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Background/aims: The role of cyst fluid carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level in differentiating mucinous pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) is controversial. We investigated the role of cyst fluid CEA in differentiating low-risk (LR)-intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) from high-risk (HR)-IPMNs and LR-mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs). Methods: This was a retrospective study of 466 patients with PCLs who underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needleaspiration over a 7-year period. On histology, low-grade dysplasia and intermediate-grade dysplasia were considered LR, whereas high-grade dysplasia and invasive carcinoma were considered HR. Results: Data on cyst fluid CEA levels were available for 50/102 mucinous PCLs with definitive diagnoses. The median CEA (range) levels were significantly higher in HR cysts than in LR cysts (2,624 [0.5-266,510] ng/mL vs. 100 [16.8-53,445]ng/mL, p=0.0012). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was 0.930 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.5-0.8; p100ng/mL, with a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100%. Conclusion: Cyst fluid CEA levels significantly vary between LR-IPMNs, LR-MCNs, and HR-IPMNs. A CEA cutoff level of >100ng/mL had a 100% NPV in differentiating LR-IPMNs from LR-MCNs and HR-IPMNs.

Introduction: Gastrointestinal cancers (GI Ca) are a global health problem leading to high morbidity and mortality all over the world. Human organism presents a well organised defense mechanism against cancer cells by humoral and cellular immune system. Nowadays, cancer immunotherapy is an essential and promising research field of modern immunology. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the humoral and cellular immune systems in gastrointestinal and hepatocellular cancers (HCC) patients. Methods: Cellular and humoral immune parameters (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD16 / CD56 and CD 19 lymphocytes respectively) were investigated in the peripheral blood samples of 71 gastric Ca, 50 pancreatic Ca, 27 colorectal Ca, 50 HCC patients and of 30 healthy persons as control group by flow cytometry method. One way Anova and post hoc Dunnett tests were used to compare mean lymphocyte values of cancer groups with the control group. Significance level is determined as p: 0.05. Results: CD3 and CD4 lymphocyte levels were not significantly different in all cancer groups compared to the control group (Table-1). CD8 lymphocyte levels were significantly increased in pancreatic and colorectal cancer groups (p < 0.05) whereas CD19 lymphocytes were significantly lower in the same groups (p < 0.01-0.05). Natural killer (CD16 / CD56) lymphocytes were significantly higher in gastric Ca, colorectal Ca and HCC patients compared to the control group (p < 0.01-0.05).

Background and Aims This study aimed to investigate whether AI via a deep learning algorithm using endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) images could predict the malignant potential of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Methods A series of patients who underwent EUS before surgical resection for gastric GISTs were included. A total of 685 images of GISTs from 55 retrospectively included patients were used as the training data set for the AI system. Convolutional neural networks were constructed to build a deep learning model. After applying the synthetic minority oversampling technique, 70% of the generated images were used for AI training and 30% were used to test AI diagnoses. Next, validation was performed using 153 EUS images of 15 patients with GISTs. In addition, conventional EUS features of 55 patients in the training cohort were evaluated to predict the malignant potential of GISTs and mitotic index. Results The overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the AI system for predicting malignancy risk were 83%, 94%, and 82% in the training dataset, and 75%, 73%, and 66% in the validation cohort, respectively. When patients were divided into low-risk and high-risk groups, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy increased to 99% in the training dataset and 99.7%, 99.7%, and 99.6%, respectively, in the validation cohort. No conventional EUS features were found to be associated with either malignant potential or mitotic index (P > 0.05). Conclusions AI via a deep learning algorithm using EUS images could predict the malignant potential of gastric GISTs with high accuracy. Graphic

Objectives Timely identification of patients with acute pancreatitis who are likely to have a severe disease course is critical. Based on that, many scoring systems have been developed throughout the years. Although many of them are currently in use, none of them has been proven to be ideal. In this study, we aimed to compare the discriminatory power of relatively newer risk scores with the historical ones for predicting in-hospital major adverse events, 30-day mortality and 30-day readmission rate. Patients and methods Patients who had been admitted due to acute pancreatitis were retrospectively investigated. Five risk scoring systems including HAPS, Ranson, BISAP, Glasgow, and JSS were calculated using the data of the first 24 h of admission. Predictive accuracy of each scoring system was calculated using the area under the receiver-operating curve method. Results Overall 690 patients were included in the study. In-hospital major adverse events were observed in 139 (20.1%) patients of whom, 19 (2.5%) died during hospitalization. 30-day all-cause mortality and 30-day readmission were observed in 22 (3.2%) and 27 (3.9%) patients respectively. Negative predictive value of each score was markedly higher compared to positive predictive values. Among all, JSS scoring system showed the highest AUC values across all end-points (0.80 for in-hospital major adverse events; 0.94 for in-hospital mortality; 0.91 for 30-day mortality). However, all five scoring systems failed to predict 30-day readmission. Discussion JSS was the best classifier among all five risk scoring systems particularly owing to its high sensitivity and negative predictive value.

Background: Predicting the malignancy potential of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) before resection could improve patient management strategies as gastric GISTs with a low malignancy potential can be safely treated endoscopically, but surgical resection is required for those tumors with a high malignancy potential. This study aimed to evaluate endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) features of 2- to 5-cm gastric GISTs that might be used to predict their mitotic index using surgical specimens as the gold standard. Patients and Methods: Forty-nine patients (30 females and 19 males; mean age 55.1 ± 12.7 years) who underwent EUS examinations, followed by surgical resections of 2- to 5-cm gastric GISTs, were retrospectively reviewed. Results: The mean tumor size was 3.44 ± 0.97 (range 2.1–5.0) cm. A univariate analysis revealed no significant differences in age, sex, and tumor location in the low mitotic index and high mitotic index groups (all p > 0.05). In terms of EUS features, there were no significant differences in the mitotic indexes with respect to the shape, surface lobulation, border regularity, echogenicity, homogeneity, growth patterns, presence of mucosal ulceration, hyperechogenic foci, anechoic spaces, and hypoechoic halos (all p > 0.05). However, the tumor size was larger in the high mitotic index group than that in the low mitotic index group (3.97 ± 1.05 vs. 3.27 ± 0.9 cm, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Conventional EUS features are not reliable for predicting the mitotic index of 2- to 5-cm gastric GISTs. Further modalities for predicting the mitotic index are needed to prevent unnecessary surgical resections in patients with a low risk of malignancy.

Background/Aims: Altered anatomy is a challenge in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for patients with Billroth II anastomosis. In this study, we investigated the overall success and role of endoscopist experience. Methods: Data of patients who underwent ERCP between 2014 and 2018 after a previous Billroth II operation were retrieved retrospectively from 2 tertiary FRCP centers. The procedures were performed by 2 endoscopists with different levels of experience. Clinical success was defined as extraction of the stone, placement of a stent through a malignant stricture, and clinical and laboratory improvements in patients. Results: Seventy-five patients were included. The technical success rate was 83% for the experienced endoscopist and 75% for the inexperienced endoscopist (p=0.46). The mean (istandard deviation) procedure tune was 23.8 +/- 5.7 min for the experienced endoscopist and 40.684:6.07 min for the inexperienced endoscopist (p

Background Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG)-induced acute pancreatitis (AP) leads to higher morbidity and mortality compared with other etiologies. The role of plasma exchange (PE) in this context is still not well established. We aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of patients with HTG-induced AP who underwent PE and compare it with those who did not. Patients and methods We retrospectively evaluated the data of patients who were admitted with HTG-induced AP between January 2013 and May 2018. The endpoint of the study was to assess the clinical outcomes, which included complication rates, mortality, and pancreatitis recurrence rate. Results Overall, 41 patients were included in the final analysis. Of these, 12 (29.2%) underwent PE. Patients undergoing PE had more severe pancreatitis on the basis of the Japanese Severity Score [10 (83.3%) vs. 14 (48.3%), P=0.03, respectively). Although mortality was higher in patients who underwent PE [three (25.0%) vs. zero, P

Background and Aims Since 2008, a plethora of research studies has compared the efficacy of water-assisted (aided) colonoscopy (WAC) and underwater resection (UWR) of colorectal lesions with standard colonoscopy. We reviewed and graded the research evidence with potential clinical application. We conducted a modified Delphi consensus among experienced colonoscopists on definitions and practice of water immersion (WI), water exchange (WE), and UWR. Methods Major databases were searched to obtain research reports that could potentially shape clinical practice related to WAC and UWR. Pertinent references were graded (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Extracted data supporting evidence-based statements were tabulated and provided to respondents. We received responses from 55 (85% surveyed) experienced colonoscopists (37 experts and 18 nonexperts in WAC) from 16 countries in 3 rounds. Voting was conducted anonymously in the second and third round, with ≥80% agreement defined as consensus. We aimed to obtain consensus in all statements. Results In the first and the second modified Delphi rounds, 20 proposed statements were decreased to 14 and then 11 statements. After the third round, the combined responses from all respondents depicted the consensus in 11 statements (S): definitions of WI (S1) and WE (S2), procedural features (S3-S5), impact on bowel cleanliness (S6), adenoma detection (S7), pain score (S8), and UWR (S9-S11). Conclusions The most important consensus statements are that WI and WE are not the same in implementation and outcomes. Because studies that could potentially shape clinical practice of WAC and UWR were chosen for review, this modified Delphi consensus supports recommendations for the use of WAC in clinical practice.

Background: The risk of malignancy in resected gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) depends on tumor size, location, and mitotic index. Reportedly, the Ki67 index has a prognostic value in resected GISTs. We aimed to analyze the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples with reference to Ki67 index, using surgical specimens as the gold standard. Methods: Fifty-five patients who underwent EUS-FNA followed by surgical resection for gastric GISTs were retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ age and sex; tumors’ size and location; mitotic index, cell type, cellularity, pleomorphism, presence of ulceration, hemorrhage, necrosis, mucosal or serosal invasion, growth pattern, and Ki67 index based on pathology were investigated. Results: Location in fundus, ulceration, hemorrhage, mucosal invasion, and Ki67 index in surgical specimens were significant in predicting high-risk groups (p < 0.05) on univariate analysis. Frequency of bleeding (p = 0.034) and the Ki67 index (p = 0.018) were the only independent significant factors in multivariate analysis. The optimal cutoff level of Ki67 was 5%, with 88.2% sensitivity and 52.8% specificity (p = 0.021). The mean Ki67 index was lower in EUS-FNA samples than in surgical specimens (2% [1–15] versus 10% [1–70], p = 0.001). The rank correlation coefficient value of Ki67 was 0.199 (p = 0.362) between EUS-FNA and surgical samples and showed no reliability for EUS-FNA samples. Conclusion: The Ki67 index in resected specimens correlated with high-risk GISTs, although it had no additive value to the current criteria. The Ki67 index in EUS-guided FNA samples is not a reliable marker of proliferation in GISTs.

Background/aims Despite various scoring systems and imaging methods, it is hard to predict the severity and the course of acute pancreatitis (AP), thereby necessitating better and more reliable markers. Since inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of AP, we sought to determine whether histone, which is a novel inflammatory marker, may play a role in the prediction of severity and prognosis. Materials and methods A total of 88 consecutive adult patients (>18 years) with a first AP episode were prospectively enrolled in the study. Severe AP was defined as having a revised Atlanta score >3 in the first 48 h after admission. Circulating histone 3 and 4 levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results Eighty-eight consecutive adult patients with a first episode of AP were divided into two groups according to severity, in which 56 (63.6%) were assigned to the mild AP group and 32 (36.4%) to the severe AP group. White blood cell, hemoglobin, creatinine, and aspartate aminotransferase levels were significantly higher in the severe AP group. However, there was no difference in serum histone levels between the groups, and there was no correlation between revised Atlanta score and serum histone levels either. Conclusion Serum histone levels did not significantly differ between the severe and mild AP groups. Therefore, these markers may not provide additional benefit for determining the severity of AP.

Background: Referral for endosonographic evaluation of subepithelial lesions seen in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is fairly common. Although rarely studied separately in details, esophageal lesions have some unique differences from other GI sites and might deserve some special considerations regarding follow-up and management. Materials and Methods: All cases referred for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) evaluation of subepithelial esophageal lesions at Bezmialem University Hospital, a tertiary center in Istanbul, Turkey were retrospectively reviewed. Data were collected for patient and lesion characteristics as well as for pathology results and follow-up if available. Lesions were subcategorized according to their size, location, and final diagnosis. Results: A total of 164 EUS examinations were identified. In 22.5% of cases, the lesion could not be identified by EUS. Of the remaining cases, 57.6% had a lesion larger than 1 cm in size. Extramural compression was the diagnosis in 12% and leiomyoma in around 60%. Thirteen patients had follow-up examinations with only two showing an increase in size after 12 months. Sixty-five EUS-guided fine needle aspirations (EUS-guided FNAs) were performed, with around 50% having nondiagnostic samples and 94% of the remaining samples confirming the presumptive diagnosis. Conclusions: The majority of subepithelial lesions in the esophagus are benign with extremely low malignancy potential. EUS examinations performed for lesions smaller than 2 cm as well as FNAs taken from lesions smaller than 3 cm might have minimal impact on their ultimate management and outcome. More than one FNA pass should be attempted in order to improve the yield.

Background/Aims: Acute pancreatitis (AP) runs a moderately severe and severe course in 20%-30% of cases. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the prevention of pancreatic necrosis (PN) in moderately severe and severe AP (MSAP). Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients with MSAP were randomized to receive either standard care (SC) or SC plus LMWH. LMWH was administered at 1 mg/kg via subcutaneous injection twice a day between days 1 and 7. The revised Atlanta criteria were used in the diagnosis of MSAP. Patients with a Harmless AP Score of ≥1 and a Balthazar computed tomography (CT) score of D and E were included in the study. Results: The mean age±SD of the patients (46 male and 54 female) was 52±19 years (range, 17-100). There were 50 patients in each group. On admission, clinical and laboratory parameters and Balthazar CT scores were similar between the groups. Initially, PN was present in one patient in the LMWH group and two in the SC group. Over the course, PN developed in 3 (6.1%) patients in the LMWH group and 11 (22.9%) in the SC group (p

Background: While acute pancreatitis (AP) resolves spontaneously´with supportive treatment in most patients, it may be life-threatening. Predicting the disease severity at onset dictates the management strategy. We aimed to define the patients with mild pancreatitis who may be considered for outpatient management with significant cost-savings. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 180 patients with mild AP according to the harmless acute pancreatitis score (HAPS) and Imrie score. The relationships of biochemical parameters with the changes in the Balthazar score and clinical course were examined. Results: The study included 180 patients (111 females, 69 males; mean age: 53.9 ± 17.2 years; range: 17-92 years). The etiology was biliary in 118 (65%) patients and remained undetermined in 38 (21.1%) patients. Computed tomography (CT) performed within the first 12 h revealed mild and moderate AP in 159 (88.3%) and 21 (11.7%) patients, respectively. CT repeated at 72 h revealed mild, moderate, and severe AP in 155 (86.1%), 24 (13.3%), and 1 (0.6%) patients, respectively. Comparisons between stages A + B + C and D + E showed significant differences in the amylase levels on day 1 and 3, and in C-reactive protein on day 3. Also, in stage D and E disease, narcotic analgesic intake, oral intake onset time, and pain were significantly higher. Conclusion: There were no significant changes in the CT findings of patients with mild AP at 12 and 72 h. Most patients (n = 179; 99.4%) recovered uneventfully. Patients with mild pancreatitis according to the HAPS and Imrie scores can be considered for outpatient management. The recovery is longer in stage D and E disease. Introdução: Apesar da pancreatite aguda resolver espontaneamente com medidas de suporte na maioria dos doentes, esta também pode ser grave e fatal. A predição inicial da gravidade da doença orienta a estratégia terapêutica. O nosso objetivo foi definir os doentes com pancreatite ligeira que podem ser considerados para terapêutica em ambulatório com redução dos custos. Material e Métodos: Estudo prospetivo observacional com 180 doentes com pancreatite aguda ligeira segundo os scores de HAPS e Imrie. As relações entre os parâmetros bioquímicos, as alterações no score de Balthazar e o curso clinico foram examinadas. Resultados: Este estudo incluiu 180 doentes (111 mulheres, 69 homens; idade média 53.9±17.2 anos). A etiologia foi biliar em 118 (65%) e permaneceu indeterminada em 38 (21.1%) doentes, respetivamente. A tomografia computorizada (TC) realizada nas primeiras 12 h revelou pancreatite ligeira e moderada em 159 (88.3%) e 21 (11.7%) doentes, respetivamente. A TC repetida às 72h revelou pancreatite aguda, moderada e grave em 155 (86.1%), 24 (13.3%), e 1 (0.6%) dos doentes, respetivamente. As comparações entre os estadios A+B+C e D+E mostraram diferenças significativas nos níveis de amílase nos dias 1 e 3, e na PCR no dia 3. Também nos estádios D e E, a toma de narcóticos, tempo de inicio da dieta oral e a dor foram significativamente superiores. Conclusão: Não se verificaram alterações significativas na TC dos doentes com pancreatite ligeira nem às 12 nem às 72h. A maioria dos doentes (99.4%) recuperou sem complicações. Doentes com pancreatite ligeira segundos os scores de HAPS e Imrie podem ser considerados para orientação em ambulatório. A recuperação é mais longa nos estadios D e E da doença.

Context: The gastrointestinal tract is one of the most affected systems in hyperthyroidism. Although thyrotoxicosis is thought to be associated with gastrointestinal dysmotility, there are limited studies focused on motility disorders in hyperthyroidism. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the manometric measurements to determine if esophageal motility is affected in Graves' disease. Materials and methods: Thirty patients with Graves' disease (18 female and 12 male) and 30, age and sex matched, healthy controls (22 female and 8 male) were recruited to the study between 2015 and 2016. Esophageal manometry was performed using MMS (Medical Measurement Systems bv. The Netherlands) Solar GI - Air Charged Intelligent Gastrointestinal Conventional Manometry. Results: The mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) was 16.9 ± 5.3 mmHg in hyperthyroid patients and 20.1 ± 8.8 mmHg in the control group and there was no significant difference (p>0.05). It was observed that the duration of contraction was 3.9 ± 0.7 s in healthy subjects and, significantly shorter 3.2 ± 0.5 s in hyperthyroid patients (p

Introduction Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major health problem worldwide. The majority of cases involving HCV infection develop into chronic hepatitis because of a failure to develop an effective immune response. Apoptosis of the hepatocytes plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of HCV infection: the interaction between the Fas antigen on hepatocytes and the Fas ligand on T cells corresponds to the main mechanism for hepatocyte damage. Interferon (IFN)-α has antiviral, immunoregulatory, and antiproliferative properties, and apoptosis seems to be a critical event in the action mechanisms of both IFNs. In this study, we aimed to detect any relationship between apoptotic markers in the liver and the response to the treatment. Materials and methods The study included 180 chronic HCV patients treated with IFN and ribavirin in four centers. Apoptotic markers (Fas, Fas ligand, Fas-associated death domain, caspases 3, 8, and 9, and in-situ apoptosis) were studied in the liver. The age, sex of the patients, response to therapy, ALT level, viral load, and genotype were recorded. Results The results of the study showed that the histological activity index and fibrosis correlated with CD95 staining density, caspase-8 intensiveness, and portal and parenchymal Fas ligand scores. The apoptotic parameters of the responsive cases were not significantly different from those of the unresponsive cases. Conclusion The apoptotic parameters studied in liver tissue are associated with inflammation and fibrosis; however, these parameters may not predict response to treatment.

WOS: 000356588500012 PubMed ID: 26043290 ObjectiveRecent studies have suggested that endotoxin-induced cytokines play an important role in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Rifaximin is a nonabsorbable antibiotic that might act on Gram-negative bacteria, thereby inhibiting endotoxin proinflammatory cytokine production in patients with NAFLD. Our aim was to investigate the efficacy of rifaximin on NAFLD.MethodsForty-two patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD [15 steatosis, 27 nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)] were included in this prospective, open-label, observational cohort study. BMI and serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma glutamyl transferase, lipid profile, ferritin, C-reactive protein, glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment as well as endotoxin, serum Toll-like receptor 4 (TlR4), interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) levels were measured before and after a 28-day administration of rifaximin (1200mg/daily). Results were analyzed using nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.ResultsA mild reduction in the mean BMI (32.36.9 vs. 31.9 +/- 6.8, P=0.02) and a significant reduction in the endotoxin (0.9 +/- 0.34 vs. 0.8 +/- 0.13, P=0.03) and IL-10 (4.08 +/- 0.9 vs. 3.73 +/- 0.7, P=0.006) levels in the NASH group were noted. A significant reduction was observed in serum aspartate aminotransferase (50.4 +/- 39 vs. 33 +/- 14, P=0.01), ALT (72 +/- 48 vs. 45.2 +/- 26.3, P=0.0001), gamma glutamyl transferase (52 +/- 33 vs. 41.2 +/- 21.1, P=0.02), LDL (137 +/- 34 vs. 127 +/- 27.5, P=0.03), and ferritin (142 +/- 214 vs. 89.3 +/- 123, P=0.0001) in the NASH group, but only in ALT (50.4 +/- 26 vs. 35.5 +/- 23.25, P=0.01), and ferritin (73.6 +/- 83 vs. 55 +/- 76, P=0.004) levels decreased significantly in the steatosis group. Treatment with rifaximin did not exert a significant effect on serum levels of TLR-4, IL-1, IL-6, IL-12, or TNF- in either group.ConclusionIn NAFLD and especially in NASH, short-term administration of rifaximin appears to be safe and effective. Scientific Research Project Council of the Bezmialem Vakif University (BAP) [6.2013/4] This work is supported by the Scientific Research Project Council of the Bezmialem Vakif University (BAP No. 6.2013/4)

Background/Aims: QT dispersion is a sign of heterogeneity of ventricular myocardial wall and is associated with cardiac mortality and morbidity. Data regarding with the persistence of QT interval changes in cases with acute pancreatitis (AP) that required clinical follow-up, are insufficient. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the QT interval changes during attack and after remission of the disease, in cases with AP. Materials and Methods: The cases admitted to the Gastroenterohepatology Clinic with the diagnosis of AP were included into the study. Ranson's score parameters, electrocardiography and echocardiography of all patients included into the study were evaluated. Electrocardiographic changes were evaluated two times, during attack and after remission of the disease. Results: A total of 134 subjects (F/M:54/80, 41/59%) diagnosed as AP were included into the study. Seventy two (54%) of the AP cases included into the study were biliary, 32 (24%) were alcohol dependant, 19 (14%) were idiopathic, 9 (7%) were hyperlipidemic and 2 (1%) were ERCP related cases. Mean age of the patents was 57.7±15 years old (range: 19-82 years old) and mean Ranson's score was 3.8±1.9 (range: 1-7), according to the numerical scoring system. We compared QT interval changes during the attack and after the remission of AP and found significant increase in QT dispersion levels during acute attack of AP (p

Background/Aims: To provide a new mathematical formula to predict liver fibrosis in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Materials and Methods: Patients with chronic hepatitis B and C who underwent liver biopsy at different centers were included in this study. Chronic hepatitis B was defined as immunopositivity for the hepatitis B surface antigen for at least 6 months, and chronic hepatitis C was defined as positivity for HCV RNA for at least 3 months. The histo logical features were evaluated by the histological activity index and fibrosis. Results: In total, 1299 patients were included in the study. The distribution and the mean of the parameters of the patients were as follows: 1009 patients with chronic hepatitis B with a mean age of 45±13/years [emale/male (F/M)=47.5/52.5%] and 290 patients with hepatitis C with a mean age of 52±10.3/years [F/M=61/39%]. When the cut-off value of the REAL TEST formula“[(age x pT x AST)/(PLT/1000)]/100” in patients with hepatitis B was deter mined to be ≥1.37, it was found that it could predict fibrosis with 79% specificity, 78% sensitivity, 85% negative predictive value (NPV), and 70% positive predictive value (PPV) (area under the curve (AUC)=0.852, 95% CI:0.820.87). When the cut-off value of the REAL TEST formula in patients with hepatitis C was determined to be ≥1.99, it was found that it could predict significant fibrosis with 87% specificity, 90% sensitivity, 94.4% NPV, and 79.4% PPV (AUC:0.95, 95% CI:0.93-0.98) Conclusion: The REAL TEST formula results correlated with the pathological findings and may be a useful method for the evaluation of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C.

Hypertriglyceridemia induces acute recurrent pancreatitis, but its role in the etiology of chronic pancreatitis (CP) is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings of 7 patients with CP due to type 1 hyperlipidemia compared to CP patients with other or undefined etiological factors.We retrospectively analyzed the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings of 7 CP patients with type 1 hyperlipidemia compared to CP patients without hypertriglyceridemia. These 7 patients had multiple episodes of acute pancreatitis and had features of CP on abdominal CT, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and/or endoscopic ultrasonography.All CP patients were classified into two groups: a group with type 1 hyperlipidemia (n=7) and a group with other etiologies (n=58). The mean triglyceride level was 2323+/-894 mg/dL in the first group. Age at the diagnosis of CP in the first group was significantly younger than that in the second group (16.5+/-5.9 vs 48.3+/-13.5, P0.001). The number of episodes of acute pancreatitis in the first group was significantly higher than that in the second group (15.0+/-6.8 vs 4.0+/-4.6, P=0.011). The number of splenic vein thrombosis in the first group was significantly higher than that in the second group (4/7 vs 9/58, P=0.025). Logistic regression analysis found that younger age was an independent predictor of CP due to hypertriglyceridemia (r=0.418, P=0.000).Type 1 hyperlipidemia appears to be an etiological factor even for a minority of patients with CP. It manifests at a younger age, and the course of the disease might be severe.

Location-awareness and prediction play a steadily increasing role as systems and services become more intelligent. At the same time semantics gain in importance in geolocation application. In this work, we investigate the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) in the field of semantic location prediction. We evaluate three different ANN types: FFNN, RNN and LSTM on two different data sets on two different semantic levels each. In addition we compare each of them to a Markov model predictor. We show that neural networks perform overall well, with LSTM achieving the highest average score of 76,1%.

Background/aims Oxidative stress and insulin resistance (IR) are major contributors in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The purpose of this study was to find the relation between oxidative stress parameters and histopathological findings in NAFLD patients with and without insulin resistance (IR). Materials and methods Thirty-two patients with no alcohol intake and biopsy-proven diagnosis of NAFLD were studied (M/F: 17/15; mean age 46.5±11.4 years). Twenty-one NAFLD patients with IR were compared with 11 patients without IR. The fasting insulin level was measured, and the insulin resistance index was calculated using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) method. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured in tissue and serum specimens. Glutathione (GH) was measured in tissue homogenates. Nitric oxide (NO), vitamin E and C levels were measured in serum. Results Patients with IR had significantly higher tissue MDA levels (p=0.001) and significantly decreased tissue SOD and GH levels (p=0.001 and 0.002, respectively) than those without IR. The steatosis grade, necroinflammatory grade and stage were significantly higher in patients with IR (p=0.035, 0.003 and 0.001, respectively). HOMA IR significantly correlated with the necroinflammatory grade, stage, tissue MDA, SOD and GH (p=0.013, 0.001, 0.008, 0.001 and 0.001, respectively). Serum MDA (β=1.88, p=0.002), serum SOD (β=0.57, p=0.006), tissue MDA (β=0.22, p=0.006), tissue SOD (β=1.48, p=0.071) and stage (β=2.81, p=0.003) were independently associated with increased HOMA IR. Increased MDA [OR: 1.51; 95% CI: (1.03-2.22); p=0.034] was a risk factor for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and increased SOD activity had a preventive effect against NASH [OR: 0.008; 95% CI: (0.001-0.98); p=0.04]. Conclusion This study shows that insulin resistance in NAFLD correlates with enhanced oxidative stress. Histopathological disease severity significantly correlated with oxidative stress parameters. These data show that NAFLD patients with IR may have increased risk for disease progression.

Background/Aims: There are no clinical data available about chronic pancreatitis (CP) on a series of patients of sufficient number in Turkey. In this study, the etiology and clinical features of CP were evaluated in one center, which is a tertiary referral hospital. Materials and Methods: The files of 168 patients who had been diagnosed with CP in our Medical Faculty be tween October 2007 and May 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. The etiological factors, symptoms, complications, and treatment methods were analyzed. Results: The most common etiological factor was alcohol abuse (39%). The average age±SD was 46±15.2 years, and the male:female ratio was 4.2:1 (it was 2.6:1 for other etiologies except alcohol abuse and 15.5:1 in alcoholic CP patients, p

Peginterferon (PEG-IFN) treatment of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) results in HBeAg loss in 30% of patients, but clearance of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) from serum is less often achieved. We investigated whether the presence of precore (PC) and basal core promoter (BCP) mutants before PEG-IFN treatment affects serological and virological response. A total of 214 HBeAg-positive CHB patients treated with PEG-IFN +/- lamivudine for 52 weeks in a global randomized trial were classified at baseline as wildtype (WT) or non-WT (detectable mutants at PC/BCP) by line-probe assay. Response was assessed at 6 months posttreatment and through long-term follow-up (LTFU). Mutants were detected in 64% of patients, in varying frequencies across HBV genotypes A through D. Patients with WT had higher baseline HBV DNA, HBeAg, and HBsAg levels than patients with non-WT. Patients with WT were more likely to achieve HBeAg loss with HBV DNA

Background: Liver biopsy is an imperfect gold standard for assessing the disease severity in hemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C. Our purpose was to compare the accuracy of the FibroTest (FT) and ActiTest (AT) with liver biopsy and the AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) in determining hepatic fibrosis and necroinflammatory activity in hemodialysis patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Methods: The FT-AT index combining 6 biochemical markers was assessed in 33 hemodialysis patients with HCV. Liver fibrosis and necroinflammatory activity was staged and graded according to the METAVIR scoring system. Results: The accuracy of FT-AT versus biopsy was 0.46 for significant fibrosis and 0.36 for severe necroinflammatory activity. The FT index had a positive predictive value of 20% for scores greater than 0.6 and a negative predictive value of 45% for scores less than 0.2. Eleven of the 33 patients had scores ≤0.2, 6 had significant fibrosis on biopsy. Four out of 5 patients with FT scores >0.6 had mild fibrosis. APRI correlated well with the biopsy. Conclusion: The FT-AT test does not seem to be a reliable noninvasive marker for the prediction of necroinflammatory activity and fibrosis in hemodialysis patients with HCV and cannot be used as an alternative to either liver biopsy or APRI.

Aim: To evaluate the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) variabilities in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and correlate it with hepatocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress parameters. Methods: 24 patients with NAFLD and normal ALT were compared with 26 subjects with NAFLD and elevated ALT. Liver oxidative stress was estimated on the basis of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione. Immunohistochemistry was performed for activated caspase 3 and 8, nuclear factor-κB, antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein and serum TNF receptor levels were measured. Results: The mean caspase 3 and 8 activity scores, oxidative stress parameters, necroinflammatory grade and prevalence of severe fibrosis were comparable across the groups with normal versus elevated ALT. Patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis had significantly higher caspase 3 and 8 activity (percentage of cells with positive staining per high power field), and serum malondialdehyde (mmol/l) levels than those with simple steatosis. ALT elevation was not a risk factor for advanced necroinflammatory grade and fibrosis. A receiver operating characteristic curve did not demonstrate sensitivity and specificity for discriminative power of ALT. Conclusion: Apoptosis and oxidative stress are the main processes contributing to disease progression in NAFLD. ALT values do not correlate with the parameters of apoptosis and oxidative stress. The disease severity can only be determined by liver biopsy.

Amac: Tuberkuloz peritonit geliflmekte olan ulkelerde s›k gorulur. Spesifik klinik bulgular›n olmamas› ve laparoskopi kullanmak- s›z›n periton hucre orneklemesinde zorluklar bulunmas› tan› konusunda klinisyenin zorluk yaflamas›na sebep olur. Endoskopik ul- trasonografi eflliinde ince ine aspirasyonu, barsak lumeni etraf›ndaki yap›lar›n orneklenmesinde en iyi sonuc al›c› ve en guvenli tan› metodu olarak gundeme gelmektedir. Cal›flmam›zda, tuberkuloz peritonit tan›s›nda peritona yonelik endoskopik ultrasonogra- fi-ince ine aspirasyonu iflleminin etkinliini araflt›rmay› hedefledik. Gerec ve Yontem: Tuberkuloz peritonit fluphesi olan 3 has- ta (2 erkek, 1 kad›n; yafllar s›ras›yla 38, 25 ve 65 idi) cal›flmaya al›nd›. Hastalarda klinik deerlendirme kapsam›nda yap›lan bil- gisayarl› tomografik goruntuleme ve asit s›v›s› analizleri tan›sal deildi. Tum hastalardan, transgastrik yoldan 19-gauge ProCore ine ile peritona yonelik endoskopik ultrasonografi-ince ine aspirasyonu ifllemi yap›ld›. Periton orneklemesi icin en az iki flupheli infiltre bolgeden ornek al›nd›. Tum hastalar icin hucre bloklar› haz›rland›. Bulgular: ‹ki hastadan al›nan periton biyopsi ornek- leri Mycobacterium tuberculosis polimeraz zincir reaksiyonu incelemesi icin pozitifti. Tum hastalar›n periton biyopsi orneklerinde multinukleer dev hucreler goruldu. Tuberkuloz tedavisi ile tum hastalarda semptomlar iyileflti ve asit kayboldu. ‹flleme yonelik her- hangi bir komplikasyon yaflanmad›. Sonuc: Endoskopik ultrasonografi-ince ine aspirasyon yontemi, tuberkuloz peritonit tan›s›n- da periton orneklemesi icin etkili ve guvenli bir tan›sal metod olarak kullan›labilir. Anahtar kelimeler: Endosonografi, ince ine aspirasyon biyopsisi, tuberkuloz peritonit Background/aims: Tuberculous peritonitis is prevalent in developing countries and its diagnosis is still challenging due to the lack of specific clinical characteristics and the difficulty in obtaining tissue from the peritoneum without laparoscopy. Endoscopic ultrasound - guided fine needle aspiration is emerging as the most effective and safe method for obtaining tissue from the structu- res surrounding the gut lumen. Our study aimed to elucidate the efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration of the pe- ritoneum in the diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis. Materials and Methods: Three patients (2 male and 1 female; aged 38, 25, and 65 years, respectively) suspected of having tuberculous peritonitis were recruited into the study. Clinical evaluation including computed tomography imaging and analysis of ascitic fluid were performed. Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration biopsy of the peritoneum was performed trans-gastrically with a 19-gauge ProCore needle in all patients. At least two different areas of the peritoneum suspected to be involved were sampled and paraffin-embedded cell blocks were prepared for each biopsy specimen. Re- sults: Biopsy specimens were positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis by polimerase chain reaction in 2 patients and positive for multinucleated giant cells in all patients. Treatment for tuberculosis resulted in the resolution of symptoms and ascites. No proce- dure-related complications occured. Conclusions: Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration is an efficacious and safe method to obtain tissue from the peritoneum to use in the diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis.

BACKGROUND/AIMS Pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia (FD) is unclear and not well documented. Some gastric motility abnormalities have been reported to be important factors. Transcutaneous electrogastrography (EGG) is an experimental method that is used to assess FD. We aimed to compare FD patients with control subjects in terms of motility abnormalities according to the EGG results. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty patients with FD and thirty control subjects were included. EGG was preprandially and postprandially performed. The recordings were analyzed and compared between the two groups. RESULTS Mean ages of the cases and controls were 31.4±9.3 and 32.58±7.6 years, respectively. Female subjects constituted 80% of the FD group and 76.67% of the control group. In terms of the preprandial dominant frequency (DF), the FD group demonstrated lower incidence of normal subjects than the control group [13 (43.3%) and 22 (73.3%), respectively] and a higher incidence of bradygastria than the control group [17 (56.7%) and 8 (26.6%), respectively]. In the FD group, the rate of cases with normal postprandial DF was lower than that in the control group [10 (33.3%) and 23 (76.7%), respectively], whereas the rates of bradygastria [18 (60%) and 7 (23.3%), respectively] and tachygastria [2 (6.7%) and 0 (0%), respectively] were higher in the FD group (p

Although uncommon, acute pancreatitis is a well-recognized, but generally serious, complication following liver transplantation. In addition to being more prevalent in patients who underwent liver transplantation than in the general population, it has a more aggressive course and can be responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. The post-liver transplant population has altered anatomy, increased comorbidities, and requires a myriad of drugs. These characteristics make them different from the pre-transplant population. Despite their retrospective nature, prior studies have identified numerous etiological factors that are associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis following liver transplantation. These can be broadly classified into the following four categories: surgical and anatomical factors, infections, post-transplant management, and post-transplant complications. The aim of this systematic review is to assimilate the available information regarding acute pancreatitis following adult liver transplantation to describe the risk factors and natural history of the disease and to highlight possible areas for further investigation.

Background/Aims: A relation between some genetic mutations and chronic pancreatitis (CP) has been reported. However, the relation of genetic mutation to alcoholic CP (ACP) and idiopathic CP (ICP) still remains controversial. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of protease serine 1 (PRSS1), serine protease inhibitor, Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) SPINK1 and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutations in ACP and ICP patients in Turkey. Materials and Methods: Forty-one patients with ACP and 38 patients with ICP were enrolled, and 35 healthy individuals served as controls. The PRSS1 and SPINK1 mutations were investigated by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment-length polymorphism (RFLP) technique. The CFTR mutation was examined with PCR direct sequencing. Results: The mean ages of the ACP, ICP and healthy control groups were 53.2, 40.4 and 46.3 years, respectively. A CFTR F508 mutation was detected as a heterozygote in one (2.4%) patient with ACP. In the ICP and control populations, PRSS1, SPINK1 and CFTR mutations were not detected. Conclusion: This study shows that PRSS1, SPINK1 and CFTR mutations do not play a role in ACP and ICP patients.

Backgrounds and aims: External stimuli are considered as possible triggers for the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and particularly chronic ulcerative colitis (CUC) in genetically susceptible individuals. Our aims were to investigate monthly clustering-patterns in the onset of symptoms and diagnosis of IBD, as well as health seeking behavior in those individuals. Materials and methods: Two hundred and eighty-two consecutive patients with IBD were included. Onset of symptoms (month) and delay to diagnosis were analyzed. Kruskal-Wallis and Roger-s test were used to analyze for statistical patterns in seasonal clustering. Results: There were 181 males and 101 females with IBD; mean age: 40 +/- 14.7 years (median: 38, range: 14-79 years). The peak number of IBD cases was seen in winter/early spring, with the lowest numbers in autumn, which reached statistical significance in the CUC group (p: 0.029). Seasonal changes were not significantly affected by gender. The time delay to diagnosis from symptom onset was 3.0 +/- 2.3 months in males (median: 2, range: 0-12 months) vs 3.2 +/- 3.2 months (median: 2, range: 0-18 months) in females (not statistically significant). Conclusion: Our results show a seasonal relation in IBD cases, particularly in CUC, which may suggest external stimuli acting as a precipitant to IBD in susceptible individuals. There was a delay between symptom onset and CUC diagnosis, which was not felt to be clinically significant.

Background/Aims: This study aimed to test the efficacy of empirical proton pump inhibitor use and Helicobacter pylori therapy for uninvestigated dyspepsia in a population with a high prevalence of H. pylori. Material and Methods: The study had a two-stage design. In the first stage, the efficacy of 4-week pantoprazole treatment was compared with placebo in patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia. In the second stage, the efficacies of 2-week treatment with pantoprazole in H. pylori-negative patients and H. pylori eradication therapy (pantoprazole + amoxicillin + clarithromycin) in H. pylori-positive patients were compared. The primary endpoint was sufficient overall symptom relief (Global Overall Symptom score ≤2; no or minimal symptoms) at the end of treatment. Results: In the first stage, sufficient overall symptom relief was achieved by 25.2% of patients in the pantoprazole group and 15.5% of patients in the placebo group, a difference that was not statistically significant (p=0.06). In the second stage, the rate of sufficient overall symptom relief was higher in the H. pylori therapy group than in the pantoprazole group (37.1% vs. 23.4%; p=0.02). After untreated follow-up, sufficient overall symptom relief remained significantly higher in the H. pylori therapy group than in the pantoprazole group (39.7% vs. 18%; p

A letter in response to: Yilmaz Y, Kurt R, Kalayci C. Apoptosis in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with normal aminotransferase values: zooming in on cytokeratin 18 fragments. Biomarkers Med. 4(5), 743–745 (2010).

AIM: To outline the feasibility, safety, adverse events and early results of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in pancreatic neoplasms using a novel probe. METHODS: This is a multi-center, pilot safety feasibility study. The intervention described was radiofrequency ablation (RF) which was applied with an innovative monopolar RF probe (1.2 mm Habib EUS-RFA catheter) placed through a 19 or 22 gauge fine needle aspiration (FNA) needle once FNA was performed in patients with a tumor in the head of the pancreas. The Habib™ EUS-RFA is a 1 Fr wire (0.33 mm, 0.013”) with a working length of 190 cm, which can be inserted through the biopsy channel of an echoendoscope. RF power is applied to the electrode at the end of the wire to coagulate tissue in the liver and pancreas. RESULTS: Eight patients [median age of 65 (range 27-82) years; 7 female and 1 male] were recruited in a prospective multicenter trial. Six had a pancreatic cystic neoplasm (four a mucinous cyst, one had intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm and one a microcystic adenoma) and two had a neuroendocrine tumors (NET) in the head of pancreas. The mean size of the cystic neoplasm and NET were 36.5 mm (SD ± 17.9 mm) and 27.5 mm (SD ± 17.7 mm) respectively. The EUS-RFA was successfully completed in all cases. Among the 6 patients with a cystic neoplasm, post procedure imaging in 3-6 mo showed complete resolution of the cysts in 2 cases, whilst in three more there was a 48.4% reduction [mean pre RF 38.8 mm (SD ± 21.7 mm) vs mean post RF 20 mm (SD ± 17.1 mm)] in size. In regards to the NET patients, there was a change in vascularity and central necrosis after EUS-RFA. No major complications were observed within 48 h of the procedure. Two patients had mild abdominal pain that resolved within 3 d. CONCLUSION: EUS-RFA of pancreatic neoplasms with a novel monopolar RF probe was well tolerated in all cases. Our preliminary data suggest that the procedure is straightforward and safe. The response ranged from complete resolution to a 50% reduction in size.

Herein, we present an endoscopic repair of iatrogenic duodenal perforation by over-the-scope clipping system (OTSC) and endoclips in an 84-year-old woman that occurred during linear endosonography (EUS) examination. One OTSC and 8 clips were used for repairing the perforation hole. After 3 days in the intensive care unit (ICU) by chest tube and without oral feeding, she was discharged from the hospital at 6. admission day, and she also had an acute coronary attack during 4. hospital day. OTSC and clipping devices are very useful for repair of iatrogenic perforations, especially in older patients who have comorbid diseases and who can not tolerate the surgery.

Pancreatic cysts are challenging to the gastroenterologist. Detection rate is increasing and neither criteria for a definitive diagnosis, nor a validated surveillance strategy is available. Pancreatic endosonography with or without sampling is necessary in most of the cases. However this technique requires expertise and is not widely available. While some cysts have a malignant potential or already malign at the diagnosis, most are benign and remain so for decades. We are going to review the existing data on this controversial subject.

Background/aims: Management of pancreatic pseudocysts can be challenging. Endosonography-guided drainage of the pseu- docysts is an important treatment modality. In this study, we evaluated the results of endosonography-guided transmural endosco- pic drainage of these lesions. Materials and Methods: We performed drainage of the pancreatic pseudocysts through the stomach or duodenum using a linear endosonography device. The procedure steps were as follows: Determination of the best location for ne- edle insertion, puncture of the cyst, guide insertion, creation of a window between the cyst and stomach lumen using a cystotome, and finally insertion of a double pigtail catheter. Results: The procedure was applied to 12 patients (8 males, 4 females, mean age: 51±15.6 years), with success achieved in 10 patients (83%), defined as complete disappearance of the cyst. The mean cyst diameter was 9 cm (range: 6-12 cm). There was only one complication (8%), as an intraabdominal abscess with an uncomplicated course af- ter surgical drainage. Conclusions: Endosonography-guided drainage is an effective and safe method for the management of pan- creatic pseudocysts.

The SRS(TM) Endoscopic Stapling System (Medigus Ltd, Omer, Israel) is a novel method for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The present study assessed the safety and efficacy of SRS compared with laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery (LARS).Of 27 participants, 11 underwent SRS and 16 LARS. Symptoms were assessed using Velanovich GERD-health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) scores. The groups were compared in reference to operation time, improvement in GERD-HRQL scores, and postoperative course. Chi-squared and Mann-Whitney-U-tests were used for statistical analysis.Of 16 (59.3%) male and 11 (40.7%) female patients, mean age was 39.6 (range: 24-60) years and mean body mass index was 26.2 kg/m(2) . Both groups were statistically similar. An esophageal perforation observed in the SRS group completely recovered after over-the-scope clipping. Procedure times for SRSand LARS were 89 and 47 min, respectively (P 0.05). Mean discharge time was longer for SRS than LARS (3 days vs 1.2 days, P 0.05). However, this difference disappeared with the exclusion of a complicated patient with long hospitalization in the SRS group. During 6 months mean follow up, proton-pump inhibitor use was insignificantly higher in the SRS group (P 0.05). Mean GERD-HRQL scores dropped in 87% and in 64% of patients (P 0.05) from 29.3 to 4.1 and from 24.8 to 8.9 (P = 0.016) in LARS and SRS groups, respectively.The short-term results of SRS are promising. The forthcoming new-generation devices and increasing experience may further improve efficacy and decrease untoward effects.

Sclerosing cholangitis is a rare complication of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in children which can result in liver failure. This combination is even rarer in adults.We report a 65-year-old female who developed sclerosing cholangitis 4 years after the diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis.Sclerosing cholangitis caused by Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare condition in the adult population, but it has a high mortality. There is no definitive therapy other than liver transplantation. The long-term efficacy of liver transplantation remains unknown.

Several studies have reported that interferon therapy increases elimination rate of HBeAg and anti-HBe seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. We aimed to evaluate long-term results of interferon-α treatment in HBeAg positive CHB patients in a country with exclusively D genotype. Seventy-one naive CHB patients (M/F 61/10, mean age 29 ± 12 years, range 16–62) treated with 6 months of interferon-α 2b, 10 MU tiw and had a consequent untreated follow-up period of at least 10 years with positive response were identified and their data were reviewed. The therapy response was defined as HBeAg seroconversion with undetectable HBV-DNA. The responders were followed-up at 3–6-month intervals. Twenty-eight (39%) patients achieved HBeAg seroconversion (25 within the therapy, 3 within the consequent 12 months off-treatment follow-up). The responders were followed-up with a mean period of 152 months (range 123–181). In the follow-up period, 21/25 (84%) initial responders relapsed. On the other hand, 3 patients who did not respond at the end of therapy sustained the response during follow-up. Hence 21/28 total responders relapsed (75%), either with HBeAg reversion (3, 14.3%) or HBV-DNA elevation over 2000 IU/ml (or its equivalent in other types of definitions) and ALT elevation (18, 85.7%). The sustained response was present in 7 patients (9.8%). Serious side effects precluding completion of treatment occurred in three patients (4.2%). In multivariate analysis none of the pre-treatment parameters appeared to be significant in predicting response. Sustained response to interferon treatment is low in HBeAg positive CHB patients with genotype D.

Multiple organ failure (MOF) due to colchicine treatment is rare, even in the presence of concurrent renal and hepatic failure [1]. Here, we present a case of MOF caused by nearusual doses of colchicine in a patient with risk factors for colchicine intoxication. A 76-year-old male patient with 2 months history of decline in well-being, malaise, and fatigue had been referred to our institution due to elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase and (AST) levels. His medical history included diabetes mellitus type 2 for 6 months, arterial hypertension for 10 years and gout for 40 years. He had been taking perindoprilhydrochlorothiazide 10/12.5 mg tablet once a day, verapamil sustained-release tablet once a day, and rapeglinid 0.5 mg tablet three times a day. 5 days before the admission, he has been advised to take colchicine tablet 1 mg three times a day by a general practitioner for gout prophylaxis. Physical examination revealed bilateral 3? pretibial oedema and grade 3 holosystolic murmur on the apex. Lungs were clear to auscultation. Left lobe of liver was palpable. On the fifth day of admission, the patient experienced watery diarrhoea four to five times a day lasting for a week. The culture and the microscopic examinations of stool revealed no pathological findings. Oral anti-diabetic drugs were not appropriate for the patient because of hypoglycaemia risk due to chronic liver disease. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors could worsen renal function in a dehydrated diabetic patient. Diarrhoea caused by colchicine overdose resolves by dose reduction, that is why colchicine dose was decreased to 1 mg/day and all the other medications were ceased. On the day 10, the patient became anuric and febrile. Urea and creatinine levels increased. Bicytopenia was observed on his blood count. Arterial blood gas analysis was consistent with metabolic acidosis. He still had diarrhoea. Thus, colchicine was thought to be responsible for this clinical picture and was stopped. Breathing was shallow and laboured. Chest radiography showed bilateral patchy shadowing throughout both the lung fields. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis and MOF were considered. Piperacilline-tazobactam 2.25 mg four times a day was started. He was intubated due to respiratory failure but unfortunately died on the same day. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale in our patient indicated a probable relationship (score of 5) between MOF and colchicine therapy. Eighty percent of the patients taking therapeutic doses of colchicine and almost all patients who are exposed to overdose experience GI symptoms. These GI symptoms serve as primary warning signs of colchicine toxicity during treatment for any indicated disease and are usually mild, transient, and reversible by discontinuation or lowering of colchicine dose [1]. Common clinical features of colchicine toxicity along with stages are shown in Table 1. A. Ucgul Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey

G A A b st ra ct s of uniform uptake within the DC compared with the irregular uptake in the AC. 3. No subject was identified as having zero uptake in any segment by all observers. 4. The quantitative analysis of uptake also showed differences in the percentage uptake for the various segments, highest in C+AC. Discussion 1. The pattern of uptake, irregular in C+AC and more uniform elsewhere, probably explains the differences between quantitative and qualitative results. 2. These findings confirm our anecdotal observation but do not explain the underlying mechanisms. 3. Possible reasons for our findings include water reabsorption, colonic muscle uptake and uptake by microbes when fermenting undigested fibre. Conclusion FDG uptake in the colon occurs frequently and offers the potential for a non-invasive probe of colonic physiology. Quantitative uptake (mean ± SD) in 9 patients (1 excluded because of anomalously high uptake in DC)