ABSTRACT
We present four cases of gastrointestinal granular cell tumors (GCT) with a literature review. Gastrointestinal granular cell tumors, a benign neural tumor thought to arise from Schwann cells, can occur in several areas, including the gastrointestinal tract. Studies suggest that endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic removal is the treatment of choice for esophageal GCTs if they are small in size (< 2 cm) and do not involve the muscularis propria. GCTs are malignant less than 2% of the time. Although most GCTs are benign and can be followed endoscopically without resection, the malignant potential warrants evaluation with endoscopic ultrasound for possible endoscopic or surgical resection.
Subject(s)
Colonic Neoplasms/diagnosis , Esophageal Neoplasms/diagnosis , Granular Cell Tumor/diagnosis , Stomach Neoplasms/diagnosis , Colonoscopy , Endoscopy, Digestive System , Endosonography , Female , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Male , Middle AgedABSTRACT
The early institution of enteral nutrition is now accepted as the preferred route of feeding in critically ill patients with a functioning gastrointestinal tract. It is particularly important to establish early enteral nutrition in mechanically ventilated patients because of the metabolic demands associated with mechanical ventilation. The options for enteral access in mechanically ventilated patients are reviewed, with an emphasis on those techniques that may be performed at the bedside. The advantages, disadvantages, and complications of the different techniques will be considered.
