3 times (post-PBD hyperamylasemia) in 11 (33%). The procedure caused no discomfort in 25/26 (96%) of the patients sedated by an anesthetist vs 2/5 patients (49%) who underwent endoscopic sedation., Conclusions: PBD is an effective and simple therapeutic option in the treatment of small common bile duct stones (< or =10 mm) and in patients at high risk. The duration of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is not prolonged. Complications are infrequent (6%) and mild. Post-PBD hyperamylasemia is frequent and generally without clinical importance. Sedation by an anesthetist improves patient satisfaction.

Primary leiomyosarcoma of the liver is a rare entity and fewer than 100 cases have been reported in the medical literature. Even more unusual is the association with another previous tumour. We report the case of a 84-year-old man who had been treated for a gastric non-Hodgkin lymphoma two years previously. He presented with a painful mass in the right upper abdomen. An ultrasound scan showed a large mass in the right lobe of the liver and chest radiography showed pulmonary metastases. Liver biopsy was performed and immunohistochemical analysis revealed a malignant leiomyosarcoma. We discuss this case and review the available literature.

Unlabelled: Sterilization is the reference method recommended to ensure the asepsia of an instrument used to perform cures. Chemical disinfection has shown itself to be highly effective in this process for endoscope equipment without there being definitive references about its efficiency on instruments used for cures., Objective: Evaluate the efficiency of chemical disinfection on instruments used for cures, with the reference method being sterilization., Methods: Prospective study in which the efficiency of glutaraldehyde-phenolate is compared to sterilization on 9 sets of instruments used for cures, each one having a dissection clamp and a Kocher clamp, used in 122 cures carried out in different wards at the León Hospital. Their efficiency was evaluated by means of microbiological studies after cures were performed and after disinfection or sterilization occurred., Results: There were no positive cultures after either the disinfection or the sterilization. The existence of positive cultures after cures was related to the type of wound treated, clean wounds were always negative while dirty wounds were frequently positive (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: Chemical disinfection with glutaraldehyde-phenolate is as efficient as sterilization in assuring the asepsia of instruments, while offering some clear advantages compared to sterilization since this chemical disinfection has a low cost, its use avoids the need to have duplicate instrument sets, it provides a longer life for these instruments and does not require moving instruments from their work site, thus preventing their loss.

Aim: To determine the degree of association between serum alpha-1-antitrypsin levels and its phenotypes as well as its clinical expression., Patients and Methods: The alpha-1-antitrypsin genotype was identified using polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction enzyme digest in 212 patients in whom serum alpha-1-antitrypsin determination had been requested. The reasons for the request, the existence of pulmonary or liver disease, clinical diagnoses and functional repercussions were analyzed., Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were evaluated (68% males; mean age: 34 20 years). In 23 patients (10.8%) a deficiency variant was found (one or two M alleles were lacking) and in 8 patients (3.8%) the genotype was ZZ. All patients with MM genotype had alpha-1-antitrypsin levels of 75 mg/dl or higher while none of the patients with ZZ genotype had levels higher than 40 ml/dl. All the patients with ZZ genotype showed alterations: 3 had pulmonary emphysema, 1 had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 4 had hypertransaminasemia. One patient with pulmonary emphysema had severe respiratory insufficiency while in the remaining patients with respiratory problems, respiratory insufficiency was slight or moderate. None of the patients with hypertransaminasemia showed echographic signs of portal hypertension or clinical or laboratory signs of reduced liver function., Conclusions: There is a close association between alpha-1-antitrypsin levels and the different genotypes. Consequently, in basal conditions with serum alpha-1-antitrypsin levels higher than 75 mg/dl genotyping is not required. The functional repercussions of deficiency variants in young adults is slight.

Aim: To determine the current status of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and the effects of the introduction of magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) on ERCP and to evaluate the diagnostic yield of MRC since its introduction in obstructive biliary disease., Material and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the ERCP carried out between January 1998 and December 2000 and of the MRC performed for suspected obstructive biliary disease from May 1999 to December 2000. When both techniques were performed, the diagnostic yield of MRC was evaluated., Results: We performed 927 ERCP. A total of 45.3% of the patients were men. Mean age was 69.2 14.6 years. Treatment was performed on 688 occasions (77%), mainly sphincterotomy (69.9%) and placement of polyethylene (21.8%) or self-expanding (9.9%) prostheses. The number of ERCP performed each year was 261, 330 and 336 in 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively; of these 76.6%, 80% and 76.9% were therapeutic. MRC was performed in 63 patients with suspected biliary disease. In 27 of 59 patients (45.8%) MRC was sufficient for diagnosis, avoiding the need for ERCP. In the 35 patients in whom both techniques (MRC and ERCP) were performed, the diagnostic yield of MRC compared with that of ERCP was: sensitivity 100%, specificity 50%, positive predictive value 87.1%, negative predictive value 100% and overall value 89%. The cases responsible for the low specificity (all due to choledocholithiases) were analyzed and a significant time lapse was found between the performance of MRC and ERCP (range: 7-35 days) during which choledocholithiasis probably resolved spontaneously., Conclusions: a) Contrary to what could be expected, the number of ERCP seems to be increasing with a high percentage of endoscopic treatment; b) Because of its diagnostic sensitivity, MRC is the ideal technique for eliminating the need for diagnostic ERCP, thus allowing greater development of the therapeutic aspect of ERCP.

Background: Although many studies have been implemented in order to determine the pre-treatment factors that can predict patients' response to interferon (IFN) therapy, it is not yet clear whether characteristic histologic abnormalities in chronic hepatitis C can predict such response., Aims: The aim of this study were to evaluate, in patients with chronic hepatitis C, (i) the predictive value of histologic lesions for the sustained response to IFN therapy (ii) other pre-treatment (epidemiological and analytical) factors known to be predictive of response., Patients and Methods: Sustained response was retrospectively evaluated in two hundred one patients who had been treated with IFN for at least 3 months in four different hospitals from Castilla y León. The following histological parameters were studied as predictors of response: histological diagnosis, Knodell index, grading and stage, characteristic histologic lesions of HCV infection. Epidemiological and analytical parameters were also evaluated., Results: The rate of patient's sustained response to IFN treatment was 16%. None of the histological parameters was useful to predict this response. By univariate analysis, age, disease evolution time, mode of viral transmission, GGT, ferritin and viral genotype were associated with a sustained response. The most powerful, and only independent predictive factor, however, was the genotype (the response odds ratio was 8.6)., Conclusions: Histological parameters do not predict the response to IFN treatment. Other factors (mainly the viral genotype) are associated with a higher response percentage, although no one is useful to decide which patients are going to respond.

Objective: To determine the relevance of C282Y and H63D mutations of HEF gene in patients with iron overload., Patients and Methods: Patients with iron overload referred to our Liver Unit were included in the study. The association of mutations to different diagnosis and their impact on the severity of the hepatopathy were explored. Sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of mutations for the diagnosis of haemochromatosis were determined., Results: The study included 78 patients with iron overload. The control group included 21 patients of similar age and sex ratio without iron overload nor hepatopathy. Twenty three patients had haemochromatosis, 22 alcoholic liver disease and 33 other diseases unrelated to iron metabolism. Seventy three per cent of patients with haemochromatosis were homozygous for the C282Y mutation. All the C282Y homozygous subjects had also haemochromatosis. Fifty three per cent of patients with alcoholic hepatopathy had some kind of mutation. This has been also observed in 70% of patients with iron-unrelated diseases. Such percentage was significantly greater than in the control group (24% with H63D mutation). C282Y homozygosity in patients with iron overload had a sensitivity of 73.9%, a specificity of 100%, a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 89.6%., Conclusions: In our population, as in all the Western countries, haemochromatosis is mainly associated to homozygous C282Y mutation. The high frequency of mutations in patients with iron overload and without haemochromatosis suggests the involvement of such mutations in iron overload.

Malnutrition plays an important role in the rate of postoperative complications that interfere with our surgical activity, impairing immune response mechanisms; synthesis and regeneration processes are damaged and the fight against infection is altered. Preoperative and postoperative administration of diets enriched with diverse substances included under the name of "immunonutrients" reduces the rate of complications. Our knowledge about the mechanisms of action of each immunonutrient is increasing as well as the fact that the combined action of these substances improves the immune system and protects the organism against the negative effect of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome.

Nimesulide is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is a new, selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor with few adverse effects on the gastrointestinal system. We present a case of hepatotoxicity in which other possible causes of liver damage were excluded. A biochemical pattern of cholestasis was predominant. Evolution was favorable after the drug was stopped and enzymatic alterations progressively returned to normal. The cases reported to date are reviewed. The precise mechanism by which nimesulide produces liver damage is not known but it is probably caused by an idiosyncratic reaction. Because of the severity of the hepatitis described in some cases, treatment should be stopped when liver dysfunction is detected and the patients should be closely monitored.

Aim: To determine the incidence of various digestive tumors in the health district of Leon., Patients and Methods: All digestive tumors registered in the Hospital Tumor Registry in Leon from 1993-1997 were included. Unadjusted and adjusted incidence rates of each kind of tumor, using the ICD-9 classification, were calculated., Results: A total of 9,913 cancer cases were included. Diagnosis was confirmed by the Department of Pathology in 93.4%. Of these, 25.38% originated primarily in the digestive system, which represents an unadjusted incidence of 151.73 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year. A total of 58.07% were male and 41.93% female. Colon cancer was the most frequent (31.5%), followed by gastric cancer (25.7%) and rectal cancer (20.3%). The highest incidence, both unadjusted and adjusted, was in colon cancer (52.8 and 25.9) followed by gastric cancer (47.4 and 24.3) and rectal cancer (36.1 and 18.3, all they 10(5)/year., Conclusions: Incidence of digestive cancer in Leon is very high and that of colorectal cancer is higher than in any other region in Spain. This is only partly due to the marked aging of our population.

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the examination of choice in the diagnosis of biliary tract pathology although newer, less invasive techniques with high diagnostic sensitivity should be evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of helical computed tomography (CT) in bile duct obstruction, particularly in choledocholithiasis., Patients and Methods: Forty-four patients with suspected bile duct obstruction were prospectively evaluated. Helical TC was carried out 12 hours before ERCP and patients were grouped according to risk of choledocholithiasis., Results: Choledocholithiasis was found in 20 patients (45.4%). Helical TC identified this pathology in 17 and correctly ruled it out in 18 of 24 patients (S: 85%, E: 75%, positive predictive value 74%, negative predictive value 85.7%. Of the patients with choledocholithiasis, bile duct dilatation was found in 18. Helical TC correctly diagnosed this pathology in 16 of the 18 patients (88.8%). Helical TC correctly diagnosed one of two patients (50%) with choledocholithiasis and normal bile ducts., Conclusions: Helical TC is effective in the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis but is not sufficiently accurate to be used in the screening of this entity.