Revista Española de Enfermedades Digestivas

If you suffer from type-2 diabetes mellitus, your ERCP is likely to have a better outcome

Tendencies and outcomes in endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies among people with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus in Spain, 2003-2013

We aimed to compare incidence and outcomes for endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies in people with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Spain (2003-2013). We collected all cases of endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies using national hospital discharge data and evaluated annual incidence rates stratified by T2DM status. We analyzed trends over time for in-hospital mortality (IHM) as the primary outcome and a composite of IHM or procedure-related complications (key secondary outcome). In multivariate analyses, we tested T2DM as an independent factor of IHM and IHM or complications. We identified 126,885 endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies (23,002 [18.1%] in T2DM people). Crude incidence rates of endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies were > 3-fold higher in people with vs without T2DM (85.5/10(5) vs 26.9/10(5) population, respectively). Annual incidence rates of endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies showed 11-year relative increments of 77.5% (from 60.0 to 106.5/105) in T2DM, and 53.7% (from 21.6 to 33.2/105) in non-T2DM people (p < 0.001). We found no significant changes in mortality trends over time for the populations with or without T2DM (p = 0.15 and p = 0.21, respectively). Rates of procedural pancreatitis decreased in people without T2DM (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, older age, higher comorbidity and endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy during urgent admission were associated with a higher IHM. T2DM was associated with a lower IHM after an endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (OR = 0.82 [0.74-0.92]). Time trend multivariate analyses 2003-2013 showed significant reductions in IHM over time only in people with T2DM (OR = 0.97 [0.94-1.00]). Further studies are needed to confirm a lower IHM for endoscopic biliary sphincterotomies in people with T2DM.

Fecal calprotectin and C-reactive protein are associated with positive findings in capsule endoscopy in suspected small bowel Crohn's disease

Background and aims: Capsule endoscopy is an extended tool for the diagnosis of small bowel Crohn's disease. However, factors associated with positive findings of this technique have not been well established. Our aim is to asses which factors are associated with a better diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy in suspected small bowel Crohn's disease. Material and methods: This was a retrospective study including patients under capsule endoscopy because of suspected small bowel Crohn's disease. Demographic data of these patients, as well as symptoms and laboratory data including hemoglobin levels, count of leucocytes and platelets, and levels of C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and fecal calprotectin were collected. Capsule endoscopy studies were classified as negative (no lesions) or positive (lesions suggestive of Crohn's disease). Descriptive, univariate and multivariate analysis were done, as well as diagnostic yield tests of the different markers for predicting lesions in capsule studies. Results: One hundred and twenty-four patients were included (85 women and 39 men). The average age was 38.21 years. Levels of C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin were the markers more frequently associated with positive findings in capsule endoscopy. Calprotectin presented the best sensitivity as isolated marker. The association of altered levels of C-reactive protein and calprotectin showed the best specificity and predictive values. Conclusions: C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin are appropriate biomarkers for selecting patients with suspected Crohn's disease of the small bowel for capsule endoscopy studies.

Introducción y objetivos: la cápsula endoscópica es una herramienta extendida en el estudio de la enfermedad de Crohn de intestino delgado pero los factores asociados a hallazgos positivos en esta técnica no han sido completamente establecidos. Nuestro objetivo es definir cuáles son estos factores. Material y métodos: se han recogido retrospectivamente los datos de pacientes sometidos a cápsula endoscópica por sospecha de enfermedad de Crohn de intestino delgado. Se han registrado datos demográficos, síntomas y los resultados de las pruebas bioquímicas más habituales: niveles de hemoglobina, recuento de leucocitos y plaquetas, y niveles de velocidad de sedimentación globular, proteína C reactiva y calprotectina fecal. Los estudios de cápsula se han clasificado como negativos (sin lesiones significativas) o positivos (con lesiones compatibles con Crohn). Se han realizado análisis descriptivo, univariante, multivariante y de capacidad diagnóstica de estas variables en su capacidad para predecir lesiones en los estudios de cápsula endoscópica. Resultados: se han incluido 124 individuos, 85 mujeres y 39 varones con una edad media de 38,21 años, en los que los niveles de proteína C reactiva y de calprotectina fecal elevados fueron los marcadores más frecuentemente asociados a presencia de lesiones inflamatorias en la cápsula. La calprotectina mostró la mejor sensibilidad como marcador aislado. La asociación de niveles alterados de proteína C reactiva y calprotectina mostró la mejor especificidad y los mejores valores predictivos. Conclusiones: la proteína C reactiva y la calprotectina fecal son buenos marcadores bioquímicos para seleccionar pacientes con sospecha de enfermedad de Crohn de intestino delgado ante estudios de cápsula endoscópica.

Meta-analysis of the association between appendiceal orifice inflammation and appendectomy and ulcerative colitis

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between appendiceal orifice inflammation (AOI) and appendectomy and ulcerative colitis (UC) by a meta-analysis. Methods: Databases were thoroughly searched for studies on AOI and UC up to January 2016. Three comparisons were performed: a) whether the previous appendectomy was a risk factor of UC; b) influence of appendectomy on UC courses; c) influence of AOI on UC severity. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were the effects sizes. The merging of results and publication bias assessment were performed by using RevMan 5.3. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using Stata 12.0. Results: Nineteen studies were selected in the present study. Results of comparison I showed that appendectomy was a protective factor of UC (OR = 0.44; 95% CI [0.30, 0.64]). Comparison II indicated appendectomy had no significant influence in the courses of UC (proctitis: OR = 1.03, 95% CI [0.74, 1.42]; left-sided colitis: OR = 1.01, 95% CI [0.73, 1.39]; pancolitis: OR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.59, 1.43]; colectomy: OR = 1.38, 95% CI [0.62, 3.04]). Comparison III indicated UC combined with AOI did not affect the courses of UC (proctitis: OR = 1.15, 95% CI [0.67, 1.98]; left-sided colitis: OR = 1.14, 95% CI [0.24, 5.42]; colectomy: OR = 0.36, 95% CI [0.10, 1.23]). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robust of the results in the present study. Conclusion: In conclusion, this meta-analysis indicated appendectomy can reduce the risk of UC. But appendectomy or AOI had no influence on the severity of the disease and the effect of surgical treatment.

Spanish multicenter study to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis

Objective: To estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain as diagnosed with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and to assess the risk factors and complications detected. Material and methods: A descriptive, observational study of chronic pancreatitis cases diagnosed in Spanish health care centers with an EUS unit. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate the incidence of the disease (cases identified over 18 months: from January 2011 to June 2012), risk factors, EUS criteria, Rosemont classification, and frequency of local complications. Results: Twenty-three centers were selected serving a total reference area of 14,752,704 population. During the study period 1,031 chronic pancreatitis cases were diagnosed, with an incidence of 4.66 cases per 105 inhabitants/year (95% CI: 4.65-4.67). Tobacco and alcohol use appear as risk factors in 63.8% and 66.7% of cases, respectively. Of these, 53.3% met > 5 EUS criteria for chronic pancreatitis, and 69% had findings suggestive of or consistent with chronic pancreatitis according to the Rosemont classification. Most prevalent complications included calcifications (34.7%), pseudocysts (16%), and presence of an inflammatory pancreatic tumor (10.4%). Conclusions: The incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain is similar to that of other European countries. Given the widespread use of the technique, EUS units are key in detecting the disease, and their activity and results allow to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis over wide, representative population areas.

Objetivo: estimar la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica en España diagnosticada mediante ecoendoscopia y evaluar los factores de riesgo y las complicaciones locales detectadas. Material y métodos: estudio observacional, descriptivo, de los casos diagnosticados de pancreatitis crónica en los centros sanitarios españoles con unidad de ecoendoscopia. Mediante un cuestionario estructurado se valoró la incidencia de la enfermedad (casos detectados en 18 meses: de enero 2011 a junio 2012), los factores de riesgo, el número de criterios ecoendoscópicos y la clasificación de Rosemont, así como la frecuencia de complicaciones locales. Resultados: se seleccionaron 23 centros sanitarios con un área de referencia total de 14.752.704 habitantes. En el periodo de estudio se diagnosticaron 1.031 casos de pancreatitis crónica, con una incidencia de 4,66 casos por 105 habitantes-año (IC 95% 4,65-4,67). El consumo de tabaco y el de alcohol aparecen como factores de riesgo en el 63,8% y 66,7% de los casos, respectivamente. El 53,3% de los pacientes tenía > 5 criterios endoscópicos de pancreatitis crónica y el 69% presentó hallazgos sugestivos o consistentes para pancreatitis crónica según la clasificación de Rosemont. Las calcificaciones (34,7%), los pseudoquistes (16%) y la presencia de un tumor pancreático inflamatorio (10,4%) fueron las complicaciones más prevalentes. Conclusiones: la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica en España es similar a otros países europeos. Dada la amplia difusión de la técnica, las unidades de ecoendoscopia son esenciales en la detección de la enfermedad, y su actividad y resultados permiten la estimación de la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica sobre áreas poblacionales amplias y representativas.

Increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in the province of Salamanca: comparison of two periods: 2004-2006 and 2010-2012

Objectives: To compare incidence, mortality and epidemiological characteristics of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) in the province of Salamanca over two different periods: 2010-2012 and 2004-2006. Methods: Retrospective observational study. We include all diagnosed cases of CRC according to histopathological criteria from 01/01/2004 to 31/12/2006 and from 01/01/2010 to 31/12/2012. The studied variables were sex, age, date of diagnosis and tumor location. Cumulative incidence and specific incidence in different age groups were measured and compared between the two periods. The age rates were adjusted to the standard world population so that the results could be compared with those of other populations. Results: We detected 38% more cases of CRC in the 2010-2012 period than in 2004-2006. Variables distribution (sex, age at diagnosis and location) was similar in both groups. More than twice as many colonoscopies were performed in 2010-2012 than in 2004-2006. Population mortality due to CRC also increased, although much less importantly than the incidence of this condition. Conclusions: There has been a clear increase in CRC incidence in the province of Salamanca from 2004-2006 to 2010-2012 which is not related to the ageing of the population. The remarkable increase in colonoscopies may have been an important factor for the increased detection.

Objetivos: comparar incidencia, mortalidad y características epidemiológicas de los pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer colorrectal (CCR) en la provincia de Salamanca entre dos periodos: 2010-2012 y 2004-2006. Métodos: estudio observacional retrospectivo. Incluimos todos los CCR diagnosticados según criterios histopatológicos del 01/01/2004 al 31/12/2006 y del 01/01/2010 al 31/12/2012. Las variables estudiadas fueron género, edad, fecha de diagnóstico y localización del tumor. Se han calculado incidencia acumulada e incidencia específica por grupos de edad comparando los resultados entre periodos. Hemos ajustado las tasas por edad a la población mundial estándar para poder compararla con otras poblaciones. Resultados: detectamos un 38% más de CCR en el periodo de 2010 a 2012 que en el de 2004 a 2006. Las variables (sexo, edad de diagnóstico y localización) han sido similares en ambos grupos. En el periodo de 2010-2012 se realizaron más del doble de colonoscopias que en el de 2004-2006. La mortalidad poblacional por CCR también aumentó, aunque de manera mucho menos importante que la incidencia. Conclusiones: existe un claro aumento de la incidencia del CCR en la provincia de Salamanca entre los años 2004-2006 y 2010-2012 no relacionado con el envejecimiento. El aumento considerable de colonoscopias puede haber sido un factor importante para el aumento en la detección.

Causes of treatment failure for hepatitis C in the era of direct-acting antiviral therapy

Hepatitis C therapy in the era of the newer direct-acting antiviral agents has radically changed our treatment schemes by achieving very high rates of sustained virological response. However, treatment with direct antiviral agents fails in a subgroup of patients. This group of so-called difficult-to-treat individuals is the subject of this paper, which reviews the causes of virological failure, their clinical implications, and some final recommendations.

El tratamiento de la hepatitis C en la era de los nuevos agentes antivirales de acción directa ha cambiado radicalmente nuestros esquemas de tratamiento, consiguiendo tasas de respuesta virológica sostenida muy elevadas. Sin embargo, en un subgrupo de pacientes el tratamiento con agentes antivirales directos fracasa. Este colectivo de pacientes a los que podemos denominar como difíciles de curar constituyen el motivo de este artículo, que revisa las causas virológicas del fracaso virológico, sus implicaciones clínicas y algunas recomendaciones finales.

Spontaneous rupture of a liver hemangioma: a case report

Small bowel mesenchymal tumors: description of two unusual cases

A rare presentation of gallstones: Bouveret's syndrome, a case report

Appendicular bleeding: an excepcional cause of lower hemorrhage

Chronic complications of acute appendicitis managed in a conservative manner are not frequent. We present a case of acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage in a young patient with a previous acute appendicitis without surgical intervention. The colonoscopy detected an appendicular bleeding which was surgically treated. The anatomopathological diagnosis was granulomatous appendicitis. The clinical evolution of the patient was favorable without bleeding recurrence. Appendicular hemorrhage can be an unusual complication -however potentially severe- of acute appendicitis not treated surgically.

Las complicaciones crónicas de la apendicitis aguda manejada de forma conservadora son infrecuentes. Presentamos un caso de hemorragia digestiva baja aguda en paciente joven con antecendente de apendicitis aguda no intervenida. En la colonoscopia se detectó un sangrado apendicular que se trató quirúrgicamente. El diagnóstico anatomopatológico fue de apendicitis granulomatosa. La evolución clínica del paciente fue favorable sin recidiva hemorrágica. La hemorragia apendicular puede ser una complicación inusual potencialmente grave de la apendicitis aguda no intervenida.

Downhill varices: an uncommon cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Background: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common condition in gastroenterology, but "Downhill varices" (DHV) or varices of the upper oesophagus are an uncommon cause of UGIB, with different aetiology from lower third oesophageal varices and different therapeutic implications. Case report: A 28-year-old male patient, with a history of chronic kidney failure secondary undergoing haemodialysis and superior vena cava syndrome (SCVS) due to multiple catheter replacements, was admitted to the Emergency Department with haematemesis secondary to a varicose vein rupture in the proximal third of oesophagus, treated initially with ethanolamine. Subsequent diagnostic studies showed the collateral circulation secondary to the SCVS. No further endoscopic or endovascular therapy could be performed and the patient will finally undergo a surgical bypass. Discussion: DHVs are a very uncommon condition and endoscopic band ligation emerges as the appropriate therapeutic approach for the bleeding event. The definitive therapy continues to be that for the cause of the SVCS.

Introducción: la hemorragia digestiva alta (HDA) es una entidad común en gastroenterología, pero las "Downhill varices" (DHV) son una causa infrecuente de HDA, con diferente etiología de las varices esofágicas de tercio inferior y con diferentes implicaciones terapéuticas. Caso clínico: varón de 28 años de edad, con antecedentes de insuficiencia renal crónica sometido a hemodiálisis y síndrome de vena cava superior(SVCS) debido a múltiples sustituciones catéter, acude a urgencias por hematemesis secundaria a ruptura de una variz en tercio proximal de esófago, que inicialmente se trata con etanolamina. El estudio diagnóstico posterior demostró la circulación colateral secundaria al SVCS. No se pudo realizar terapia endoscópica o endovascular y el paciente finalmente se someterá a un bypass quirúrgico. Discusión: las DHV son una entidad infrecuente y la ligadura endoscópica con bandas se erige como el abordaje terapéutico apropiado para el evento hemorrágico. La terapia definitiva sigue siendo la de la causa del SVCS.

Ischemic colitis in an athlete: running is not always good for you

Management of non-surgical pneumoperitoneum

Transanal submucosal endoscopic resection (TASER) by TEO system^®