Pielonefritis aguda izquierda en paciente con lumbalgia bilateral y duplicidad ureteral: Caso clínico / Acute left pyelonephritis in patient with bilateral low back pain and ureteral duplicity: Case report

RESUMEN El caso es de una mujer de 46 años con pielonefritis aguda izquierda y duplicidad ureteral bilateral. La pielonefritis aguda es una infección grave del tracto urinario que puede variar en su presentación clínica, desde síntomas leves hasta sepsis. El dolor lumbar es un síntoma común en la pielonefritis aguda, y puede presentarse de forma unilateral o bilateral. La duplicidad ureteral es una anomalía congénita que resulta en uréteres que transportan la orina desde el mismo riñón hasta la vejiga, y puede causar complicaciones como reflujo vesicoureteral y obstrucción ureteral. El tratamiento incluyó antibióticos y control ambulatorio en consulta de Urología. El caso destaca la importancia de un enfoque diagnóstico meticuloso y la consideración de anomalías congénitas subyacentes que pueden complicar el cuadro clínico y el tratamiento. La integración de hallazgos clínicos, análisis de laboratorio y pruebas de imagen fue fundamental para el diagnóstico preciso y el plan de tratamiento adecuado.

ABSTRACT The case presents a 46-year-old woman with left acute pyelonephritis and bilateral duplicated ureters. Acute pyelonephritis is a severe urinary tract infection that can vary in clinical presentation, from mild symptoms to sepsis. Lower back pain is a common symptom and can be unilateral or bilateral. Duplicated ureters are a congenital anomaly resulting in the transport of urine from the same kidney to the bladder, and can cause complications such as vesicoureteral reflux and ureteral obstruction. Treatment involved antibiotics and outpatient urology follow-up. The case underscores the importance of a meticulous diagnostic approach and consideration of underlying congenital anomalies that can complicate clinical management and treatment. The integration of clinical findings and complementary tests was essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Use of ChatGPT in Urology and its Relevance in Clinical Practice: Is it useful?

ABSTRACT Purpouse: One of the many artificial intelligence based tools that has gained popularity is the Chat-Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT). Due to its popularity, incorrect information provided by ChatGPT will have an impact on patient misinformation. Furthermore, it may cause misconduct as ChatGPT can mislead physicians on the decision-making pathway. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of ChatGPT answers regarding urological diagnoses. Materials and Methods: ChatGPT 3.5 version was used. The questions asked for the program involved Primary Megaureter (pMU), Enuresis and Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR). There were three queries for each topic. The queries were inserted twice, and both responses were recorded to examine the reproducibility of ChatGPT's answers. Afterwards, both answers were combined. Finally, those rwere evaluated qualitatively by a board of three specialists. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results and Conclusion: ChatGPT simulated general knowledge on the researched topics. Regarding Enuresis, the provided definition was partially correct, as the generic response allowed for misinterpretation. For VUR, the response was considered appropriate. For pMU it was partially correct, lacking essential aspects of its definition such as the diameter of the dilatation of the ureter. Unnecessary exams were suggested, for Enuresis and pMU. Regarding the treatment of the conditions mentioned, it specified treatments for Enuresis that are ineffective, such as bladder training. Therefore, ChatGPT responses present a combination of accurate information, but also incomplete, ambiguous and, occasionally, misleading details.

Abordaje de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico refractaria / Approach to refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

RESUMEN Un adecuado abordaje de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico refractaria (rERGE) es imprescindible para lograr el éxito terapéutico. Desde la definición precisa de rERGE hasta la detallada caracterización de sus fenotipos, establecerá el camino hacia la personalización de la terapia óptima para cada paciente. En esta revisión narrativa de la literatura, se busca proporcionar una síntesis actualizada de la utilidad de las diversas herramientas diagnósticas y explorar el amplio espectro de opciones terapéuticas, tanto médicas como invasivas disponibles para esta condición.

ABSTRACT An adequate approach to refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD) is essential for achieving therapeutic success. From the precise definition of rGERD to the detailed characterization of its phenotypes, it will pave the way for the customization of optimal therapy for each patient. In this narrative literature review, the aim is to provide an updated synthesis of the utility of various diagnostic tools and explore the wide range of therapeutic options, both medical and invasive, available for this condition.

Randomized Double-blind Placebo-controlled Trial of Modified Zuojinwan Granules in Treating Reflux Esophagitis and Functional Dyspepsia with Same Syndrome with Disharmony Between Liver and Stomach / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of modified Zuojinwan granules in treating reflux esophagitis （RE） and functional dyspepsia （FD） with the same syndrome with disharmony between liver and stomach）. MethodA randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to enroll 144 patients with disharmony between liver and stomach， including 72 patients with RE and 72 patients with FD. These patients were then randomly divided into observation and control groups， with 36 patients in each group. The observation group was given modified Zuojinwan granules orally， and the control group was given placebo granules orally. They both were treated with two packs each time， twice a day， for four weeks. The traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome scores， cerebrointestinal peptides ［calcitonin gene-associated titanium （CGRP）， vasoactive intestinal peptide （VIP）， 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， and substance P （SP）］， inflammatory factors ［tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α） and interleukin-6 （IL-6）］， common gastrointestinal related hormones ［gastrin （GAS） and motilin （MTL）］， and other indicators in the two groups were compared before and after treatment， and the curative effect of TCM syndromes and the occurrence of adverse reactions were determined. At the same time， the changes in the above indicators and the curative effect of TCM syndromes in the two groups of patients with the same disease were analyzed. ResultAfter treatment， CGRP， VIP， 5-HT， SP， TNF-α， IL-6， GAS， MTL， and TCM syndrome scores in the observation group and control group were significantly improved （P<0.05）. After treatment， the improvement of CGRP， VIP， 5-HT， SP， TNF-α， IL-6， GAS， MTL， and TCM syndrome scores in the observation group was better than that in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， CGRP， VIP， 5-HT， SP， TNF-α， IL-6， GAS， MTL， and TCM syndrome scores in both groups of RE patients and FD patients were significantly improved （P<0.05）. After treatment， the improvement of CGRP， VIP， 5-HT， SP， TNF-α， IL-6， GAS， MTL， and TCM syndrome scores in RE patients and FD patients in the observation group were better than that in the control group （P<0.05）. In the observation group and the control group， the incidence of nausea， vomiting， fatigue， dry mouth， and other adverse reactions was lower， and there was no statistical significance. ConclusionModified Zuojinwan granules can effectively improve the TCM syndromes of disharmony between liver and stomach of RE and FD， brain and intestinal peptide， gastrointestinal hormone， and inflammatory factors and provide evidence for the clinical application of TCM theory of "treating different diseases with the same method".

The relationship between laryngopharyngeal reflux and common pharyngeal diseases and analysis of related risk factors / 中国耳鼻咽喉头颈外科

OBJECTIVE To analyze the relationship between LPR and common pharyngeal diseases and its risk factors.METHODS A total of 280 patients who were admitted to the Inpatient Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery or Laryngoscopy Room of the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University due to throat discomfort from September 2022 to May 2023 were selected as the study objects.All enrolled patients were required to complete the RSI and RFS scoring scales.According to the 2022 LPRD expert Consensus,RSI>13 and/or RFS>7 were classified as LPR group,and RSI≤13 and RFS≤7 are classified as non-LPR group.Chi-square test was used to analyze the differences in the incidence of common pharyngeal diseases such as upper respiratory tract papilloma,epiglottic cyst,vocal cord polyp,vocal cord leucoplakia,vocal cord cancer and hypopharyngeal cancer among different groups.Univariate Chi-square test analysis and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were performed for gender,age,BMI,smoking and drinking history.All differences were statistically significant with P<0.05.RESULTS The prevalence of LPR in 280 patients with throat discomfort was 70.0%(196/280).There were statistically significant differences in the incidence of LPR group and non-LPR group in patients with vocal cord polyp(χ2=4.228,P<0.05),vocal cord leukoplakia(χ2=12.283,P<0.05),vocal cord cancer(χ2=4.103,P<0.05)and hypopharyngeal cancer(χ2=4.907,P<0.05),while there was no significant difference in the incidence of LPR group and non-LPR group in patients with papilloma of upper respiratory tract(χ2=0.183,P>0.05)and epiglottic cyst(χ2=0.556,P>0.05).Univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences in the incidence rates of smoking(χ2=20.403,P<0.05)and drinking(χ2=7.704,P<0.05)between the LPR group and the non-LPR group,while gender(χ2=0.01,P>0.05),age(χ2=8.147,P>0.05),BMI(χ2=2.060,P>0.05)had no significant difference.Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that smoking(OR=3.390,95%CI:1.761-6.526,P<0.05)was an independent risk factor for LPR.CONCLUSION There is a high co-prevalence of LPR with vocal cord polyps,vocal cord leukoplakia,vocal cord cancer and hypopharyngeal cancer.Therefore,LPR should be evaluated when treating throat related diseases,and LPR should be actively treated if necessary.In addition,smoking and drinking are risk factors for LPR,so it is necessary to stop smoking and drinking alcohol when treating LPR.

Efficacy and safety of laparoscopic proximal subtotal gastrectomy and distal gastrectomy in the treatment of gastric cancer / 国际外科学杂志

Objective:To explore the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic technology in the treatment of gastric cancer which using proximal subtotal gastrectomy and distal subtotal gastrectomy.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 98 gastric cancer patients admitted to the Department of General Surgery, General Hospital of Huainan Eastern Hospital Group from January 2016 to January 2020, including 71 males and 27 females with an average age of (62.03±10.6) years old(ranged from 32 to 80 years). All cases were divided into proximal group ( n=28) and distal group ( n=70) according to different surgical methods. The proximal group was treated with laparoscopic proximal subtotal gastrectomy, while the distal group was treated with laparoscopic distal subtotal gastrectomy. SPSS 20.0 software was used to analyze the differences in surgical related clinical indicators, postoperative complications, nutritional status, quality of life, and survival rate between two groups. Kaplan-Merier was used to draw survival curves, and Log-rank test was used to compare the survival differences between the two groups. Results:The number of lymph node dissection in the proximal group was less than that in the distal group, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=2.02, P=0.045). The incidence rate of reflux esophagitis in the proximal group was higher than that in the distal group (57.14% vs 4.29%, χ2=35.75, P<0.001), the incidence rate of reflux gastritis was lower than that of the distal group, the difference was statistically significant(3.57% vs 22.86% P=0.035). The levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and albumin in the proximal group were lower than those in the distal group after surgery, and the differences were statistically significant ( t=2.62, P=0.010; t=2.12, P=0.036; t=3.54, P=0.001). One month after surgery, the Karnofsky functional status score in the proximal group was lower than that in the distal group, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=2.27, P=0.025). The postoperative 1, 3, and 5-year survival rates of the proximal group were 85.71%, 64.29%, and 46.43%, respectively, while the postoperative 1, 3, and 5-year survival rates of the distal group were 88.57%, 71.43%, and 57.14%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the survival curves between the two groups ( P>0.05). Conclusions:The incidence rate of reflux esophagitis after laparoscopic proximal subtotal gastrectomy is higher than that of distal subtotal gastrectomy, and the number of lymph nodes cleared during operation is less than that of distal subtotal gastrectomy. Compared with laparoscopic distal subtotal gastrectomy, the nutritional status of patients after proximal subtotal gastrectomy is significantly worse, but there is no significant difference in long-term survival rate between the two groups.

Mechanism of obesity in the occurrence and development of gastroesophageal reflux disease / 中华消化外科杂志

Obesity is one of the main risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). With the development of social economy, the global obesity population shows a continuous growth trend, leading to an increase in the incidence rate of GERD. Obesity, especially the central obesity, is closely related to GERD. The increase of intra-abdominal pressure caused by obesity may lead to the destruction of "anti-reflux barrier" through a variety of mechanical mechanisms, and the various cytokines produced by visceral adipose tissue in obesity population may contribute to the occurr-ence and development of GERD through various biological effects. The authors explore the mechanism of obesity in the occurrence and development of GERD from both mechanical and biological effects, aiming to help clinical physicians improve their understanding of GERD.

Clinical application of enhanced recovery after surgery combined with intestinal fluid reflux in enterostomy in newborn / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical value of enhanced recovery after surgery(ERAS) strategy combined with early intestinal fluid reinfusion among neonates receiving jejunostomy due to intestinal obstruction.Methods:From December 2018 to December 2022, neonates with intestinal obstruction receiving jejunostomy in the Department of Neonatal Surgery of our hospital were prospectively enrolled. They were randomly assigned into ERAS group and traditional treatment (TT) group after surgery. The ERAS group was treated with ERAS strategy plus early intestinal fluid reinfusion. The TT group was treated with conventional gastrointestinal decompression, analgesia as needed and enteric fluid reinfusion according to the amount of defecation. The postoperative parenteral nutrition (PN) duration (T pn), central venous catheter (CVC) duration (T cvc), daily weight gain, duration of postoperative hospital stay (T hos), complications and readmission rate within 30 days were compared between the two groups. Results:A total of 22 cases were included in the ERAS group and 20 cases were in the TT group. T pn [(22.6±9.4) d vs. (30.7±11.3) d], T cvc [(5.9±0.8) d vs. (9.9±2.1) d] and T hos [(26.8±9.8) d vs. (33.8±11.5) d] in the ERAS group were significantly shorter than the TT group ( P<0.05). No significant difference existed in daily weight gain between the two groups ( P>0.05). The incidence of postoperative gastrointestinal mucosal bleeding in the ERAS group was significantly lower than the TT group (13.6% vs. 45.0%)( P<0.05). No significant differences existed in the following items between the two groups: feeding intolerance, PN-associated cholestasis, CVC-related bloodstream infection, intestinal fluid reinfusion-related complications, premature closure of fistula and readmission rate within 30 days (all P>0.05). Conclusions:The application of ERAS strategy plus early intestinal fluid reinfusion in neonates with enterostomy is safe and feasible, which can reduce the postoperative durations of PN, CVC and hospital stay and accelerate the recovery.

Short-term efficacy of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the safety and short-term efficacy of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in the treatment of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD).Methods:The clinical data of 61 patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication from March 2018 to March 2022 in Jiangyin People′s Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 14 patients had significant symptom relief after using proton pump inhibitor (PPI) before operation (group A), 30 patients had partial symptom relief after using PPI (group B), and 17 patients had persistent symptoms despite regular treatment with double-dose PPI for more than 8 weeks (group C). The surgical outcomes and recovery were compared among the three groups.Results:For the 61 patients, the surgical time was (117.46 ± 28.50) min, the intraoperative blood loss was 23.00 (8.00, 34.00) ml, and the postoperative hospital stay was 3.00 (2.00, 5.00) d. There were no statistically significant differences in surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, concurrent hiatal hernia repair and mesh placement among the three groups ( P>0.05). No short-term severe complications such as abdominal bleeding, abdominal infection and gastrointestinal perforation occurred in any group. There were no statistical differences in satisfaction score, subjective relief of overall postoperative symptoms, reflux symptoms, PPI usage, dysphagia, abdominal distention, diarrhea or constipation among the three groups ( P<0.05). No upper abdominal pain, recurrence and reoperation occurred in the three groups. Conclusions:Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has a definite therapeutic effect on rGERD, with significant anti reflux effects. There are no serious complications after surgery, and there are no recurrence or reoperation.

Correlation between enlarged perivascular space and cerebral venous reflux in recent small subcortical infarcts within the lenticulostriate artery territory / 中华神经科杂志

Objective:To summarize the incidence of cerebral venous reflux (CVR) in patients with recent small subcortical infarct (RSSI) and explore its correlation with enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS).Methods:Patients with RSSI in the lenticulostriate artery admitted to the Department of Neurology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2019 to December 2022 were included. The baseline demographic data, medical history, and laboratory results of the patients were collected. CVR was assessed by time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography. Patients were stratified into 2 groups based on the presence (CVR group) or absence of CVR (non-CVR group), and baseline characteristics as well as laboratory test results were compared between the 2 groups. The location and number of EPVS were evaluated using a visual grading scale, with EPVS with higher scores defined as high-grade EPVS (HEPVS). Simultaneous evaluation of cerebral white matter hyperintensities and lacunar infarctions was conducted, followed by intergroup comparisons. The relationship between EPVS and CVR was studied using multiple Logistic regression analysis.Results:A total of 571 patients with RSSI in the lentiform artery area were ultimately included, including 180 females (31.5%). Their age was (59.37±12.87) years. Among them, 73 patients (12.8%) exhibited CVR based on imaging findings, so the incidence of CVR was 12.8%. In comparison between the CVR group ( n=73) and the non-CVR group ( n=498), the proportion of females [21.9% (16/73) vs 32.9% (164/498), χ 2=3.578, P=0.059] was lower and the proportion of history of smoking [38.4% (28/73) vs 27.7% (138/498), χ 2=3.499, P=0.061] was higher in the CVR group, but without statistical significance. Additionally, the history of alcohol consumption [34.2% (25/73) vs 21.7% (108/498), χ 2=5.621, P=0.018] and the proportion of patients with concomitant HEPVS in the basal ganglia area [41.1% (30/73) vs 25.3% (126/498), χ 2=7.999, P=0.005] was higher in the CVR group with statistical significance. Multiple Logistic regression analysis showed that HEPVS in the basal ganglia region remained independently associated with CVR ( OR=1.988, 95% CI 1.190-3.320, P=0.009). Conclusion:EPVS in the basal ganglia region is significantly associated with CVR in the RSSI population, suggesting that venous dysfunction may be closely related to the formation of EPVS.

Study on preoperative bedside ultrasonography-assessed perioperative reflux and aspiration risk in surgical colon cancer patients with incomplete intestinal obstruction / 肿瘤研究与临床

Objective:To investigate the correlation between preoperative incomplete intestinal obstruction and the risk of perioperative reflux and aspiration assessed by preoperative bedside ultrasonography in patients with colon cancer.Methods:A prospective case series study was conducted. A total of 300 patients with colon cancer who underwent elective surgery from March 2020 to January 2022 in the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University were prospectively selected for the study. According to whether there was incomplete intestinal obstruction before operation, the patients were divided into obstruction group and non-obstruction group. All patients underwent preoperative ultrasound examination of the gastric antrum, measuring the cross-sectional area of the gastric antrum in the right lateral position, and calculating the gastric volume and unit body mass gastric volume (GV/W), which were all expressed as M ( Q1, Q3). The differences in cross-sectional area of the gastric antrum, gastric volume and GV/W in the right lateral position between the two groups were compared, as well as the risk of reflux and aspiration (the risk of reflux and aspiration was extremely low at GV/W<0.8 ml/kg, the risk was low at GV/W 0.8-1.5 ml/kg, and the risk was high at GV/W >1.5 ml/kg). Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of high risk of reflux and aspiration. Results:Of 300 patients, 7 patients were excluded because of blurred images on ultrasonography, and a total of 293 patients were finally included. The age [ M ( Q1, Q3)] of obstruction group (146 cases) was 58.0 years old (55.0 years old, 67.0 years old), including 80 males and 66 females; the age of non-obstruction group (147 cases) was 55.0 years old (53.5 years old, 64.0 years old), including 64 males and 83 females. The age and body mass index (BMI) of the patients in the obstructin group were higher than those in the non-obstruction group, and the differences were statistically significant (both P < 0.05), and there were no significant differences in gender, duration of dietary abstinence, comorbid hypertension, comorbid diabetes mellitus, smoking status, sedentariness, and alcoholism between the two groups (all P > 0.05). Compared with the non-obstruction group, patients in the obstruction group had a higher cross-sectional area of the gastric antrum [5.83 cm 2 (5.25 cm 2, 6.70 cm 2) vs. 5.13 cm 2 (4.43 cm 2, 5.79 cm 2), P < 0.001], gastric volume [43.00 ml (37.07 ml, 52.74 ml) vs. 32.78 ml (25.52 ml, 39.85 ml), P < 0.001] and GV/W [0.70 ml/kg (0.65 ml/kg, 0.82 ml/kg) vs. 0.55 ml/kg (0.46 ml/kg, 0.62 ml/kg), P < 0.001] in the right lateral position. The proportion of patients at high risk of reflux and aspiration in the obstruction group was higher than that in the non-obstruction group [22.6% (33/146) vs. 12.2% (18/147), χ2 = 4.59, P = 0.032]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that combination of incomplete intestinal obstruction (combined vs. uncombined, OR = 2.145, 95% CI: 1.096-4.198, P = 0.026), and males (females vs. males, OR = 0.415, 95% CI: 0.199-0.867, P = 0.019) were the independent risk factors for a high risk of perioperative reflux and aspiration assessed by preoperative bedside ultrasonography. Conclusions:Colon cancer patients combined with incomplete intestinal obstruction have significantly larger preoperative cross-sectional area of the gastric antrum, gastric volume and GV/W in the right lateral position, and have gastric retention, which may contribute to a higher risk of perioperative reflux and aspiration.

Two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization for analyzing the causal effect between gastroesophageal reflux disease and migraine headaches / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To explore the causal association between the onset of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and migraine and to provide genetic evidence, a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) method was used in this study. 【Methods】 Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) information for both samples was obtained from publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) databases, in which the appropriate SNPs were selected as instrumental variables, and then bidirectional MR analysis used five MR analysis methods including inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted mode and simple mode methods, followed by sensitivity analysis. 【Results】 IVW showed positive results of forward MR analysis with GERD as exposure [OR=1.398 7, 95%CI (1.181 7-1.655 6), P=9.59×10-5] , while no positive significance of reverse MR analysis results with migraine as exposure (P>0.05). The same results were obtained in methods other than MR-Egger method. Meanwhile, none of the instrumental variables were found to be horizontally polytomous (P=0.92, P=0.64), and the results were robust after the leave-one-out method to exclude single SNPs. 【Conclusion】 There may be a unidirectional causal association between GERD and migraine, and GERD is a risk factor for migraine development.

Role of NF-κB Signaling Pathway in "Reflux Esophagitis-esophageal Cancer" and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention：A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Reflux esophagitis is an inflammatory disease of esophageal mucosa damage caused by the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. Its incidence is on the rise， and it has become an important precancerous disease of esophageal cancer. Studies have shown that the continuous inflammatory response stimulates the esophageal mucosa， causing abnormal proliferation of esophageal epithelial cells and damage to esophageal mucosal tissue， which eventually leads to the occurrence of heterogeneous hyperplasia and even carcinogenesis. The nuclear transcription factor-kappa B （NF-κB） signaling pathway is one of the most classical inflammatory and cancer signaling pathways. It has been found that abnormal activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway is crucial to the development and prognosis of reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer. It is widely involved in the proliferation， autophagy， apoptosis， and inflammatory response of esophageal epithelial cells and tumor cells， accelerating the transformation of reflux esophagitis to esophageal cancer and making it a potential target for the treatment of reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer. Currently， there is no specific treatment for reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer， and large side effects often appear. Therefore， finding a promising and safe drug remains a top priority. In recent years， traditional Chinese medicine scholars have conducted a lot of research on NF-κB signaling pathway， and the results indicate that NF-κB signaling pathway is an important potential target for traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer， but there is a lack of comprehensive and systematic elaboration. Therefore， this paper summarized the relevant studies in recent years， analyzed the relationship among NF-κB signaling pathway， reflux esophagitis， esophageal cancer， and transformation from inflammation to cancer， and reviewed the research literature on the regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer， so as to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of reflux esophagitis and esophageal cancer.

Diretriz brasileira de conduta terapêutica na doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (Federação Brasileira de Gastroenterologia, FBG) / Brazilian clinical guideline for the therapeutic management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (brazilian federation of gastroenterology, fbg)

ABSTRACT Background: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a prevalent condition in Brazil, affecting 12% to 20% of the urban population, with significant implications for patient quality of life and potential for complications. Objective: This paper focuses on the recent update of the Brazilian guidelines for GERD, a necessary revision due to advancements in knowledge and practice since the last publication over a decade ago. The update pays particular attention to the role and safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), acknowledging the growing concerns about their long-term use, adverse events, and overprescription. Methods: The methodology of the guideline update involved an extensive literature review in multiple languages (English, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese), drawing from major databases such as Medline, Embase, and SciELO-Lilacs. Results: This comprehensive approach resulted in a carefully curated selection of studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, specifically focusing on PPIs and other therapeutic strategies for GERD. The updated guidelines are presented in a user-friendly question-and-answer format, adhering to the PICO system (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) for clarity and ease of interpretation. The recommendations are supported by robust scientific evidence and expert opinions, enhancing their practical applicability in clinical settings. To ensure the reliability and clarity of the recommendations, the GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) was employed. This system categorizes the strength of recommendations as strong, weak, or conditional and classifies evidence quality as high, moderate, low, or very low. These classifications provide insight into the confidence level of each recommendation and the likelihood of future research impacting these guidelines. Conclusion: The primary aim of these updated guidelines is to offer practical, evidence-based advice for the management of GERD in Brazil, ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to deliver optimal patient care.

RESUMO Contexto: A doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (DRGE) é uma condição prevalente no Brasil, afetando 12% a 20% da população urbana, com implicações significativas na qualidade de vida dos pacientes e potencial para complicações. Objetivo: Este artigo foca na recente atualização das diretrizes brasileiras para a DRGE, uma revisão necessária devido aos avanços no conhecimento e na prática desde a última publicação há mais de uma década. A atualização presta atenção especial ao papel e à segurança dos inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBPs), reconhecendo as crescentes preocupações sobre seu uso a longo prazo, eventos adversos e prescrição excessiva. Métodos: A metodologia da atualização das diretrizes envolveu uma extensa revisão da literatura em múltiplos idiomas (inglês, francês, italiano, espanhol e português), com dados de importantes bases de dados como Medline, Embase e SciELO-Lilacs. Resultados: Esta abordagem abrangente resultou em uma seleção cuidadosamente curada de estudos, revisões sistemáticas e meta-análises, focando especificamente em IBPs e outras estratégias terapêuticas para a DRGE. As diretrizes atualizadas são apresentadas em um formato de perguntas e respostas de fácil utilização, aderindo ao sistema PICO (População, Intervenção, Comparação, Resultados) para clareza e facilidade de interpretação. As recomendações são apoiadas por evidências científicas robustas e opiniões de especialistas, aumentando sua aplicabilidade prática em ambientes clínicos. Para garantir a confiabilidade e clareza das recomendações, foi empregado o sistema Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Este sistema categoriza a força das recomendações como forte, fraca ou condicional e classifica a qualidade da evidência como alta, moderada, baixa ou muito baixa. Essas classificações fornecem insights sobre o nível de confiança de cada recomendação e a probabilidade de pesquisas futuras impactarem nessas diretrizes. Conclusão: O objetivo principal destas diretrizes atualizadas é oferecer conselhos práticos e baseados em evidências para o manejo da DRGE no Brasil, garantindo que os profissionais de saúde estejam equipados com os conhecimentos e ferramentas mais recentes para proporcionar um cuidado ótimo ao paciente.

Esophageal Melanocytosis

ABSTRACT Esophageal melanocytosis is a rare entity defined by the proliferation of a melanocytic basal layer of the esophageal squamous lining and deposition of melanin in the esophageal mucosa. Esophageal melanocytosis is considered a benign entity of unknown etiology; however, it has been reported as a melanoma precursor. We report a case of esophageal melanocytosis in a diabetic and hypertensive 67-year-old male with recurrent dizziness and syncope for the past 6 months. Given his complaint of dyspepsia, he underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, in which an esophageal biopsy revealed the diagnosis of esophageal melanocytosis. The definitive diagnosis of esophageal melanocytosis can only be made by histological analysis. The histologic differential diagnoses include melanocytic nevi and malignant melanoma. Therefore, they need to be ruled out.

The Nasal Endoscopic Features of Postnasal Drip: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract Introduction Patients with chronic rhinitis suffer from postnasal drip (PND) but this symptom is not well addressed. Nasal endoscopy may aid in identifying PND. Well described endoscopic features of PND are presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity, diffuse erythema, and hemorrhagic spots in the nasopharynx, but these have not been formally studied. Objectives The present study aims to assess the association of nasal endoscopic features with PND among rhinitis patients. This will guide clinicians to interpret the nasal endoscopic findings appropriately. Methods Adults (≥ 18 years old) with chronic rhinitis were consecutively recruited at an Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic in a tertiary referral center. The patients were grouped into either "Rhinitis with PND" or "Rhinitis only." The endoscopic features of PND were scored as: Secretions in the posterior nasal cavity (yes/no), erythema in the nasopharynx (none, roof only, diffuse), hemorrhagic spots (yes/no), then were compared between groups. Results The re were 98 patients included (age 32.32 ±11.33 years old, 61.2% female, 61.2% PND). Presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity was associated with PND ("Rhinitis with PND" versus "Rhinitis only," 78.3 versus 55.3; p = 0.02; Odds ratio: 2.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-7.32). Diffuse erythema of the nasopharynx was more frequent in "rhinitis only" compared with those with PND (76.3 versus 53.3%; p = 0.02). Hemorrhagic spots were equally present in both groups (11.7 versus 18.4%; p = 0.35). Conclusion Presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity may indicate bothersome PND among patients with rhinitis. Diffuse erythema of the nasopharynx and hemorrhagic spots are a nonspecific sign of inflammation.

Types of Epiglottic Collapse in Breathing Sleep Disorder and Their Impact in Clinical Practice

Abstract Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a severe form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that is strongly correlated with comorbidities, in which epiglottic collapse (EC) and other contributing factors are involved. Objectives To evaluate the occurrence of EC in OSA patients through drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and to determine the factors contributing to EC. Methods A retrospective study of 37 adult patients using medical history. Patients were assessed for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and lingual tonsil hypertrophy (LTH) using reflux symptom index and reflux finding score (RFS); for OSA using polysomnography, and for airway collapse through DISE. An independent t-test was performed to evaluate risk factors, including the involvement of three other airway structures. Results Most EC patients exhibited trap door epiglottic collapse (TDEC) (56.8%) or pushed epiglottic collapse (PEC) (29.7%). Lingual tonsil hypertrophy, RFS, and respiratory effort-related arousal (RERA) were associated with epiglottic subtypes. Laryngopharyngeal reflux patients confirmed by RFS (t(25) = −1.32, p = 0.197) tended to suffer PEC; LTH was significantly associated (X2(1) = 2.5, p = 0.012) with PEC (odds ratio [OR] value = 44) in grades II and III LTH patients; 11 of 16 TDEC patients had grade I LTH. Pushed epiglottic collapse was more prevalent among multilevel airway obstruction patients. A single additional collapse site was found only in TDEC patients. Conclusion Laryngopharyngeal reflux causes repetitive acid stress toward lingual tonsils causing LTH, resulting in PEC with grade II or III LTH. Trap door epiglottic collapse requires one additional structural collapse, while at least two additional collapse sites were necessary to develop PEC. Respiratory effort-related arousal values may indicate EC.

Dynamic and static ultrasound features predictive of vesicoureteral reflux and renal damage in children and adolescents with neurogenic bladder

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic and static ultrasound (DSUS) in detecting vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and renal scarring in a cohort of children with neurogenic bladder (NB). Materials and Methods: A retrospective, longitudinal, observational study was conducted using the Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies guideline. The DSUS (index test) data were compared with voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and renal scintigraphy 99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic (reference tests). Overall performance for predicting VUR and renal scarring was assessed using renal pelvic diameter (RPD)/distal ureteral diameter and renal parenchymal thinning on DSUS, respectively. Results: A total of 107 patients (66 girls, median age 9.6 years) participated. Seventeen patients (15.9%) presented VUR, eight bilateral. For overall reflux grade, the AUC was 0.624 for RPD and 0.630 for distal ureteral diameter. The diagnostic performance for detecting high-grade VUR was slightly better for DSUS parameters. The AUC was 0.666 for RPD and 0.691 for distal ureteral diameter. The cut-offs of 5 mm for RPD and 6.5 mm for distal ureteral diameter presented the best diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) to identify high-grade VUR. The increase of RPD during detrusor contractions showed an accuracy of 89.2%. The thinness of renal parenchyma presented an accuracy of 88% for renal scarring. Conclusion: DSUS predicts VUR and renal scarring in children with NB with fair to good accuracy, and all measurements exhibited a high negative predictive value (NPV). The increase in RPD during voiding or detrusor contractions proved to be the most accurate parameter for indicating the presence of VUR in this study.

Is it Always Laryngopharyngeal Reflux? How Voice Disorders Can Manifest as LPR

Introduction: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) manifests with a constellation of common throat symptoms and inconclusive signs on laryngoscopic exam. It is a diagnosis, often made clinically, that can lead to prescriptions of proton pump inhibitors that are unnecessary and potentially harmful. Glottic insufficiency (GI) and the accompanying hyperfunctional laryngeal behaviors can also present with similar, common throat complaints that may or may not include a qualitative change to the voice. Methods: This is a reflection article. It is written to summarize, explain, and support with evidence the opinion of the author on the topic of how symptoms of voice disorders can easily be mistaken for symptoms of LPR. The offered reflection is based on his experience, research and the available literature. Reflection: This article intends to explore the similarities between GI and LPR, how to ultimately differentiate them and how to approach treatment with a broader differential diagnosis. Conclusion: LPR and GI can present with identical, vague throat, and voice symptoms. Empiric medication trials, behavioral interventions and objective laryngovideostroboscopy, impedance-based reflux, and esophageal motility testing may all be needed, sometimes in a trial and error fashion, to correctly diagnose and treat a patient's symptoms.

Introducción: El reflujo laríngeo-faríngeo (LPR, por sus siglas en inglés) se manifiesta con una serie de síntomas comunes en la garganta y signos no concluyentes en el examen larinoscópico. Es un diagnóstico que a menudo se realiza clínicamente y que puede llevar a la prescripción de inhibidores de la bomba de protones que son innecesarios y potencialmente perjudiciales. La insuficiencia glótica (IG) y los comportamientos laríngeos hiperfuncionales que la acompañan también pueden presentar síntomas de garganta comunes similares, que pueden o no incluir un cambio cualitativo en la voz. Métodos: Este es un artículo de reflexión. Está escrito para resumir, explicar y respaldar con evidencia la opinión del autor sobre cómo los síntomas de los trastornos de la voz pueden confundirse fácilmente con los síntomas del LPR. La reflexión ofrecida se basa en su experiencia, investigación y la literatura disponible. Reflexión: Este artículo tiene la intención de explorar las similitudes entre la IG y el LPR, cómo diferenciarlos finalmente y cómo abordar el tratamiento con un diagnóstico diferencial más amplio. Conclusión: El LPR y la IG pueden presentar síntomas idénticos y vagos en la garganta y la voz. Puede ser necesario realizar ensayos de medicación empírica, intervenciones conductuales y pruebas objetivas de laringovideostroboscopia, reflujo basado en impedancia y motilidad esofágica, a veces de manera experimental, para diagnosticar y tratar correctamente los síntomas de un paciente.

Esophagogastric Junction Contractile Integral (EGJ-CI) in Various Phenotypes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Introduction: Two parameters of high-resolution esophageal manometry are used to observe the function of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ): the anatomical morphology of the EGJ and contractile vigor, which is evaluated with the esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI). To date, how these parameters behave in different gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) phenotypes has not been evaluated. Materials and methods: An analytical observational study evaluated patients with GERD confirmed by pH-impedance testing and endoscopy undergoing high-resolution esophageal manometry. The anatomical morphology of the EGJ and EGJ-CI was assessed and compared between reflux phenotypes: acid, non-acid, erosive, and non-erosive. Results: 72 patients were included (63% women, mean age: 54.9 years), 81.9% with acid reflux and 25% with erosive esophagitis. In the latter, a decrease in EGJ-CI (median: 15.1 vs. 23, p = 0.04) and a more significant proportion of patients with type IIIa and IIIb EGJ (83.3% vs 37.1%, p < 0.01) were found. No significant differences existed in the manometric parameters of patients with and without acid and non-acid reflux. Conclusion: In our population, EGJ-CI significantly decreased in patients with erosive GERD, suggesting that it could be used to predict this condition in patients with GERD. This finding is also related to a higher proportion of type III EGJ and lower pressure at end-inspiration of the lower esophageal sphincter in this reflux type.

Introducción: Para observar la función de la unión esofagogástrica (UEG) se utilizan dos parámetros de la manometría esofágica de alta resolución: la morfología anatómica de la UEG y el vigor contráctil, el cual se evalúa con la integral de contractilidad distal de la unión esofagogástrica (IC-UEG). Hasta el momento, no se ha evaluado cómo se comportan estos parámetros en los diferentes fenotipos de enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE). Metodología: Estudio observacional analítico en el que se evaluaron pacientes con ERGE confirmado por pH-impedanciometría y endoscopia, llevados a manometría esofágica de alta resolución. Se evaluó la morfología anatómica de la UEG y la IC-UEG, y se comparó entre los diferentes fenotipos de reflujo: ácido, no ácido, erosivo y no erosivo. Resultados: Se incluyó a 72 pacientes (63% mujeres, edad media: 54,9 años), 81,9% con reflujo ácido y 25% con esofagitis erosiva. En este último grupo se encontró una disminución de la IC-UEG (mediana: 15,1 frente a 23, p = 0,04) y una mayor proporción de pacientes con UEG tipo IIIa y IIIb (83,3% frente a 37,1%, p < 0,01). No se encontraron diferencias significativas en los parámetros manométricos de los pacientes con y sin reflujo ácido y no ácido. Conclusión: En nuestra población, la IC-UEG estuvo significativamente disminuida en los pacientes con ERGE erosivo, lo que sugiere que podría ser utilizada como un predictor de esta condición en pacientes con ERGE. Este hallazgo también se relaciona con mayor proporción de UGE tipo III y menor presión al final de la inspiración del esfínter esofágico inferior en este tipo de reflujo.