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The effect Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection and small intestinal bacterial over growth (SIBO) in minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is not well understood. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of eradication of Hp infection and SIBO treatment on MHE in patients with cirrhosis. Patients with cirrhosis were enrolled and MHE was determined by psychometric tests and critical flicker frequency analysis. Hp infection and SIBO were assessed by urea breath and Hydrogen breath tests respectively in patients with cirrhosis and in healthy volunteers. Patients with Hp infection and SIBO were given appropriate treatment. At six weeks follow-up, presence of Hp infection, SIBO and MHE status was reassessed. Ninety patients with cirrhosis and equal number of healthy controls were included. 55 (61.1%) patients in the cirrhotic group were diagnosed to have underlying MHE. Among cirrhotic group, Hp infection was present in 28 with MHE (50.9%) vs. in 15 without MHE (42.8%) (p = 0.45). Similarly, SIBO was present in 17 (30.9%) vs. 11 (31.4%) (p = 0.95) in patients with and without MHE respectively. In comparison with healthy controls, patients with cirrhosis were more frequently harboring Hp and SIBO (47.7% vs. 17.7% (p

A 33-year-old male patient presented to our gastroenterology clinic, in January 2020, with complains of early satiety, regurgitation, heartburn and weakness for the past several months. He denied any complains of nausea, vomiting or weight loss. His past medical history was significant for a Heineke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty secondary to gastric outlet obstruction in 2004 at the age of 17 years, after which he remained relatively asymptomatic for 10 years. He had an unremarkable family history for autoimmune disease or gastric cancer. In 2014, he developed anorexia, weight loss, weakness and numbness in the fingers, and was diagnosed with megaloblastic anaemia secondary to vitamin B12 deficiency. An endoscopy performed at that time revealed moderate-to-severe gastritis (figure 1A), and biopsy revealed atrophic gastritis. …

Background and aim In light of few established drug induced liver injury (DILI) registries, this study aims to evaluate the clinical spectrum and predictors of mortality and morbidity of hospitalized patients with suspected DILI. Patients and methods DILI cases were identified and categorized on basis of COIMS/RUCAM score and the exclusion of other liver diseases. Clinical and laboratory parameters were analyzed to identify the predictors of morbidity (prolonged hospital stay > 5 days) and mortality. Results Out of 462 patients, there were 264 (57.6%) males and the mean age of the cohort was 50.83 years (range: 20–94 years). DILI was classified as definite or highly probable in 31.1%, probable in 62.5%, and possible in 7.4% of cases. Pattern of liver injury was hepatocellular in 25.1%, cholestatic in 56.17%, and mixed in 18.72% of patients. Anti-tuberculosis drugs (ATDs) were found to be the most common category of drugs causing DILI, in 295 (63.9%) patients. Clinically, encephalopathy was present in 21.6% patients; other presenting symptoms included abdominal pain (57.1%), vomiting (57.1%), jaundice (54.1%) and pruritus (42.3%). In-hospital mortality was 26.5% and prolonged hospital stay (> 5 days) was observed in 35.93% of patients. Mortality was significantly greater in patients with encephalopathy, male gender, hepatocellular pattern of DILI, increased INR and use of ventilator support. Conclusion In our study, the most frequent cause of DILI in hospitalized patients was ATDs. More than a quarter of patients died during hospital stay. A close control of clinical and biochemical parameters are required to prevent and monitor DILI, especially in patients taking ATDs in our region.

Polycythaemia Vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative disorder in which bone marrow has increased production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The hallmarks of the disease are veno-occlusive events, secondary to increased blood viscosity. Polycythaemia Vera rarely presents with portal vein thrombosis below age of 55 years especially in absence of any chronic liver disease. We report a case of 30-years-old South Asian male presenting with abdominal pain, weight loss and vomiting for 3 months. On evaluation, he was found to have oesophageal varices. Furthermore, CT scan showed infiltration at porta-hepatis and portal venous thrombosis. Polycythaemia Vera was diagnosed with a positive JAK2 mutation and increased haemoglobin. Laparoscopy was done to perform biopsy of the porta-hepatis mass. Biopsy showed engorged vessels with no sign of malignancy. Patient underwent repeated sessions of upper GI endoscopy for band ligation and multiple sessions of venous phlebotomy which drastically improved his blood indices. He was started on lifelong aspirin and was advised regular follow-ups. With early recognition and prompt management patients can be prevented from potential complications which can prove to be detrimental.

Food hypersensitivity (FH), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) have many overlapping symptoms, including abdominal discomfort, bloating, and altered bowel habits. We aimed to determine the frequency of FH in patients with IBS and functional FD.Adult patients of either gender diagnosed with IBS and/or FD as per the Rome III criteria were recruited. Patients underwent serological testing against 6 food allergens: beef, shrimp, egg white, milk, peanut, and soy-bean. Those testing positive were subjected to a food elimination diet for 4 weeks. Those showing improvement on elimination diet were subjected to re-challenge. Changes in symptoms were documented by the Global overall improvement scale (GOS) and Gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS).Two hundred patients were screened. Average age of the patients was 38.6, and 55 % were male. Nineteen (38%) patients tested positive, and were subjected to a food elimination diet. The most common food hypersensitivity was shrimp (17/89%), followed by 4/21% for egg-white, and peanut. Off these, 8 showed improvement. They were re-challenged, and were evaluated 2 weeks later, when all suffered symptom relapse. These 8 (4%) patients were diagnosed with FH. There was a statistically significant difference in both GSRS (total and component) and GOS scores at baseline between patients testing (+) and (-) on food allergen testing, mainly for diarrhoea (p=0.001), abdominal pain (p=0.001) and indigestion p=0.001).FH is present in 4 % of patients with a functional gastrointestinal disorder.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Gastroenterology Clinics of The Aga Khan Hospital and Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre in Karachi. All patients complaining of constipation were included. Patients with alarm features were excluded. Interviews were conducted by trained doctors using a structured Rome III based pre-tested questionnaire and Bristol Stool Form Scale. Out of 396 participants, 186 (47.0%) had FC and 209 (52.7%) had IBS-C. Based upon Bristol Stool Form Scale, only 214 (54%) reported to have slow transit constipation (BSS2). A higher proportion of women reported severe form of constipation as compared to men (81.5%, n=150 vs. 65.1%, n=138 p0.001). However, a higher percentage of men reported using medications to treat their symptoms (71.2%, n=151 vs. 57.1%, n=105 p=0.003). Proper understanding of patient's symptoms is essential for optimizing individual patient management.

There is a paucity of information on chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients treated with direct antiviral agents (DAAs) in Asia. We invited Asia-Pacific physicians to collate databases of patients enrolled for CHC treatment, recording baseline clinical, virologic and biochemical characteristics, sustained virologic response at week 12 (SVR12) and virologic failure. SVR12 outcome was based on intention to treat (ITT). Multivariate analysis was used to assess independent risk factors for SVR12 using SPSS version 20. A total of 2171 patients from India (n = 977), Myanmar (n = 552), Pakistan (n = 406), Thailand (n = 139), Singapore (n = 72) and Malaysia (n = 25) were collected. At baseline, mean age was 49 years, 50.2% were males, and 41.8% had cirrhosis. Overall, SVR12 was 89.5% and by genotype (GT) based on ITT and treatment completion, respectively, was 91% and 92% for GT1, 100% and 100% for GT2, 91% and 97% for GT3, 64% and 95% for GT4, 87% and 87% for GT6 and 79% and 91% for GT untested. Patients with cirrhosis had SVR12 of 85% vs 93% for noncirrhosis (P < 0.001) (RR 2.1, 95% CI 1.4-3.1, P = 0.0002). Patients with GT1 and GT3 treated with sofosbuvir/ribavirin (SR) had 88% and 89% SVR12, respectively, but those GT6 treated with sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SL) had only 77.6% SVR12. Multivariate analysis showed absence of cirrhosis was associated with higher SVR12 (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.3-3.1, P = 0.002). In conclusion, patients with GT1 and GT3 with/without cirrhosis had surprisingly high efficacy using SR, suggesting that Asians may respond better to some DAAs. However, poor GT6 response to SL suggests this regimen is suboptimal for this genotype.

Variceal bleeding is a serious complication in patients with cirrhosis. Among the criteria that were proposed in Baveno conferences, the Adjusted Blood Requirement Index (ABRI) has not been validated prospectively in clinical practice. We therefore aim to evaluate the measurement of ABRI as a marker of failure to control bleeding and to evaluate the consistency of ABRI in relation to other criteria of failure to control variceal bleeding.All patients with variceal bleeding who presented to Aga Khan University Hospital from January 2010 to December 2012 who were administered transfusion of packed red blood cells were included after obtaining informed consent. All patients were managed as per the standard protocol with intravenous terlipressin along with band ligation and injection of cyanoacrylate in cases of esophageal and fundal varices, respectively. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were measured every 6 h for 48 h and then every 12 h until 5 days of index bleed in each patient. Packed cells were transfused if hemoglobin decreased below 8 g/dl. The number of blood units transfused, change in hemoglobin values, and ABRI were calculated after each unit of blood transfusion till 120 h. In patients in whom bleed could not be controlled, an ABRI value of 0.75 or more was compared with other Baveno IV-based parameters that define failure to control variceal bleeding.During the study period, 137 eligible patients with variceal bleed were admitted. The mean age of the patients was 52±12 years. The majority of patients (50.4%) were in Child-Pugh class B, followed by 38% in Child-Pugh class C. According to the Baveno IV criteria, overall failure to control acute variceal bleeding occurred in 52 (37.9%) patients. Excluding ABRI, failure to control bleeding was found in 22/137 (16%) patients, whereas ABRI-based criteria showed that in 34/137 (24.8%) patients, bleeding could not be controlled. There were only four (2.9%) patients with variceal bleeding in whom ABRI and other additional Baveno IV-based criteria for failure to control bleeding were present. When ABRI was compared with other criteria for failure to control bleeding, it showed a sensitivity and specificity of 19 and 25%, respectively.This study showed that ABRI is not a useful additional tool to define failure to control bleeding after variceal hemorrhage in cirrhotic patients.

The objective behind this study was to determine that Assessment for Retreatment with Transarterial chemoembolization (ART) score is really applicable in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.A cross sectional observational study was conducted on all patients with hepatocellular carcinoma of intermediate stage and undergone ≥2 Transarterial chemoembolization. ART score was assessed before and after each session of Transarterial chemoembolization. Multi-logistic regression analysis was performed to compare the final outcome of patients with ART score of ≥2.5 into groups with two and more than two Trans-arterial chemo-embolization sessions.A total of 100 HCC patients were recruited for final analysis. Our study participants consisted of total 100 HCC patients. Mean Child Pugh score was 6.1±0.95. In our study, most of the study participants (n=63) had ART score of less than 1.5 as compared to ART score2.5 (n=37). A significant proportion of patients with ART score of1.5 prior to second Trans-arterial chemo-embolization had better median survival as compared to patients with ART score of2.5, p-value0.001. Patients with ART score of more than 2.5 did not show any survival benefit after having 3rd or 4th Trans-arterial chemo-embolization session, p=0.47.Our study findings suggest that those HCC patients who receive multiple sessions of TACE with a low ART score have more favourable outcomes with increased survival rate.

Background & Aims Esophageal variceal bleed is a major problem in patients with cirrhosis. Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) has been shown to be equal to or better than propranolol in preventing first bleed. Carvedilol is a non-selective β blocker with alpha-1 adrenergic blocker activity. Hemodynamic studies have shown carvedilol to be more effective than propranolol at reducing portal pressure. We compared efficacy of carvedilol with EVL for primary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleed. Methods Cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices were randomized to carvedilol 12.5mg daily or EVL at three university hospitals of Pakistan. End points were esophageal variceal bleeding, death or liver transplant. Results Two hundred and nine patients were evaluated. Eighty two and eighty six patients were randomized in carvedilol and EVL arms respectively. Mean age was 48±12.2years; 122 (72.7%) were males; 89.9% had viral cirrhosis; mean Child-Pugh score was 7.3±1.6 and mean follow up was 13.3±12.1months (range 1–50months). Both EVL and carvedilol groups had comparable variceal bleeding rates (8.5% vs. 6.9%), bleed related mortality (4.6% vs. 4.9%) and overall mortality (12.8% vs. 19.5%) respectively. Adverse events in carvedilol group were hypotension (n=2), requiring cessation of therapy, while transient nausea (n=18) and dyspnea (n=30) resolved spontaneously. In the EVL arm, post banding ulcer bleed (n=1) and chest pain (n=17), were termed as serious adverse events while transient dysphagia (n=58) resolved without treatment. Conclusions Although our study is underpowered, the findings suggest that carvedilol is probably not superior to EVL in preventing first variceal bleed in patients with viral cirrhosis.

This study aims to determine the prevalence of coinfection of H. pylori and hepatitis E virus (HEV) in the paediatric age group in an urban slum area of Karachi and identify risk factors associated with co-infection. Five hundred and forty children aged one to 15 years were investigated. Blood samples were collected and questionnaires completed on socio-demographic characteristics. Anti-H. pylori, HEV IgG and IgM antibodies were analysed by enzyme immunoassays (EIAs). The seroprevalence of H. pylori antibody was 47.2%, while that of HEV IgG and IgM was 14.4% and 2.4%, respectively. 12.4% exhibited seroprevalence for both H. pylori and HEV (IgG). In 67 (26%) cases positive for H. pylori IgG, HEV IgG positivity was also seen (P0.001). Only 13 (5%) positive for H. pylori were also positive for HEV IgM (P0.001). Only 11 (4%) HEV IgG-positive cases were H. pylori antibody-negative (P0.001). Hepatitis E virus was common in children who had access to municipal piped water (P = 0.025). H. pylori was common in children who used a non-flush toilet system (P0.001). Children exposed to H. pylori infection were also exposed to the risk of HEV.

SUMMARYWe studied the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori virulence markers, e.g. cytotoxin associated gene (cagA), cagA promoter, vacuolating associated cytotoxin A (vacA) alleles induced by contact with epithelium (iceA type), and outer membrane protein Q (hopQ) in expatriates and compared them with those in local residents. Gastric biopsies were obtained at endoscopy for culture, histology and PCR for virulence marker and hopQ. Of 309 patients, 236 (76%) were males with a mean age of 45 years. A total of 102 patients were expatriates. hopQ type 1 was present in 98 (47%) local residents compared to 88 (86%) expatriates (P < 0·001), while hopQ type 2 was present in 176 (85%) local residents, compared to 60 (59%) expatriates (P < 0·001). H. pylori virulence marker cagA was positive in 97 (47%) local residents compared to 86 (84%) expatriates (P < 0·001) while cagA-P was positive in 72 (35%) local residents compared to 87 (85%) expatriates (P < 0·001). iceA type 1 was positive in 157 (76%) local residents compared to 45 (44%) expatriates (P < 0·001), while iceA type 2 was positive in 81 (39%) local residents compared to 86 (84%) expatriates (P < 0·001). Distribution of H. pylori cagA, cagA promoter, iceA and hopQ type in local residents and expatriates was different. H. pylori virulence markers were associated with severe pathology in expatriates.

Background & Aims: Terlipressin is recommended for 3–5 days as adjuvant to endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVBL) in esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB). We assessed whether terlipressin can be administered for a shorter period of time to patients with EVB. Methods: All eligible EVB patients received 24 h of open label terlipressin at presentation. After successful EVBL, patients were randomized to receive active or dummy terlipressin for the next 48 h. We excluded patients with failure to achieve initial hemostasis, bleeding gastric varices, known hepatoma, and/or portal vein thrombosis, advanced cirrhosis (Child-Pugh score P12), and patients on a ventilator. The primary outcome was failure to control EVB. The secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality; re-bleeding and composite outcome of failure to control EVB. Results: A total of 130 eligible patients were randomized to receive terlipressin for a total of 24 (short course or SC) or 72 h (usual course or UC). Baseline patient characteristics were comparable; the majority of patients were HCV-infected and male. There was one failure to control EVB (1.5%) in UC and none in SC terlipressin (p = 0.50). The 30-day re-bleeding rate was 1.5% and 3.1% in UC, and SC terlipressin, respectively (p = 0.50). The 30-day mortality was 12, 6 (9.2%) patients in each group (p = 0.50). The 30-day failure to control bleeding was observed in 14 patients; seven in each group (p = 0.494). Conclusions: In patients with esophageal variceal bleeding, a 24h course of terlipressin is as effective as a 72-h course when used as an adjunctive therapy to successful EVBL. 2011 European Association for the Study of the Liver. Published

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) bleeding carries high morbidity and mortality. The use of a bleeding care pathway (BCP) may improve outcomes, but the results are inconsistent in various studies.A BCP for patients with UGI bleed with admission in a bleeding care unit (BCU) has been in use at our hospital since 2005. Prior to this, a high dependency unit was used for management of all emergencies including UGI bleeding. We compared the length of stay in the bleeding care/high dependency unit, total hospital stay, time to UGI endoscopy after admission, and survival between pre-2005 and post-2005 patients.Five hundred and fifty-one patients were admitted with acute UGI bleed in the last 5 years; 121 belonged to pre-BCP (2004) period and 430 after implementation of the pathway (2005-2008). The mean (SD) time to UGI endoscopy improved from 21.3 (7.4) hours in the pre-BCU era to 9.4 (9.9) hours in BCU, p0.001. BCU stay was shorter from 2.41 (1.4) days pre-BCP to 1.93 (1.32) days post-BCP, (p0.001). The total hospital stay in pre-BCU (4.0 [2.08] days) as compared to BCU (4.13 [2.62] days; p = 0.58) was similar; there was no impact of BCU on survival.A BCU implementation showed improvement in time to UGI endoscopy, and did not reduce BCU stay or impact survival.

SUMMARYTriple therapy is commonly used for the treatment ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection. We determined risk factors associated with its failure in compliant patients focusing onH. pyloridensity, virulence marker and 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) point mutations associated with clarithromycin resistance.H. pyloriinfection was diagnosed by14C urea breath test (14C UBT) and rapid urease test or histology. Triple therapy with esomeprazole 20 mg b.i.d., amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d. and clarithromycin 500 mg b.i.d. was prescribed for 10 days.14C UBT was repeated 4 weeks after treatment. In total, 111 patients [69 (62%) males] with a mean age of 46±16 years were enrolled. The mean age of treatment failure was 39±14 years compared to 48±16 years with eradication (P=0·002). Treatment failure was associated with younger mean age, point mutations in the23S rRNAgene ofH. pyloriandvacA s1aandm1when associated withcagAnegativity.

This study aims to determine primary Helicobacter pylori resistance and its effect on eradication of the organism. Ninety-two patients with dyspeptic symptoms were enrolled. H. pylori was cultured and antibiotic sensitivity was determined by the Epsilometer test (Etest) for clarithromycin (CLR), amoxicillin (AMX) and metronidazole (MTR). 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) point mutations associated with clarithromycin resistance were also detected. Patients were treated with omeprazole (40 mg daily), CLR (500 mg) and AMX (1g twice a day) for 14 days. A 14C-urea breath test (14C-UBT) was repeated four weeks after completion of treatment to confirm eradication. Triple therapy failure was seen in 30 (33%) patients. The resistance rates were: CLR 33% (30/92), MTR 48% (44/92) and AMX 2% (2/92). Clarithromycin resistance (CLR-R) was present in the 16-39 age group in 21 (47%) (P = 0.007) compared to nine (19%) in the 40-79 age group. CLR resistance was seen in 30 H. pylori isolates, 20 (67%) from patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD), six (20%) with gastric ulcer (GU) and four (13%) with duodenal ulcer (DU). Triple therapy failure was associated with CLR-R in 28 (93%) (P < 0.001). CLR-R mutations were present in 30 (33%) and were associated with treatment failure in 27 (90%; P < 0.001). They were present in 20 (44%) isolates obtained from patients in the 16-39 age group (P = 0.018). Treatment failure was associated with A2142G mutation in 20 (67%; P < 0.001), A2143G mutation in 12 (40%; P < 0.001) and A2142C mutation in five (17%; P = 0.003). In conclusion, triple therapy failure was associated with CLR-R. Metronidazole resistance exceeded that of CLR, hence it cannot be substituted for CLR in a triple therapy.

There is increasing evidence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) resistance to the classical triple therapy consisting of a proton-pump inhibitor and clarithromycin with either amoxicillin or metronidazole. This study is aimed at establishing the efficacy and safety of a 14-day regimen to eradicate H. pylori in patients who have failed with the classical triple therapy given for 14 days. One hundred seventy-six patients diagnosed to have H. pylori infection were given triple therapy for 14 days. Fifty-two patients who failed to respond as evident from positive 14C-urea breath test (UBT) done 4-6 weeks after the completion of triple therapy were offered a combination regimen comprised of furazolidone 200 mg b.i.d, co-amoxiclav 1 g b.i.d., colloidal bismuth subcitrate 240 mg b.i.d., and esomeprazole 40 mg b.i.d. for 14 days. The mean age of these patients was 41 +/- 13 years (range 20-67). Thirty-four were males. To document eradication of H. pylori, UBT was repeated 4 weeks after the completion of treatment. On an intention-to-treat analysis, the eradication rate was 81% (42 out of 52) whereas on per-protocol basis, the eradication rate was 82.4% (42 out of 51). In conclusion, this new regimen represents a suitable second-line therapy.

Aim To study the safety and utility of performing an oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD) in the setting of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods Case records of all patients who underwent an EGD for various indications within 4 weeks of an AMI between January 2001 and April 2006 were analyzed. Demographic data, indications for endoscopy, outcomes and complications were noted. Main outcome measures included safety and utility of endoscopy in AMI. Results A total of 87 EGDs were performed on 85 patients with AMI. Seventy (83%) patients had a non-ST elevation MI, whereas 15 (17%) had ST elevation MI. Mean time between EGD and AMI was 6±1.8 days. Indications for EGD were hematemesis and/or melena on presentation in 38 (44.7%), hematemesis and/or melena post anticoagulation in 27 (31.8%). EGD findings were gastric ulcer/erosions in 30 (34%), oesophago-gastric varices in 20 (22%), erosive oesophagitis in 17 (20%) and duodenal ulcer in 11 (13%). Diagnostic yield of EGD was 88%. Endoscopic interventions were performed in 26 (30%) patients with high risk of bleeding lesion. There were no EGD-related mortality, whereas 14 patients re-bled. A total of 21 patients died, including 7/14 (50%) who re-bled, compared with 14/71 (19%) without rebleed (P=0.008). There were no EGD-related deaths. Fourteen patients were on mechanical ventilation and 6/14 (43%) of these died as compared with 15/88 (17%) who were not ventilated (P=0.027). Conclusion EGD is safe and useful in diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with AMI, and allows decisions about anticoagulation. Re-bleed and need for mechanical ventilation predicts poor outcome in these patients.

Background: Esophageal tuberculosis is rare. Clinical and endoscopic features are variable, diverse, nonspecific, and poorly described. These findings may be confused with those of esophageal cancer and deep fungal infection. Methods: Medical records from a 5-year period (January 1997 to December 2001) were searched for cases of esophageal tuberculosis. For identified cases, the clinical, radiologic, and endoscopic features were evaluated. Observations: Four cases of esophageal tuberculosis were encountered during the 5-year period studied. Three of the patients presented with dysphagia and weight loss. One patient had aspiration pneumonia and another fatal hematemesis. Endoscopic features included deep and large proximal esophageal ulcers in 2 patients, tracheo-esophageal fistula in one, and nonhealing proximal esophageal ulcer in another patient. Conclusion: The present case series indicates that certain endoscopic features, such as deep and large esophageal ulcers, tracheoesophageal fistula, and nonhealing ulcer, are strongly suggestive of tuberculosis-related esophageal lesions.

Hemolytic anemia as a complication of acute hepatitis is not uncommon in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. However, severe hemolysis in these patients is rare. We report a cohort of five patients with acute viral hepatitis E who developed severe intravascular hemolysis and unusually high levels of bilirubin. All five patients had severe, complicated, protracted courses of illness. Four patients developed acute renal failure, and two of these required hemodialysis. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of a cohort of patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and acute viral hepatitis E with severe intravascular hemolysis. We emphasize the fact that intravascular hemolysis should be suspected in patients with acute viral hepatitis E with marked bilirubinemia and anemia. Measures to prevent renal failure should be taken in such cases.

Gastric variceal bleeding is one of the most feared complications of portal hypertension and hence merits investigation for its optimal therapy. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and long-term outcome(s) of patients treated with a single session of histoacryl sclerotherapy for active gastric variceal bleeding.The medical records of patients who presented with active gastric variceal bleeding between 1998 and 2011 in a tertiary care setting were evaluated retrospectively and the eventual outcome(s) (initial hemostasis, rebleeding, and mortality rate) was assessed at least 1 year after the index bleed.Ninety-seven patients were included. The mean age of the patients was 51.0 ± 12.5 years; 62% were men. Hepatitis C was the most common etiology, found in 63 (65%) patients. The majority of the patients were classified as Child-Pugh grade B and C: 44 (46%) and 29 (31%) patients, respectively. A total of 40 (41%) patients were IGV1, 35 (36%) patients were GOV 2, 20 (21%) patients were GOV 1, and 2 (2%) patients were IGV2. A single session of histoacryl was successful in controlling bleeding in 83 (86%) patients. Seven (7%) patients died during the hospital stay. Rebleeding was observed in 24 (27%) patients during the 1-year follow-up, of whom 12 (50%) were managed successfully with repeated histoacryl injection. The overall mortality rate at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year was 14 (14%), 19 (20%) and 26 (27%) patients, respectively. Child-Pugh classification was a significant prognostic factor of survival (P0.001).A single session of histoacryl sclerotherapy is effective in the majority of patients with active gastric variceal bleeding. Rebleeding was observed in one-fourth of patients, half of whom were controlled successfully by repeated histoacryl sclerotherapy.

In order to determine whether obstructive pancreatobiliary lesions increase the risk of duodenal erosions and ulcers, the duodenal mucosa of patients with these lesions were prospectively examined before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). During the study period, 133 patients underwent ERCP for various reasons in the Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital. One hundred and twenty-three patients were eligible for final analysis. Sixty-five patients with bilirubin > or = 35 mumol/L and alkaline phosphatase > or = 2.5 times normal levels along with radiological evidence of pancreatobiliary obstruction were included in the obstruction group. Fifty-eight patients who did not fulfil these criteria were used in the control group. Acid peptic lesions, which included erosions and ulcers, were seen in 16 patients of the obstruction group and four patients of the control group (P = 0.016, odds ratio (OR) = 4.41). Patients with carcinoma of the pancreas had a greater number of lesions than the rest of the obstruction group (P = 0.001, OR = 8.75). Individual variables like age, sex, serum bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase levels, and duration of jaundice did not increase the vulnerability to acid peptic injury. The degree of obstruction multiplied by duration of jaundice (alkaline phosphatase x days) increased the susceptibility for duodenal disease (P = 0.047). From this data it was concluded that patients with obstructive pancreatobiliary lesions are more prone to acid peptic duodenal lesions.

Background The aim was to investigate the reinfection rate of H. pylori during a follow-up period of 12 months in adults who had undergone eradication therapy. Methods One hundred-twenty patients; 116 with gastritis, 3 with duodenal ulcer and 1 gastric ulcer, were studied. Their mean age was 41 ± 13 years (range 18–77) and male: female ratio of 2:1. H. pylori were cultured and antibiotic sensitivity was determined by Epsilometer test (E-test) for clarithromycin (CLR) and amoxicillin (AMX). Primers of urease C gene of H. pylori and Sau-3 and Hha I restriction enzymes were used for polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (PCR-RFLP). 14C urea breath test (14C-UBT) was performed 4 weeks after the eradication therapy. The successfully treated patients were observed for 12 months with 14C-UBT to assess H. pylori status. If 14C-UBT was negative, it was repeated after every 12 weeks. If 14C-UBT was positive, endoscopy was repeated with biopsies. Result The eradication therapy was successful in 102(85%) patients. Out of forty-seven H. pylori isolates cultured, clarithromycin sensitivity was present in 30(64%) and amoxicillin in 45(98%), respectively. Follow-up 14C-urea breath tests of all 102 patients who eradicated H. pylori remained negative up to 9 months. However, in 6 patients, the 14C-UBT confirmed recurrence at 12 months. The recurrence rate was 6%. Conclusion A low rate of recurrence of H. pylori infection was found in patients with dyspeptic symptoms. H. pylori isolates demonstrated a high invitro clarithromycin resistance.

The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate presentation of celiac disease in adults. It included 77 patients, 41 (53.2%) males with median age 26 years and median body mass index of 18 (16 - 22) kg/m². Typical presentation with gastrointestinal symptoms was seen in 76.6%. Atypical presentation with extra intestinal complaints in 7.8% and silent presentation in 15.6%. Major symptoms were diarrhea in 64.9%, weight loss 36.4%, abdominal pain 35.1%, vomiting 32.5%, pallor 24.7%, and weakness 13%. Iron deficiency was documented in 20.8%, B12 deficiency in 9.1%, folic acid deficiency in 6.5% and vitamin D deficiency in 10.4%. Half of the patients had haemoglobin less than 11 g/dl. Osteoporosis and osteomalacia, hypothyroidism, diabetes and atrophic gastritis were seen in 2.6% each. Raised alanine aminotransferase was documented in 23.4%. Duodenal biopsy, done in 39 patients, revealed increased intraepithelial lymphocytes in 11, along with crypt hyperplasia in 3, partial villous atrophy in 15 and sub-total villous atrophy in 10. In conclusion, celiac disease in adults should be looked for in patients with chronic diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome like symptoms, underweight, anaemic, or having nutritional deficiencies.

Background H. pylori infection has been associated with many micronutrient deficiencies. There is a dearth of data from communities with nutritional deficiencies and high prevalence of H. pylori infection. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of H. pylori infection on serum levels of vitamin B12, folate and homocysteine in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD). Methods One hundred and thirty-two patients with FD undergoing gastroscopy were enrolled. The serum was analyzed for B12, folate and homocysteine levels before gastroscopy. H. pylori infection was diagnosed by histopathological examination of gastric biopsies and urea breath test. An independent sample t-test and the Mann–Whitney test were used to compare mean serum concentrations of biomarkers between H. pylori- positive and H. pylori- negative groups of patients. A Chi-square test was performed to assess the differences among proportions, while Spearman’s rho was used for correlation analysis between levels of B12 and homocysteine. Results The mean age of the group was 40.3 ± 11.5 (19–72) years. Folate deficiency was seen in 43 (34.6%), B12 deficiency in 30 (23.1%) and hyperhomocysteinemia in 60 (46.2%) patients. H. pylori was present in 80 (61.5%) patients with FD while it was absent in 50 (38.5%). Mean serum levels of B12, folate and homocysteine in the H. pylori- positive group of patients were not significantly different from the levels in the H. pylori- negative group (357 ± 170 vs. 313 ± 136 pg/mL; p = 0.13), (4.35 ± 1.89 vs. 4.42 ± 1.93 ng/mL; p = 0.84); (15.88 ± 8.97 vs. 16.62 ± 7.82 μmol/L; p = 0.24); respectively. B12 deficiency (≤200 pg/mL) was 23.8% in the H. pylori- positive patients versus 22.0% in the H. pylori- negative patients. Folate deficiency (≤3.5 ng/mL) was 33.8% in the H. pylori- positive group versus 36% in the H. pylori- negative group. Hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 μmol/L) was present in 46.2% of H. pylori- positive patients compared to 44% in the H. pylori- negative group. Correlation analysis indicated that serum B12 levels were inversely associated with serum levels of homocysteine in patients with FD (rho = −0.192; p = 0.028). Conclusions This study demonstrated an inverse relationship between serum levels of B12 and homocysteine in patients with FD. Moreover, no impact of the presence of H. pylori was found on B12, folate and homocysteine levels in such patients.

To determine patients perception and knowledge regarding diet in cirrhosis and its relationship with the level of patients education.Cross-sectional observational study.This study was conducted at Gastroenterology Outpatient Clinics at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, the Aga Khan Health Services, Malir, Karachi and Hamdard University, Karachi, from January to December 2010.Consecutive adult patients with compensated cirrhosis were enrolled. Demographic data, level of education, type and reason of food restriction as well as the source of dietary information was asked. Baseline laboratory test were performed, and nutritional status was assessed by BMI normogram.Ninety patients, 58% male were enrolled. Mean age of the patient was 49 ± 11 years. Overall 73% of the patients were restricting fat, meat, fish and eggs in their diet; 53% were in uneducated group and 47% were in educated group (CI, 0.24-1.62, p-0.34). Twenty two patients (62.8%) in uneducated and 21 in educated group (68%) were restricting diet on the advice of their doctors, whereas 13 in uneducated group (37%) and 11 in educated group (32%) believed these dietary components to be harmful for the liver. Thirty two of uneducated patient (71.1%) and 28 of educated patients (62.2%) believed that vegetables, fruits and sugarcane had a beneficial effect on the liver. Main source of dietary information to the patients was the doctor. On sub-group analysis those who restricted diet irrespective of their educational level, had more patients with BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2, (CI 0.01-0.94, p-0.001), haemoglobin less than 12 g/dl (CI 0- 0.03, p-0.001) and serum albumin less than 3 g/dl (CI 0.1- 03, p-0.001).Both educated and uneducated classes of the patients have improper knowledge and perception of diet in cirrhosis. Patients with cirrhosis who restricted diet, had relatively low BMI, haemoglobin and albumin as compared to those who did not restrict. Main source of dietary information to cirrhotic patients were health care personnels.

Background/Aim: Rome III criteria has modified the description of functional dyspepsia (FD) and divided this into subgroups. However, the discriminative value of Rome III questionnaire-based diagnosis of FD is yet to be determined. Objectives: To evaluate the Rome III questionnaire for the diagnosis of FD and whether it can discriminate between postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) in patients with dyspeptic symptoms. Patients and Methods: Consecutive patients, who were not on proton pump inhibitors (PPI), were asked to participate. Patients who have previously established acid peptic disease or predominantly reflux symptoms or having alarm symptoms such as weight loss and hematemesis were excluded. Rome III questionnaire for FD was used to identify the patients as having FD and divide into its subgroups; PDS or EPS. Gastro-duodenal biopsies, liver function tests and ultrasound were done to establish the diagnosis of FD. Results: Out of 272 patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms without alarm features, who were enrolled in the study, a total of 191 (70%) fulfilled the criteria of FD based upon Rome III questionnaire. EPS subgroup was found in 109 (57%), PDS in 17 (9%) patients, overlap between EPS and PDS was present in 56 (29%) patients. Nine (5%) patients remained indeterminate. Diagnosis of FD was established in 136/191 (71%) patients only. Gastritis was present in 116 patients (85%), Duodenitis in 44 (32%) and Helicobacter pylori infection in 70 (51%) patients. Among 55 patients (29%) who had organic diseases, EPS was seen in 35 (64%), PDS in 5 (9%) and overlap in 15 (27%) patients. Underlying organic causes were gastric or duodenal ulcers in 14 patients, Barrett esophagus in five, chronic liver disease in seven, gall stones in five, Giardiasis and celiac disease in three each. Gastric carcinoma, Crohns disease and gastric polyps were seen in one patient each. Conclusion: This study indicates that 30% of patients who fulfilled the Rome III criteria for FD actually had organic disease. Almost one-third of patients with functioanl dyspepsia did not qualify for one of the two subgroups of FD of Rome III. There is also a need to further define the Rome III-based subgroups of FD for research purpose.

To evaluate the efficacy of L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA) as an adjuvant therapy in cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE).Randomized placebo controlled study.The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi in the year 2003-2004.Patients with HE were randomized to receive LOLA or placebo medicine as an adjuvant to treatment of HE. Number connection test-A (NCT-A), ammonia level, clinical grade of HE and duration of hospitalization were assessed.Out of 120 patients, there were 62 males with mean age of 57 ± 11 years. Improvement in HE was higher (n=40, 66.7%) in LOLA group as compared to the placebo group (n=28, 46.7%, p=0.027). In patients with grade I or less encephalopathy, improvement was seen in 6 (35.3%) and 3 (20%) patients in LOLA and placebo groups respectively (p=0.667). Patients with HE grade II and above showed improvement in 34 (79.1%) and 25 (55.6%) cases in LOLA and placebo group respectively (p=0.019). On multivariate analysis patients with HE of grade II and above showed prothrombin time, creatinine level and use of LOLA influencing the outcome. Duration of hospitalization was 93.6 ± 25.7 hours and 135.2 ± 103.5 hours in LOLA and placebo groups respectively (p=0.025). No side effects were observed in either groups.In cirrhotic patients with advanced hepatic encephalopathy treatment with LOLA was safe and associated with relatively rapid improvement and shorter hospital stay.

To determine precipitants of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and their impact on hospital stay and mortality.Cross-sectional, analytical study.The Aga Khan University Hospital, from January 2005 to December 2007.Consecutive patients admitted with different grades of HE were evaluated between January 2005 and December 2007. The precipitants of HE were correlated with the different grades of HE, and length of hospital stay and mortality. Chi-square test was used to compare the proportion of precipitating factors versus hospital stay and grade with significance at p0.05.Of the 404 patients 252 (62%) were males. Hepatitis C virus was the cause of cirrhosis in 283 (70%); Child Turcotte Pugh (CTP) class C was present in 317 (78%) patients. On presentation, 17% patients had grade 1 HE while 44%, 29% and 10% had grades 2, 3 and 4 respectively. The most common precipitant of HE was spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in 83 (20.5%), constipation in 74 (18.3%) and urinary tract infection in 62 (15.3%). One hundred and forty (35%) patients had (3) 2 precipitating factors while no precipitant was noted in 50 (12%) patients. Mean hospital stay was 4+/-3 days. The lesser the number of precipitants, shorter was the length of stay (p0.01) and lesser was the grade of HE (p=0.025). Complete reversal of HE was noted in 366 patients (91%) while the remaining had grade 1 HE on discharge. Nine (2.2%) patients died during the hospital stay. No mortality was noted in patients without precipitants.Patients presenting with (3) 2 precipitating factors and advanced grade of HE had a prolonged hospital stay. Moreover, patients without precipitants had better outcomes.

Background Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is known to be associated with a spectrum of gastroduodenal diseases. We studied the association of H. pylori virulence markers cytotoxin-associated gene (cagA) and vacuolating associated cytotoxin gene (vacA) alleles in patients with non ulcer dyspepsia (NUD), gastric ulcer (GU), gastric carcinoma (GC) and duodenal ulcer (DU). Methods H. pylori infection established by both rapid urease test and histology were studied. The cagA and vacA allelic status was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sequencing of vacA i1 and i2 PCR product was carried out. Results Two hundred and twenty-four patients were included, 141 (63%) were males with a mean age of 45 ± 16, range 16-83 years. The virulence marker cagA was associated with GU in 20(63%) (p = 0.04), DU in 23(72%) (p = 0.003) and GC in 29(73%) (p = 0.001) compared to NUD in 51(42%). VacA s1am1 was associated with GU in 23(72%) (p = 0.001), DU in 17(53%) (p < 0.001) and GC in 23(58%) (p = 0.003) compared to NUD in 38(32%) while vacA s1bm1 was also associated with GU in 9(28%) (p = 0.001), DU in 12(37%) (p < 0.001) and GC 11(28%) (p < 0.001) compared to NUD in 13(11%), respectively. The diagnoses of GU in 21(66%), DU in 16(50%), GC in 20(50%) and NUD in 50(42%) were associated with moderately active chronic inflammation. CagA in 55(45%) (p = 0.037), vacA s1am1 in 51(51%) (P < 0.001), s1bm1 in 25(56%) (p = 0.002), s1am2 32(30%) (p < 0.001) and s1bm2 29(69%) (p = 0.004) were also associated with moderately active chronic inflammation. Conclusion CagA was negative in majority of NUD patients with H. pylori infection. However, cagA was associated with peptic ulcer and GC. VacA allele's s1am1 and s1bm1 were associated with H. pylori associated diseases and inflammation.

Clinical diseases that follow Helicobacter pylori infection are associated with expression of the cagA gene, a part of cytotoxin-associated gene pathogenicity island (cag-PAI). This study aims to determined whether or not the presence of cagA is associated with the presence of complete cag-PAI and to evaluate inflammatory changes associated with the five loci in the cag-PAI of H. pylori comprising cagA, cagA promoter region (cagAP), cagE, cagT and the left end of the cagA gene (LEC). H. pylori isolates were obtained from patients with dyspeptic symptoms. Clinical strains of H. pylori were screened by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for respective genes of the cag-PAI. Of 115 H. pylori isolates, 31 (28%) were positive for the five cag-PAI loci. H. pylori isolates with intact cag-PAI were associated with gastric carcinoma (GC; n=9 [60%]) and gastric ulcer (GU; n=5 [45%]) compared to non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD; n=14 [18%]) (P=0.001 and P=0.049, respectively). In patients with intact cag-PAI, acute on chronic inflammation was present in 25 (81%) and was more common than chronic inflammation (P=0.013). The cagE and cagAP had deletions in 25 (37%) and 23 (35%) cases, respectively. The cagAP region was significantly associated with GC (n=12 [80%], P

Aim: We estimated the prevalence, age of acquisition and risk factors for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) seroprevalence in children aged 1–15 years. Methods: Exposure was assessed using ELISA. Parents responded to a questionnaire regarding number of individuals sharing house, rooms, water source, latrines, housing and assessment of socioeconomic status (SES) by Hollingshead Index. Results: Serum of 1976 children was tested. Helicobacter pylori seropositivity in children aged 11–15 years was 53.5% (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.58–2.5). It increased with moderate crowding index (CRI) of 2–4 to 45.9% (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 0.92–1.63) and to 51.2% with CRI >4 (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.12–2.06). In middle SES, seropositivity was 50.5% (331/655) (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.29–2.35), whereas in lower SES, it was 47.1% (500/1062) (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1–2.0). Multivariate analysis showed that Helicobacter pylori seroprevalence was high in children aged 6–10 and 11–15 years (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2–1.9 and OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.56–2.47 respectively), in lower-middle SES (OR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2–2.1 and OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.10–2.0 respectively) and in uneducated fathers (OR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.27–1.95). Conclusion: Helicobacter pylori seropositivity increases with age, in low-middle SES and is related to father’s educational status. Reducing H. pylori seroprevalence will require improvement in sanitary conditions and educational status of the population.

To determine the frequency and specific characteristic features of portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) in cirrhosis due to viral etiology.Cross-sectional descriptive study.The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from June 2006 till June 2008.Patients with hepatitis B and C cirrhosis were included who underwent screening esophago-gastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for varices. Baveno III consensus statement was used for diagnosing PHG on endoscopy and divided them into two subgroups i.e. mild and severe. Data related to platelet/spleen ratio, MELD score and Child Turcotte Pugh (CTP) score indicating severity of cirrhosis were recorded in all patients. Findings were compared by using independent sample t-test.Out of 360 patients who underwent screening EGD, 226 (62.8%) were males. Two hundred and eighty one (78%) had hepatitis C while 79 (22%) suffered from hepatitis B related cirrhosis. Three hundred patients (83.3%) had PHG while 71 (24%) had severe PHG. Higher proportion of esophageal varices (89.7%) was present among those who had PHG (p0.001). On univariate analysis lower platelet counts (117±55 vs. 167±90; p0.001), increased spleen size (14.1±2.9 cm vs. 12±2.4cm; p0.001) were found in PHG patients as compared to those without it. Similarly, lower platelet/spleen ratio was noted in patients with severe PHG (916±400 vs. 1477±899; p0.001). Furthermore, on multivariate analysis CTP score8 MELD score12 and platelets/spleen ratio900 were significantly associated factors with severe PHG.Frequency of PHG was 83% while severe PHG was seen in 24% cases of viral hepatic cirrhosis. MELD score12, CTP score ³ 8 and platelets/spleen ratio900 were significant factors of severe PHG.

To compare the maximum tolerated volumes (MTVs) of drinking water and a nutrient liquid at different rates of drinking and to assess the best drinking test correlating with the symptom scores.Healthy volunteers were requested to drink water at a rate of 10 ml/min or a nutrient liquid drink at 100 and 20 ml/min on three separate occasions. Symptoms of bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain were assessed 30 min after the cessation of drinking using visual analogue scales.The MTV of water was 1595 +/- 405 in males and 1327 +/- 308 in females (p0.05). In rapid nutrient drinking, the MTV was 945 +/- 376 ml in males, whereas females tolerated 760 +/- 174 ml (p0.05). In slow nutrient drinking, the MTV was 692 +/- 184 ml in males and 594 +/- 131 ml in females (p=0.051). Multiple regression analysis showed no influence of body mass index (BMI), age, or gender in slow nutrient drinking. However, drinking capacity was significantly influenced by gender, age, and BMI in rapid water drinking and by gender in rapid nutrient drinking. When the tolerated volumes for satiety drinking tests were compared, only males showed some significant positive correlations. Symptom scores were higher after slow nutrient drinking compared to the other two drinking tests.The rate of drinking and the caloric content affect the MTVs in satiety drinking tests. Slow nutrient drinking appears to be the best choice among the different satiety drink tests, as MTV in this test was not influenced by BMI or age and was associated with higher symptom scores.

Data are scarce on the head-to-head efficacy of terlipressin and octreotide as an adjuvant therapy to endoscopic management of variceal bleed. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of terlipressin with octreotide as an adjuvant therapy to endoscopic variceal band ligation in patients with esophageal variceal bleeding.Cirrhotic patients with esophageal variceal bleed were randomized on admission to receive terlipressin (group A) or octreotide (group B) along with the placebo in the other arm in a double-blind fashion. The two groups were compared for efficacy, safety, overall survival, and length of hospital stay. "Control of variceal bleed" was the measure of efficacy of terlipressin and octreotide. Factors predicting length of stay were also assessed.A total of 324 patients were enrolled; 163 in the terlipressin group (group A) and 161 in the octreotide group (group B). The baseline characteristics of the two groups were comparable for age, gender, etiology of cirrhosis, hemoglobin at presentation, and Child-Pugh class, except that active bleed was seen during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at the time of enrollment in 26 (16%) and 41 (25.5%) patients in groups A and B, respectively (P=0.034). Overall sixteen patients died (three failure to control bleed and thirteen from causes other than variceal bleed); nine in group A (5.5%) and seven (4.3%) in group B (P=0.626). In the intention to treat analysis, "control of variceal bleed" was noted in 305 patients (94.13%); 151 (92.63%) patients in group A and 154 (95.6%) patients in group B (confidence interval: 0.219-1.492). Packed cell transfusions in group A were 3.7+/-2.3 units, whereas in group B there were 3.9+/-2.5 units (P=0.273). Length of hospital stay in groups A and B was 108.40+/-34.81 and 126.39+/-47.45 h, respectively (Por =0.001). No cardiovascular side effects were observed in either group. High pulse, low hemoglobin, prothrombin time, blood in nasogastric aspirate, and portosystemic encephalopathy (PSE) were predictors of prolonged hospital stay.The efficacy of terlipressin was not inferior to octreotide as an adjuvant therapy for the control of esophageal variceal bleed and in-hospital survival. The length of hospital stay in the terlipressin group was significantly shorter but not of any clinical importance. The predictors of prolonged hospital stay were low hemoglobin, high pulse, prolonged prothrombin time, blood at nasogastric aspirate, and PSE.

To determine the association of Model for End stage liver disease (MELD) score to the outcome of cirrhotic patients with bacterial infection and to compare it with Child-Turcott-Pugh (CTP) score.Descriptive study.The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from January 2005 to December 2007.Patients with diagnosis of liver cirrhosis and bacterial infection were included. Demographic features, laboratory data and type of infection were recorded. Multiple logistic regression assays were applied to determine the factors associated with poor outcome in cirrhotics with infection. Receiver-Operating Characteristics (ROC) were used to determine the cut-off values of CTP score and MELD score with the best sensitivity and specificity.A total of 530 patients, 313 male (59%) with a mean age of 53 +/- 13 years were analyzed. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was the predominant infection seen in 369 (69%) patients. One hundred and eighty six (35%) patients died. Factors associated with poor outcome were a CTP score of more than 11 (p=0.001), raised blood urea nitrogen (p=0.020), raised creatinine (p=0.004), shock (p=0.002), and MELD score22 (p=0.03). An eight percent increase in mortality rate was noticed with every one point rise in MELD score above 22. ROC curve showed that the specificity of CTP and MELD score to predict poor outcome in these patients was 36% and 59% respectively.Child-Turcott-Pugh score more than 11, raised BUN and creatinine, shock and high MELD score were poor prognostic markers in cirrhotic patients with infection. MELD score had better specificity than CTP score in determining outcome.

AIM: To determine the predictive factors for early aspiration in liver abscess. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of all patients with liver abscess from 1995 to 2004 was performed. Abscess was diagnosed as amebic in 661 (68%) patients, pyogenic in 200 (21%), indeterminate in 73 (8%) and mixed in 32 (3%). Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictive factors for aspiration of liver abscess. RESULTS: A total of 966 patients, 738 (76%) male, mean age 43 ± 17 years, were evaluated: 540 patients responded to medical therapy while adjunctive percutaneous aspiration was performed in 426 patients. Predictive factors for aspiration of liver abscess were: age ≥ 55 years, size of abscess ≥ 5 cm, involvement of both lobes of the liver and duration of symptoms ≥ 7 d. Hospital stay in the aspiration group was relatively longer than in the non aspiration group. Twelve patients died in the aspiration group and this mortality was not statistically significant when compared to the non aspiration group. CONCLUSION: Patients with advanced age, abscess size > 5 cm, both lobes of the liver involvement and duration of symptoms > 7 d were likely to undergo aspiration of the liver abscess, regardless of etiology.

To compare the GI symptoms in diabetic patients with controls and its relationship with the complications, duration of diabetes and glycaemic control.Consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled in to two groups. Group I (diabetic patients) and Group II (non-diabetic, Controls). Patient's characteristics, demographic profiles and GI symptoms were evaluated on a questionnaire. Groups were compared for differences in various GI symptoms. Group I was further analyzed for the relationship between GI symptoms with complications, duration of diabetes and glycaemic control.A total of 514 patients were enrolled 250 were diabetics (group I) and 264 were non-diabetics (group II). Mean age was 51.8 +/- 10.6 years and 50.2 +/- 9.2 years in groups i and ii respectively. All GI symptoms; heartburn, dyspepsia, bowel related abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and faecal incontinence were significantly more in diabetics than controls (P.5). The presence of diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy and HbAlc of7 were significantly (P.5) related to GI symptoms. Duration of diabetes (10 years) was not found significantly linked to GI symptoms.GI symptoms in diabetics were more frequent then control subjects and were significantly associated with poor glycaemic control, neuropathy and retinopathy but not with duration of diabetes. Number of GI symptoms increases with the severity of poor glycaemic control in diabetic patients

AIM: To validate and compare the cost of microdose 14C urea breath test (UBT) with histology and rapid urease test for the diagnosis of H Pylori. METHODS: Ninety-four consecutive patients with dyspeptic symptoms undergoing gastroscopy were enrolled. Gastric biopsies were taken for histology and rapid urease test. UBT was performed after gastroscopy by microdose 14C urea capsules. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of UBT were calculated and compared with histology and rapid urease test. Cost comparison of these tests was also performed. RESULTS: H pylori was diagnosed by histology and rapid urease test in 66 (70%) and 61 (65%) patients, while 14C UBT detected infection in 63 (67%). Accuracy of UBT was 93% in comparison with histology while its positive and negative predictive values were 97% and 84%, respectively. Comparison of 14C UBT with rapid urease test gives an accuracy of 96%, with positive and negative predictive values of 95% and 97%, respectively. These results were highly reproducible with a Kappa test (P value < 0.001). Cost of histology or rapid urease test with gastroscopy was 110 USD or 95 USD respectively while the cost of UBT was 15 USD. CONCLUSION: Microdose 14C UBT was comparable to histology and rapid urease test. 14C UBT is an economical, self sufficient and suitable test to diagnose active H pylori infection in less developed countries.

The diagnostic yield of various tests for Helicobacter pylori infection in patients on acid-reducing drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and histamine-2 receptor blocker (H2RB), was compared. Seventy-four consecutive patients on acid-reducing drugs were enrolled: 34 (46%) were on PPIs, 20 (27%) were on H2RBs and 20 (27%) were not on medications. For those patients on PPIs, RUT and histology results from antrum were negative in 28 (82%) and 17 (50%) patients, respectively (OR: 4.7; 95% CI: 1.4–16.6; P = 0.004), while those from the corpus were negative in was 28 (82%) and 18 (53%) patients, respectively (OR: 4.4, 95% CI: 1.3–15.5; P = 0.006). For patients on H2RBs, RUT and histology results from the antrum were negative in 12 (60%) and six (30%) patients, respectively (OR: 3.5; 95% CI: 0.8–16.1; P = 0.05), while those from the corpus were negative in 12 (60%) and nine (45%) patients, respectively (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 0.4–7.8; P = 0.342). For those patients on PPIs, the diagnostic yield of both RUT and histology was reduced from both the antrum and corpus. In these patients, PCR for H. pylori is more sensitive than RUT and histology.

Background Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube has now become a preferred option for the long-term nutritional support device for patients with dysphagia. There is a considerable debate about the health issues related to the quality of life of these patients. Our aim of the study was to assess the outcome and perspectives of patients/care givers, about the acceptability of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement. Methods This descriptive analytic study conducted in patients, who have undergone percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement during January 1998 till December 2004. Medical records of these patients were evaluated for their demographic characteristics, underlying diagnosis, indications and complications. Telephonic interviews were conducted till March 2005, on a pre-tested questionnaire to address psychological, social and physical performance status, of the health related quality of life issues. Results A total of 191 patients' medical records were reviewed, 120 (63%) were males, and mean age was 63 years. Early complication was infection at PEG tube site in 6 (3%) patients. In follow up over 365 ± 149 days, late complications (occurring 72 hours later) were infection at PEG tube site in 29 (15 %) patient and dislodgment/blockage of the tube in 26 (13.6%). Interviews were possible with 126 patients/caretakers. Karnofsky Performance Score of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 was found in 13(10%), 18(14%), 21(17%), 29(23%) and 45(36%) with p-value < 0.001. Regarding the social and psychological aspects; 76(60%) would like to have the PEG tube again if required, 105(83 %) felt ease in feeding, and 76(60%) felt that PEG-tube helped in prolonging the survival. Regarding negative opinions; 49(39 %) felt that the feeding was too frequent, 45(36 %) felt apprehensive about dependency for feeding and 62(49%) were concerned about an increase in the cost of care. Conclusion PEG-tube placement was found to be relatively free from serious immediate and long- term complications. Majority of caregivers and patient felt that PEG-tube helped in feeding and prolonging the survival. Studies are needed to assess the real benefit in terms of actual nutritional gain and quality of life in such patients.

AIM: To assess the clinical features, yield of the diagnostic tests and outcome of abdominal tuberculosis in non-HIV patients. METHODS: Adult patients with discharge diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis (based upon; positive microbiology, histo-pathology, imaging or response to trial of anti TB drugs) during the period 1999 to 2004 were analyzed. Patient’s characteristics, laboratory investigations, radiological, endoscopic and surgical findings were evaluated. Abdominal site involved (intestinal, peritoneal, visceral, and nodal) and response to treatment was also noted. RESULTS: There were 209 patients enrolled. One hundred and twenty-three (59%) were females. Symptoms were abdominal pain 194 (93%), fever 134 (64%), night sweats 99 (48%), weight loss 98 (47%), vomiting 75 (36%), ascites 74 (35%), constipation 64 (31%), and diarrhea 25 (12%). Sub-acute and acute intestinal obstruction was seen in 28 (13%) and 12 (11%) respectively. Radiological evidence of pulmonary tuberculosis was found in 134 (64%) patients. Basis of diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis were radiology (Chest and barium X-Rays, Ultrasound and CT scan abdomen) in 111 (53%) and histo-pathology (tissue obtained during surgery, colonoscopy, CT or ultrasound guided biopsy, laparoscopy and upper gastro intestinal endoscopy) in 87 (42%) patients. Mycobacterium culture was positive in 6/87 (7%) patients and response to therapeutic trial of anti tubercular drugs was the basis of diagnosis in 5 (2.3%) patients. Predominant site of involvement by abdominal TB was intestinal in 103 (49%) patients, peritoneal in 87 (42%) patients, solid viscera in 10 (5%) and nodal in 9 (4%) patients. Response to medical treatment was found in 158 (76%) patients and additionally 35 (17%) patients also underwent surgery. In a 425 ± 120 d follow-up period 12 patients died (eight post operative) and no case of relapse was noted. CONCLUSION: Abdominal TB has diverse and non- specific symptomatology. No single test is adequate for diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis in all patients. Abdominal TB in non-HIV patients remains an ongoing diagnostic dilemma requiring a high index of clinical suspicion.

To determine the frequency of peptic ulcer disease in patients on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).Record of eight hundred and twenty consecutive patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy; from January 1998 to December 2000 were reviewed. The endoscopic diagnosis varied from gastritis, peptic ulcer to duodenitis. The use of NSAID was documented by reviewing medical records of patients with peptic ulcer.Peptic ulcers were found in 43% (353/820) patients. NSAID associated peptic ulcers were identified in 14.7% (52/353) patients. Diclofenac and aspirin were most common NSAIDs associated with peptic ulcers in 32.7% (17/52) and 30.7% (16/52) patients, respectively. Duodenal ulcer was more common than gastric ulcer 65.3% (34/52) and 42.3% (22/52), respectively. H. pylori infection was present in 46% (24/52) of the cases. NSAIDs treatment and / or H. pylori infection compared to non NSAIDs and non H. pylori infected peptic ulcer disease were significantly associated with gastric ulcer (p = 0.004) and duodenal ulcer (p = 0.009) respectively.NSAID-associated peptic ulcer disease is common in Pakistan and most frequently associated with gastric and duodenal ulcer. H. pylori infection is common in association with NSAID related peptic ulcers.

This study was carried out to evaluate and compare the outcome of various causes of non-malignant lesions of the esophagus after endoscopic therapeutic intervention.A cohort of patients with non-malignant dysphagia presenting at Aga Khan University hospital, a tertiary care setting who underwent endoscopic intervention was studied. Response to treatment was evaluated by improvement in dysphagia score on a scale of 0-4 and weight gain.99 subjects (53 males) were included. Mean age was 48.6 +/- 17.2 years. Dysphagia for solids was present in 48%, for liquids in 3% and for both in 49% patients. Significant weight loss (10% body weight) occurred in 35 (35.3%) patients. Achalasia was diagnosed in 49.5%, peptic stricture in 30.4%, post sclerotherapy stricture in 12.1%, corrosive injury in 4%, post-operative stricture in 4%. In comparative analysis of achalasia and inflammatory groups, good response to dysphagia was seen in 40/49 (82%) and 22/50 (44%) respectively p0.001. Weight gain was 35/49 (72%) and 22/50 (44%) p0.001 respectively. Significantly, more endoscopic sessions were required in inflammatory group compare to achalasia; 2.2 and 1.1 respectively; p0.001 and 160% complications rate in inflammatory group comparing to no complications in achalasia.Dysphagia and weight loss were common presentations in non-malignant esophageal diseases. Therapeutic intervention in inflammatory group was associated with high complication than the achalasia group.

Objective To compare the accuracy of a new office-based serological test for the detection of current Helicobacter pylori infection with gastric histopathology. Methods An office-based serological test for detection of current H. pylori infection was performed in 92 consecutive patients with dyspeptic symptoms. The result of this test was compared blindly with the rapid urease test and histopathology for H. pylori on gastric biopsies. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of this test were calculated against the histopathology. Results Among 92 patients, H. pylori was detected by histopathology and rapid urease test in 61 (66%) and 56 (60%) patients, respectively. Meanwhile the serological test diagnosed current H. pylori infection in 55 patients (59%). On comparison against the histology, the sensitivity and specificity of this new serological test was 85 and 90%, respectively. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value of this test were 94 and 76%, and the accuracy was 87% in this study. Conclusion The specificity and sensitivity of the serological test was found comparable with histopathology in the diagnosis of current H. pylori infection. This test is a useful tool for rapid diagnosis of H. pylori in out patients' setting.