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Background/Aims Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second-most common primary liver malignancy, arising from the peripheral intrahepatic bile duct epithelium. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) may be involved in the development of ICC. We explored the prognostic value of hepatitis virus infection, as well as other prognostic factors affecting survival in patients with ICC. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed for patients diagnosed with ICC between August 2005 and December 2018 at Konkuk University Medical Center. We identified a total of 131 patients with ICC. Overall survival rates of patients with and without hepatitis were determined. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to estimate factors influencing survival outcomes. Results A total of 17.6% (23/131) of patients were positive for HBV or HCV. Hepatitis B positive ICC patients were significantly younger with higher albumin and higher α-fetoprotein than those without hepatitis viral infections. The median survival of hepatitis-positive and hepatitis-negative groups was 280 and 213 days, respectively. Survival rates were not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.279). Multivariate analyses indicated that lower serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) (p < 0.001), lower T stage (p = 0.042), the absence of lymph-node metastasis (p = 0.043), and receiving curative surgery (p = 0.033) were independent predictors of better outcomes. Conclusions While hepatitis influenced a number of clinical features in ICC patients, it did not affect survival rate. Prognostic factors influencing survival outcomes with ICC were CA 19-9 level, T stage, the presence of lymph node metastasis, and curative surgery.

Forceps biopsies are usually performed before endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colonic laterally spreading tumors (LSTs). However, preceding biopsy is commonly believed to possibly inhibit complete tumor resection by causing blurring of tumor borders and tissue fibrosis. The aims were to investigate whether the preceding biopsy of colorectal LST affects the complete endoscopic tumor resection and increases the risk of complications. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with colorectal LSTs who underwent ESD at our center during an 8-year period. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they underwent biopsy of the tumor before ESD. In addition, the characteristics of patients and tumors, including the completeness of tumor resection, were investigated. Of 288 patients (174 men) enrolled in this study, 194 (67.4%, preceding biopsy group) underwent biopsies before ESD, whereas 94 (32.6%, no biopsy group) did not. There were no significant differences in age, sex, comorbidity, medication history, tumor location, and final pathologic result between both groups. Tumor size was larger (p = 0.002) and LST-G tumor was more common (p = 0.003) in the preceding biopsy group than in the no biopsy group. No significant difference was seen in ESD outcomes, including procedure time, hospitalization period, incidence of complications, en bloc resection rate, resection margin status, and incidence of surgical operation, between both groups. Biopsy of LST is commonly performed before endoscopic resection. Contrary to popular belief, it does not increase the incomplete tumor resection rate and incidence of complications. KCT0002321

Background/Aims: Nodular gastritis (NG) is a well-known endoscopic finding observed in patients with a Helicobacter pylori infection, which may lead to invasive gastric cancer. Lymphofollicular gastritis consists of lymphoid follicles or lymphoid cell aggregates, and is common in children. The aim of this study was to identify patients with NG from those in whom gastric biopsied specimens showed lymphoid follicles and lymphoid cell aggregates. Methods: Subjects, whose gastric biopsy specimens showed lymphoid follicles or lymphoid cell aggregates, were included in this study. The inclusion criterion was that they underwent a serum pepsinogen assay on the day of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. NG was diagnosed if the endoscopy findings revealed regular-sized, multiple, colorless subepithelial nodules. Results : Among 108 subjects who showed lymphoid follicles or lymphoid cell aggregates, 13 (12.0%) revealed NG on endoscopy, and all these subjects showed positive Giemsa staining. Patients diagnosed with NG were younger (p=0.012) and showed a female predominance (p=0.001) compared to those without NG. The mean serum pepsinogen levels were higher (p=0.001) and lymphoid follicle-dominant subjects were more common (p＜0.001) in the NG subjects than in those without NG. Logistic regression analysis revealed a younger age (p=0.041) and female gender (p=0.002) to be significant independent risk factors for NG. Conclusions: NG should be distinguished from lymphofollicular gastritis because only 12% of patients showing gastric biopsy findings of lymphoid follicles and lymphoid cell aggregates demonstrated NG on endoscopy. NG is an endoscopic finding that is more common in women and in the younger population, irrespective of the biopsy findings and gastric secretory ability.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become widely accepted method for treating early gastric cancer (EGC), but little is known about its role in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC). The aims of this study were to evaluate the outcomes of ESD in treating EGC in patients with LC. The multicenter retrospective study identified 43 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-related cirrhosis undergoing ESD for treating EGC. The patients (LC group) were subdivided into two groups based on their Child–Pugh classification (CP-class): 32 with CP-class A (LC-A) and 11 with CP-class B (LC-B). The patients were compared to 47 non-cirrhotic CHB patients who underwent ESD (CHB group). Eight patients had a past history of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prior to ESD, but no patients had viable HCC when ESD was performed. Procedural outcomes (en bloc, lateral/basal margins resection) and post-procedural complications (bleeding or perforation) did not differ significantly between the LC and CHB groups or between the LC-A and LC-B groups. No patients experienced worsening of the Child–Pugh score 1 month after ESD compared with the baseline score. During a median observation period of 66 months, the recurrence rates of gastric cancers were similar between the LC and CHB groups (5-year recurrence rates: 2.4 vs. 2.3%, p = 0.925), and all recurrent gastric cancers were completely resected by additional ESD. The overall mortality rate was increased in the LC group (5-year mortality rates: 17.9 vs. 5.7%, p = 0.034), and 8 of 10 deaths were attributed to liver-related diseases (such as HCC, complications of portal hypertension, hepatic failure). ESD is feasible in patients with EGC and comorbid LC, even those with CP-class B cirrhosis. Their prognosis depends on LC-related diseases and not recurrent EGC.

Background/Aims Some people have difficulty tolerating upper endoscopy. The cause of and risk factors for this are not well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors involved in poor cooperation during screening upper endoscopy. Methods A total of 4,422 subjects who underwent a health inspection with upper endoscopy carried out by a single experienced endoscopist were included. We retrospectively investigated subjects’ self-reporting questionnaires and medical records, including endoscopic and histologic findings. The examinees’ cooperation and the completeness of endoscopic examination were evaluated based on the operator’s subjective judgment. Results Examinee cooperation during the endoscopic procedure was poor in 358 out of 4,422 subjects (8.1%). Of the subjects with poor cooperation, the endoscopic examination was incomplete in 36 subjects (10.1%). Multivariate analysis revealed that young age (< 40 years), female sex, high body mass index (≥ 25), hiatal hernia, and procedural sedation using midazolam were independent risk factors for poor cooperation. Conclusions Cooperation during screening upper endoscopy was poor in a considerable number of examinees. Endoscopists must keep in mind that examinee cooperation is more likely to be poor in the young, obese people, women, patients with hiatal hernias, and those who receive procedural sedation.

Background/Aims The presence of invasion is a diagnostic criterion of early gastric cancer (EGC) in Korea, whereas diagnosis in Japan is based on enlarged nuclei and prominent nucleoli. Moreover, the depth of invasion is the location of cancer cell infiltration in Korea, whereas it is the location of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) or cancer cell infiltration in Japan. We evaluated the characteristics of EGC with LVI to uncover the effects of different diagnostic criteria. Methods Consecutive T1-stage EGC patients who underwent complete resection were included after endoscopic or surgical resection. The presence of LVI was evaluated. Results LVI was present in 112 of 1,089 T1-stage EGC patients. LVI was associated with depth of invasion (p

Background/Aims: Despite improvements in surgical techniques and postopera tive patient care, bile leakage can occur after hepatobiliary surgery and may lead to serious complications. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic treatment of bile leakage after hepatobiliary surgery. Methods: The medical records of 20 patients who underwent endoscopic retro grade cholangiopancreatography because of bile leakage after hepatobiliary sur gery from August 2009 to September 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Endo scopic treatment included insertion of an endoscopic retrograde biliary drainage stent after endoscopic sphincterotomy. Results: Most cases of bile leakage presented as percutaneous bile drainage through a Jackson-Pratt bag (75%), followed by abdominal pain (20%). The sites of bile leaks were the cystic duct stump in 10 patients, intrahepatic ducts in five, liv er beds in three, common hepatic duct in one, and common bile duct in one. Of the three cases of bile leakage combined with bile duct stricture, one patient had severe bile duct obstruction, and the others had mild strictures. Five cases of bile leakage also exhibited common bile duct stones. Concerning endoscopic modal ities, endoscopic therapy for bile leakage was successful in 19 patients (95%). One patient experienced endoscopic failure because of an operation-induced bile duct deformity. One patient developed guidewire-induced microperforation during cannulation, which recovered with conservative treatment. One patient developed recurrent bile leakage, which required additional biliary stenting with sphincter -otomy. Conclusions: The endoscopic approach should be considered a first-line modality for the diagnosis and treatment of bile leakage after hepatobiliary surgery.

In recent years, endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) with endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) has been shown to be an effective technique for the removal of large or difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones, as an alternative to EST. Reviewing the literature published since 2003, it is understood that EPLBD has fewer associated overall complications than EST. Bleeding occurred less frequently with EPLBD than with EST. There was no significant difference in postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis or perforation. Recent accumulated results of EPLBD with or even without EST suggest that it is a safe and effective procedure for the removal of large or difficult bile duct stones without any additional risk of severe adverse events, when performed under appropriate guidelines. Since use of a larger balloon can tear the sphincter as well as the bile duct, possibly resulting in bleeding and perforation, a balloon size that is equal to or smaller in diameter than the diameter of the native distal bile duct is recommended. The maximum transverse diameter of the stone and the balloon-stone diameter ratio have a tendency to affect the success or failure of complete removal of stones by large balloon dilation to prevent adverse effects such as perforation and bleeding. One should take into account the size of the native bile duct, the size and burden of stones, the presence of stricture of distal bile duct, and the presence of the papilla in or adjacent to a diverticulum. Even though the results of EPLBD indicate that it is a relatively safe procedure in patients with common duct stones with a dilated CBD, the recommended guidelines should be followed strictly for the prevention of major adverse events such as bleeding and perforation.

We evaluated the value of fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) as a complementary imaging modality to endoscopy to predict the curability of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer (EGC). The institutional review board approved this retrospective study with a waiver of informed consent. The records of patients who underwent FDG PET/CT for initial routine staging of gastric cancer from January 2012 to October 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Among them, the patients who had EGC with well or moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma were included in this study. A total of 210 EGCs in 199 patients (mean age ± SD, 67 ± 10 years) were selected for this study. For the analysis of FDG PET/CT image, the radiotracer uptake by the primary tumor was compared with the background gastric uptake. Each case was classified as curable by ESD (no discrete radioactivity) and not curable by ESD (discrete radioactivity). The detection rate of EGC by FDG PET/CT was 37.1% (78 discrete radioactivity in 210 EGCs). However, for the detection of EGC that is not curable by ESD, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve with 95% confidence intervals were 79% (67–87%), 91% (85–95%), 81% (71–88%), 89% (84–93%), and 0.85 (0.79–0.89), respectively. FDG PET/CT may be a useful complementary imaging modality to endoscopy to predict the curability of ESD for EGC.

Background/Aims: In the ABC classification system, group A consists of seronegative subjects without gastric corpus atrophy. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of pseudo group A subjects. Methods: Group A subjects were identified among consecutive Korean adults who underwent a serum anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) test and pepsinogen (PG) assay on the day of endoscopy. Past infection was defined as the presence of either eradication history or endoscopic findings suggesting past infection (i.e., gastric xanthoma, metaplastic gastritis, or advanced atrophy >closed-type 1). Results: Among 2,620 group A subjects, 448 (17.1%) had eradication history, and 133 (5.1%) showed endoscopic findings suggesting past infection. Older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.148; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.067 to 1.236) and earlier year of birth (OR, 1.086; 95% CI, 1.009 to 1.168) were independent risk factors for classification into pseudo group A, with cutoff points at 50.5 years and birth year of 1959.5, respectively. Positive H. pylori test findings were found in 22 subjects (3.1%) among the 715 subjects who underwent the urea breath test or Giemsa staining on the same day. Current infection was positively correlated with PG I and PG II levels (p

Background and study aims The present study aimed to determine the type of intravenous hydration that is best suited to reducing the incidence of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis. Patients and methods In a prospective randomized multicenter trial, average-to-high risk patients who underwent first-time ERCP were randomly assigned to three groups (1:1:1) who received: aggressive intravenous hydration (3 mL/kg/h during ERCP, a 20-mL/kg bolus and 3 mL/kg/h for 8 hours after ERCP) with either lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS) or normal saline solution (NSS), or standard intravenous hydration with LRS (1.5 mL/kg/h during and for 8 hours after ERCP). The primary end point was post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Results 395 patients were enrolled, and 385 completed the protocols. The three groups showed no significant differences in demographic characteristics. There was a significant difference in the intention-to-treat (ITT) PEP rate between the aggressive LRS group (3.0 %, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.1 % – 5.9 %; 4 /132), the aggressive NSS group (6.7 %, 95 %CI 2.5 % – 10.9 %; 9 /134) and the standard LRS group (11.6 %, 95 %CI 6.1 % – 17.2 %; 15 /129; P = 0.03). In the two-group comparisons, the ITT PEP rate was significantly lower for the aggressive LRS group than for the standard LRS group (relative risk [RR] 0.26, 95 %CI 0.08 – 0.76; P = 0.008). There was no significant difference in the ITT PEP rate between the aggressive NSS group and the standard LRS group (RR 0.57, 95 %CI 0.26 – 1.27; P = 0.17). Conclusion Aggressive hydration with LRS is the best approach to intravenous hydration for the prevention of PEP in average-to-high risk patients.

There are several published studies examining the major complications (bleeding and perforation) of colon endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, little is known about the other complications, such as post-ESD coagulation syndrome (CS). The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence and the clinical features of CS after colon ESD. There were 183 cases treated with ESD for either a colorectal laterally spreading tumor or a polypoid mass in Konkuk University Medical Center. There were 151 cases enrolled in this study after excluding patients with perforation, bleeding, nonlifting sign, or nonneoplastic lesions. Patients with a fever above 37.7 °C, abdominal pain, and localized tenderness after ESD without macro- or microperforation, regardless of the symptoms of peritoneal irritation, were deemed as showing post-colon ESD CS. There were 151 cases enrolled in this study, and 13 patients (8.6 %) showed CS after colorectal ESD. There were no differences in the demographic and endoscopic characteristics between the patients with CS and those without CS. The mean hospitalization stay was 3.0 ± 0.3 days longer in the CS (+) group (6.9 ± 1.9 days) than that in the CS (−) group (3.9 ± 1.6 days) (p = 0.001). All patients with CS were treated with conservative, nonsurgical management, such as fasting and intravenous antibiotics. The rate of post-ESD CS was less than 9 % in this study. Although CS occurred, all of the patients with CS showed a favorable progression within 1 week.

Background/aims The serum anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) immunoglobulin G (IgG) and serum pepsinogen (PG) assays are widely used to screen for gastric cancer. An equivocal serology test finding indicates IgG titer between the positive and negative test findings. This study aims to evaluate the long-term follow-up result after an equivocal test finding on the serum anti-H. pylori IgG assay. Methods Koreans aged 18 years or older with an equivocal serum anti-H. pylori IgG assay finding were included. Subjects were excluded if they did not undergo H. pylori serology test, serum PG assay, and upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy on the same day at our center. The annual test findings were followed-up using the same methods. Results Of the 7,178 subjects who underwent the serum assays and UGI endoscopy on the same day, 274 (3.8%) subjects showed an equivocal H. pylori serology test finding. Of the 98 subjects who were followed-up, 58 (59.2%) showed seropositive finding at the mean follow-up period of 30.6±12.4 months. Subjects with seroconversion showed a higher initial serum PG I (p=0.023) and PG II (p=0.036) levels than those without seroconversion. Conclusions An equivocal H. pylori serology test finding was not rare (3.8%) in Korean adults, and 60% of equivocal subjects showed seroconversion within 3 years. Higher seroconversion rates in subjects with high PG I and PG II levels suggest that intact gastric secreting ability plays a role in the survival of H. pylori. Therefore, equivocal subjects with increased serum PG levels should be considered as potential seropositive subjects.

Midazolam sedation during elective endoscopy is widely performed and flumazenil is frequently administered after endoscopy to reverse sedation in clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of flumazenil injections after elective endoscopy under midazolam sedation.Participants who underwent an upper endoscopy under midazolam sedation were randomly divided into two groups. In group I, flumazenil was administered i.v. 10 min after the patient's transfer to the recovery room, and no antidote was injected in group II. The time of stay in the recovery room and adverse events were reviewed through the nursing records. We asked the patients about their pain and degree of satisfaction according to a visual analogue scale (VAS), their memory of the procedure, mental status and the presence of uncomfortable symptoms on the day of the procedure and the day afterwards.The length of stay in recovery was significantly shorter in group I than in group II. No significant differences were found in the number of patients with pain (VAS ≥1), adverse events and discomfort between the two groups. Additionally, there were no differences in the patients' memory of the procedure, satisfaction with sedation, willingness to repeat the endoscopy and mental status.The time in the recovery room after flumazenil administration was significantly shortened, and the use of the drug did not increase the risk of adverse events or discomfort. The use of flumazenil for reversing midazolam sedation seems to be safe and effective.

BACKGROUND Many patients report discomfort because of the unpleasant taste of bowel preparation solutions. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether adding orange juice to 2 L of polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid is effective for reducing patient discomfort and improving palatability during bowel preparation. DESIGN This was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. SETTINGS The study was conducted at a tertiary referral hospital and a generalized hospital. PATIENTS Consecutive outpatients and inpatients were randomly allocated to drink 2 L of polyethylene glycol-ascorbic acid or 2 L of polyethylene glycol-ascorbic acid with orange juice in a single dose or a split dose. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Tolerability, palatability score, willingness, and related adverse events were investigated by questionnaires. Bowel cleansing was rated using the Aronchick scale. Each score was graded on a 5-point scale. RESULTS A total of 107 patients, 53 in the orange juice group and 54 in the polyethylene glycol-ascorbic acid group who underwent elective colonoscopy were enrolled. The palatability score (mean ± SD) was higher in the orange juice group than in the control group (2.36 ± 0.76 vs 1.78 ± 0.88; p = 0.005). Nausea was less frequent in the orange juice group (26.4% vs 59.3%; p = 0.001). Total amount of bowel preparation ingested was not significantly different between the groups (p = 0.44). The bowel preparation score (mean ± SD) was not significantly different (1.49 ± 0.80 vs 1.43 ± 0.77; p = 0.94). Willingness to repeat the same process was higher in the orange juice group (90.4% vs 66.7%; p = 0.003). LIMITATIONS This study is limited because only ambulatory patients were enrolled. CONCLUSIONS Orange juice intake before drinking 2 L of polyethylene glycol-ascorbic acid for colonoscopy can reduce patient discomfort, resulting in improved acceptability and patient compliance. This method is as effective for bowel cleansing as polyethylene glycol.

Endoscopic hemostasis is the first-line treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Although several factors are known to be risk factors for rebleeding, little is known about the use of antithrombotics. We tried to verify whether the use of antithrombotics affects rebleeding rate after a successful endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer disease (PUD). UGIB patients who underwent successful endoscopic hemostasis were included. Rebleeding was diagnosed when the previously treated lesion bled again within 30 days of the initial episode. Of 522 UGIB patients with PUD, rebleeding occurred in 93 patients (17.8%). The rate of rebleeding was higher with aspirin medication (P=0.006) and after a long endoscopic hemostasis (P

Background The correlation between allergic disease and Helicobacter pylori infection is still controversial in endemic areas. The aim of this study was to determine whether H. pylori infection is related to allergic disease and/or immunoglobulin E (IgE) hypersensitivity in Korean adults. Materials and Methods Consecutive Korean adults who visited our center for a routine checkup were enrolled. All subjects completed a questionnaire that was designed to ascertain their medical history pertaining to physician-diagnosed allergic disease, allergy treatments, and H. pylori eradication therapy. Blood was sampled for serum anti-H. pylori IgG antibody. IgE hypersensitivity was measured using a commercially available ImmunoCAP® Phadiatop (Phadia AB, Uppsala, Sweden). Results Of the 3376 Korean adults who were enrolled, 62 did not answer to the questionnaires adequately and were thus excluded. The proportion of noninfected subjects (p

Background/Aims: Patients with cholangiocarcinoma usually present at an advanced stage, and more than 50% of cases are not resectable at the time of diagnosis. Recently, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been proposed as a palliative and neoadjuvant modality. We evaluated whether combination of PDT and chemotherapy is more effective than PDT alone. Methods: In total, 161 patients with cholangiocarcinoma diagnosed between February 1999 and September 2009 were evaluated. Sixteen patients were treated with PDT and chemotherapy (group A), and 58 were treated with PDT (group B). Results: The median survival was 538 days (95% confidence interval [CI], 475.3 to 600.7) in group A and 334 days (95% CI, 252.5 to 415.5) in group B (p=0.05). Lymph node metastasis status, serum bilirubin of pretreatment, tumor node metastasis stage, treatment method (PDT with chemotherapy vs PDT alone), time to PDT and the number of PDT sessions were prognostic factors with statistical significance in the univariate analysis. A multivariate analysis showed that PDT with chemo therapy and more than two sessions of PDT were significant independent predictors of longer survival in advanced cholangiocarcinoma (hazard ratio [HR], 2.23; 95% CI, 1.18 to 4.20; p=0.013 vs HR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.044 to 3.083; p=0.034). Conclusions: PDT with chemotherapy results in longer survival than PDT alone. (Gut Liver 2014;8:318-323)

Background/Aims A link between G protein β3 (GNB3) polymorphism and functional dyspepsia (FD) has been suggested. The aim of this study was to determine the role of GNB3 polymorphism in the long-term prognosis of FD in Koreans. Methods FD patients and normal healthy controls were recruited from patients who visited our center between December 2006 and June 2007. All of the subjects completed Rome III questionnaires before undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy. Genomic DNA was extracted for GNB3 genotyping. After 5 years, the subjects were reevaluated using the same questionnaires. Results GNB3 825T carrier status was significantly related to FD in Koreans (p=0.04). After 5 years, 61.0% of the initial FD patients and 12.2% of the initial normal subjects were diagnosed with FD (odds ratio [OR], 11.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.3 to 31.1; p

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is recommended at 2-year intervals in countries with a high prevalence of gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to determine whether interval gastric cancers that develop within 2 years of a previous complete screening are associated with microsatellite instability (MSI). Newly diagnosed gastric cancer patients who had undergone gastrectomy were included. Of these 459 patients, 177 were classified as interval gastric cancer since they were diagnosed within 2 years of a previous EGD. Noninterval gastric cancer patients were subclassified into 65 patients who underwent previous EGD between the past 2 and 10 years and 217 patients without EGD during the last 10 years. Analysis for MSI was conducted using two mononucleotide and three dinucleotide markers. MSI was found more frequently in noninterval gastric cancers than in interval gastric cancers (p = 0.009). Interval gastric cancers were associated with a higher prevalence of early gastric cancer (p = 0.006), smaller size (p

BACKGROUND/AIMS Pre-existing diabetes mellitus (DM) has been identified as an adverse prognostic variable associated with increased mortality in various cancers. Although DM and hyperglycemia are considered risk factors for pancreatic cancer (PC), antidiabetic treatments for patients with advanced PC have been overlooked. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels on PC survival. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of first-diagnosed patients with advanced PC who were admitted to Konkuk University Medical Center from 2005 to 2011. RESULTS A total of 127 patients were enrolled, and there were 111 deaths (87.4%) within the 7-year observational period. The most common etiology was disease progression (n=108). DM before PC diagnosis was observed in 65 patients (51.1%), including 28 patients with new-onset DM. The overall median survival times in patients with and without DM were 198 and 263 days, respectively (p=0.091). Survival time according to HbA1c was significantly different between the

Background Gastric atypical epithelium on endoscopic biopsy is borderline lesions between benign and malignant. Definitive management of this lesion remains debatable. Aims We aimed to analyze the final histological diagnosis for atypical epithelium on endoscopic biopsy and to examine the discrepancy rate between the final histological diagnosis and the initial endoscopic assessment. Methods This retrospective study finally enrolled 24 cases proven atypical epithelium on initial histology of an endoscopic biopsy. Of 24 cases, endoscopic submucosal dissection ( n = 22), operation ( n = 1) and follow-up biopsy without endoscopic submucosal dissection ( n = 1) were performed. Results Of the 24 cases, early gastric cancer ( n = 15, 62%) and adenoma ( n = 7, 30%) lesions were finally diagnosed in 22 cases. Age, sex, endoscopic results and number of biopsy did not significantly influence the result of final outcome. Between the initial endoscopic assessment and the final histological diagnosis, 12 cases (50%) showed a concordant diagnosis, but eight (33%) and four cases (17%) showed upgraded and downgraded diagnoses, respectively. Conclusions Of atypical epithelium cases, the rate of malignant and premalignant lesions was 92% and it was difficult to distinguish between malignant and benign lesions using the initial endoscopic findings. Therefore, endoscopic submucosal dissection can be considered in patients with atypical epithelium on endoscopic biopsy.

Colorectal neoplasms and coronary artery disease have similar risk factors. Patients with established coronary artery disease have a high prevalence of colorectal neoplasms. However, little is known about the risk of colorectal neoplasms among individuals at risk for coronary artery disease.We performed a cross-sectional study of 3144 asymptomatic, average-risk individuals without history of coronary artery disease or other vascular disorders who received a screening colonoscopy examination from January to December 2010 at Konkuk University Medical Center in Seoul, Korea. Participants were classified as having low (10%), intermediate (10%-20%), or high (≥20%) risk for developing coronary artery disease in the next 10 years, which was based on Framingham/Adult Treatment Panel III risk scores.The prevalence of colorectal neoplasms in subjects with low, intermediate, and high risk for coronary artery disease was 25.6% (635/2485), 46.6% (252/541), and 53.4% (63/118), respectively (P.001); the prevalence of advanced colorectal neoplasms was 4.9% (122/2485), 9.2% (50/541), and 17.8% (21/118), respectively, for these subjects (P.001). In multivariate analyses, the high-risk group had a significantly increased risk of advanced colorectal neoplasm (odds ratio, 3.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.94-5.65), compared with the low-risk group. The numbers of colonoscopies needed to identify individuals with advanced colorectal neoplasms in intermediate-risk and high-risk groups were 10.8 (95% CI, 8.6-14.7) and 5.6 (95% CI, 7.6-11.9), respectively, which were significantly lower than for the low-risk group (20.4; 95% CI, 17.4-24.6).The prevalence and the risk of overall and advanced colorectal neoplasms increase with risk of coronary artery disease. Individuals with a 10-year risk of coronary artery disease ≥10% might benefit from colonoscopy screening, but further studies are needed to confirm and generalize these results.

The association of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngeal symptoms is not clear. We aimed to examine the symptomatic and endoscopic relations between GERD and laryngeal symptoms and also to evaluate the response to a 2-week proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trial. Seventy-two patients experiencing persistent laryngeal symptoms ≥2/week were enrolled. The laryngeal symptoms using the 1-week laryngeal symptom score (LSS) and the typical reflux symptoms including heartburn and acid regurgitation were assessed. Transnasal-esophagogastroduodenoscopy (TN-EGD) and ambulatory 24-h esophageal pH monitoring were performed. The patients were classified into a GERD group and a non-GERD group. The GERD group was defined as the cases of the presence of typical reflux symptoms and/or reflux esophagitis and/or pathologic acid exposure. Patients were treated with 30 mg of lansoprazole bid for 14 days. Thirty-nine patients (54 %) were diagnosed with GERD on the basis of typical reflux symptoms, EGD, and/or pH testing. There was no significant association between the LSS and the presence of typical reflux symptoms. Also, the presence of laryngitis was not significantly related to reflux esophagitis. The 2-week PPI trial showed no significant difference in the improvement in laryngeal symptoms between the GERD and non-GERD groups. There was no significant symptomatic and endoscopic association between GERD and laryngeal symptoms. Therefore, GERD does not appear to be the sole cause of these symptoms. Additionally, a 2-week PPI trial is not long enough to be a diagnostic tool in patients with laryngeal symptoms.

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) symptoms are common; however, the role of Helicobacter pylori and gastric corpus atrophy in the generation of these symptoms is controversial. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for UGI symptoms in adults in an endemic area of H. pylori infection. Korean adults who completed questionnaires on the day of serum anti-H. pylori IgG and pepsinogen (PG) assays before UGI endoscopy were included. Gastric corpus atrophy was based on the criteria of a serum PG I/II ratio

Asymptomatic erosive esophagitis (AEE) is considered an erosive esophagitis without the typical reflux symptoms, but the clinical course and significance of AEE is still unclear. We investigated the prevalence and predisposing factors of AEE, and tried to determine its clinical features and significance. Subjects, who had at least two health inspections (upper endoscopy, self-reporting questionnaire, and serum Helicobacter pylori IgG antibody test) at our center, were enrolled. The questionnaire included typical reflux symptoms, previous medical history, underlying disease, smoking, alcohol intake, and medication history. Based on the results of follow-up study, the changes in endoscopic findings and reflux symptoms were also investigated. Of the 2961 patients visiting our clinic, 568 (19.2 %) were diagnosed with AEE. Age over 50 years, male sex, a body mass index over 25, current smoking, heavy drinking, negativity for H. pylori infection, and hiatal hernia were independent predisposing factors for AEE (p = 0.020, p

Background and Aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is currently commonly performed, but colorectal ESD has a substantial risk of adverse events, including post-ESD electrocoagulation syndrome (PEECS). We investigated whether the use of prophylactic antibiotics can reduce the occurrence of PEECS. Methods Patients who underwent colorectal ESD were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment regimens. Ampicillin and/or sulbactam mixed with normal saline solution was administered 1 hour before ESD in group 1 then additionally injected every 8 hours twice more. In group 2, normal saline solution without antibiotics was administered following the same schedule. We investigated the characteristics of the patients and tumors, the incidence of PEECS, laboratory findings, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score for abdominal pain measured on the morning after ESD. Results A total of 100 cases (50 per group) were finally analyzed, and 97 tumors were successfully resected en bloc. The number of patients having C-reactive protein (CRP) levels ≥1 mg/dL and the number of patients having VAS scores for abdominal pain ≥1 were greater in group 2 than in group 1 ( P = .008 and .023, respectively). The incidence of PEECS in group 2 also was higher than that in group 1 (1 and 8 in groups 1 and 2, respectively; P = .031). Conclusions The prophylactic use of ampicillin and/or sulbactam in colorectal ESD is associated with reduced risk of PEECS, decreased CRP levels, and decreased abdominal pain. The use of prophylactic antibiotics in colorectal ESD may be an effective tool for reducing the risk of PEECS. (Clinical trial registration number: KCT0001102.)

The use of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based solutions is the gold standard for bowel preparation. However, PEG use might be associated with the risk of acute kidney injury.We aimed to compare the safety of 2 L PEG plus ascorbic acid (AA) versus 4 L PEG.Health examinees that underwent colonoscopy and blood tests on the same day at our center were included in this retrospective study. All subjects were prescribed either 2 L PEG plus AA or 4 L PEG for the bowel preparation prior to the colonoscopy. The incidences of electrolyte imbalance and renal impairment after colonic preparation were investigated. Renal impairment was determined if the subject's estimated glomerular filtration rate was measured less than 60 mL/min/1.73 mOf the 29,789 cases, 14,790 received 2 L PEG plus AA (group A) and 14,999 received 4 L PEG (group B) for colonic preparation. Renal impairment occurred more commonly in group A (n = 467, 3.2 %) than in group B (n = 189, 1.3 %). Electrolyte changes such as hypernatremia and hyperkalemia were more common in group A than group B, whereas hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia were more common in group B than group A. Old age, male sex, and the use of 2 L PEG plus AA were independent risk factors for renal impairment.The evidence strongly suggests that acute kidney injury is more likely to occur when 2 L PEG plus AA is used for the bowel preparation than when 4 L PEG is used.KCT0001703.

This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced hilar cholangiocarcinoma (CC) who underwent photodynamic therapy (PDT) with either percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy (PTCS) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).PDT has been proposed as a promising therapy for treatment of unresectable hilar CC that is resistant to conventional standard treatment. However, few studies have compared the delivery methods of PDT in unresectable hilar CC patients.Thirty-seven adult patients with advanced hilar CC were included in this study. Twenty-four patients treated with PTCS-directed PDT and 13 patients treated with ERCP-directed PDT were analyzed retrospectively.The PTCS- and ERCP-directed PDT groups were comparable with respect to age, gender, health status, pretreatment bilirubin levels, Bismuth type, and hilar CC stage. The length of hospital stay differed significantly (p0.001) between the two groups, with a median hospital stay of 37 days (range, 13-77 days) in the ERCP-directed PDT group versus 63 days (range, 23-125 days) in the PTCS-directed group. PTCS-directed PDT patients demonstrated an overall survival similar to that of ERCP-directed PDT patients, with a median survival of 11.6 versus 9.5 months, respectively (p = 0.96). Only lower pre-PDT bilirubin levels (p = 0.002) were a significant predictor of improved survival in all patients who underwent PDT, as determined by multivariate analysis. Median metal stent patency was similar between the groups [PTCS-directed PDT group (n = 8), 6.2 months; ERCP-directed PDT group (n = 7), 7.2 months; p = 0.642]. Survival after PTCS- or ERCP-directed PDT was not statistically different in patients with advanced hilar CC.Lower pre-PDT bilirubin levels were associated with longer survival in all patients.

The studies concerning the association between Helicobacter pylori status and colorectal adenoma, premalignant lesions of colorectal cancers, are not consistent. This cross-sectional study investigated the association of colorectal adenoma with H. pylori infection in a consecutive series of 2,195 asymptomatic average-risk subjects who underwent screening colonoscopy and H. pylori testing. Multivariate analyses were adjusted for potential relevant confounders, including age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, family history of colorectal cancer, and regular use of aspirin. Furthermore, we performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of available studies, including the current study, to clarify whether H. pylori infection is associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenoma. Among 2,195 eligible subjects, 1,253 subjects were H. pylori seropositive and 942 subjects were seronegative. In the H. pylori (+) group, the prevalence of colorectal adenoma and advanced adenoma was significantly higher than in the H. pylori (−) group (25.3 vs. 20.1 %, p = 0.004 and 6.1 vs. 2.9 %, p

Nodular gastritis (NG) has been reported in adult dyspeptic patients, whereas information on NG in asymptomatic patients is limited.To evaluate the prevalence, clinico-epidemiological characteristics, and expression profiles of inflammatory cytokines or cytokine regulatory factors of NG in asymptomatic adults.A cross-sectional study was conducted prospectively using 2,579 consecutive asymptomatic subjects who underwent screening esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The expression of inflammatory cytokines or cytokine regulatory factors in the gastric mucosa of NG patients was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.NG was diagnosed in 52 patients (2.0%) and showed a predilection for females (M:F = 1:1.89) and young adults (median age: 34 years; range: 25-51 years). All NG patients were positive for Helicobacter pylori infection. Based on multivariate analysis, the risk of NG was increased in patients younger than 40 years (OR, 7.57; 95% CI, 3.76-15.24) and of the female gender (OR, 2.12; 95% CI; 1.05-4.28). Immunofluorescent staining for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, IL-18, IL-18 binding protein, IL-32, IL-33, and neutrophil proteinase 3 (PR3) was performed on cryosections of gastric mucosa. Interestingly, the expression of PR3 was highly increased in the gastric biopsies from asymptomatic NG patients but was expressed infrequently in the controls.Asymptomatic NG is associated with H. pylori infection, and a predilection for this condition exists in young females. The PR3 expression of gastric mucosa might play an important role in the pathogenesis of NG.

We investigated the impact of direct peroral cholangioscopy (POC)-based holmium laser lithotripsy using an ultrathin endoscope with direct irrigation via a 2-mm-diameter working channel to remove difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones without a separate biliary catheter.Few clinical studies have reported the successful removal of difficult CBD stones by direct POC-based laser lithotripsy using an ultrathin upper endoscope. Previous studies used a separate biliary catheter to ensure continuous irrigation.Ten patients (6 males; mean age 63.3 years) with difficult CBD stones who were not amenable to conventional endoscopic procedures were examined. Direct POC using an ultrathin upper endoscope was performed in all patients. Holmium laser lithotripsy with direct saline irrigation via the operating channel of an ultrathin endoscope was performed until stone fragments were captured in a basket.The overall success rate of bile duct clearance was 90% (9 of 10 patients) and the mean number of treatment sessions was 1.2 (range, 1-2). Mechanical lithotripsy was performed to complete stone removal in one patient (10%) who had a distal CBD stricture. One patient experienced mild cholangitis following laser lithotripsy.Holmium laser lithotripsy under direct POC using an ultrathin upper endoscope may be an effective and safe technique for removal of difficult CBD stones. Direct irrigation via the 2-mm-diameter working channel of the ultrathin endoscope provides sufficient fluid medium and affords good endoscopic viewing to assure stone fragmentation without any need for a separate biliary catheter.

A higher circulating vitamin D level is inversely associated with the risk of colorectal cancer, but the association with adenoma risk is less clear. We examined the association between the circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] concentration and colorectal adenoma in asymptomatic average-risk participants undergoing initial screening colonoscopy. The study subjects were comprised of 143 cases of colorectal adenomas and 143 age- and gender-matched controls with normal colonoscopy among the 586 asymptomatic average-risk subjects (median age, 58 years; range, 50–73 years) who underwent first screening colonoscopy and measurement of the serum 25(OH)D3 between December 2009 and April 2010, consistent with winter months of the region. The mean concentration of serum 25(OH)D3 in the adenoma and control groups was 20.0 ± 11.0 ng/ml and 25.0 ± 20.0 ng/ml, respectively (P = 0.009). Using multivariate analysis, higher levels of 25(OH)D3 were associated with a statistically significant decreased risk of colorectal adenoma after multivariable adjustment (highest vs. lowest quartile OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.18–0.80, P trend = 0.012). The inverse association of circulating 25(OH)D3 with colorectal adenoma was stronger among the patients with proximal adenoma than that among the patients without proximal adenoma (highest vs. lowest quartile OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.13–0.66, P trend = 0.001). The present study suggests that high levels of circulating vitamin D are associated with a decreased risk of colorectal adenoma, and especially adenoma located in the proximal colon.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of transnasal small-caliber esophagogastroduodenoscopy (TNSC-EGD) compared with peroral conventional EGD (POC-EGD) for evaluating varices in unsedated patients with liver cirrhosis. The success rate, safety, endoscopist satisfaction, and patient tolerability of TNSC-EGD were also addressed. PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred patients with liver cirrhosis participated in this randomized crossover trial, and 84 subjects completed both procedures. Of the 84 patients, 28 had marked bleeding diathesis (platelet count ≤ 50 000/mm 3 and/or prothrombin time ≥ 1.7 INR). Endoscopists and patients answered questionnaires using a 100-mm visual analog scale about, respectively, their satisfaction and their tolerance of the procedure. RESULTS: The success rate of TNSC-EGD was comparable to that of POC-EGD (96 % vs. 99 %). Nasal mucosal hemorrhages induced by TNSC-EGD occurred in 5 patients (6 %), but were easily controlled. Compared to the POC-EGD reference test, diagnostic accuracies of TNSC-EGD for detecting esophageal varices, gastric varices, and red color signs were 98 %, 98 %, and 96 %, respectively. Concordance rates on grading esophageal varices and gastric varices were excellent at 93 % (κ = 0.85) and 96 % (κ = 0.87). Endoscopist satisfaction was not significantly different between TNSC-EGD and POC-EGD, whereas patient tolerance of TNSC-EGD was significantly greater than that of POC-EGD (79.0 ± 14.4 vs. 69.5 ± 16.1; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: TNSC-EGD without sedation was found to be feasible, safe, and accurate for evaluating esophageal varices, gastric varices, and red color signs in patients with cirrhosis – even in those with marked bleeding diathesis. Furthermore, it was significantly better tolerated by patients, without altering endoscopist satisfaction. Our findings indicate that TNSC-EGD without sedation might be viewed as a potential alternative to POC-EGD for evaluation of varices.

Long-term Helicobacter pylori infection results in atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia (IM) with Cdx2 expression. We have tried to determine if there was a link between endoscopic and histological diagnosis of IM based on the status of aberrant Cdx2 expression. One hundred and one subjects agreed to upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination, with biopsy sampling for histology, Giemsa, and Cdx2 immunohistochemical staining before and after the treatment. On endoscopic examination, atrophic gastritis was defined as discoloration with blood vessel transparency, and was classified as either closed or open. Metaplastic gastritis was defined by the presence of whitish patches, whitish plaques, and/or homogeneous whitish discoloration. Histologic analysis was performed to determine H. pylori density, intensity of acute polymorphonuclear cell infiltrates and chronic mononuclear infiltrates, gastric atrophy, and IM as demonstrated using immunohistochemistry for cdx2. Cdx2 protein expression (P = 0.018) and the prevalence of histologically detected IM (P = 0.011) were higher in cases of endoscopically diagnosed open-type atrophic gastritis and metaplastic gastritis than in closed-type atrophic gastritis and nonatrophic/nonmetaplastic cases. The degree of activity (P = 0.006) and inflammation (P = 0.007) improved significantly after four weeks of successful H. pylori eradication treatment, whereas the degree of atrophy, metaplasia, and Cdx2 expression did not. Unlike endoscopic diagnosis of closed-type atrophic gastritis, that of open-type atrophic gastritis is highly correlated with the histological diagnosis of IM and Cdx2 expression. Endoscopically diagnosed open-type atrophic gastritis and endoscopically diagnosed metaplastic gastritis have similar histological features, which suggests that a high percentage of IM cases are diagnosed as open-type atrophic gastritis by endoscopic examination.

BACKGROUND Helicobacter pylori is unevenly distributed in hypochlorhydric environments. The study aim was to elucidate the risk factors for a negative Giemsa staining finding in seropositive subjects by measuring the secretory ability of the stomach. METHODS Subjects aged over 18 years were included consecutively after endoscopic biopsy at gastric lesions with color or structural changes. Blood was sampled for the serum pepsinogen (PG) assay and H. pylori serology test. After excluding the subjects with past H. pylori eradication, the risk factors for a negative Giemsa staining finding in seropositive subjects were analyzed. RESULTS Among 872 included subjects, a discrepancy between the serum anti-H. pylori IgG and Giemsa staining findings was found in 158 (18.1%) subjects, including 145 Giemsa-negative, seropositive subjects. Gastric adenocarcinoma/adenoma (OR = 11.090, 95% CI = 3.490-35.236) and low serum PG II level (OR = 0.931, 95% CI = 0.899-0.963) were the independent risk factors for a negative Giemsa staining finding in seropositive subjects. The cutoff value of serum PG II level was 7.45 ng/mL (area under curve [AUC] = 0.904, 95% CI = 0.881-0.927). Follow-up studies of Giemsa staining at different sites of the stomach revealed that 75% of the Giemsa-negative seropositive subjects with adenocarcinoma are positive, whereas none of those with low serum PG II level of

Background Hepatolithiasis is a common disease in East Asia. Operative and nonoperative procedures for the management of hepatolithiasis have been discussed, but long-term follow-up results of such treatments are only reported rarely. We evaluated the long-term results of operative and nonoperative treatments and examined risk factors for the recurrence of stones or cholangitis. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of case records of patients with hepatolithiasis who underwent treatment by operative therapy or nonoperative percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy (PTCS), or peroral cholangioscopy. Of 311 patients with hepatolithiasis, 236 underwent follow-up after operative ( n = 90 ) , PTCS ( n = 97 ) , or peroral cholangioscopy ( n = 49 ) treatment. Results Complete stone clearance was achieved in 83.3% of hepatectomy, 63.9% of PTCSL, and 57.1% of peroral cholangioscopy patients. After a median follow-up period of 8.0 years (up to 37 years), we observed stone recurrence in 30.9% (73/236) of patients, secondary biliary cirrhosis in 8.5% (19/224), late development of cholangiocarcinoma in 4.8% (11/227), and a mortality rate of 8.1% (19/236). Stricture, stones in both lobes, and nonoperative treatments were significant risk factors for incomplete stone clearance on multivariate analysis. In addition, recurrent stones and/or cholangitis were associated with nonoperative therapy (hazard ratio [HR], 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10–3.65), biliary cirrhosis (HR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.24–3.98), residual stones (HR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.24–3.17), and stricture (HR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.01–3.43). Conclusion In this long-term follow-up study, nonoperative therapy, biliary cirrhosis, residual stones, and biliary stricture were associated with recurrent stones and/or cholangitis after treatment.

Background Selective cannulation in patients with a Billroth II gastrectomy is still challenging. Objective To evaluate the usefulness of a multibending, forward-viewing endoscope (M-scope) for selective cannulation during diagnostic or therapeutic ERCP in patients with a Billroth II gastrectomy. Design Case series. Setting Tertiary center. Patients Fourteen patients having biliary disease with a Billroth II gastrectomy in whom selective cannulation failed when using a conventional forward-viewing endoscope. Interventions In all cases, we attempted selective biliary cannulation for ERCP with a single-bending, forward-viewing endoscope for 10 minutes. After failure with the conventional endoscope, we retried selective cannulation with the M-scope for 10 minutes. After cannulation, the diagnostic or therapeutic endoscopic procedures were performed. Main Outcome Measurements We assessed the success rate of selective cannulation, the possibility of therapeutic approaches, and procedure-related complications. Results In all cases, we successfully reached the ampulla of Vater with the M-scope. The overall success rate of selective cannulation with the M-scope was 92.9% (13/14). One patient developed mild pancreatitis. Therapeutic procedures such as sphincterotomy, balloon dilatation, stone removal, and biliary drainage were all possible. Limitations Small number of patients; uncontrolled, single-center study. Conclusions The M-scope seems to be helpful for selective cannulation during ERCP in patients with a Billroth II gastrectomy. All diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were possible through the M-scope.

Background/aims Microsatellite instability (MSI) plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to clarify whether MSI is a useful marker for predicting synchronous gastric and colorectal neoplasms. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent both esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy before the resection of gastric or colorectal cancers were included. MSI was analyzed using two mononucleotide and three dinucleotide markers. Results In total, 434 gastric cancers (372 microsatellite stability [MSS], 21 low incidence of MSI [MSI-L], and 41 high incidence of MSI [MSI-H]) and 162 colorectal cancers (138 MSS, 9 MSI-L, and 15 MSI-H) were included. Patients with MSI gastric cancer had a higher prevalence of synchronous colorectal cancer, colorectal adenoma, and gastric adenoma than those with MSS gastric cancers (4.8% vs 0.5%, p=0.023; 11.3% vs 3.2%, p=0.011; 3.2% vs 1.2%, p=0.00, respectively). The prevalence of synchronous colorectal adenomas was highest in MSI-L gastric cancers (19.0%), compared with MSI-H (7.3%) or MSS (3.2%) gastric cancers (p=0.002). In addition, there were no significant differences in the prevalence rates of synchronous colorectal adenoma among the MSI-H (13.3%), MSI-L (11.1%), and MSS (12.3%) colorectal cancers (p=0.987). Conclusions The presence of MSI in gastric cancer may be a predictor of synchronous gastric and colorectal neoplasms, whereas MSI in colorectal cancer is not a predictor of synchronous colorectal adenoma.

Esophageal candidiasis mostly occurs in the immunocompromised host. However, it may also affect healthy people and is frequently asymptomatic. The clinical significance of asymptomatic esophageal candidiasis (AEC) is still unclear. The aims of the study were to investigate the prevalence of AEC during health inspection and to identify its predisposing factors and clinical significance.A total of 49,497 subjects who underwent a health inspection that included upper endoscopy were enrolled. We retrospectively reviewed the subject's self-reporting questionnaires, medical records and endoscopic findings. We considered "long-term" follow-up to be6 months with at least one more follow-up endoscopy.One hundred and seventy (0.4%) subjects were endoscopically diagnosed as esophageal candidiasis and 141 subjects were AEC. Multivariate analysis revealed that old age (≥60 years) was an independent risk factor for AEC (OR, 1.862, p = 0.005). The number of subjects with long-term follow-up was 79 (195.3 person-years). Among these, AEC of 64 subjects (81.0%) had disappeared on the follow-up endoscopy and was not recurrent. The other 15 subjects had AEC diagnosed more than once on the follow-up endoscopy, and 5 of them were spontaneously healed during the follow-up period. The remaining 10 subjects whose candidiasis was sustained up to the last endoscopy did not complain of symptoms during the follow-up period, and their endoscopic findings did not worsen.AEC is rare and old age is the only risk factor. AEC does not require medical care because it is a self-limited disease.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is commonly performed as a treatment for gastric neoplasms. However, sedation with midazolam (MDZ) often does not reach satisfactory sedation levels during the procedure and the drug may suppress respiration and blood pressure. This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine (DEX) with on-demand MDZ (the DEX group) in comparison with MDZ alone (the MDZ group) as a sedative during ESD of gastric neoplasms.Eighty patients undergoing ESD for gastric tumor were randomly assigned to one of two treatment regimens (40 patients in each). We investigated the depth of sedation by using a Modified Observers Assessment Alertness/Sedation score, the number of patients' reactions interfering with the procedure, sedation related-adverse events and the degree of satisfaction of patients and doctors.There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding their age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification and the characteristics of the tumor. Appropriate sedation rate and the degree of satisfaction of the doctors were significantly higher in the DEX group than in the MDZ group. Patients' reactions interfering with the procedure were more numerous in the MDZ group than in the DEX group. There was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.DEX with on-demand MDZ for sedation during gastric ESD is as safe as MDZ alone and the sedation effect of DEX with MDZ is superior to that of MDZ alone.

A major concern about endoscopic snare papillectomy (ESP) is the risk of procedure-related pancreatitis. To maintain pancreatic duct access for stent placement after ESP, wire-guided ESP (WP) was introduced. The aim of the study was to compare post-procedure pancreatitis rates, the success rate of pancreatic stent insertion, and complete resection rates between WP and conventional ESP (CP) procedures.This was a multi-center, prospective, randomized pilot study. Forty-five patients with ampullary tumors were randomly assigned to a WP group (n = 22) or a CP group (n = 23). In the WP group, a guidewire was placed in the pancreatic duct prior to ESP. A 5-Fr pancreatic stent was passed over the guidewire and placed across the pancreatic duct orifice.Complete resection was achieved in 20 patients (91%) in the WP group and 18 patients (78%) in the CP group (P = 0.414). A pancreatic stent was placed successfully in all patients in the WP group but in only 15 patients (65%) in the CP group (P = 0.004). Post-papillectomy pancreatitis occurred in four (18%) patients in the WP and three (13%) patients in the CP groups (P = 0.960). In the CP group, three of eight (37.5%) patients without stents developed pancreatitis compared with zero of 15 patients with stents (P = 0.032).The WP method is a useful technique used to insert a pancreatic stent after ESP, compared with CP. However, there was no significant difference in the post-procedure pancreatitis or complete resection rates between the two methods.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is now commonly performed as a treatment for colorectal tumors. However, little is known about the relationship between submucosal fibrosis and the outcome of the colonic ESD procedure. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between the degree of submucosal fibrosis in colorectal tumors and the outcomes of ESD for these tumors and to evaluate the risk factors for submucosal fibrosis.We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients with colorectal adenoma or carcinoma who had undergone an ESD, during a four-year period from January 2010 to December 2013. The resected specimens were histologically examined after Masson's trichrome staining, and the severity of the submucosal fibrosis was classified as no fibrosis (F0), mild fibrosis (F1), or severe fibrosis (F2).Among a total of 173 cases (106 male, mean age 65.0 ± 10.2 years; F0 33, F1 78, F2 62) enrolled, 46 incidences of complications (perforation 19, post-coagulation syndrome 21, bleeding 6) had developed. Multivariate analysis revealed that F2 fibrosis was significantly associated with the development of complications. Submucosal invasion and large tumor size (≥ 30 mm) were identified as independent predictors of F2 fibrosis.Severe fibrosis is the most powerful risk factor for complications and can interfere with en bloc resections. The possibility of submucosal fibrosis should be considered, and the procedure should be cautiously performed in cases where the tumor diameter is greater than 30 mm and when submucosal cancer is suspected.

Early ERCP and endoscopic sphincterotomy for stone extraction can benefit the prognosis in patients with severe biliary pancreatitis, but are associated with complications. The ability to identify choledocholithiasis by noninvasive means in biliary pancreatitis is limited. The aim of this study was evaluation of the ability of MRCP to detect choledocholithiasis in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis. In addition, we investigated whether intraductal US (IDUS) could help manage these patients.Thirty-two patients with suspected biliary pancreatitis were studied prospectively. MRCP was performed immediately before ERCP by separate blinded examiners within 24 h of admission. Wire-guided IDUS was performed during ERCP within 72 h of admission, regardless of the results of MRCP. Using endoscopic extraction of a stone as the reference standard, the diagnostic yield of MRCP was compared with transabdominal US, CT, ERCP, and IDUS.The sensitivity of US, CT, MRCP, ERCP, and IDUS for identifying choledocholithiasis was 20.0%, 40.0%, 80.0%, 90.0%, and 95.0%, respectively. The overall agreement between MRCP and ERCP was 90.6% for choledocholithiasis (kappa= 0.808, p0.01). The sensitivity of MRCP for detecting choledocholithiasis decreased with dilated bile ducts (bile duct diameter10 mm, 72.7% vs 88.9%). The combination of ERCP and IDUS improved accuracy in the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis.MRCP can be used to select patients with biliary pancreatitis who require ERCP. IDUS may be applied in the management of biliary pancreatitis if ERCP is performed.

Background Endoscopic excision for adenoma of the major duodenal papilla was introduced as an alternative to surgery, but postprocedure pancreatitis is a serious drawback. This study assessed the feasibility and the safety of endoscopic papillectomy with a guidewire and pancreatic-duct stent insertion to prevent pancreatitis. Methods Six patients were enrolled. The snare loop was passed over a guidewire that had been inserted into the pancreatic duct. Immediately after snare resection, a pancreatic stent was placed along the indwelling guidewire. Results En bloc papillectomy and pancreatic stent insertion were performed successfully in all patients. Pancreatitis did not develop acutely in any patient. Complications included cholangitis (n=1) and late-onset pancreatitis owing to the pancreatic stent (n=1). Scant residual adenomatous tissue was present at resection margins in two patients and was treated endoscopically. Conclusions Wire-guided endoscopic snare papillectomy in selected patients is a useful technique that maintains pancreatic-duct access for stent placement. This appears to prevent pancreatitis and to improve the outcome for patients undergoing endoscopic resection of papillary tumors.

Background Electrohydraulic lithotripsy is a highly effective method for fragmenting biliary stones, but direct visual control is required. The efficacy and the safety of electrohydraulic lithotripsy without cholangioscopy by using a balloon catheter were evaluated in patients with bile-duct stones that could not be extracted by using standard techniques. Methods Nineteen patients with extrahepatic bile-duct stones that could not be extracted by using conventional endoscopic methods, e.g., mechanical lithotripsy, were selected to undergo electrohydraulic lithotripsy without peroral cholangioscopy. An electrohydraulic lithotripsy probe with a 3.0F radio-opaque tip was inserted through a balloon catheter. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy was performed under fluoroscopy until the fragmented stone could be captured in a large basket for mechanical lithotripsy. Endoscopic removal of the fragments was attempted during the electrohydraulic lithotripsy session. Results Stones were successfully fragmented in 17 of 19 patients. In 16 patients (84.2%), the bile duct was cleared of all stones. A mean of 1.8 endoscopic sessions was required for complete removal. Additional mechanical lithotripsy was performed in 9 (56.2%) of the 16 patients. Minor complications were noted in 4 patients (2 hemobilia, 1 pancreatitis, 1 cholangitis). There was no 30-day mortality. Conclusions For a selected group of patients with bile-duct stones not extractable by using standard techniques, fluoroscopically controlled electrohydraulic lithotripsy with a balloon catheter seems to be an effective method of fragmentation.

Background The aim of this study was to assess the role of three-dimensional multidetector row CT for detection, precise localization, and staging of gastric cancer by comparison with conventional endoscopy, EUS, and histopathology. Methods Sixty-three patients with gastric cancer (31 early stage, 32 advanced) were evaluated by EGD with biopsies, EUS, and three-dimensional multidetector row CT between January 2003 to August 2003. Three-dimensional multidetector row CT findings were analyzed by a single radiologist blinded to the endoscopic findings. Among 63 patients, the findings were confirmed in 48 at surgery or by EMR. In the remaining cases, the findings were confirmed by EGD and biopsy specimen. The accuracy of three-dimensional multidetector row CT for detection, localization, and staging of gastric cancer was determined, compared with endoscopy, EUS, and histopathology. Results Among the 63 patients, there were 67 gastric cancers. The overall accuracy of three-dimensional multidetector row CT for detection of gastric lesions was 94% (63/67), with accuracies of 96.7% (30/31) and 100% (32/32) for detection of, respectively, early and advanced stage gastric cancer. The overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for EUS and three-dimensional multidetector row CT in the pre-operative determination of depth of invasion (T stage) were, respectively, 87.5%, 82.4%, and 96%; and 83.3%, 69.1%, and 94.4%. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of EUS and three-dimensional multidetector row CT for lymph node staging was, respectively, 79.1%, 57%, and 89.5%; and 75%, 57.4%, and 89.3%. Conclusions Three-dimensional multidetector row CT, along with virtual gastroscopy is a promising method for pre-operative evaluation of gastric cancer.

Background: Mirizzi syndrome refers to common hepatic duct obstruction caused by extrinsic compression that is usually from a stone impacted in the cystic duct. The utility of transpapillary intraductal US for assessment of biliary strictures with radiographic features of Mirizzi syndrome was studied retrospectively. Methods: Intraductal US was performed in 16 patients with a common hepatic duct stricture caused by extrinsic compression and nonvisualization of the gallbladder by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. An over-the-wire catheter US probe (20 MHz) was inserted into the bile duct. Intraductal US findings were compared with the final diagnoses at surgery. Results: Intraductal US was successful in all patients. The extraluminal cause of the common hepatic duct stricture was detected in 14 patients (87.5%). In 9 patients, intraductal US detected an impacted stone outside the common hepatic duct. Intraductal US demonstrated extraluminal lesions without evidence of a stone in 5 patients, including a mass in 4 and asymmetrical, irregular thickening of the bile duct wall in 1 patient. In the remaining 2 patients, intraductal US demonstrated only a distended gallbladder. Conclusions: Transpapillary wire-guided intraductal US is useful for assessing biliary strictures with features that suggest Mirizzi syndrome and optimizes management of patients with these findings. (Gastrointest Endosc 2002;56:873-9.)

This study evaluated the normal pancreaticobiliary ducts of Koreans and assessed the frequency and pattern of variations and anomalies of these structures.A prospective, nationwide multicenter study was performed in which 10 university hospitals in Korea participated from March 1997 to June 1999. A total 10,243 patients undergoing ERCP were enrolled.The mean (SD) maximal and midportion diameters in millimeters of the common hepatic duct were, respectively, 6.1 (1.8) and 5.3 (1.6). The mean maximal and midportion diameters (mm) of the common bile duct were, respectively, 6.4 (1.8) and 5.5 (1.7). The mean maximal and midportion diameters (mm) of the main pancreatic duct in the head, body and tail were, respectively, 3.2 (1.1), 2.7 (1.0), and 2.5 (2.3); and, respectively, 2.2 (0.9), 1.6 (0.7) and 1.4 (0.6). Pancreaticobiliary duct diameters for patients above the age of 40 were greater than those of patients less than 40 years of age (p0.05). The frequency of choledochal cyst and anomalous union of the pancreaticobiliary ducts were, respectively, 0.32% and 4.1%. Pancreas divisum and annular pancreas were found, respectively, in 0.49% and 0.05%.A knowledge of normal pancreaticobiliary ductal structures as well as the frequency and pattern of variations including anomalies is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreaticobiliary disorders.

Several cases of recurrent stone formation caused by a surgical material as a nidus have been reported. Recently, we experienced one case in which a migrated metal stent might have been served as a nidus for common duct stone formation. The diagnosis was confirmed by ERCP, the stone was successfully removed with endoscopic therapy. Six years ago, she had undergone a lithotripsy using a percutaneous cholangioscopy (PTCS) because of intrahepatic bile duct stones. Six years later, she developed abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant. ERCP revealed the dilated extrahepatic bile duct and left intrahepatic bile duct and the presence of a large elongated freely mobile filling defect suggestive of common bile duct stone containing metal mesh in the distal common bile duct. The removed stone with endoscopic sphincterotomy was soft and dark brown in color with metal stent.