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Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease whose manifestations can drastically affect the individual’s quality of life, and therefore adherence to treatment is important in order to keep it in remission. Objective To verify the prevalence of non-adherence and the influence of sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacotherapeutic characteristics associated with non-adherence to treatment of UC in remission. Methods Cross-sectional study conducted with 90 individuals diagnosed with UC in remission. The information was collected through interviews during medical consultations at Medical Clinic of Gastroenterology of Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora. To verify the association of the variables under study with the outcome of interest and its measure of association, Student’s t-test or Pearson’s chi-square non-parametric test (P

SUMMARY AIM: To compare the level of physical activity (PA), exercise capacity, and body composition before and after infliximab-induced clinical remission in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). METHODS: This prospective longitudinal study evaluated 44 adult outpatients with active CD before infliximab administration and 24 weeks after infliximab therapy. The patients were evaluated for PA in daily life, exercise capacity, muscle strength, and body composition. RESULTS: 38 (86.4%) patients achieved infliximab-induced remission at 24 weeks and presented an increment in the number of steps taken of 1092 (7440±2980 vs. 6348±3177, respectively; p=0.006). The inactive time was reduced when compared to the baseline value (454.2±106.3 vs. 427.9±97.8, respectively; p=0.033). There was no difference in the distance walked before and after infliximab therapy, while there was an increase in the fat mass index in responders to infliximab compared to the baseline (19.1±7.6 vs. 14.9±5.8; p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Infliximab-induced remission was shown to be effective for increasing physical activity by improving the number of steps and reducing inactive time. The maintenance of clinical remission associated with incentives to regular PA may contribute to making these patients reach an ideal level of PA. RESUMO OBJETIVO: Comparar o nível de atividade física (AF), capacidade de exercício e composição corporal antes e após remissão clínica induzida por infliximabe em pacientes com doença de Crohn (DC). MÉTODOS: Neste estudo longitudinal prospectivo, foram envolvidos 44 pacientes ambulatoriais adultos com DC ativa avaliados antes e depois de 24 semanas de terapia com infliximabe. Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à AF, capacidade de exercício, força muscular e composição corporal. RESULTADOS: 38(86,4%) pacientes alcançaram remissão induzida por infliximabe em 24 semanas e apresentaram aumento no número de passos de 1092 (7440±2980 vs. 6348±3177, respectivamente; p=0,006). O tempo de inatividade foi reduzido quando comparado ao basal (454,2±106,3 vs. 427,9±97,8, respectivamente; p=0,033). Não houve diferença na distância percorrida antes e após a terapia com infliximabe, enquanto houve aumento no índice de massa gorda nos respondedores ao infliximabe em comparação ao basal (19,1±7,6 vs. 14,9±5,8; p=0,001). CONCLUSÕES: A remissão induzida pelo infliximabe mostrou-se eficaz no aumento da atividade física, melhorando o número de passos e reduzindo o tempo inativo. A manutenção da remissão clínica associada a incentivos à AF regular pode contribuir para que esses pacientes atinjam um nível ideal de AF.

The prospective assessment of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) impact in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flare in outpatient setting has been poorly investigated. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and the associated factors with CDI in IBD outpatients presenting colitis flares as well as the outcomes following treatment. In this prospective cohort study, conducted from October, 2014, to July, 2016, 120 IBD patients (55% presenting colitis flare) and 40 non-IBD controls were assessed for CDI. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of CDI. Outcome analysis was estimated for recurrent CDI, hospitalization, colectomy, and CDI-associated mortality. The number of patients with CDI was significantly higher in IBD patients experiencing flares than in both inactive IBD and non-IBD groups (28.8 vs. 5.6 vs. 0%, respectively; p = 0.001). Females (OR = 1.39, 95% CI, 1.13–17.18), younger age (OR = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.65–0.92), steroid treatment (OR = 7.42, 95% CI, 5.17–40.20), and infliximab therapy (OR = 2.97, 95% CI, 1.99–24.63) were found to be independently associated with CDI. There was a dose-related increase in the risks of CDI on patients which had taken prednisone. Those treated with vancomycin had a satisfactory response to therapy, but 21% presented recurrent CDI and 16% were hospitalized. Neither necessity of colectomy nor mortality was noticed in any patient during the investigation. In IBD outpatients presenting colitis flares, CDI is highly prevalent. Females, younger age, infliximab, and notably steroid therapy were independently associated with CDI. Most patients with CDI experienced mild-to-moderate disease, and prompt treatment with vancomycin was highly effective, which seems to reduce the serious complication risks.

Biological therapy has revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although greatly effective, theses biologics put the patients at increased risk for developing infusions and paradoxical reactions, infections and some types of cancer as lymphomas, the latter one especially when on combination of biologics and thiopurines. Suitable patient selection, counseling and education are all important items for successful use of the biologics. A comprehensive history to exclude contraindications to this kind of drugs and an emphatic monitoring on guidelines are meaningful steps before starting therapy. Biologics should only be considered if a current evaluation has assured that the patient has active disease. Likewise, it is relevant to exclude disease activity mimickers. To date, biological agents have demonstrated a favorable safety profile in IBD patients. Nonetheless, it is paramount that in clinical practice, commencement of biological therapy be attentively discussed with the patients, widely explaining the potential benefits and risks of such treatment. Before starting biologics use, the patients need to be screened for latent tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C viruses, and HIV infection. Additionally, clinicians must stay vigilant about the risk of infectious tropical diseases reactivation during biological therapy in patients migrating or travelling from tropical endemic areas. Ideally, vaccination status should be checked and updated upon diagnosis of IBD previously immunosuppressant therapy. Current guidelines recommend to IBD adult patients the same routine immunization schedule as for healthy people, strictly avoiding live vaccines during immunosuppressive therapy. Our aim is to review the best strategy to provide an updated overview of important steps involved in the preparation of with IBD patients for biological therapy.

A doença de Ménétrier é uma condição extremamente rara, de etiologia desconhecida, caracterizada por hipertrofia da mucosa gástrica e gastropatia perdedora de proteína. Casos raros dessa patologia têm sido relatados em pacientes com doenças autoimunes. Até o momento, desconhecemos qualquer relato dessa doença associada à pancreatite autoimune (PAI). Descrevemos um caso de hipoproteinemia grave como indicador de doença de Ménétrier associada à PAI. O paciente foi tratado de forma satisfatória com octreotide e dieta hiperproteica, alcançando remissão sintomática, melhora significativa das concentrações de albumina e recuperação do estado nutricional. Portanto, em pacientes com PAI e hipoproteinemia grave e persistente, deve-se considerar a doença de Ménétrier como um diagnóstico diferencial. Nesses casos, a avaliação endoscópica com biópsia gástrica, incluindo biópsia de toda a espessura da mucosa, pode ser útil no estabelecimento do diagnóstico e do pronto início da terapêutica. Ménétrier's disease is an extremely rare disease of unknown etiology causing gastric mucosal hypertrophy and protein-losing gastropathy. Rare cases of this condition have been reported in patients with autoimmune diseases. However, to the best of our knowledge, Ménétrier's disease associated with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) has never been reported. We described a case of severe hypoproteinemia as a harbinger of Ménétrier's disease associated with AIP. The patient was successfully treated with octreotide and high-protein diet, which led to symptomatic remission and significant improvement in serum levels of albumin and recovery of the nutritional status. Thus, in AIP patients presenting with severe and persistent hypoproteinemia without apparent cause, clinicians need to consider Ménétrier's disease in the differential diagnosis. In this setting, endoscopic evaluation with histological examination of gastric biopsy material, including a full-thickness mucosal biopsy of involved mucosa, may be helpful in promptly establishing the diagnosis and allowing appropriate and timely therapy.

We aim to investigate the association among religious/spiritual coping (RSC), quality of life (QOL), and mental health in patients with active Crohn’s disease (CD). This cross-sectional study included 102 patients with active CD. Religious and spiritual beliefs were common among patients, being positive RSC higher than negative RSC. Negative coping was associated with mood disorders (depressive or anxiety symptoms) through the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (β = 0.260, p

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is the commonest and a deadly complication of cirrhosis that happens in 10% to 30% of patients admitted to hospital. The main mechanism that is being associated with its occurrence are bacterial overgrowth with translocation through the increased permeable small intestinal wall and impaired immune defense. The Gram-negative aerobic bacteria are the major pathogens responsible for SBP episodes although Gram-positive bacteria are being considered emergent agents. The ready diagnosis of SBP is a key factor for the decrease in mortality rates observed in recent years. The medical diagnosis is neither sensitive nor specific and the search for new useful and available tools to make it quicker is an important endpoint of current studies. The use of empirical antibiotics, mainly cefotaxime, improves significantly the short-term prognosis of patients with SBP. The recurrence rate is high and antibiotic prophylaxis has been recommended in high-risk scenarios. Unfortunately, the long-term prognosis remains poor.

We studied the prevalence and predictors of small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in Crohn's disease (CD) outpatients and the relationship between SIBO and intestinal and/or systemic inflammation.The relationship of SIBO with systemic and intestinal inflammation in CD patients is unclear.In this cross-sectional study, conducted between June, 2013 and January, 2015, 92 CD patients and 97 controls with nonchronic gastrointestinal complaints were assessed for the presence of SIBO using the H2/CH4 glucose breath test. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the potential association between SIBO and demographic, disease-related data, systemic markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and biomarker of intestinal inflammation [fecal calprotectin concentration (FCC)].The SIBO rate was significantly higher in CD patients than in controls (32.6% vs. 12.4%, respectively, P=0.0008). Patients with and without SIBO were comparable with regard to demographics, systemic inflammatory biomarkers, and disease characteristics, except for the stricturing phenotype being more common in SIBO-positive CD patients (43.3% vs. 19.3%, P=0.015). Notably, FCC was significantly higher in SIBO-positive patients (median of 485.8 vs.132.7 μg/g; P=0.004). Patients presenting increased FCC and stricturing disease had an odds of 9.43 (95% confidence interval, 3.04-11.31; P0.0001) and 3.83 (95% confidence interval, 1.54-6.75; P=0.025) respectively, for SIBO diagnosis.In CD patients, SIBO is a highly prevalent condition. Stricturing phenotype and increased FCC were strongly and independently associated with the presence of SIBO. SIBO diagnostic work-up followed by directed treatment is recommended in CD patients who present stricturing disease, especially in those with concurrent intestinal inflammation.

Background Although the cost of Crohn's disease (CD) treatment differs considerably, hospitalization and surgery costs account for most of the total treatment cost. Decreasing hospitalization and surgery rates are pivotal issues in reducing health-care costs. MATERIAL/METHODS We evaluated the effect of azathioprine (AZA) compared with mesalazine on incidence of re-hospitalizations due to all causes and for CD-related surgeries. In this controlled, randomized study, 72 subjects with sub-occlusive ileocecal CD were randomized for AZA (2-3 mg/kg per day) or mesalazine (3.2 g per day) therapy during a 3-year period. The primary end point was the re-hospitalization proportion due to all causes, as well as for surgical procedures during this period evaluated between the groups. Results On an intention-to-treat basis, the proportion of patients re-hospitalized within 36 months due to all causes was lower in patients treated with AZA compared to those on mesalazine (0.39 vs. 0.83, respectively; p=0.035). The AZA group had also significantly lower proportions of re-hospitalization for surgical intervention (0.25 vs. 0.56, respectively; p=0.011). The number of admissions (0.70 vs. 1.41, p=0.001) and the length of re-hospitalization (3.8 vs. 7.7 days; p=0.002) were both lower in AZA patients. Conclusions Patients with sub-occlusive ileocecal CD treated with AZA had lower re-hospitalization rates due to all causes and for surgical management of CD compared to those treated with mesalazine during a 3-year period. The long-term use of AZA in ileocecal CD patients recovering from a sub-occlusion episode can save healthcare costs.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a lifelong, immune-mediated inflammatory condition of the colonic mucosa characterized by a relapsing and remitting course. The mainstay of treatment used to be the 5-aminosalicylates (5-ASA) and corticosteroids. Nevertheless, some patients are unable to discontinue or reduce the steroid dosage and are exposed to a number of side effects. The efficacy of thiopurines is well proven in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); azathioprine (AZA) is considered the first-line immunosuppressant with a steroid-sparing effect in UC patients with steroid dependence or resistance. Success rates of 70% occur in induction therapy with AZA and 6-mercaptopurine (MP) in UC with a number-needed-to-treat (NNT) to avoid recurrence (with AZA/MP, as compared with placebo) of 5 and absolute risk of reduction of 23%. Thus, AZA and MP are an effective therapeutic option in inducing and maintaining remission for UC patients who failed to improve or who do not tolerate 5-ASA or corticosteroids. Drug Dev Res 72:733-738, 2011. r 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

To compare the safety and length of hospitalization (LOH) between a full solid diet as the initial meal for refeeding after mild acute pancreatitis (AP) as compared with 2 other diets.In mild AP, the need for fat restriction during refeeding has not been studied. It was hypothesized that the reintroduction of oral feeding with a full solid diet after mild AP was safe and might result in a shorter LOH.Subjects with mild AP were randomized to receive 1 of 3 diets (clear liquid, soft, or full solid) as the initial meal during oral refeeding. Diet progression and hospital discharge were decided by the physicians that were not members of trial team. During hospital stay, patients were monitored for relapse of pain (primary endpoint), dietary intake, LOH (secondary endpoint), and 7 days postdischarge to record pain relapse rates.A total of 210 patients were included, 70 in each arm. On a per-protocol basis, there was no difference in pain relapse rates during refeeding between the 3 diet arms (P=0.80). Subjects initiated on a full solid diet consumed significantly more calories and fats on trial days 1 and 2 (P0.001). A shorter LOH (median of -1.5 d) was observed among patients receiving a full solid diet without abdominal pain relapse (P=0.000).Oral refeeding with a full solid diet in mild AP was well tolerated and resulted in a shorter LOH in patients without abdominal pain relapse.

Background: Studies assessing the efficacy of azathioprine (AZA) in steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis (SD-UC) are scarce. The purpose of this trial was to explore the efficacy of AZA in maintaining steroid-free remission in SD-UC patients and the factors associated with sustained response. Methods: In this observational cohort study, 42 subjects with SD-UC were recruited for AZA therapy during a 3-year period. AZA was adjusted for a target dose of 2–3 mg/kg/day. Steroid therapy was tapered off following a standardized regimen. The primary endpoint was the annual rate of steroid-free response to AZA. Secondary endpoints included clinical recurrence, yearly steroid dose, and safety of treatment. Results: On an intention-to-treat basis, the proportion of patients remaining in steroid-free remission at 12, 24, and 36 months was 0.55, 0.52, and 0.45, respectively. A significant decrease in the flare-ups rate and in requirement for steroids were observed during 3 years on AZA compared with the previous year (P = 0.000 for both). Patients with and without sustained response were comparable according to demographics, extent of disease, dose of AZA, steroids, and 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) use. Only disease duration

OBJETIVO: A azatioprina (AZA) tem sido usada freqüentemente no tratamento da doença de Crohn (DC). O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a freqüência, evolução e abordagem dos efeitos adversos da AZA no tratamento de pacientes com DC. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos prospectivamente 106 pacientes portadores de DC em uso de AZA, de janeiro de 2002 a dezembro de 2006. Registraram-se dados clínicos e demográficos, com controle laboratorial mensal dos efeitos hematológicos e supervisão de reações adversas por meio de avaliação clínica. Realizou-se comparação entre os grupos com e sem efeitos adversos. RESULTADOS: Cinqüenta e seis (52,7%) dos pacientes estudados apresentaram pelo menos um efeito adverso, requerendo redução transitória da dose da droga; 18 (17%) necessitaram suspender definitivamente o uso de AZA, geralmente devido a reações de hipersensibilidade. Náuseas e vômitos, freqüentemente leves, ocorreram em 29 (27,4%); a raça negra e aqueles com comorbidades apresentaram mais intolerância gástrica do que os brancos e aqueles sem outras doenças associadas (p=0,04). Leucopenia foi o efeito adverso mais freqüente, ocorrendo em 36 (34%). O tempo de uso de AZA foi maior em pacientes com leucopenia do que nos não leucopênicos (p=0,001), enquanto a dose média de AZA foi menor naqueles com leucopenia comparados aos não leucopênicos (p=0,005). Não houve infecções graves, neoplasias ou óbitos durante o tratamento com AZA. CONCLUSÃO: A AZA mostrou ser uma droga relativamente segura no tratamento da DC, desde que seja mantida supervisão clínica e laboratorial periódica durante todo o tratamento.OBJECTIVE: Azathioprine (AZA) is frequently used in Crohn's disease (CD) therapy. This paper aimed to evaluate the frequency, evolution and management of AZA side effects in CD patients. METHODS: One hundred and six CD patients under AZA therapy were evaluated prospectively from January 2002 to December 2006. Clinical and demographic data were recorded, together with a monthly laboratory control of hematological or other adverse reactions by means of clinical evaluation. Comparison was carried out between groups with and without side effects. RESULTS: At least one adverse reaction was found in 56 (52.7%) of the patients studied and required a transient drug reduction; 18 (17%) had to definitely stop use of AZA, often because of hypersensitivity reactions. Nausea, vomit, although slight, occurred in 29 (27.4%). The black race and those with co-morbidities had more gastric intolerance than Caucasians and those without other associated disease (p=0.04). Leucopoenia was the more frequent side effect observed, occurring in 36 (34%). The period of AZA use was longer for patients with leucopoenia than for those without (p=0.001), while the mean dose of AZA was lower for those with leucopoenia when compared to non-leucopoenics (p=0.005). No serious infections, malignancy or death was noticed as a consequence of AZA use. CONCLUSION: In this study use of AZA in therapy for Crohn's disease disclosed that the drug is satisfactorily safe as long as periodical clinical and laboratory supervision is carried out during treatment.

Background and Aim: In acute pancreatitis (AP), oral refeeding may stimulate pancreatic secretion, increasing the inflammation of the glandular tissue causing relapse of abdominal pain or even exacerbation of the disease. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of abdominal pain relapse over oral refeeding in patients convalescing with AP as well as the impact of pain recurrence on the hospital stay. Methods: Inclusion criteria were AP confirmed by biochemical and/or radiological data in the absence of severe disease or extensive necrosis. The same diet was offered to all patients during oral refeeding. Demographic, clinical, biochemical and radiological data were prospectively recorded and analyzed. Results: A total of 130 patients were included. During the oral refeeding period, 32 (24.6%) patients had pain relapse, which was more common on days 1 (68.8%) and 2 (28.1%). Pain relapse was related to higher serum levels of lipase on the day before refeeding, higher serum levels of C-reactive protein on the fourth day, and presence of peripancreatic fluid collections (P

Current therapy of moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often involves the use of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) agents. Although very effective, theses biologics place the patient at increased risk for developing infections and lymphomas, the latter especially when in combination with thiopurines. Appropriate patient selection, counseling, and education are all important features for the successful use of anti-TNF-α therapy. A thorough history to rule-out contraindications of this therapy and emphasis on monitoring guidelines are important steps preceding administration of anti-TNF-α agents. This therapy should only be considered if a recent evaluation has established that the patient has active IBD. In addition, it is important to exclude disease mimickers. Anti-TNF-α agents have been considered to present a globally favorable benefit/risk ratio. However, it is important that in routine practice, initiation of anti-TNF-α therapy be carefully discussed with the patient, extensively explaining the potential benefits and risks of such treatment. Prior to starting anti-TNF-α therapy, the patients need to be screened for latent tuberculosis, hepatitis B virus infection, and (usually) hepatitis C virus and HIV infection. Vaccination schedules of IBD patients should be evaluated and updated prior to the commencement of anti-TNF-α therapy. Ordinarily, immunization in adult patients with IBD should not deviate from recommended guidelines for the general population. With the exception of live vaccines, immunizations can be safely administered in patients with IBD, even those on immunosuppressants or biologics. The purpose of this review is providing an overview of appropriate steps to prepare patients with IBD for anti-TNF-α therapy.

Studies assessing the efficacy of azathioprine (AZA) in steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis (UC) are scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of AZA in patients with steroid-dependent UC, as well as factors associated with sustained response.In this prospective observational study 46 adult subjects with steroid-dependent UC were included for AZA therapy during a 12-month period. AZA dosage was adjusted according to clinical response and occurrence of adverse events. Steroid therapy was tapered according to protocol. The primary endpoint was the rate of steroid-free remission to AZA at the end of 12 months. Secondary endpoints included clinical relapse, cumulative steroid dose and safety of treatment.On an intention-to-treat basis, the proportion of patients remaining in steroid-free remission at the end of 12 months was 0.54. The median time until complete steroid withdrawal was 5 months. A significant decrease in the relapse rate and in requirement for steroids were observed during 12 months on AZA compared with the prior year (P=0.000). Demographic, dose of AZA, steroid use, and disease-related data did not correlate with remission. Only disease duration24 months was associated to steroid-free remission (P=0.03, OR 3.60 95% CI 1.95-9.74). Serious adverse events related to AZA were uncommon.AZA demonstrated sustained efficacy for maintenance of clinical remission without steroids and steroid sparing through 12 months of therapy in steroid-dependent UC. Patients with early onset UC are those who most probably will achieve sustained steroid-free remission while on AZA.

Psychological disturbances are frequent in Crohn's disease (CD) patients. However, epidemiological studies of non-western CD populations are limited and may be confounded by genetic and disease-related influences. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors for depression and symptoms of anxiety in Brazilian patients with CD.In this cross-sectional study, 110 CD patients and 110 control subjects with erosive esophagitis were assessed for depression and anxiety symptoms using the Beck Depression Inventory and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.The Crohn's and control groups were similar with regard to socio-demographic data. Compared with the controls, the CD patients had a significantly higher prevalence of depressed mood (25.4% vs. 8.2%, P=0.003). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of anxiety between CD subjects (33.6%) and controls (22.7%). Depressed mood rates were higher among those who had active disease and greater CDAI scores (OR: 3.4, 95%CI 1.1-10.8). Family history of depression (OR: 5.3, 95%CI: 2.7-15.1) was related to the co-occurrence of anxiety symptoms.In CD patients, depression and anxiety are highly concurrent conditions. Disease activity was strongly associated with depressed mood, while a family history of depression was related to anxiety. Screening for depression and anxiety should be carried out routinely as part of quality of care improvement in CD individuals.

Studies assessing the efficacy of azathioprine in steroid-dependent patients with Crohn's disease are scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of azathioprine, and factors associated with sustained response, in steroid-dependent patients with Crohn's disease.In this prospective, observational study, adult steroid-dependent subjects with Crohn's disease receiving azathioprine therapy were assessed over a 10-year period. Azathioprine dosage was adjusted according to clinical response and occurrence of adverse events. Median treatment duration was 83 months. Steroid therapy was tapered according to protocol.A total of 106 subjects were included. The proportion of subjects remaining in sustained steroid-free remission at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months was 0.61, 0.73, 0.72, 0.70, and 0.70, respectively. Thereafter, the rate of weaning from steroids decreased gradually, reaching a nadir of 0.41 at 108 months. Median time to complete steroid withdrawal was 6 months. Demographic, azathioprine dose, and disease-related data did not correlate with remission. By multivariate analysis, only decreased mean leukocyte count during follow-up was independently associated with steroid-free remission (P=.001). Subjects who achieved an annual mean leukocyte count6,000/mm(3) were more likely to sustain steroid-free remission (P=.01). Serious adverse events in response to azathioprine were uncommon.Azathioprine therapy offers a meaningful option in the management of steroid-dependent Crohn's disease for up to 10 years. A persistent decrease in leukocyte count may provide a surrogate marker of sustained steroid-free response.

Tarsila CR Ribeiro1, Julio MF Chebli2, Mario Kondo1, Pedro Duarte Gaburri3, Liliana Andrade Chebli2, Ana Cristina Amaral Feldner11Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine of University Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, EPM, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; 2Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine of University Federal de Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil; 3Liver Unit Coordinator of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, BrazilAbstract: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is one of the most common and life-threatening complications of cirrhosis. It occurs in 10% to 30% of patients admitted to hospital and recent studies tend to demonstrate that SBP incidence seems to be decreasing in its frequency. A bacterial overgrowth with translocation through the increased permeable small intestinal wall and impaired defense mechanisms is considered to be the main mechanism associated with its occurrence. The Gram-negative aerobic bacteria are the major responsible for SBP episodes and Gram-positive bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus aureus, are being considered an emergent agent causing SBP. The prompt diagnosis of SBP is the key factor for reduction observed in mortality rates in recent years. The clinical diagnosis of SBP is neither sensitive nor specific and the search for new practical and available tools for a rapid diagnosis of SBP is an important endpoint of current studies. Reagent strips were considered a promising and faster way of SBP diagnosis. The prompt use of empirical antibiotics, mostly cefotaxime, improves significantly the short-term prognosis of cirrhotic patients with SBP. The recurrence rate of SBP is high and antibiotic prophylaxis has been recommended in high-risk settings. Unfortunately, the long-term prognosis remains poor.Keywords: cirrhosis, ascites, diagnosis, peritonitis, treatment

OBJETIVO: A azatioprina (AZA) tem sido usada freqüentemente no tratamento da doença de Crohn (DC). O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a freqüência, evolução e abordagem dos efeitos adversos da AZA no tratamento de pacientes com DC. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos prospectivamente 106 pacientes portadores de DC em uso de AZA, de janeiro de 2002 a dezembro de 2006. Registraram-se dados clínicos e demográficos, com controle laboratorial mensal dos efeitos hematológicos e supervisão de reações adversas por meio de avaliação clínica. Realizou-se comparação entre os grupos com e sem efeitos adversos. RESULTADOS: Cinqüenta e seis (52,7%) dos pacientes estudados apresentaram pelo menos um efeito adverso, requerendo redução transitória da dose da droga; 18 (17%) necessitaram suspender definitivamente o uso de AZA, geralmente devido a reações de hipersensibilidade. Náuseas e vômitos, freqüentemente leves, ocorreram em 29 (27,4%); a raça negra e aqueles com comorbidades apresentaram mais intolerância gástrica do que os brancos e aqueles sem outras doenças associadas (p=0,04). Leucopenia foi o efeito adverso mais freqüente, ocorrendo em 36 (34%). O tempo de uso de AZA foi maior em pacientes com leucopenia do que nos não leucopênicos (p=0,001), enquanto a dose média de AZA foi menor naqueles com leucopenia comparados aos não leucopênicos (p=0,005). Não houve infecções graves, neoplasias ou óbitos durante o tratamento com AZA. CONCLUSÃO: A AZA mostrou ser uma droga relativamente segura no tratamento da DC, desde que seja mantida supervisão clínica e laboratorial periódica durante todo o tratamento. OBJECTIVE: Azathioprine (AZA) is frequently used in Crohn's disease (CD) therapy. This paper aimed to evaluate the frequency, evolution and management of AZA side effects in CD patients. METHODS: One hundred and six CD patients under AZA therapy were evaluated prospectively from January 2002 to December 2006. Clinical and demographic data were recorded, together with a monthly laboratory control of hematological or other adverse reactions by means of clinical evaluation. Comparison was carried out between groups with and without side effects. RESULTS: At least one adverse reaction was found in 56 (52.7%) of the patients studied and required a transient drug reduction; 18 (17%) had to definitely stop use of AZA, often because of hypersensitivity reactions. Nausea, vomit, although slight, occurred in 29 (27.4%). The black race and those with co-morbidities had more gastric intolerance than Caucasians and those without other associated disease (p=0.04). Leucopoenia was the more frequent side effect observed, occurring in 36 (34%). The period of AZA use was longer for patients with leucopoenia than for those without (p=0.001), while the mean dose of AZA was lower for those with leucopoenia when compared to non-leucopoenics (p=0.005). No serious infections, malignancy or death was noticed as a consequence of AZA use. CONCLUSION: In this study use of AZA in therapy for Crohn's disease disclosed that the drug is satisfactorily safe as long as periodical clinical and laboratory supervision is carried out during treatment.

Background As far as we have sought for in Medline and PubMed, not one study until now has evaluated the prevalence of onychomycosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). As there are great evidence of immunological disturbances linked to IBD, a possible relationship of this nail infection in association with those diseases and the possible risk factors might be relevant in IBD patients. Methods A case-control prospective study using combined direct smear and cultures for fungus was performed. Sociodemographics, clinical and laboratorial data were recorded at baseline and samples of suspected nails were collected from 141 IBD (61 men and 80 women) and from a group of 100 non-IBD subjects (41 men and 59 women). Direct smear and cultures were performed on each suspected case to exclude other onychodystrophies. Results The incidence of onychomycosis in IBD patients was highly significant in comparison to non-IBD patients (14.9% vs. 6%, respectively, P

Azathioprine (AZA) is frequently used in Crohn's disease (CD) therapy. This paper aimed to evaluate the frequency, evolution and management of AZA side effects in CD patients.One hundred and six CD patients under AZA therapy were evaluated prospectively from January 2002 to December 2006. Clinical and demographic data were recorded, together with a monthly laboratory control of hematological or other adverse reactions by means of clinical evaluation. Comparison was carried out between groups with and without side effects.At least one adverse reaction was found in 56 (52.7%) of the patients studied and required a transient drug reduction; 18 (17%) had to definitely stop use of AZA, often because of hypersensitivity reactions. Nausea, vomit, although slight, occurred in 29 (27.4%). The black race and those with co-morbidities had more gastric intolerance than Caucasians and those without other associated disease (p=0.04). Leucopoenia was the more frequent side effect observed, occurring in 36 (34%). The period of AZA use was longer for patients with leucopoenia than for those without (p=0.001), while the mean dose of AZA was lower for those with leucopoenia when compared to non-leucopoenics (p=0.005). No serious infections, malignancy or death was noticed as a consequence of AZA use.In this study use of AZA in therapy for Crohn's disease disclosed that the drug is satisfactorily safe as long as periodical clinical and laboratory supervision is carried out during treatment.

Background: A substantial number of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) become dependent on steroids after induction therapy. Treatment with azathioprine (AZA) may be beneficial in such patients. The present open-label study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of AZA in steroid-dependent CD patients. Methods: Adult patients with steroid-dependent CD were enrolled for AZA therapy over a 7-year period. The average dose of AZA was 2.0–3.0 mg/kg per day, adjusted according to clinical response and occurrence of adverse effects. Steroid therapy was tapered off according to a predefined schedule. Long-term outcome and adverse reactions were evaluated. Results: Sixty-nine patients were prospectively included. Steroid-free remission was achieved in 68–81% of patients, partial response in 14.5–27.3% and failure to respond to AZA in 4–15.9% over the initial 48 months. However, the rate of wean from steroid therapy decreased to 53–60% while the rate of failure increased from 6.7% to 17.6% after this period. A breakthrough of symptoms during continuous AZA therapy was common, particularly after 48 months on AZA. The mean leukocyte count at the end of 12 months of therapy was significantly lower in patients who achieved complete response on AZA than in the non-responders (5197 ± 1250 cells/mm3 vs 8340 ± 1310 cells/mm3, respectively; P

A 48 year old white woman was admitted to the hospital because of several bouts of migratory polyarthritis, weight loss, fever, and abdominal pain over a period of 15 months. She had been taking propylthiouracil 100 mg daily for three years for hyperthyroidism treatment. A test for antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) was positive with a perinuclear pattern of staining. Antiphospholipid antibodies were also detected. Colonoscopy showed several ulcers on intestinal mucosa and the biopsy specimen showed intense microscopic vasculitis. The patient is well after methylprednisolone pulse therapy and eight months of oral azathioprine. A surveillance colonoscopy showed complete healing of intestinal ulcers. No recurrence of symptoms has occurred and autoantibodies are negative, 10 months after treatment finished. The sequence of events suggests a propylthiouracil induced vasculitis p-ANCA positive and an antiphospholipid syndrome. This is the first report of colonic ulcers diagnosed and successfully treated in such circumstances.

Background: The prevalence of duodenal ulcer (DU) has been considered high in patients with chronic pancreatitis; however, its pathogenesis is unclear. We hypothesized that Helicobacter pylori infection plays the major pathogenetic role. Study: One hundred seven cases (97 men, 10 women) of chronic alcoholic pancreatitis (CAP) were prospectively investigated from 1997 to 2001. One hundred thirty-seven DU patients and 59 nonulcer dyspepsia patients formed the two control groups. Pancreatic function was evaluated by determination of fecal fat excretion and fasting blood glucose concentration. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed in all patients, and gastric mucosal biopsies were taken for assessment of H. pylori infection with a modified Giemsa stain and rapid urease test. Results: Fifteen (14%) of the 107 patients with CAP had active DU. There was a trend toward an association between the presence of diabetes mellitus and/or steatorrhea and the occurrence of DU in patients with CAP (p = 0.06). The rate of H. pylori infection was significantly higher in patients with CAP and DU than in those with only CAP (86.7% vs. 54.3%, p = 0.02) but the rate similar to that in patients with simple DU (75.2%). Trends toward higher prevalence of H. pylori infection in CAP with DU were noticed when they were compared with the nonulcer dyspepsia group (86.7% vs. 66.1%). There was no significant difference in prevalence of H. pylori between CAP patients without DU and dyspeptic patients (54.3%. vs. 66.1%). Conclusions: These data demonstrate that the prevalence of DU in CAP is relatively high. H. pylori infection seems to play the major pathogenetic role in DU associated with CAP.

The authors describe the case of a young Brazilian woman who was treated of ileocolonic Crohn's disease sparing rectum, as confirmed by colonoscopy and histopathological examination. After a 4-year course of sulfasalazine treatment, she presented with skin facial lesions in vespertilio, fever, arthralgias and high titers of anti-ANA and LE cells. A sulfasalazine-induced lupus syndrome was diagnosed, because after sulfasalazine withdrawal and a short course of prednisone, the clinical symptoms disappeared and the laboratory tests returned to normal. Mesalazine 3 g/day was started and the patient remained well for the next 3 years, when she was again admitted with fever, weakness, arthralgias, diplopy, strabismus and hypoaesthesia in both hands and feet, microhematuria, haematic casts, hypocomplementemia and high titers of autoimmune antibodies. A diagnosis of associated systemic lupus erythematosus was made. Although a pulsotherapy with methylprednisolone was started, no improvement was noticed. A cyclophosphamide trial was tried and again no positive results occurred. The patient evolved to severe clinical manifestations of general vasculitis affecting the central and peripheral nervous system and lungs, having a fatal evolution after 2 weeks. Although uncommon, the association of both disease may occur, and the authors call attention to this possibility, making a brief review of literature.

Although the idea that pancreas rest has long been considered as a very relevant topic in acute pancreatitis (AP) therapy, the right time and type of diet to be offered to patients recovering from an acute attack are a great challenge to clinicians who treat this condition. Fortunately, the last decade was noted for several trials looking for the best answer to the question: “when and how to start oral refeeding in AP?” It is well known that 80% of patients present with mild disease characterized by usually uncomplicated clinical course are managed with pancreatic rest through nil per oral; while the use of specific nutritional intervention is an exception. Therefore, mild AP has been the most investigated form of AP and researchers have tried different kind of meals to offer calories and reduce costs by shortening hospitalization time. Usually in mild AP, the oral refeeding is introduced between the first 3 d and 7 d after hospitalization but, the type of diet and patients’ tolerance have been scrutinized in detail with mixed results. Although 20% to 25% have pain recurrence requiring nutritional support and greater time of hospitalization, most patients seem to tolerate oral refeeding well. We propose analyzing the most recent investigations of this matter and their conclusions to develop a better understanding of the management of AP.

“idiopathic” acute pancreatitis due to biliary sludge: prevention of relapses by endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy in high-risk patients

Summary Introduction: Protein-energy malnutrition in Crohn's disease (CD) has been reported in 20 to 92% of patients, and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and higher costs for the health system. Anti-TNF drugs are a landmark in the clinical management, promoting prolonged remission in patients with CD. It is believed that the remission of this disease leads to nutritional recovery. The effect of biological therapy on body composition and nutritional status is unclear. Method: Prospective study of body assessment by bioelectrical impedance method in patients with moderate to severe CD undergoing treatment with infliximab. The main outcome was the body composition before and after 6 months of anti-TNF therapy. Results: There was a predominance of females (52%) with a mean age of 42±12 years. Most patients were eutrophic at baseline and remained so. There was an increase in all parameters of body composition after anti-TNF treatment: BMI (22.9±3.2 versus 25±3.8; p=0.005), waist circumference (88.1±6.7 versus 93.9±7.7; p=0.002), lean mass index (17.5±2.2 versus 18.2±2.3; p=0.000) and fat mass index (5.5±2.3 versus 6.8±2.3; p=0.000). Phase angle remained unchanged (6.2 versus 6.8; p=0.94). Conclusion: After therapy with IFX, all components of body composition increased, except for phase angle. The substantial increase in fat mass index and waist circumference led to concern regarding cardiovascular risk and, thus, to the need for further studies. Resumo Introdução: Desnutrição proteico-calórica em pacientes de doença de Crohn (DC) tem sido relatada em 20 a 92% dos casos associando-se a maior morbimortalidade e maiores custos para o sistema de saúde. Agentes anti-TNF são um marco no controle clínico, promovendo remissão prolongada em portadores de DC. Acredita-se que a remissão da doença leve à recuperação nutricional desses pacientes. O efeito da terapia biológica na composição corporal e no estado nutricional é pouco conhecido. Método: Estudo prospectivo de avaliação corporal por método de bioimpedância em portadores de DC moderada a grave submetidos a terapia com infliximabe (IFX). O desfecho principal foi a composição corporal antes e após 6 meses de terapia anti-TNF. Resultados: Houve predomínio do sexo feminino (52%), com média de idades de 42±12 anos. A maioria dos pacientes era eutrófica na inclusão do estudo e assim permaneceu. Houve aumento de todos os parâmetros da composição corporal após o tratamento anti-TNF: IMC (22,9±3,2 versus 25±3,8; p=0,005), circunferência abdominal (88,1±6,7 versus 93,9±7,7; p=0,002), índice de massa magra (17,5±2,2 versus 18,2±2,3; p=0,000) e índice de massa gorda (5,5±2,3 versus 6,8±2,3; p=0,000). O ângulo de fase manteve-se inalterado (6,2 versus 6,8; p=0,94). Conclusão: Após terapia com IFX, observou-se aumento de todos os componentes da composição corporal, exceto no ângulo de fase. O aumento substancial do índice de massa gorda e da circunferência abdominal levantam a preocupação de aumento nos riscos cardiovasculares e necessidade de estudos complementares.