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Introduction: The treatment of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has undergone significant changes over time. Elective surgical treatment of PUD has been replaced by medical treatment. Surgical treatment of PUD is limited to ulcer complications and disease resistant to medical treatment. The main issue to be decided during surgery is whether to add a definitive anti-ulcer surgery in addition to treating the immediate ulcer complication. Our aim in this study is to share the results of gastric ulcer complications treated with open and laparoscopic methods in our clinic and the postoperative endoscopy results of these patients. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent open or closed ulcer surgery due to ulcer complications in our General Surgery clinic between 2014 and 2023 were retrospectively scanned from the hospital information system. In addition to demographic data such as patients' age and gender, the surgical method applied, duration of hospital stays, and endoscopy findings in patients who underwent endoscopy during the postoperative period were recorded. The results were examined. Results: A total of 194 patients were included in the study. Of the patients, 178 (91.8%) were male and 16 (8.2%) were female. The patients were between the ages of 18 and 93, with a mean age of 45.4±20.4 years. Endoscopy was performed on 44 patients after surgery. The mean duration between surgery and endoscopy was 504±586 days. Of the surgeries, 145 (74.7%) were open and 49 (25.3%) were laparoscopic. Gastritis and erosion were the most frequently observed findings in postoperative endoscopies, with bleeding in 2 patients, stenosis in 4 patients, and recurrent ulcers in 16 patients. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of PUD can be performed using open and laparoscopic methods. Despite the advances in medical treatments, ulcer complications are still observed after surgery. The dilemma of whether to add anti-ulcer treatment to emergency surgeries continues, and more comprehensive studies are needed in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of peptic ulcers has decreased during the last decades; the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced the peptic ulcer hospitalizations. The study aimed to assess the admissions and mortality for complicated and uncomplicated peptic ulcers and the influence of the pandemic period. Material and Methods: We performed an observational study at a tertiary academic center, including all patients admitted for peptic ulcers between 2017-2021. We evaluated the admissions for complicated and uncomplicated ulcers and risk factors for mortality. Results: 1416 peptic ulcers were admitted, with an equal proportion of gastric and duodenal ulcers; most patients were admitted for bleeding (66.7%), and perforation (17.3%). We noted a decreasing trend for peptic bleeding ulcer (PUB) and uncomplicated ulcer admissions during 2020-2021, while for perforation no significant variation was recorded; a decreasing mortality in PUB was noted from 2017 to 2020. Admissions for bleeding peptic ulcer have decreased by 36.6% during the pandemic period; the mortality rate was similar. Admissions for perforated peptic ulcer have decreased by 14.4%, with a higher mortality rate during the pandemic period (16.83 versus 6.73%). Conclusion: A decreasing trend for PUB admissions but not for perforated ulcers was noted. Admissions for PUB have decreased by more than 1/3 during the pandemic period, with a similar mortality rate. Admissions for perforated peptic ulcers have decreased by 1/7, with significantly higher mortality rates during the pandemic period., (Celsius.)

Background: To compare the effects of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) use on the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in septic patients at high risk for developing stress ulcers., Methods: Using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV version 2.2 database, septic patients with high-risk factors for stress ulcers (i.e., shock, coagulopathy, invasive mechanical ventilation, or chronic liver diseases) were included. Exposures included PPIs and H2RAs within 24 h of intensive care unit (ICU) admission or prior to ICU admission. The primary end point was severe sepsis-associated AKI as defined by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria stage 3 (KDIGO-3). Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance baseline characteristics. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the effect size., Results: 4731 PPI users and 4903 H2RA users were included. After PSM, there were 1785 pairs exposed to PPIs and H2RAs. In the PSM cohort, the cumulative incident KDIGO-3 rate was higher in the PPI group than in the H2RA group (log-rank test, p = 0.009). Regression analyses showed that PPI exposure [adjusted hazard ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-1.58, p = 0.002] was associated with incident KDIGO-3 compared with H2RA use. This association remained consistent in sensitivity analyses. Additionally, the PPI group had a higher need for kidney replacement therapy compared with the H2RA group (3.6% vs. 2.1%, P = 0.012)., Conclusions: Among septic patients at high risk for developing stress ulcers, PPI exposure was associated with incident KDIGO-3 AKI compared with H2RA use., (© 2024 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.)

Background: Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) has been associated with substantially high incidence of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to analyze the factors affecting the outcome of patients having perforated peptic ulcer undergoing surgical intervention. Materials and methods: Medical records of 112 patients with PPU who underwent emergency laparotomy between December 2014 and November 2016 were prospectively analyzed. Primary suture of the perforation and pedicled omentoplasty was done in all the patients. Data regarding patients was collected and correlated with the postoperative outcome. Results: The overall postoperative morbidity and mortality were 62.5% and 30.4%, respectively. On univariate analysis advanced age (≥ 60 years) [(p = 0.005), (OR = 3.6), (95% CI = 1.5–8.8)], pre-operative shock [(p < 0.001), (OR = 7.4), (95% CI = 2.6–21.0)], delayed presentation (> 24 h) [(p = 0.007), (OR = 4.0), (95% CI = 1.5–11.2)] and raised serum creatinine [(p < 0.001), (OR = 7.7), (95% CI = 3.1–19.0)] were found to be significantly associated with the post-operative morbidity. For mortality, advanced age (≥ 60 year) [(p < 0.001), (OR = 5.02), (95% CI = 2.1–11.9)], pre-operative shock [(p < 0.001), (OR = 19.3), (95% CI = 6.9–53.6)], comorbidity [(p = 0.03), (OR = 6.6), (95% CI = 1.2–35.7)] and raised serum creatinine [(p < 0.001), (OR = 13.1), (95% CI = 4.5–37.8)] were statistically significant factors. Multivariate analysis showed advanced age (≥ 60 years) (p = 0.05) and raised serum creatinine (p = 0.004) as significant factors for increased risk of post-operative morbidity. Advanced age (≥ 60 years), pre-operative shock and raised serum creatinine were found to be independent risk factors influencing post-operative mortality (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A thorough clinical evaluation, adequate resuscitation, sepsis control, addressing comorbidities and early access to hospital can reduce the risk morbidity and mortality in patients with PPU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Currently, there is no clear consensus on whether medical treatment or endoscopic treatment should be used for peptic ulcer bleeding patients with adherent clot. The aim of this study is to investigate the hemostatic effects of medical treatment, single endoscopic treatment, and combination endoscopic treatment for peptic ulcer bleeding (PUB) patients with adherent clot., Methods: We retrospectively analyzed PUB patients with adherent clot who underwent endoscopic examination or treatment in our center from March 2014 to January 2023 and received intravenous administration of proton pump inhibitors. Patients were divided into medical treatment (MT) group, single endoscopic treatment (ST) group, and combined endoscopic treatment (CT) group. Subsequently, inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was performed to calculate the rebleeding rate., Results: A total of 605 eligible patients were included in this study. After IPTW, the rebleeding rate in the MT group on days 3, 7, 14, and 30 were 13.3 (7.3), 14.2 (7.8), 14.5 (7.9), and 14.5 (7.9), respectively; the rebleeding rates in the ST group were 17.4 (5.1), 20.8 (6.1), 20.8 (6.1), and 20.8 (6.1), respectively; the rebleeding rates in the CT group were 0.4 (0.9), 1.7 (3.3), 2.3 (4.5), and 2.3 (4.5), respectively. Although the rebleeding rate in the medical treatment group was higher, there was no significant difference among the three groups on days 3, 7, 14, and 30 (P = 0.132, 0.442, 0.552, and 0.552)., Conclusions: Medical therapy has similar hemostatic efficacy with endoscopic treatment for PUB patients with adherent clot (FIIb ulcers). However, for patients with more risk factors and access to well-equipped endoscopy centers, endoscopic treatment may be considered. The choice of treatment approach should be based on the individual conditions of the patient, as well as other factors such as medical resources available., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Peptic ulcer bleeding is a major cause for hospital admissions and has a significant mortality. Endoscopic interventions reduce the risk of rebleeding in high-risk patients and several options are available including injection therapies, thermal therapies, mechanical clips, hemostatic sprays, and endoscopic suturing. Proton-pump inhibitors and Helicobacter pylori treatment are important adjuncts to endoscopic therapy. Endoscopic therapy is indicated in Forrest 1a, 1b, and 2a lesions. Patients with Forrest 2b lesions may do well with proton-pump inhibitor therapy alone but can also be managed by removal of the clot and targeting endoscopic therapy to the underlying lesion., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background and Aim: Fexuprazan is a novel potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB). This study aimed to explore the noninferior efficacy and safety of fexuprazan to esomeprazole in treating erosive esophagitis (EE)., Methods: This was a phase III, randomized, double-blind multicenter study. Patients with endoscopically confirmed EE were randomized to receive fexuprazan 40 mg or esomeprazole 40 mg once a daily for 4-8 weeks. The healing rates of EE, symptom response, GERD-health-related quality life (GERD-HRQL), and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were compared between fexuprazan group and esomeprazole group., Results: A total of 332 subjects were included in full analysis set (FAS) and 311 in per-protocol set (PPS). The healing rates of fexuprazan and esomeprazole groups at 8 weeks were 88.5% (146/165) and 89.0% (145/163), respectively, in FAS and 97.3% (145/149) and 97.9% (143/146), respectively, in PPS. Noninferiority of fexuprazan compared with esomeprazole according to EE healing rates at 8 weeks was demonstrated in both FAS and PPS analysis. No significant difference was found between groups in EE healing rates at 4 weeks, symptom responses, and changes of GERD-HRQL. The incidence of drug-related AEs was 19.4% (32/165) in fexuprazan arm and 19.6% (32/163) in esomeprazole arm., Conclusion: This study demonstrated noninferior efficacy of fexuprazan to esomeprazole in treating EE. The incidence of TEAEs was similar between fexuprazan and esomeprazole. Trial registration number NCT05813561., (© 2024 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

This paper investigates the intriguing relationship between peptic ulcers and hemolysis, 2 seemingly distinct medical conditions, aiming to unravel their potential interconnections and clinical implications. While traditionally studied in isolation, recent evidence has surfaced suggesting possible links and shared mechanisms between these conditions. This paper explores the underlying pathophysiological associations, shared risk factors, diagnostic challenges, management strategies, and implications for clinical practice and health policy. The interplay between peptic ulcers and hemolysis stems from shared inflammatory pathways, notably attributed to Helicobacter pylori infection in peptic ulcers, which might trigger systemic inflammatory responses contributing to hemolysis. Common risk factors including genetic predispositions, autoimmune disorders, and medication use (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are implicated in the development of both peptic ulcers and hemolytic conditions, suggesting a potential convergence of these disorders in affected individuals. Diagnostic considerations pose challenges, as overlapping symptoms and laboratory findings may complicate accurate differentiation between peptic ulcers and hemolysis. Recognizing the potential interplay between peptic ulcers and hemolysis holds significant implications for clinical practice and health policy. Streamlining diagnostic algorithms, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and developing tailored guidelines are pivotal in optimizing patient care. Continued research efforts, collaborative clinical approaches, and informed health policies are essential in advancing our understanding and enhancing patient care for individuals navigating the intersection of peptic ulcers and hemolysis., Competing Interests: The authors have no funding and conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

The timely identification of individuals at high risk for peptic ulcers (PUs) is vital in preventing gastrointestinal bleeding after antiplatelet therapy. This study was designed to determine PU risk factors and develop a risk assessment model for PU detection in the general Chinese population. In a prospective dataset, clinical data from individuals undergoing gastroscopic evaluation between April 2019 and May 2022 were recorded. PUs were defined as mucosal defects exceeding 5 mm confirmed via gastroscopy. Participants were categorized into development (April 2019 to April 2021) and validation (May 2021 to May 2022) sets based on chronological order. LASSO-derived logistic regression analysis was employed to create a score, which was further validated via temporal validation. A total of 902 patients were ultimately enrolled, 204 (22.6%) of whom had PUs based on endoscopic findings. In the development cohort (n = 631), seven independent risk factors emerged: male sex (OR = 2.35, P = 0.002), white blood cell (WBC) count (OR = 1.16, P = 0.010), red blood cell (RBC) count (OR = 0.49, P < 0.001), globulin level (OR = 0.92, P = 0.004), albumin level (OR = 0.94, P = 0.020), pepsinogen I (PGI) level (OR = 1.01, P < 0.001), and positive Helicobacter pylori (HP) antibody (OR = 2.50, P < 0.001). Using these factors, a nomogram (HAMPROW score [hazard ratio (HP) antibody, albumin, male, PGI, RBC, globulin, and WBC]) was developed for individual PU prediction. The ability of the HAMPROW score to predict survival was confirmed with AUCs of 0.854 (95% CI 0.816-0.891) and 0.833 (95% CI 0.771-0.895) in the development and validation sets, respectively. In conclusion, the HAMPROW score can be used to screen for PUs effectively in the general Chinese population, facilitating personalized early detection of high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding before antiplatelet therapy., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared.

Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None.

Background and Aims: Because it is minimally invasive, CT angiography (CTA) has emerged as an attractive diagnostic tool for investigation of acute GI hemorrhage., Methods: This study examined patients with acute GI bleeding who underwent CTA., Results: CTA was the initial diagnostic examination in 177 patients, identifying upper and lower GI bleeding lesions in 16 and 27 patients, respectively. In 103 patients with an initial negative CTA, 78 had endoscopy (32 EGD and 46 colonoscopy/flexible sigmoidoscopy), of whom 52 (67%) had a bleeding lesion identified, including 23 with a high-risk bleeding lesion requiring therapy. Peptic ulcer disease and diverticular bleeding were the most commonly identified bleeding lesions. With endoscopy as a criterion standard, the sensitivity of CTA for the detection of a source of GI bleeding was 20%., Conclusions: CTA has very poor sensitivity for identification of a GI bleeding source or lesion, suggesting that CTA should not be used as an initial diagnostic test., Competing Interests: Disclosure The following authors received research support for this study from the National Institute of Digestive and Kidney Diseases (P30 DK123704): M. J. Gregoski, D. C. Rockey. All other authors disclosed no financial relationships. Research support for this study was provided by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (P20 GM130457) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences of the National Institutes of Health (UL1 TR001450)., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background/aims: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a frequent medical issue. The primary risk factors for bleeding peptic ulcers are Helicobacter pylori infection and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The association between acute gastric/duodenal ulcer and opium use has been previously proposed; however, there is no available data on endoscopic findings of patients with acute UGIB who use opium., Materials and Methods: In the present descriptive cross-sectional study, endoscopic data of 50 consecutive patients with oral opium use and 50 consecutive patients without any opium use who were admitted for UGIB were recorded. The size (5-10 mm, 11-20 mm, or more than 20 mm), number (single, double, or multiple), and location of the ulcers (esophagus, gastric corpus including the fundus and body, antrum, angulus, or duodenum) were examined by endoscopy in both groups., Results: Three or more ulcers were observed in 46% and 16% of patients with oral opium use and without opium use, respectively (P-value = 0.001). The rate of giant ulcers (> 20 mm) was significantly higher in patients who used oral opium (40% vs. 12%; P-value = 0.007). Esophageal ulcers were also more common in oral opium users (30%) than non-users (8%) with UGIB (P-value = 0.01). Nevertheless, the location of the ulcers between the two groups generally was not statistically different., Conclusions: This study has demonstrated that multiple, large peptic ulcers in GIB are potential complications of oral opium use. This could aid the needed modifications in the treatment protocol for these patients., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Helicobacter pylori strains can be broadly classified into two groups based on whether they contain or lack a chromosomal region known as the cag pathogenicity island ( cag PAI). Colonization of the human stomach with cag PAI-positive strains is associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer and peptic ulcer disease, compared to colonization with cag PAI-negative strains. The cag PAI encodes a secreted effector protein (CagA) and components of a type IV secretion system (Cag T4SS) that delivers CagA and non-protein substrates into host cells. Animal model experiments indicate that CagA and the Cag T4SS stimulate a gastric mucosal inflammatory response and contribute to the development of gastric cancer. In this review, we discuss recent studies defining structural and functional features of CagA and the Cag T4SS and mechanisms by which H. pylori strains containing the cag PAI promote the development of gastric cancer and peptic ulcer disease.

Background/aims: Acute peptic ulcer bleeding is the most common cause of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB). Endoscopic hemostasis is the standard treatment. However, various conditions complicate endoscopic hemostasis. Transarterial visceral embolization (TAE) may be helpful as a rescue therapy. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with rebleeding after TAE., Methods: We retrospectively investigated the records of 156 patients treated with TAE between January 2007 and December 2021. Rebleeding was defined as the presence of melena, hematemesis, or hematochezia, with a fall (>2.0 g/dl) in hemoglobin level or shock after TAE. The primary outcomes were rebleeding rate and 30-day mortality., Results: Seventy patients with peptic ulcer bleeding were selected, and rebleeding within a month after TAE occurred in 15 patients (21.4%). Among the patients included in rebleeding group, significant increases were observed in the prevalence of thrombocytopenia (73.3% vs. 16.4%, p< .001) and ulcers >1 cm (93.3% vs 54.5%, p = .014). The mean AIMS65 (albumin, international normalized ratio, mental status, systolic blood pressure, age >65 years) score (2.3 vs 1.4, p = .009) was significantly higher in the rebleeding group. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that thrombocytopenia (odds ratio 31.92, 95% confidence interval 6.24-270.6, p <.001) and larger ulcer size (odds ratio 27.19, 95% confidence interval 3.27-677.7, p =.010) significantly increased the risk of rebleeding after TAE., Conclusion: TAE was effective in the treatment of patients with high-risk peptic ulcer bleeding. AIMS65 score was a significant predictor of rebleeding after TAE, and thrombocytopenia and larger ulcer size increased the risk of rebleeding after TAE.

Background: Hospitalization for peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has been described outside of North America as peaking in the fall and winter. However, no recent literature has so far investigated the seasonal fluctuations and complications of PUD in the USA. Study Design: Cross-sectional population database review., Methods: Patients with a diagnosis of either acute gastric or acute duodenal ulcers from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2017, were identified in the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Inpatient Sample. The proportion of admissions with either hemorrhage or perforation was determined for each season and further subdivided into geographic regions., Results: Of 18829 hospitalizations for PUD, admissions were the highest in the fall (25.9%) while being the lowest in the summer (23.9%). Complications, hemorrhage or perforation, were the highest and the lowest in the fall and spring, respectively (75.7% vs. 73.6%; P =0.060 for comparing all 4 seasons). Geographically, the West had the highest rate of peptic ulcer hemorrhage (64.5%, P =0.004), while the northeast had the highest rate of perforation (14.3%, P =0.003). Hemorrhage was more common in males, those who used aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants, and diabetics ( P <0.05). Perforation was less common in males, those with diabetes, obesity, or hypertension (HTN), or those using aspirin or anticoagulants ( P <0.05). Helicobacter pylori infection was more associated with perforation in the fall and winter months., Conclusion: Seasonal and regional trends in hospitalizations due to PUD may help identify modifiable risk factors, which can improve diagnostic and treatment outcomes for patients by allowing for more targeted identification of vulnerable populations., (© 2023 The Author(s); Published by Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.)

The etiology of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) varies by age, from newborns to adolescents, with some of the causes overlapping between age groups. While particular causes such as vitamin K deficiency and cow's milk protein allergy are limited to specific age groups, occurring only in neonates and infants, others such as erosive esophagitis and gastritis may be identified at all ages. Furthermore, the incidence of UGIB is variable throughout the world and in different hospital settings. In North America and Europe, most UGIBs are non-variceal, associated with erosive esophagitis, gastritis, and gastric and duodenal ulcers. In recent years, the most common causes in some Middle Eastern and Far Eastern countries are becoming similar to those in Western countries. However, variceal bleeding still predominates in certain parts of the world, especially in South Asia. The most severe hemorrhage arises from variceal bleeding, peptic ulceration, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Hematemesis is a credible indicator of a UGI source of bleeding in the majority of patients. Being familiar with the most likely UGIB causes in specific ages and geographic areas is especially important for adequate orientation in clinical settings, the use of proper diagnostic tests, and rapid initiation of the therapy. The fundamental approach to the management of UGIB includes an immediate assessment of severity, detecting possible causes, and providing hemodynamic stability, followed by early endoscopy. Unusual UGIB causes must always be considered when establishing a diagnosis in the pediatric population because some of them are unique to children. Endoscopic techniques are of significant diagnostic value, and combined with medicaments, may be used for the management of acute bleeding. Finally, surgical treatment is reserved for the most severe bleeding., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article., (©The Author(s) 2023. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection can lead to various digestive system diseases, making accurate diagnosis crucial. However, not all available tests are equally non-invasive and sensitive. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of non-invasive and invasive diagnostic tools for H. pylori infection and assess their correlation with esophagogastroduodenoscopic (EGD) findings. The study utilized the Campylobacter-Like Organism (CLO) test, serum anti-HP IgG blood test, and C-13-urea breath test (UBT) to diagnose H. pylori infection. A total of 100 patients with peptic ulcer symptoms, including 45 males and 55 females, were recruited for the study. Symptomatic patients between the ages of 20-70, eligible for EGD examination, were enrolled. Each diagnostic test and any combination of two positive tests were considered the reference standard and compared against the other diagnostic methods. Additionally, the relationship between these diagnostic tests and EGD findings was evaluated. Among the participants, 74.0% were diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease through EGD. The UBT demonstrated the highest Youden's index, ranging from 58 to 100%, against all the non-invasive tests. The IgG blood test displayed the highest sensitivity at 100%, with a specificity of 60-70%. On the other hand, the CLO test exhibited the highest specificity at 100% and a sensitivity of 50-85%. Furthermore, only the CLO test showed a significant association with esophageal ulcers (p-value = 0.01). The IgG blood test holds promise as a primary screening tool due to its exceptional sensitivity. While the UBT is relatively expensive, its non-invasive nature and high sensitivity and specificity make it a potential standalone diagnostic test for H. pylori infection. Moreover, the noteworthy negative correlation between the CLO test and esophageal ulcers provides evidence of the differing effects of H. pylori infection on antral-predominant and corpus-predominant gastritis., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Helicobacter pylori, a gram-negative bacterium, has been identified as a major contributor to gastrointestinal diseases, ranging from gastritis and peptic ulcers to more severe complications such as gastric adenocarcinoma and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. While pharmacological eradication therapies have been successful in managing H. pylori-associated diseases, the implications of this bacterium on surgical interventions remain a topic of ongoing research and clinical consideration. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the intricate surgical implications of H. pylori infection. Recent data on the well-known relationship between and the development of gastroduodenal diseases, including peptic ulcers and gastric cancer, is analyzed. Concurrently, Helicobacter pylori infection may have a role in promoting colonic carcinogenesis and, more interestingly, it has also been linked to biliary tract cancers. The review highlights the evolving landscape of H. pylori management in the context of surgical interventions, accentuating the need for further research to delineate optimal strategies for preoperative screening, eradication therapies, and their impact on surgical outcomes and long-term patient prognosis. Comprehending the surgical ramifications of H. pylori infection remains crucial, emphasizing the significance of interdisciplinary approaches and ongoing research effort aimed at enhancing patient care., (Celsius.)

Gastrosplenic fistula (GSF) is seen secondary to the development of a fistulous track between the stomach and spleen and/or splenic vessels. It is most commonly seen in patients with diffuse B-cell lymphoma, who usually present with symptoms of abdominal pain and weight loss. GSF has also been seen in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, peptic ulcer disease, splenic abscesses, and post gastric sleeve resection. Less than 25% of the patients with GSF may present with upper gastrointestinal bleed (UGIB). This presentation of GSF is common with benign causes including peptic ulcer disease. UGIB secondary to GSF, while rare, requires prompt identification and intervention, to avoid catastrophic outcomes. We discuss the case of a 64-year-old female with GSF, who presented with sentinel bleed followed by hemorrhagic shock, secondary to a B-cell lymphoma, who was managed with a partial gastrectomy, splenectomy, and distal pancreatectomy, with favorable outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) refers to acid-induced injury of the digestive tract, occurring mainly in the stomach (gastric ulcer (GU)) or duodenum (duodenal ulcer (DU)). In the present study, we conducted a large-scale, cross-ancestry meta-analysis of PUD combining genome-wide association studies with Japanese and European studies (52,032 cases and 905,344 controls), and discovered 25 new loci highly concordant across ancestries. An examination of GU and DU genetic architecture demonstrated that GUs shared the same risk loci as DUs, although with smaller genetic effect sizes and higher polygenicity than DUs, indicating higher heterogeneity of GUs. Helicobacter pylori (HP)-stratified analysis found an HP-related host genetic locus. Integrative analyses using bulk and single-cell transcriptome profiles highlighted the genetic factors of PUD being enriched in the highly expressed genes in stomach tissues, especially in somatostatin-producing D cells. Our results provide genetic evidence that gastrointestinal cell differentiations and hormone regulations are critical in PUD etiology., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Objective The risk of developing peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding is high in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Whether or not kidney transplant patients, who are treated with multiple medications, including immunosuppressive drugs, are at an increased risk of developing peptic ulcers is unclear. Methods In this retrospective study, we compared the clinical and endoscopic features of gastroduodenal ulcers between kidney transplant patients and CKD patients. The subjects underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy between January 2015 and March 2021. Results Gastroduodenal ulcers were observed more frequently (6.5%) in kidney transplant patients than in CKD patients (2.1%) (p=0.026). Due in part to the lower median age in the kidney transplant ulcer group than in the CKD ulcer group (59 vs. 70 years old, p=0.016), the rates of atrophic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori infection were also lower in the kidney transplant ulcer group than in the CKD ulcer group. Significantly more kidney transplant patients were treated with acid secretion inhibitors than CKD ulcer patients (100% vs. 34.8%, p=0.0005). Peptic ulcers were observed frequently in kidney transplant patients, even though common risk factors for gastroduodenal ulcers other than immunosuppressive drugs were few. All kidney transplant patients were taking immunosuppressive medications, and tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and methylprednisolone were taken more frequently than others. Conclusion Kidney transplant patients have a high risk of developing gastroduodenal ulcers. All kidney transplant patients take immunosuppressive medications, so there may be an association between immunosuppressive medications and gastroduodenal ulcer development.

Introduction: In the treatment of upper GI endoscopy-negative patients with heartburn and epigastric pain or burning, antacids, antireflux agents, and mucosal protective agents are widely used, alone or as add-on treatment, to increase response to proton-pump inhibitors, which are not indicated in infancy and pregnancy and account for significant cost expenditure., Methods: In this randomized, controlled, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter trial assessing the efficacy and safety of mucosal protective agent Poliprotect (neoBianacid, Sansepolcro, Italy) vs omeprazole in the relief of heartburn and epigastric pain/burning, 275 endoscopy-negative outpatients were given a 4-week treatment with omeprazole (20 mg q.d.) or Poliprotect (5 times a day for the initial 2 weeks and on demand thereafter), followed by an open-label 4-week treatment period with Poliprotect on-demand. Gut microbiota change was assessed., Results: A 2-week treatment with Poliprotect proved noninferior to omeprazole for symptom relief (between-group difference in the change in visual analog scale symptom score: [mean, 95% confidence interval] -5.4, -9.9 to -0.1; -6.2, -10.8 to -1.6; intention-to-treat and per-protocol populations, respectively). Poliprotect's benefit remained unaltered after shifting to on-demand intake, with no gut microbiota variation. The initial benefit of omeprazole was maintained against significantly higher use of rescue medicine sachets (mean, 95% confidence interval: Poliprotect 3.9, 2.8-5.0; omeprazole 8.2, 4.8-11.6) and associated with an increased abundance of oral cavity genera in the intestinal microbiota. No relevant adverse events were reported in either treatment arm., Discussion: Poliprotect proved noninferior to standard-dose omeprazole in symptomatic patients with heartburn/epigastric burning without erosive esophagitis and gastroduodenal lesions. Gut microbiota was not affected by Poliprotect treatment. The study is registered in Clinicaltrial.gov (NCT03238534) and the EudraCT database (2015-005216-15)., (Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American College of Gastroenterology.)

Introduction: Peptic ulcers with adherent clots are associated with a high-risk of rebleeding and mortality. However, the optimal management of bleeding ulcers with adherent clots remains unclear. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to compare endoscopic therapy and conservative therapy to manage bleeding ulcers with adherent clots., Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases through October 2022 to include all studies comparing the endoscopic and conservative therapeutic approaches for bleeding ulcers with adherent clots. Our primary outcome was rebleeding (overall and 30-day). The secondary outcomes were mortality (overall and 30-day), need for surgery, and length of hospital stay (LOS). The random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MD) with the corresponding confidence intervals (CI) for proportional and continuous variables, respectively., Results: Eleven studies (9 RCTs) with 833 patients (431 received endoscopic therapy vs. 402 received conservative therapy) were included. Overall, endoscopic therapy was associated with lower overall rebleeding (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.22-0.79, P = 0.007), 30-day rebleeding (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.89, P = 0.002), overall mortality (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.23-0.95, P = 0.04), 30-day mortality (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.89, P = 0.002), need for surgery (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.21-0.95, P = 0.04), and LOS (MD - 3.17 days, 95% CI - 4.14, - 2.19, P < 0.00001). However, subgroup analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showed no significant difference in overall mortality (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.24-2.52, P = 0.68) between the two strategies, with numerically lower but statistically non-significant rates of overall rebleeding (7.2% vs. 18.5%, respectively; OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.17-1.05, P = 0.06), statistically lower rate of need for surgery (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.08-0.96, P = 0.04) with endoscopic therapy compared to conservative therapy., Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrates that endoscopic therapy was overall associated with lower rates of rebleeding (overall and 30-day), mortality (overall and 30-day), need for surgery, and LOS, compared to conservative therapy for the management of bleeding ulcers with adherent clots. However, subgroup analysis of RCTs showed that endoscopic therapy was associated with numerically lower but statistically non-significant rates of overall rebleeding and a statistically lower rate of need for surgery compared to conservative therapy with similar overall mortality rates. Combined treatment with thermal therapy and injection therapy was the most effective treatment modality in reducing rebleeding risk. Further large-scale RCTs are needed to validate our findings., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

One-anastomosis gastric bypass has now become the third most commonly performed bariatric technique worldwide. However, as a consequence of the configuration of this surgery, it can present some chronic complications (anastomotic mouth ulcers and biliary reflux) that physicians must come to better understand and assess. In this narrative review, we aimed to update our knowledge of both the diagnosis and treatment of these two complications in the context of bariatric surgeries. We concluded that a series of pre-, intra-, and postoperative preventive strategies should be considered by surgeons to help reduce the appearance of these complications., (Copyright © 2023 AEC. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is an important complication among critically ill adults, especially those having cardiac surgery as management is complicated by the requirement for antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy. As a result, stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) has become routine practice in many centers, utilizing either proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine-2 receptor blockers (H2RBs). Recent evidence from the PEPTIC trial indicated an increase in mortality risk among cardiac surgery patients receiving PPIs compared to H2RBs. Considering these findings, alongside practical difficulties surrounding the transition to H2RBs as a prophylactic agent in New Zealand, Wellington Hospital intensive care unit elected to discontinue routine PPI use for SUP in cardiac surgery patients. A retrospective study was conducted to assess patient outcomes following the discontinuation of routine SUP., Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted of all adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery at Wellington Hospital between February/2018 and January/2022, and divided patients into cohorts before and after the discontinuation of routine use of SUP on the 31st of January 2020. The primary outcomes were the rate of UGIB, oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) and 180-day postoperative mortality. Secondary outcomes included rates of postoperative Clostridium difficile enteritis, pneumonia, deep sternal wound infection, and length of stay of the index admission., Results: The rate of UGIB statistically significantly increased since the cessation of routine SUP in January 2020 (2.4% vs 5.4%, P -value = .004). This finding was mirrored with the increased rates of OGD (1.9% vs 4.0%, P -value = .005). There were no significant changes in 180-day mortality, hospital length of stay, or any of the postoperative infective complications analyzed, pneumonia, deep sternal wound infection, or C difficile enteritis., Conclusion: This study suggests an association between routine use of SUP and reduced rates of clinically significant UGIB and OGD requirements in cardiac surgery patients without increasing risk of infective complications or postoperative mortality.

Our study to evaluate the aetiological and clinical spectrum of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) in North-west India showed malignant cause (54.9%) was more common than benign (45.1%). Common causes of malignancy were gall bladder (37.5%), gastric (31.8%) and pancreatic carcinoma (19.6%); commonest benign causes were opioid abuse (29%), peptic ulcer disease (21.6%), ingestion of corrosives (20.2%) and chronic pancreatitis (12.3%).

Peptic ulcer disease is a frequent pathology; although the incidence has decreased in recent years, it continues to be an important cause of morbidity and mortality associated with high healthcare costs. The most important risk factors are Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most patients with peptic ulcer disease remain asymptomatic, with dyspepsia being the most frequent and often characteristic symptom. It can also debut with complications such as upper gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation or stenosis. The diagnostic technique of choice is upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors, eradication of H. pylori and avoiding the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the basis of treatment. However, prevention is the best strategy, it includes an adequate indication of proton pump inhibitors, investigation and treatment of H. pylori, avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or using those that are less gastrolesive., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U.)

Competing Interests: Declaration of interests We declare no competing interests.

Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is one of the most urgent medical conditions, with peptic ulcer bleeding (PUB) accounting for most gastrointestinal bleeding cases. The Japanese scoring system was developed to predict the probability of intervention in patients with UGIB, and it is more effective than other scoring systems, according to several studies. This study aimed to verify whether the Japanese scoring system is better than other scoring systems in predicting the probability of intervention when limited to PUB in patients with UGIB. We enrolled patients who presented with symptoms of UGIB and were diagnosed with peptic ulcers using endoscopy. The performances of the scoring systems in predicting patient outcomes were validated and compared using the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis. Additionally, we used the chi-square test, Fisher exact test, and the t test to analyze the association between the patients characteristics and clinical outcomes. Of the 1228 patients diagnosed with peptic ulcers, 90.6% underwent endoscopy. rebleeding occurred in 12.5% of the patients, and 2.5% of the patients died within 30 days. The Japanese score was the most effective in predicting the need for endoscopic intervention for PUB. Sex, systolic blood pressure, hematemesis, syncope, blood urea nitrogen level, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists score were predictive factors for the probability of endoscopic intervention in patients with PUB. The Japanese score is an effective predictor of the probability of endoscopic intervention in patients with PUB., Competing Interests: The authors have no funding and conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2023 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) affects nearly half of the world's populations with high incidence and prevalence rates in developing countries. Infection with H. pylori increases the risk of developing peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. This review provides a summary of the prevalence and microbiology of H. pylori with emphasis on the current diagnostic methods and clinical management strategies., Content: This review discusses current options and developments in H. pylori diagnosis with the challenges and advantages associated with both noninvasive and invasive methods. The advantages of molecular methods for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection and prediction of clarithromycin resistance directly from stool or tissue biopsies are discussed. In addition, we provide a brief review on the treatment for H. pylori indicated in patients with evidence of active infection with the organism's antimicrobial resistance patterns taken into consideration., Summary: Testing for H. pylori has largely centered around fecal antigen testing, urea breath testing, and immunohistochemical staining from tissue biopsies. Culture-based diagnostics followed by phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility testing is the gold standard for detection of resistance patterns. Due to the fastidious nature of the organism, culture methods are time consuming and labor intensive. Rapid nucleic acid amplification tests for H. pylori identification from direct specimens and molecular determination of drug resistance markers are accurate alternatives for H. pylori diagnosis but are not widely adopted. H. pylori antimicrobial resistance rates are on the rise due to the widespread use of antibiotics. Antibiotic regimens including the quadruple therapy and non-clarithromycin triple therapies have a higher success rate, with newer vonoprazon-based regimens showing promising eradication rates., (© American Association for Clinical Chemistry 2023. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: To investigate the risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with cerebral infarction after dual antiplatelet therapy., Methods: Cerebral infarction patients who received dual antiplatelet therapy during January 2019 and December 2021 in Nanchang University Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital were included. Patients were divided into a bleeding group and a nonbleeding group. Propensity score matching was used to match the data between the two groups. The risk factors for cerebral infarction with gastrointestinal bleeding after receiving dual antiplatelet therapy were analyzed by conditional logistic regression., Results: There were 2370 cerebral infarction patients who received dual antiplatelet therapy included in the study. There were significant differences between the bleeding group and the nonbleeding group in terms of sex, age, smoking, drinking, hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes and peptic ulcer before matching. After matching, 85 patients were included in the bleeding group and nonbleeding group, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of sex, age, smoking, drinking, previous cerebral infarction, hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes, gout or peptic ulcer. Conditional logistic regression analysis showed that long-term use of aspirin and severity of cerebral infarction were risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in cerebral infarction patients receiving dual antiplatelet therapy, whereas the use of PPI was a protective factor against gastrointestinal bleeding., Conclusions: Long-term use of aspirin and severity of cerebral infarction are risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in cerebral infarction patients receiving dual antiplatelet therapy. The use of PPIs could reduce the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing interest Authors declare no Conflict of Interests for this article., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) is a common gastroenterological emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Gastroenterologists and other involved clinicians are generally assisted by international guidelines in its management. However, NVUGIB due to peptic ulcer disease only is mainly addressed by current guidelines, with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy being recommended as the gold standard modality for both diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, the management of rare and extraordinary rare causes of NVUGIB is not covered by current guidelines. Given they are frequently life-threatening conditions, all the involved clinicians, that is emergency physicians, diagnostic and interventional radiologists, surgeons, in addition obviously to gastroenterologists, should be aware of and familiar with their management. Indeed, they typically require a prompt diagnosis and treatment, engaging a dedicated, patient-tailored, multidisciplinary team approach. The aim of our review was to extensively summarize the current evidence with regard to the management of rare and extraordinary rare causes of NVUGIB., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article., (©The Author(s) 2023. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

A considerable portion of the world's population practices fasting, for religious purposes like Ramadan or to adopt a healthier lifestyle such as intermittent fasting. During this period, individuals undergo metabolic changes that alter their internal environment. The literature was analysed to identify a possible relationship between fasting and the development of Helicobacter pylori -induced peptic ulcers. This found that fasting does not affect the incidence of peptic ulcers, and studies that saw an increase in the incidence were not significant. However, remodelling of the gastric environment and increases in concentrations of H. pylori were recorded. There is no relationship between fasting and the risk of developing H. pylori -induced peptic ulcers, suggesting that individuals with uncomplicated ulcers are not at risk of developing further ulcers and can participate in fasts provided they take the recommended measures.

Background: Guidelines for the management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) are regularly published, yet little is known concerning adherence to recommendations in practice., Objectives: We aimed to assess adherence to European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) recommendations in patients with non-variceal UGIB., Materials and Methods: All hospitalized patients with an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) performed due to suspected non-variceal UGIB at our department were included in a prospective registry. Data between 2018-2020 from this registry were retrospectively analyzed. Adherence to the 2015 ESGE bleeding and propofol sedation guidelines was assessed. Adherence to recommendations concerning preendoscopic (risk) evaluation, preendoscopic PPI, transfusion management, and endoscopic management of peptic ulcers was analyzed., Results: Among 1005 patients (mean age 70.4 years, 42.1% women) the most common bleeding etiologies were gastric or duodenal ulcers (16.8%), esophagitis/GERD (11.1%), and angiodysplasia (9.9%); mortality was 7.6%. Adherence to preendosopic risk evaluation was low, in 0% a Mallampati classification and in 37.5% an ASA scoring was documented. Preendoscopic PPI was started at 58.6%, and adherence to recommended transfusion management was >98%. Peptic ulcers were Forrest-graded in 72.8%. High-risk ulcers were treated appropriately in 77.9% and low-risk ulcers were not treated in 73.6%. Especially Forrest Ib ulcers were undertreated, with an adherence of 59.6%. Only 22/179 (12.3%) patients with peptic ulcers and early endoscopy were consistently managed according to ESGE recommendations., Conclusions: Adherence to ESGE guidelines in patients with non-variceal UGIB is moderate to low, even at a tertiary university hospital. Strategies must be devised for guidelines to reach patients in everyday practice.

Goals: The aim was to systematically evaluate risks and benefits of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use for stress ulcer prophylaxis in the critically ill patient., Background: Whether PPIs increase mortality in the critically ill patient remains controversial., Study: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies with trial sequential analysis, Bayesian sensitivity analysis, and fragility index analysis., Results: A total of 31 studies in 78,009 critically ill adults receiving PPIs versus any comparator were included. PPI use was associated with an increased mortality risk in all studies [19.6% PPI vs. 17.5% comparator; RR: 1.10; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.20; P =0.01], in the subgroup of RCTs (19.4% vs. 18.7%; RR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.0-1.09, P =0.04), but not cohort studies (19.9% vs. 16.7%; RR: 1.12; 95% CI: 0.98-1.28, P =0.09). Results were maintained with a Bayesian sensitivity analysis (RR: 1.13; 95% credible interval: 1.035-1.227) and a fragility index analysis, but not sequential analysis ( P =0.16). RCTs with a higher baseline severity of illness revealed the greatest mortality risk with PPI use (32.1% PPI vs. 29.4% comparator; RR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.04-1.14; P <0.001). PPI use reduced clinically important bleeding in RCTs (1.4% PPI vs. 2.1% comparator; RR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.5-0.9; P =0.009) but increased bleeding in cohort studies (2.7% PPI vs. 1.2% comparator; RR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.2-3.52; P =0.009). PPI use was not associated with a lower incidence of clinically important bleeding when compared with histamine-2 receptor antagonists (1.3% vs. 1.9%; RR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.28-1.25, P =0.09)., Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated an association between PPI use and an increased risk of mortality., (Copyright © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Acute gastroduodenal ulcer bleeding is a life-threatening condition. Management of the acute gastroduodenal ulcer bleeding requires the cooperation of different specialists. The complex management program includes the immediate control of the hemodynamic status, transfusion and gastric acid inhibition therapy, endoscopic diagnosis, treatment and occasionally the invasive radiological interventions and surgery. According to the recent guidelines, pre-endoscopic parenteral proton-pump inhibitor therapy is recommended only for consideration. Urgent endoscopy (≤12 hours after admission) has no advantage to the early endoscopic (≤24 hours after admission) strategy. For ulcers with high rebleeding risk due to more than 2 cm in diameter, fibrotic base or wide visible vessel, the use of the "over-the-scope clip" is advisable even as a first-line endoscopic hemostatic therapy. Intermittent high-dose parenteral proton-pump inhibitor therapy is a new therapeutical option after endoscopic hemostasis. In patients with acute gastroduodenal bleeding who are taking low dose aspirin for secondary cardiovascular prophylaxis, aspirin should not be interrupted, while low dose aspirin administered for primary prophylaxis may be stopped. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(23): 883-890.

Background: The most prevalent stomach infection in the world is caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Several pathogenicity genes, including cagA, vacA, babA2, dupA, iceA, and oipA, are associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal disease such as peptic ulcer and stomach cancer. This research aims to determine the prevalence of different H. pylori genotypes and correlate their risk in the development of gastrointestinal diseases in the Ecuadorian population., Methods: A cross-sectional research of 225 patients at the Calderón Hospital in Quito, Ecuador, was conducted. End point PCRs were run to determine the presence of 16S rRNA, cagA, vacA (m1), vacA (s1), babA2, dupA, iceA1, and oipA virulence genes. Chi-square test, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were utilized for the statistical analysis., Results: H. pylori infection was present in 62.7% of people. Peptic ulcers were seen in 22.2% and malignant lesions in 3.6% of patients. Genes oipA (93.6%), vacA (s1) (70.9%), and babA2 (70.2%) were the most prevalent. cagA/vacA (s1m1) and cagA/oipA (s1m1) combinations were found in 31.2% and 22.7% of the cases, respectively. Acute inflammation has a significant correlation with the genes cagA (OR = 4.96 95% CI: 1.1-22.41), babA2 (OR = 2.78 95% CI: 1.06-7.3), and the cagA/oipA combination (OR = 4.78, 95% CI: 1.06-21.62). Follicular hyperplasia was associated with iceA1 (OR = 3.13; 95% CI: 1.2-8.16), babA2 (OR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.14-5.77), cagA (OR = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.06-4.52), and the cagA/oipA combination (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.12-4.84). The vacA (m1) and vacA (s1m1) genes were associated with gastric intestinal metaplasia (OR = 2.71 95% CI: 1.17-6.29) (OR = 2.33 95% CI: 1.03-5.24). Finally, we showed that cagA/vacA (s1m1) gene combination increased the risk of duodenal ulcer development (OR = 2.89, 95% CI 1.10-7.58)., Conclusion: This study makes a significant contribution by offering genotypic information regarding H. pylori infection. The presence of several H. pylori genes was associated with the onset of gastrointestinal illness in the Ecuadorian population., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background/objectives: To investigate the demographic features, primary endoscopic findings, and the status of Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) infection of the enrolled subjects who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) in the Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania., Methods: Between December 2013 and October 2021, a total of 3146 eligible participants were finally recruited in present retrospective cohort. Demographic information and endoscopic findings of each participant was retrieved. H. pylori infection was confirmed by rapid-urease test of gastric antral and body biopsies at endoscopy., Results: Among the recruited subjects, 1691 (53.76%) are females, remaining 1455 (46.24%) are males. The median age of this retrospective cohort was 40 years ranging from 8 to 97 years. The common identified endoscopic findings included gastro-duodenitis, normal endoscopic finding, peptic ulcer disease (PUD), esophagitis, esophagogastric varices, esophageal and gastric cancer, respectively. After adjustment for sex and age, a significant risk of gastric and/or duodenal ulcer (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.82-3.48, P<0.001) and gastric cancer (OR, 3.49; 95% CI, 1.27-9.58, P=0.015) in H. pylori positive group was observed. Stratified analysis indicated a significant relationship between duodenal ulcer with younger age (adjusted OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99, p = 0.002), and the presence of H. pylori (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.12-3.91, p= 0.021)., Conclusions: The present study revealed that gastro-duodenitis, PUD, and normal finding are the most common endoscopic diagnoses in Zanzibar. The presence of H. pylori is significantly associated with duodenal ulcer and gastric cancer., (© 2023 Qu L-S et al.)

Conventional endoscopic biopsy tests are not suitable for early detection of the acute onset and progression of peptic ulcer as well as various gastric complications. This also limits its suitability for widespread population-based screening and consequently, many people with complex gastric phenotypes remain undiagnosed. Here, we demonstrate a new non-invasive methodology for accurate diagnosis and classification of various gastric disorders exploiting a pattern-recognition-based cluster analysis of a breathomics dataset generated from a simple residual gas analyzer-mass spectrometry. The clustering approach recognizes unique breathograms and "breathprints" signatures that clearly reflect the specific gastric condition of an individual person. The method can selectively distinguish the breath of peptic ulcer and other gastric dysfunctions like dyspepsia, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease patients from the exhaled breath of healthy individuals with high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, the clustering method exhibited a reasonable power to selectively classify the early-stage and high-risk gastric conditions with/without ulceration, thus opening a new non-invasive analytical avenue for early detection, follow-up, and fast population-based robust screening strategy of gastric complications in the real-world clinical domain.

Background and Aim: Although Dieulafoy's lesion (DL) is an important cause of nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, few studies have investigated the clinico-epidemiological outcomes due to its rarity. Here, we investigated clinical features of upper GI bleeding caused by peptic ulcer (PU) or DL and compared endoscopic treatment outcomes., Methods: Patients with upper GI bleeding resulting from PU or DL who visited emergency room between January 2013 and December 2017 were eligible. Clinical features and treatment outcomes were retrospectively investigated., Results: Overall, 728 patients with upper GI bleeding due to PU (n = 669) and DL (n = 59) were enrolled. The median age was 64 years (interquartile range [IQR], 56-75 years), and 74.3% were male. Endoscopic intervention was performed in 53.7% (n = 359) and 98.3% (n = 58) of the PU and DL groups, respectively (P < 0.0001). Patients were matched by sex, age, body mass index, comorbidity, and past medical history, and 190 PU and 52 DL were finally selected. The rebleeding rates within 7 (7.37% vs 17.31%, P = 0.037) and 30 (7.37% vs 26.92%, P < 0.001) days after initial endoscopy were significantly lower in the PU than in the DL group after propensity score matching. During the median follow-up period of 52 months (IQR, 34-70 months), there was no difference in overall survival rate (67.9% vs 82.7%, P = 0.518)., Conclusions: Although DL is a rare cause of upper GI bleeding, it requires endoscopic hemostasis more frequently and has a higher rate of rebleeding than PU even after therapeutic endoscopy. Endoscopists should pay attention and perform active endoscopic hemostasis for DL bleeding., (© 2023 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori is a widespread helical Gram-negative bacterium, which causes a variety of stomach disorders, such as peptic ulcer, chronic atrophic gastritis, and gastric cancer. This microbe frequently colonizes the mucosal layer of the human stomach and survives in the inhospitable microenvironment, by adapting to this hostile milieu., Areas Covered: In this extensive review, we describe conventional antibiotic treatment regimens used against H. pylori including, empirical, tailored, and salvage therapies. Then, we present state-of-the-art information about reasons for treatment failure against H. pylori . Afterward, the latest advances in the use of probiotic bacteria against H. pylori infection are discussed. Finally, we propose a polymeric bio-platform to provide efficient delivery of probiotics for H. pylori infection., Expert Opinion: For effective probiotic delivery systems, it is necessary to avoid the early release of probiotics at the acidic stomach pH, to protect them against enzymes and antimicrobials, and precisely target H. pylori bacteria which have colonized the antrum area of the stomach (basic pH).