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Summary: Background: The multifactorial nature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which manifests differently in individuals creates a need for a better understanding of the behaviour and pattern of the disease due to environmental factors. The current study aimed to study the changes in IBD behaviour, presentation, and characteristics in patients over the past two decades with a goal of improving patients’ diagnosis, management and outcomes. Methods: During a 6-month period (1/02/2022–30/07/2022), the information of patients with IBD who attended IBD outpatient clinics of 11 referral centre's in six countries was collected, and based on the first time of diagnosis with IBD, they were allocated as group A (those who were diagnosed more than 15 years ago), group B (those who were diagnosed with IBD between 5 and 15 years ago) and group C (IBD cases who diagnosed in recent 5 years). Then the most prevalent subtypes and characters of the disease are evaluated and compared to make clear if the presenting pattern and behaviour of the disease has changed in the last 2 decades. Findings: Overall 1430 patients with IBD including 1207 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) (84.5%) and 205 patients with Crohn's disease (CD; 14.3%) included. Mean age of participants at the first time of diagnosis with IBD was 30 years. The extra-intestinal involvement of IBD in groups A and B was more prevalent in comparison with group C. Most of those in groups A & B had academic education but in group C, the most prevalent educational status was high school or diploma (P = 0.012). In contrast to groups A and B, the relative prevalence of medium socioeconomic level in group C had decreased (65%). Relative prevalence of UC subtypes was similar among groups A and B (extensive colitis as most prevalent) but in group C, the most prevalent subtype is left side colitis (38.17%). The most prevalent subtype of CD in groups A and B was ileocolic involvement while in group C, upper GI involvement is significantly increased. The rate of food sensitivity among groups A and B was more than group C (P = 0.00001). The relative prevalence of patients with no flare has increased with a steady slope (P

Background: Nausea, vomiting, and anxiety are common complications during and after spinal anesthesia. Auriculotherapy as a complementary medicine can be useful for reducing nausea, vomiting, or anxiety. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of auriculotherapy on nausea, vomiting, and anxiety in patients undergoing elective Cesarean Section (CS) with spinal anesthesia. Materials and Methods: The present study was a clinical trial study that was performed on 56 pregnant women selected as CS candidates in Ommolbanin Hospital in Mashhad during the years 2016–2017. In the intervention group, 1 h before spinal anesthesia, auricular acupoint stimulation was performed at four points bilaterally, for 20–30 seconds at each point. Evaluations were done by the following questionnaires: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Vomiting Assessment Form. Results: The mean anxiety (SD) before the intervention in the intervention group and the control group was 47.88 (8.67) and 47.84 (10.49), respectively, and 4 h after the intervention, it was 40.23 (10.19) and 42.88 (12.18) in the intervention and control groups, respectively. These results were significant in the intervention group (p = 0.008). 30–40 min before and 4 h after the surgery, the severity of nausea and vomiting was low in both groups and no significant difference was observed between the two groups during the surgery and in the recovery room (p > 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results, auriculotherapy could reduce anxiety in CS patients with spinal analgesia. The results also showed that auriculotherapy reduced the severity of nausea and vomiting, but these changes were not significant.

Abstract Background As a gram-negative and microaerophilic bacterium, Helicobacter pylori (HP) is the main cause of chronic gastritis. Therefore, considering the high prevalence of HP infection worldwide, as well as the increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between HP infection eradication and metabolic profile. Methods This prospective case-control study was performed on patients with HP infection whom referred to 7 medical centers in 3 countries (Iran, Egypt, and Vietnam) in 2020–2021. The metabolic profile of all of the participants evaluated before starting of treatment for HP eradication and 3 months after the treatment. Then changes of metabolic profile compared between those with successful HP eradication (group A) and subjects who failed to eradicate (group B). Results Overall, 199 patients, including 93 male (46.7%) with the mean age of 44.5 years (18–93 years) included. Based on response to treatment, the participants allocate into group A (those who respond to HP eradication): 164 cases (82.42%); or group B as those who failed to achieve eradication (35 cases, 17.58%). Racially 86.9% of participants were Caucasian and 89% diagnosed as non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD). The most prevalent comorbidity include hypertension (11.5%) and hyperlipidemia (10%) which were more prevalent in group B (P = 0.002). Three months after therapy, average weight of participants among those who achieved eradication (group A) decreased from 73.1 to 71.4 kg (P = 0.01), but in comparison with group B, was non-significant (P = 0.171). The BMI of patients before and after treatment did not show any significant differences. The biochemical parameters of patients before and after treatment were not significantly different regardless of treatment success (P > 0.05). The levels of total cholesterol and VLDL cholesterol after treatment were not significantly different from baseline values in two groups. HDL and LDL cholesterol levels before and after treatment in the resistant group were significantly higher than the responding group. Average serum TG level decreased significantly after treatment in the group A (P 0.05). The results of logistic regression showed that the eradication of infection has no significant affect any of the metabolic profile parameters. Conclusion HP infection treatment in individuals without significant metabolic disorders does not affect metabolic parameters up to 3 months after eradication. HP eradication among subjects with several comorbidities mandates eradication protocol intensification to avoid treatment failure.

Background: Pancreatitis is one of the most crucial complications following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The purpose of the current study was to investigate patient-related post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) risk factors in two groups of patients: prophylactic pancreatic stent and rectal indomethacin. Methods: Two different prophylactic modalities were planned and complications were assessed based on the defined inclusion criteria. In this study, the patients were evaluated for the procedure and patient-related risk factors in post-ERCP pancreatitis in the recipient groups of the prophylactic pancreatic stent and rectal indomethacin. Results: Pancreatitis was confirmed in 27 of all 170 selected patients after ERCP. By univariate analysis, two variables were significant with the development of PEP. Regarding the patient-related risk factors, unique subjects with common bile duct (CBD) dilated 10mm were more exposed to an increased chance of PEP (P=0. 015); meanwhile, other factors did not correlate with the increased possibility of PEP in both groups. The only procedure-related risk factor for PEP was the deep cannulation of the pancreatic duct in both groups during the procedure with an incremental significant incidence of pancreatitis (P=0.005). Comparison of prophylactic pancreatic stent and rectal indomethacin showed no effects in term of post ERCP pancreatitis reduction. Additionally, there was no significant difference between these two strategies in the rate of PEP. Conclusion: Prophylactic pancreatic duct stents and administration of rectal indomethacin cannot have particular approaches for reducing the possible occurrence of PEP. The increase in time of deep cannulation and the presence of CBD dilation

Abstract Background The first large serosurvey in Iran found a SARS-CoV-2 antibody seroprevalence of 17.1% among the general population in the first wave of the epidemic by April, 2020. The purpose of the current study was to assess the seroprevalence of COVID-19 infection among Iranian general population after the third wave of the disease. Methods This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 7411 individuals aged ≥10 years old in 16 cities across 15 provinces in Iran between January and March, 2021. We randomly sampled individuals registered in the Iranian electronic health record system based on their national identification numbers and invited them by telephone to a healthcare center for data collection. Presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG and IgM antibodies was assessed using the SARS-CoV-2 ELISA kits. The participants were also asked about their recent COVID-19-related symptoms, including cough, fever, chills, sore throat, headache, dyspnea, diarrhea, anosmia, conjunctivitis, weakness, myalgia, arthralgia, altered level of consciousness, and chest pain. The seroprevalence was estimated after adjustment for population weighting and test performance. Results The overall population-weighted seroprevalence adjusted for test performance was 34.2% (95% CI 31.0-37.3), with an estimated 7,667,874 (95% CI 6,950,412-8,362,915) infected individuals from the 16 cities. The seroprevalence varied between the cities, from the highest estimate in Tabriz (39.2% [95% CI 33.0-45.5]) to the lowest estimate in Kerman (16.0% [95% CI 10.7-21.4]). In the 16 cities studied, 50.9% of the seropositive individuals did not report a history of symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, implying an estimation of 3,902,948 (95% CI 3,537,760-4,256,724) asymptomatic infected individuals. Conclusions Nearly one in three individuals were exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the studied cities by March 2021. The seroprevalence increased about two-fold between April, 2020, and March, 2021.

ABSTRACT Background This multicenter multinational RCT designed to compare the efficacy of suppository indomethacin and NAC for prevention of PEP. Methods: During a 6-month period, all of the ERCP cases in seven referral centers were randomly assigned to receive either 1200 mg oral NAC, indomethacin suppository 100 mg, 1200 mg oral NAC plus indomethacin suppository 100 mg or placebo 2 hours before ERCP. The primary outcomes were the rate and severity of any PEP. Results: A total of 432 patients included (41.4% male). They were originally citizens of 6 countries (60.87% Caucasian). They were randomly allocated to receive either NAC (group A, 84 cases), rectal indomethacin (group B, 138 cases), NAC + rectal indomethacin (group C, 115 cases) or placebo (group D, 95 cases). The rate of PEP in groups A, B and C in comparison with placebo were 10.7%, 17.4%, 7.8% vs 20% (P=0.08, 0.614 & 0.01 respectively). The NNT for NAC, indomethacin and NAC + indomethacin was 11, 38 and 8 respectively. Conclusion: Oral NAC is more effective than rectal indomethacin when compared to placebo for prevention of PEP and the combination of NAC and Indomethacin had the lowest incidence of PEP and may have synergistic effect in preventing of PEP (IRCT20201222049798N1; 29/12/2020).

Background: one of the growing diseases in the world that affects patient life quality is Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC). Many environmental factors, including nutritional deficiencies, may influence the development of the disease. This study aims to evaluate the role of the level of vitamin D in UC recurrence. Methods: We performed this cross-sectional study at Qom University of Medical Sciences from September 2017 to September 2018 on 50 patients with inactive UC, at least six months after diagnosis, in Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Qom. Patients entered the study sequentially from the target population after describing how to perform the plan and obtaining informed consent. Demographic information, including gender, age, medical history, diseases, and body mass index (BMI), were collected using a checklist. Patients were followed for six months for symptoms and the frequency of disease relapse. During the visits, in terms of adherence to treatment and case of recurrence, the number and severity of recurrence were examined, and the results were recorded in the checklist of each patient. At the end of this period, serum vitamin D level was measured. Data were collected by a checklist and analyzed by independent samples t-test, Chi-square, and variance analysis in SPSS version 18. Results: Examining the correlation between vitamin D levels and demographic variables shows that low vitamin D levels are significantly associated with an increase in the frequency of recurrences. However, there was no significant relationship between disease duration, age, and body mass index. Among 50 patients, 23 (%46) were male, and 27 (%54) were female, with a mean age of 35.24±10.07 and a mean duration of disease for 15.14±6.67 months. The mean frequency of relapse was 1.34±1.89. The mean level of serum vitamin D was 22.30±13.45 ng/dl. It was significantly associated with the frequency of relapse with a P

Abstract Background Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), as a rare and heterogeneous category of solid tumors, feature various morphologies and behaviors. In recent years, the incidence of NETs has continued to increase. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is one of the therapeutic modalities for the treatment of gastric and rectal NETs. Methods We evaluated patients with well-differentiated NETs of the stomach, duodenum, or rectum between 2011 and 2018. In this study, all cases with tumors confined to the mucosal or submucosal layers and smaller than 20 mm were resected using the EMR technique. We used EUS, CT scan, or MRI to exclude patients with advanced disease. All patients were actively monitored for recurrence according to the recommended protocols. Results A total of 36 patients with NETs entered the study; 17 (47.2%) were female and the remaining 19 (52.8%) were male, with a total age range of 20–74 years (mean: 52.47 ± 13.47 years). Among the tumors, 31 cases (86.1%) were G1 and the remaining 5 (13.9%) were G2. Based on the pathology reports, 22 tumors (61.1%) were smaller than 1 cm, while the remaining 14 (38.9%) were between 1–2 cm. Twenty-two patients (61.1%) had a margin of specimen involved with the tumor. No recurrence was observed during the mean follow-up time of 63.5 ± 19.8 months (range: 39–103 months). All 36 cases survived during the study period. Conclusion Conventional EMR procedure provides low chance of R0 (complete resection) achievement in gastrointestinal NETs smaller than 20 mm and limited to the mucosa or sub mucosa. However, it could be an option if patients are closely followed. Postoperative marginal involvement is not a reliable predictor of disease recurrence, which may be explained by the deleterious effect of heat coagulation and cauterization applied during tumor removal.

Background: Iran has a high incidence rate for gastric cancer among the Middle East countries. In addition to gastric cancer, peptic ulcer is also life-threatening; thus, investigating the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection and other risk factors are essential. The present study was aimed to assess the frequency of H. pylori and the cagA-positive strains in patients with gastric cancer or peptic ulcer at a teaching hospital in Qom, one of the most populated cities of Iran. Materials and Methods: The presence of H. pylori was investigated in gastric cancer and peptic ulcer biopsy specimens using the standard culture method. PCR analysis was performed to detect the presence of the cagA gene. Results: The frequency of H. pylori isolates among 86 investigated biopsies was 20 (23.2%). Likewise, the rate of H. pylori was the highest when samples were examined from patients with gastric cancer (25.8%), while it was 21.8% when obtained from peptic ulcer patients. The frequency of the cagA gene in H. pylori isolates was 9 (56.2%), as confirmed by PCR. Conclusion: Our results indicated that H. Pylori infection and its virulent strains are frequent and widely spread in Qom city. The cagA gene was present in almost half of H. pylori isolates from peptic ulcer or gastric cancer patients. Therefore, it is necessary to screen it in all cases with H. pylori infection for early detection of gastric cancer.

Abstract Background The role of common bile duct (CBD) stenting in the establishment of bile stream in the elderly patients and the ones who are not good candidates for surgery due to not responding to treatments was well documented in previous studies. The current study aimed at investigating the effect of adding Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to CBD stenting alone in order to reduce the size of large and multiple CBD stones. Methods Clinical outcomes including success rates in CBD stones clearance, incidence of pancreatitis, perforation, bleeding, as well as, decrease in size of stones and liver enzymes after a two-month period were assessed in the UDCA + CBD stenting group. Results A total of 64 patients referring to Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Qom, Iran with multiple or large CBD stones (above three or larger than 15 mm) received standard endoscopic therapies and UDCA + CBD stenting (group B) and controls only received standard endoscopic therapies with only CBD stenting (group A). The mean reduction in the size of stones in group B was significantly higher than that of group A (3.22 ± 1.31 vs 4.09 ± 1.87 mm) (p = 0.034). There was no difference in the incidence rate of complications including pancreatitis, cholangitis, bleeding, and perforation between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion Adding UDCA to CBD stenting, due to decrease in the stone size and subsequently facilitation of the stones outlet, can be considered as the first-line treatment for patients with large and multiple CBD stones. Also, in the cases with large or multi stones may be effective in reducing size and subsequently stone retrieval. Trial registry The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Qom University of Medical Sciences (ethical code: IR.MUQ.REC.1397.075); the study was also registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (No. IRCT20161205031252N8). This study adheres to CONSORT guidelines.

Lichen planus (LP) is a relatively uncommon, chronic inflammatory disease with idiopathic pathogenesis that usually involves skin, nails, and mucous membranes. Esophageal involvement in LP is rarely seen, despite the classification of the esophagus as a mucous membrane. Esophageal lichen planus is common in middle aged women, with symptoms such as dysphagia and odynophagia. This paper presents the case of a middle aged woman with dysphagia to solid foods. She underwent diagnostic measures including upper esophagogastroduodenoscopy which showed severe stenosis in upper and middle third of the esophagus. In multiple times, the patient underwent endoscopic dilation due to recurrence of stenosis but the effect was slight and transient. Fibrosis was reported in repeated biopsies taken from esophagus. According to clinical and endoscopic findings and a high suspicion of LP, biopsy of the lip was done which confirmed lichen planus. Due to frequent recurrence of stenosis in this area, along steroid therapy, removable fully covered stent was placed for four weeks. The patient was under follow-up for two years and the stenosis did not recur.

The factors affecting the dynamics of lengthening of symptoms and serologic responses are not well known. In order to see how the serologic responses change in relation to the clinical features, we selected a group of 472 adults with a positive IgM/IgG antibody test result from a baseline study of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity, assessed their COVID-19 and past medical histories, and followed them up in about 3 months. Nearly one-fourth of the subjects were asymptomatic at the baseline; 12.8% subjects became symptomatic at the follow-up (FU) when 39.8% of the subjects had some persisting symptoms. At the baseline, 6.1% showed anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM positive, 59.3% only for IgG, and 34.5% for both. At the FU, these figures declined to 0.6, 54.0, and 4.4%, respectively, with the mean IgM and IgG levels declining about 6.3 and 2.5 folds. Blood group A was consistently linked to both sustaining and flipping of the gastrointestinal (GI) and respiratory symptoms. The baseline IgM level was associated with GI symptoms and pre-existing cirrhosis in multivariate models. Both of the baseline and FU IgG levels were strongly associated with age, male, and lung involvement seen in chest computed tomography (CT)-scan. Finally, as compared with antibody decayers, IgM sustainers were found to be more anosmic [mean difference (MD): 11.5%; P = 0.047] with lower body mass index (BMI) (MD: 1.30 kg/m2; P = 0.002), while IgG sustainers were more commonly females (MD: 19.2%; P = 0.042) with shorter diarrhea duration in the FU (MD: 2.8 days; P = 0.027). Our findings indicate how the anti-SARS-CoV-2 serologic response and COVID-19 clinical presentations change in relation to each other and basic characteristics.

Background and purpose: Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative, micro-aerophilic, and spiral-shaped bacillus. Infection with this bacterium can lead to gastritis, ulcers, and even gastric cancer. This study was conducted to evaluate the presence of the cagA gene among patients with gastritis and gastric cancer. Materials and methods: This study was performed in patients with gastritis (n=40) and gastric cancer (n=40). Presence of H. pylori infection in gastritis specimens and in cancerous tissues was investigated by urease test and Giemsa staining, respectively. Using PCR, 16S rRNA and cagA genes were investigated. Results: Pain and weight loss were the most common complaints of patients. Dyspepsia and duodenal ulcer were the most frequent endoscopic findings. According to pathologic results, intestinal-type G1 adenocarcinoma was detected in most cases. All positive-H. pylori cases were also positive for 16S rRNA. The cagA gene in patients with gastritis and stomach cancer was present in 13 (32.5%) and 11 (27.5%) cases, respectively. Conclusion: Compared to other studies, low presence of the cagA gene in Qom could be an indication of less virulent strains in this province, but, further studies are recommended to evaluate other genes.

Lead may cause toxicity in case of frequent occupational exposure or non-occupational exposure as a result of water, soil, and air pollution. Opium abuse is an important cause of lead poisoning among the people in Middle East, including Iran. Symptoms are not specific and include fatigue, impaired concentration and memory, and non-specific abdominal pain. The abdominal pain which is known as lead colic is in differential diagnosis with other common and emergent causes of abdominal pain. The key to making an accurate diagnosis in these cases, is to focus on a precise history to investigate any probable exposure. Measurement of the serum lead level will help in making definite diagnosis in suspected cases. The present article introduces a young man attending an emergency department with abdominal pain. He ignored any occupational lead exposure or opium abuse. When all clinical and para-clinical investigations failed to detect the cause of pain, serum lead level was tested which revealed lead poisoning. After taking more precise history, he finally disclosed using oral opium. He underwent treatment with Dimercaprol 10 mg 3 times per day for 5 days, then twice a day and all symptoms resolved within two weeks.

BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures are widely used for diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Analgesia and sedation/anesthesia are inseparable parts of these studies and their related complications are inevitable. METHODS In a retrograde descriptive study in Shahid Beheshti Hospital, affiliated to Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran from March 2013 to March 2017, we gathered information regarding common anesthesia related complications and analyzed them. RESULTS 44659 procedures were performed during the study period and records of 21342 men (47.79%) and 23317 women (52.21%) were evaluated. Hemodynamic instability (9998; 22.39%), dysrhythmia (1600; 3.58%), desaturation (608; 1.36%), prolonged apnea (34; 0.08%), aspiration (43; 0.10%), postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) (636; 1.42%), headache (106; 0.24%), delirium (51; 0.11%), aphasia (1; 0.00%), masseter muscle spasm (1; 0.01%), myocardial infarction (2; 0.00%), and death (5; 0.01%) were seen in the patients. CONCLUSION Sedation/anesthesia is enough safe in gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures to enhance the patients’ satisfaction and cooperation. If anesthesia with spontaneous breathing and unsecure airway is selected for this purpose, vigilance of anesthesia provider will be the key element of uneventful and safe procedure.

Background and Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is identified by inflammation and damage to colonic mucosal cells and leads to ulceration and bleeding. This study aims to investigate the relation of demographic and clinical variables with the severity of the disease in patients with UC relapse. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on 65 patients with UC relapse referred to Shahid Beheshti hospital during 2017-2018. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected using a checklist. Data were analyzed by statistical tests of ANOVA and Chi-square. Results: In this study, among 65 participants, 35 were male and 30 were female. The mean age of the patient was 36±14 years, of whom, 40% had mild and 60% moderate and severe relapse of the disease. From all studied variables, young age (p=0.050), higher body temperature (p=0.019), higher pulse rate, lower level of hemoglobin, and higher levels of ESR and WBC (all with p

Background and Objectives: Nowadays, Silybum Marianum (Milk thistle) is used for prevention and treatment of disorders, such as liver failure, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, and infectious, hematologic, and skin diseases. The aim of this review study was to investigate the view of Iranian traditional medicine on this plant and its comparative analysis with new studies. Methods: In this review study, at first Silybum Marianum and its therapeutic use, were searched in Iranian traditional medicine references. Then, its therapeutic effects were studied in databases, such as PubMed, Google scholar, and SID using terms, such as diabetes, liver and kidney disease, cancer, and skin ; then, the uses of this plant in new medicine and Iranian traditional medicine, were compared. Results: In traditional medicine, Silybum marianum has been introduced as "Harshfe Barry" and uses for the treatment of liver, gallbladder, and skin diseases, swelling, and strengthening digestion; Today, in many studies, the effects of this plant have been studied, and properties, such as treatment of liver, kidney, and skin diseases, blood glucose control and lipid metabolism, strengthening the immune system and its anticancer effects have been proven. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that some of the properties of Milk thistle, such as protection and the treatment of liver diseases, treatment of skin disorders, and anticancer effects that have been proven in recent studies are referred to in traditional medicine texts; therefore, it seems that traditional medicine combinations can be useful in modern medical interventions.

Background and purpose: Bariatric surgeries are effective treatments for morbid obesity, among which sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become more popular. One of the most serious complications of this method is anastomosis leak which is treated by reoperation or endotherapy. The use of clips is recently proposed as a safe and effective option for treatment of leaks following bariatric surgeries. This article presents the case of a woman with sepsis following sleeve gastrectomy who was diagnosed with anastomosis leak. A 57 year -old woman weighing 140 kg (BMI: 54.6) underwent sleeve gastrectomy due to menopause obesity and sleep apnea. She had abdominal pain, fever, and leukocytosis following surgery. With suspicion of surgical complications, the patient underwent gastrografin study and leakage was seen at the junction of cardia and fundus. Oral feeding stopped immediately and intravenous antibiotics started. Then, signs of sepsis were seen and the patient underwent upper GI endoscopy and the fistula was closed using an Ovesco clip. She was discharged four days later in good general situation. Anastomosis leak is a rare complication following sleeve gastrectomy which is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Patient’s follow-up and a clinical suspicion help clinicians to make appropriate decisions for management of these patients.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a worldwide public health problem that has attracted much attention due to its clinical findings. Measurement of IgG and IgM antibodies is of great importance for researchers and it will help to develop a new diagnostic and therapeutic method in clinical care. In this cross-sectional study, we aim to measure the IgG and IgM antibody levels in 401 suspected COVID-19 volunteers. We also measure the time duration for the appearance of IgG and IgM antibodies from the onset of symptoms to sampling time. Of 401 participants enrolled in the study, 255 (63.59%) were healthy, 79 (19.70%) were a carrier, 59 (14.71%) were cured and 8 (1.99%) were borderline. Of 142 subjects diagnosed with COVID-19, 41 (28.87%) presented with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, 83 (58.45%) had no GI symptoms, and 18 (12.68%) were asymptomatic. According to our findings, the measurement of IgG and IgM antibodies will provide the tool for the diagnosis of COVID-19 and significantly boost research into novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

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Mesenteric ischemia is a rare disease with a high rate of mortality because of the non-specific symptoms which leads to delay in diagnosis and intervention. The main symptom is abdominal pain; which has a broad list of differential diagnosis. This study introduces a 17 years old girl who presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain and hematemesis. Further evaluations revealed thrombosis in the mesenteric vein which leads to ischemia and gangrene of the small intestine. Her past medical history and drug history was negative, except she was taking Levonorgestrel and cyproterone acetate for a 5 months period. Since long-term treatment with oral contraceptive pills, counts as a risk factor for venous thrombosis, this case seems to be uncommon.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease in children. With increasing prevalence of childhood obesity, NAFLD is increasingly seen in children. The prevalence varies according to the population studied (race and ethnicity) and the definition of NAFLD used in the study. In Iran, the prevalence of NAFLD in obese children ranges from 50% to 55% and in the general population of children is about 17%. Most patients with NAFLD are asymptomatic. However, abdominal pain may be present in the right and upper extremity, and hepatomegaly or non-specific symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, weakness, fatigue or attention disorder may also be seen. Diagnostic methods of NAFLD include laboratory tests, biomarkers, biopsy, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, MRI. There is no definitive treatment for non-alcoholic liver disease. Modification of some risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are often recommended, but weight loss is more beneficial. Early diagnosis of NAFLD in children and its management can reduce further complications. Therefore, in this study, we reviewed the articles published on NAFLD in children (until 2017) using electronic databases, including PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We reviewed the signs of NAFLD, its epidemiology, etiology, complications, laboratory findings, different diagnostic methods, treatments, and follow up procedures.

Accumulation of free fluid in the peritoneal cavity is called ascites. The first step in identifying its etiology is to determine the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG). According to this parameter, a high SAAG is regarded as a gradient greater than 1.1 g/dL. This condition has some differential diagnoses such as liver cirrhosis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, heart failure, and idiopathic portal fibrosis. In the present article, we present a young man with abdominal distention due to a high SAAG. Further evaluation of the abdominal and thoracic cavity revealed a mass in the posterior mediastinum, which had compressed the inferior vena cava and left atrium and led to Budd-Chiari syndrome. Evaluation of the biopsy sample showed fibrosarcoma. Mediastinal fibrosarcomas, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal masses.

Background and Objectives: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a common method for maintaining enteral nutrition in patients who, for any reason, have dysphagia for more than 30 days. With respect to widespread application of this method, the present study was carried out with the aim of determining its outcomes and complications. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted by Gastroenterology and Hepatology Diseases Research Center of Qom University of Medical Sciences using information of patients who underwent PEG tube placement in Qom Shahid Beheshti Hospital during 2014-2017. Data were analyzed by using Chi-square test. Results: Out of 717 patients, 402 (56.07%), were male with the mean age of 47±8 years, and 315 subjects (43.93%), were female with the mean age of 53±11 years. The most common indication of PEG placement was cerebrovascular accident. Seventy-nine (11.01%) patients had complications, and the most observed complication was reported to be leakage (21.52%), which in most cases was delayed (in 3 month follow-up). Displacement of the PEG tube, obstruction, and infection or bleeding of the site, were expressed as common complications. There was also no significant difference between the two genders in terms of the incidence of complications, and mortality rate was reported 0 in the 3 month follow-up. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, PEG placement can be a safe method for maintaining enteral nutrition with low rate of complications and mortality.

Background and Objectives: Chronic viral hepatitis B is a global health problem, which, if not treated, can lead to some serious complications, such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this study, the effect of antiviral therapy with tenofovir, was investigated on reduction of liver fibrosis and improvement of liver function in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Methods: In this clinical trial, 40 patients with chronic hepatitis B underwent antiviral therapy with tenofovir 300 mg daily. Demographic information and results of laboratory tests (before treatment and 6 months after the start of treatment), were collected using a checklist. Liver stiffness was measured and recorded using a fibroscan device (before and 6 months after the treatment). Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon and paired t- tests. The level of significance was considered to be p

A 52-year-old woman with a history of laparoscopic cholecystectomy within the past 2 weeks, presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and icter from 2 days earlier. She complained of an epigastric pain with radiation to the back, which was aggravated after taking a meal and did not change with position.

Background and Objectives: Gastrinoma is a rare cause of peptic ulcers and should be suspected when manifestations, ulcer site, and response to treatment are not normal. Gastrinomas are mostly malignant and liver is the most common site of their metastasis. Arterial chemoembolization (obstruction by blood clotting with chemicals) and arteries that feed metastases, is used as a method to reduce the symptoms. Appropriate response is seen in more than half of the patients, although it is short term. Case report: The patient is a 42-year old man, who was healthy until 4 years ago that experienced acute abdominal pain due to duodenal ulcer rupture and two episodes of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to perforation of two separate duodenal ulcers within 2 months of each other. He also complained of mild diarrhea and loss of appetite at that time. Laboratory examinations showed increased serum level of gastrin. Abdominal CT scan showed a small pancreatic head mass and three hepatic mass with increased contrast medium absorption. In CT-guided biopsy report, pancreatic head mass and uniform and apparently benign cells similar to islet cell tumor, were seen. Chemoembolization of liver metastasis arteries was performed, which after 6 months, CT scan showed almost complete regression of metastases and also primary pancreatic lesion.

Background and Objectives: ERCP is a specific technique, which allows bile and pancreatic duct imaging along with a variety of therapeutic interventions. The complexity of this technique has led to a challenge between its benefits and its serious or even mortal complications, among which, pancreatitis is the most common. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence, risk factors, and protective factors of this complication. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the research population was 310 individuals who referred to Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Centre of Qom city. At the beginning of the study, demographic characteristics, medical history, and necessary laboratory results of the participants, were recorded and then they underwent ERCP. After 6 hours, physical examination was performed and serum amylase level was evaluated. Six hours after the procedure, the results of examination and amylase test were recorded. Data were analyzed using non-parametric Chi-square and parametric paired t-test. Results: The incidence of pancreatitis was 8.1% and mortality rate was 0.9%; %34 of the patients had hyperamylasemia. Cannulation was difficult, and the number of pancreatic duct cannulation was reported as a risk factor. The mean serum amylase level after ERCP, showed a significant increase in patients with pancreatitis. Conclusion: In this study, the incidence of pancreatitis was 8.1% and the mortality rate was 0.9%, which were similar to previous studies, but the protective role of pancreatic duct stenting was not confirmed. Also, pancreatic duct cannulation and its multiplicity was obvious risk factors. The serum amylase level had a definite association with clinical pancreatitis. More experience of endoscopist and improvement of device function reduced the risk of pancreatitis. Therefore, the serum level of amylase is a reliable factor for diagnosis of this complication.

BACKGROUND Intestinal mast cells may cause gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with diarrhea-dominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mesalazine on the number of lamina propria mast cells and clinical manifestations of patients with diarrhea-dominant IBS referred to Shariati Hospital affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences. METHODS This was a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial conducted on 49 patients with diarrhea-dominant IBS. The patients were randomly assigned to one of the experiment or control groups. The patients in experiment group took 2400 mg mesalazine daily in three divided doses for 8 weeks and the patient in control group took placebo on the same basis. Our first targeted outcome was an assigned downturn of mast cells number to the safe colonic baseline and the next one was a marked palliation of disease symptoms. Data were analyzed conforming intention-to-treat method. We used MANCOVA test to compare our both assigned outcomes in the two groups. We also compared the data with baseline values in both groups. All statistical tests were performed at the significance level of 0.05. RESULTS There was no significant difference between Mesalazine and placebo groups regarding the number of mast cells (p value=0.396), abdominal pain (p value=0.054), bloating (p value=0.365), defecation urgency (p value=0.212), and defecation frequency (p value=0.702). CONCLUSION Mesalazine had no significant effect either on the number of mast cells or on the severity of disease symptoms. This finding seems to be inconsistent with the hypothesis indicating immune mechanisms as potential therapeutic targets in IBS. The possible difference in this effect of Mesalazine should be evaluated in further studies among populations varying in race, ethnic, and geographical characteristics.

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is raising prevalence among children, and adolescence population in developed and developing countries as a major public health concern. The present study aims to determine the relationship between serum ferritin level and transient elastography findings in patients suffering from NAFLD. Materials and Methods: The demographic and biochemical profile of included individuals such as body mass index, age, level of serum transaminases, fasting blood sugar, lipid profile, and serum ferritin level were determined and a transient elastography was performed for all of them. Results: The mean serum ferritin level among men with mild and advanced liver stiffness was 154 ± 97 and 244 ± 214, respectively (P < 0.001), which showed a meaningful relationship. These figures among female patients with mild and advanced liver stiffness included 79 ± 91 and 161 ± 103, respectively (P = 0.003) and again revealed a significant relationship. The cutoff values of ferritin with 90% accuracy for differentiation of mild from advanced liver stiffness among male and female patients were determined as 255 ng/ml and 135 ng/ml, respectively. These cutoff values for ruling out of advanced liver stiffness with 90% accuracy among both sexes were 72.5 ng/ml and 65.5 ng/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The finding of this study revealed a significant relationship between serum ferritin level and liver stiffness among NAFLD patients, and if these results repeated in further investigations, it could be advisable to measure serum ferritin level for predicting possibility of advanced liver fibrosis.

Background and Objectives: Pseudomembranous colitis is an advanced form of infection with clostridium difficile, which damage epithelial cells following colonization in the intestine and production of toxins A and B. Diarrhea is the most common clinical manifestation caused by C. difficile, which in these cases, blood is never observed macroscopically in the stool. Antibiotic exposure is the main risk factor for this infection and is especially associated with ampicillin, clindamycine, and 2nd and 3rd generation cephalosporins, such as ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, and ceftazidime. To confirm the diagnosis of infection, assessment of the microorganism toxins in the stool by PCR as well as observation of pseudomembrane in colonoscopy, was performed. In this article, a case of an old patient with diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) was presented in this article. Case Report: The patient is an 85-year-old man with signs of weakness, fatigue, fever and chills, and non-productive cough and diagnosis of pneumonia underwent antibiotic therapy, and in the course of treatment, he demonstrated massive watery diarrhea. Laboratory colonoscopy findings was indicative of infection with C. difficile.