Effects of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and Gastroprotective NSAIDs on the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Narrative Review.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic properties. However, their use is often associated with gastrointestinal tract (GIT) side effects due to the inhibition of both cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 enzymes, leading to a decrease in gastroprotective prostaglandins (PG). To minimize these adverse effects, various approaches have been explored, including selective COX-2 inhibitors, NO-NSAIDs (nitric oxide-releasing NSAIDs), and dual COX/LOX (lipoxygenase) NSAIDs. However, the effects of these gastroprotective NSAIDs on the GIT and their efficacy remains uncertain. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of the effects of traditional NSAIDs and gastroprotective NSAIDs on GIT. We discuss the underlying mechanisms of GIT damage caused by NSAIDs, including mucosal injury, ulceration, and bleeding, and the potential of gastroprotective NSAIDs to mitigate these effects. We also summarize recent studies on the efficacy and safety of various gastroprotective NSAIDs and highlight the limitations and challenges of these approaches. The review concludes with recommendations for future research in this field.

Typical and Atypical Presentations of Appendicitis and Their Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment: A Literature Review.

Appendicitis, an acute inflammation of the appendix, affects all demographic groups and exhibits various incidences and clinical manifestations. While acute appendicitis typically presents with colicky periumbilical abdominal pain that localizes to the right lower quadrant, atypical presentations are more common in children, geriatric, and pregnant patient populations, leading to delays in diagnosis. Clinical evaluation, clinical scoring systems, and inflammatory markers are commonly used, but their limitations have led to the increased use of diagnostic imaging in patients suspected of appendicitis. Acute appendicitis is managed by non-operative and operative management, depending on whether it is uncomplicated or complicated. Developing diagnostic pathways to improve outcomes and reduce complications is crucial. Although medical advancements have been made, diagnosing and managing appendicitis can be challenging, mainly when patients are present atypically. This literature review aims to comprehensively review typical and atypical presentations of appendicitis and their current implications for diagnosis and treatment modalities in pediatric, adult, pregnant, and geriatric patient populations.