An elderly patient's pancreatobiliary puzzle: unraveling diagnosis and treatment challenges.

Pancreatobiliary fistulas associated withntraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm (IPMN) are rare and present therapeutic challenges. The authors describe the clinical course of an 81-year-old woman presenting with acute cholangitis, ultimately diagnosed with IPMN involving secondary ducts with focal high-grade dysplasia. Initial manifestations included elevated inflammatory markers, cholestasis, and imaging findings of a pancreatic lesion. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography revealed dilation of both intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts, along a cystic cluster originating from the pancreas, fistulizing into the common bile duct. Despite initial endoscopic interventions, recurrent cholestasis persisted. Subsequent multidisciplinary evaluation led to a cephalic duodenopancreatectomy. This case underscores the rarity of pancreatobiliary fistulas associated with IPMNs and the subsequent therapeutic challenges. The absence of standardized treatment algorithms for such intricate cases emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches. The fluoroscopy image displaying a cystic cluster originating from the pancreas and showing fistulization into the common bile duct is a rare image presented in our report, unique to this case.

Testicular Seminoma Presenting as Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Rare Cause of Metastatic Disease in the Stomach.

Introduction: Gastric metastases are quite infrequent. When arising from testicular germ cell tumors, gastric metastases are usually associated with nonseminomas. Case Report: A 45-year-old man presented with upper gastrointestinal bleeding, severe anemia, and elevated lactate dehydrogenase. Endoscopy revealed three atypical-looking gastric ulcers. Abdominal computed tomography showed an extensive heterogeneous retroperitoneal mass and a smaller one in the pelvis. Biopsies of both the ulcers and the retroperitoneal mass revealed a highly proliferative neoplasia of unknown origin. While the diagnostic work up was taking place, the patient complained of a testicular mass which was resected, after suspicious findings in the ultrasound. Histopathologic findings revealed a testicular seminoma. Revision of previous biopsies was compatible with metastatic seminoma to the stomach and the retroperitoneum. Discussion/Conclusion: Gastric metastasis arising from testicular seminoma is quite infrequent and usually diagnosed after the primary tumor is known. We report a rare case of a testicular seminoma presenting as upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to gastric metastases. This case highlights the importance of detailed anamnesis and physical examination in the differential diagnosis of atypical gastric ulcers with initial inconclusive work up and emphasizes an unusual manifestation of a germ cell malignancy.

Introdução: As metástases gástricas são bastante infrequentes. Quando são secundárias a tumores testiculares, geralmente as metástases gástricas associam-se a nãoseminomas. Caso Clínico: Um homem de 45 anos recorreu ao serviço de urgência por quadro de hemorragia digestiva alta, tendo-se detetado uma anemia grave e elevação da lactato desidrogenase. A endoscopia revelou três úlceras gástricas de aspeto atípico. A tomografia computorizada abdominal mostrou uma extensa massa heterogénea retroperitoneal e outra de menores dimensões na cavidade pélvica. Foram realizadas biópsias das úlceras gástricas e da massa retroperitoneal, sendo compatíveis com uma neoplasia altamente proliferativa de origem indeterminada. Durante a investigação etiológica, o doente referiu a deteção de uma massa testicular. Esta foi ressecada após a realização de ecografia com achados suspeitos. A histologia fez o diagnóstico de um seminoma testicular. A revisão das biópsias prévias foi compatível com metastização gástrica e retroperitoneal do seminoma. Discussão/Conclusão: A metastização gástrica com origem em seminomas do testículo é infrequente e geralmente é detetada após o diagnóstico do tumor primário. Apresenta-se um caso raro de manifestação inaugural de um seminoma testicular como hemorragia digestiva alta devido a metástases gástricas. Este caso evidencia a importância de uma anamnese e um exame objetivo detalhados no diagnóstico diferencial de úlceras gástricas atípicas com investigação inicial negativa, salientando também uma manifestação infrequente de uma neoplasia de células germinativas.

Endoscopic resection of early esophageal tumors in patients with cirrhosis or portal hypertension: a multicenter observational study.

BACKGROUND: Liver cirrhosis and esophageal cancer share several risk factors, such as alcohol intake and excess weight. Endoscopic resection is the gold standard treatment for superficial tumors. Portal hypertension and coagulopathy may increase the bleeding risk in these patients. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of endoscopic resection for early esophageal neoplasia in patients with cirrhosis or portal hypertension. METHODS: This retrospective multicenter international study included consecutive patients with cirrhosis or portal hypertension who underwent endoscopic resection in the esophagus from January 2005 to March 2021. RESULTS: 134 lesions in 112 patients were treated, including by endoscopic submucosal dissection in 101 cases (75 %). Most lesions (128/134, 96 %) were in patients with liver cirrhosis, with esophageal varices in 71 procedures. To prevent bleeding, 7 patients received a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, 8 underwent endoscopic band ligation (EBL) before resection, 15 received vasoactive drugs, 8 received platelet transfusion, and 9 underwent EBL during the resection procedure. Rates of complete macroscopic resection, en bloc resection, and curative resection were 92 %, 86 %, and 63 %, respectively. Adverse events included 3 perforations, 8 delayed bleedings, 8 sepsis, 6 cirrhosis decompensations within 30 days, and 22 esophageal strictures; none required surgery. In univariate analysis, cap-assisted endoscopic mucosal resection was associated with delayed bleeding (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with liver cirrhosis or portal hypertension, endoscopic resection of early esophageal neoplasia appeared to be effective and should be considered in expert centers with choice of resection technique, following European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guidelines to avoid undertreatment.

Severe hepatitis E in an immunocompetent young female treated with ribavirin.

A healthy 24-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department with acute hepatitis. She denied traveling, consumption of drugs, herbs, alcohol or medication other than the same oral contraceptive for years. The etiological work-up revealed positive Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1+2 serology (IgG and IgM). Other viral serologies were negative, while Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) serology and viraemia were pending. Liver biopsy showed portal and lobular necroinflammatory activity without specific etiological findings. The remaining work-up was unremarkable. The patient developed jaundice. Acyclovir was started, considering a possible herpetic hepatitis, while waiting for HSV viraemia and immunohistochemistry in the liver biopsy, which later revealed to be negative. Despite therapy, hyperbilirubinemia and liver cytolysis worsened. At this point, HEV serology and viraemia came back positive. Ribavirin was started with rapid clinical and biochemical improvement. Liver enzymes were normal and HEV viraemia was negative after 12 weeks of ribavirin, remaining undetectable 3 months later.

Non-invasive liver fibrosis assessment: is transient elastography mandatory?

Real-time elastography (RTE) is a conventional ultrasonography-based liver stiffness assessment technique developed in chronic viral hepatitis. Evidence of its applicability in other aetiologies is lacking. This study aims to determine RTE diagnostic accuracy for advanced fibrosis in compensated chronic liver disease (cCLD) and to compare it with the biochemical scores FIB-4 and APRI, using transient elastography (TE) as the gold standard. A single center cross-sectional study including cCLD patients was conducted. RTE with assessment of Liver Fibrosis Index and TE were performed in the same day by different operators blind to the other technique result. The scores FIB-4 and APRI were calculated. Fibrosis cut-off values were inferred from previous evidence.

Single-capsule bismuth-based quadruple therapy as a rescue therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication.

INTRODUCTION: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is highly prevalent in Portugal and its eradication is formally recommended. However, the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials has led to a drastic rise in antibiotic resistance, with the failure of traditional eradication schemes. A single-capsule bismuth-based quadruple therapy became recently available in Portugal. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a bismuth-based quadruple therapy as a second-line or rescue therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a multicentric study. All consecutive patients that were treated with bismuth-based quadruple therapy, as second-line or salvage treatment between July 2017 and April 2019 were enrolled. Their medical records were reviewed and clinical and laboratorial parameters, as well as data on treatment efficacy and adverse events were retrieved. Patients were also contacted by phone after treatment to confirm compliance, adverse events, and global satisfaction with this specific therapy. RESULTS: A total of 151 subjects were included (female-68.9%; mean age-56 ± 13.5 years). Patients were previously submitted to 212 eradication schemes (Median-1; 1-5; IQR:4): 33.5% triple clarithromycin-based, 25% sequential, 7.5% concomitant, 5.2% others, and in 28.8% it was not possible to know the previous eradication scheme(s) followed by the patient. The PPI of choice was esomeprazole (39.7%), followed by omeprazole (27.8%). Compliance was achieved in 93.4% and the overall eradication rate was 90.1% (95% CI: 84.6-94.2). Treatment-related adverse effects were experienced by 63 patients (41.7%; 95% CI: 34-49.7), being mild in 29, moderate in 19, and severe in 15. The main drawbacks of the treatment, from the patient's perspective, were the high price (47%) and the adverse effects (16.6%). Failure to eradicate H. pylori was correlated with the following: previous rifabutin-based scheme (0 vs. 100%; p = 0.010) and a higher number of previous treatment schemes (1.5 ± 0.7 vs. 2.3 ± 1.2; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In this South-European country a single-capsule bismuth-based quadruple therapy is an excellent option as a second-line or rescue therapy, with acceptable compliance and side effects.

Adenoma Recurrence after Endoscopic Piecemeal Mucosal Resection of Colorectal Flat Lesions: Applicability of the Sydney EMR Recurrence Tool in a Non-Tertiary Centre.

Introduction: Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is the treatment of choice for non-invasive colorectal flat lesions. When endoscopic piecemeal mucosal resection (EPMR) is performed, endoscopic surveillance is necessary due to the risk of recurrence. The Sydney EMR Recurrence Tool (SERT) is a 0-4 scale that classifies lesions according to size, occurrence of intraprocedural bleeding (IPB) and presence of high-grade dysplasia (HGD). Our goal is to evaluate the applicability of SERT in predicting adenoma recurrence (AR) after EPMR. Methods: This is a retrospective single-centre study with inclusion of lateral spreading lesions ≥20 mm, consecutively resected by EPMR from March 2010 to February 2018, with at least 1 endoscopic re-evaluation. Results: A total of 181 lesions were included, corresponding to 174 patients with a mean age of 68 years and male gender predominance (61%; n = 106). The most frequent location was the ascending colon (34%; n = 62). Lesions were assessed according to Paris Classification (PC): 0-IIa: 39% (n = 71); 0-IIb: 24% (n = 43); 0-IIa + Is: 23% (n = 42); 0-IIa + IIb: 6% (n = 11); 0-IIa + IIc: 2% (n = 3). The mean size of the lesions was 33 ± 11 mm, with 25 (14%) being ≥40 mm. IPB occurred in 9 cases (5%), and 44 lesions (24%) displayed HGD. Sixty-six lesions (36.5%) were classified as SMSA (size, morphology, site, and access score) level 4. Adjunctive therapy with argon plasma coagulation (APC) was used in 37% (n = 67) of cases. The 6-month AR rate was 16% (n = 29). According to SERT groups, the AR rate was: SERT 0: 12% (14/120); SERT 1: 17% (6/35); SERT 2: 25% (3/12); SERT 3: 30% (3/10); SERT 4: 75% (3/4). Two of the three SERT variables (size ≥40 mm and IPB) were associated with recurrence at 6 months (p < 0.05). HGD and the remaining tested variables (age, gender, localization, accessibility, PC, use of APC/biopsy forceps and occurrence of delayed bleeding) were not associated with AR. SERT 0 lesions showed an inferior risk of 6-month AR (adjusted OR = 2.62; p = 0.035), with a negative predictive value of 88%. SMSA correlated with SERT (p < 0.001) and SMSA level 4 was associated with 6-month AR (p = 0.007). Lesions classified both as SERT 0 and SMSA level <4 had the lowest 6-month recurrence rate (9.2%). The 24-month recurrence rate was 23% (n = 41). When applying the Kaplan-Meier method, cumulative recurrence was significantly lower in SERT 0 lesions (p = 0.006, log-rank test). Discussion/Conclusion: Resection of flat colorectal lesions by EPMR has a considerable risk of recurrence, mostly in SERT 1-4 lesions. SERT 0 lesions, especially with SMSA level <4, show a lower risk of recurrent adenoma, which might allow longer intervals to first endoscopic surveillance in the future.

Introdução: A mucosectomia endoscópica é a terapêutica de eleição nas lesões colorretais planas não invasivas e, quando fragmentada, obriga a vigilância endoscópica, dado o risco de recorrência. O Sydney Endoscopic Mucosal Resection Recurrence Tool (SERT) é uma escala de 0 a 4 que classifica as lesões em função da dimensão, ocorrência de hemorragia imediata na sua excisão (HI) e presença de displasia de alto grau (DAG). Pretende-se avaliar a aplicabilidade do SERT na predição de adenoma recorrente (AR) após mucosectomia fragmentada. Métodos: Estudo retrospetivo unicêntrico com inclusão de todas as lesões planas ≥20 mm excisadas por mucosectomia fragmentada, entre Março/2010 e Fevereiro/2018, com pelo menos uma vigilância endoscópica. Resultados: Incluídas 181 lesões, correspondentes a 174 doentes com idade média de 68 anos e predomínio do sexo masculino (61%; n = 106). A localização mais frequente foi o cólon ascendente (34%; n = 62). As lesões foram avaliadas segundo a classificação de Paris (CP): 0-IIa: 39% (n = 71); 0-IIb: 24% (n = 43); 0-IIa + Is: 23% (n = 42); 0-IIa + IIb: 6% (n = 11); 0-IIa + IIc: 2% (n = 3). O tamanho médio foi 33 ± 11 mm, tendo 25 (14%) dimensões ≥40 mm. Verificou-se HI em 9 casos (5%) e DAG em 44 (24%). O nível SMSA (size, morphology, site, and access score) foi 4 em 66 lesões (36.5%). Realizou-se terapêutica com árgon plasma (APC) em 37% (n = 67) dos casos.A taxa de AR aos 6 meses foi: SERT 0: 12% (14/120); SERT 1: 17% (6/35); SERT 2: 25% (3/12); SERT 3: 30% (3/10); SERT 4: 75% (3/4); global: 16% (29/181). O AR aos 6 meses associou-se à dimensão ≥40 mm e à HI (p < 0.05). A DAG não mostrou relação com a recorrência, assim como a idade, sexo, localização, acessibilidade, CP, terapêutica adju-adjuvante (APC/pinça de biópsias) e ocorrência de hemorragia tardia. As lesões SERT 0 apresentaram menor risco de AR aos 6 meses (OR ajustado = 2.62; p = 0.035), com um valor preditivo negativo de 88%. O SMSA correlacionou-se com o SERT (p < 0.001), estando o nível SMSA 4 associado à recorrência aos 6 meses (p = 0.007). As lesões classificadas como SERT 0 e nível SMSA <4 apresentaram a menor taxa de AR (9.2%). A taxa de recorrência aos 24 meses foi 23% (n = 41). Aplicando o método de Kaplan Meier, a recorrência cumulativa foi menor nas lesões SERT 0 (p = 0.006, teste log-rank). Discussão/Conclusão: A excisão de lesões planas por mucosectomia fragmentada apresenta uma taxa de recorrência considerável, sobretudo em lesões SERT 1­4. As lesões SERT 0, particularmente se nível SMSA <4, apresentam menor risco de recidiva, o que poderá possibilitar um prolongamento do intervalo até à primeira vigilância endoscópica.

Appropriateness of Endoscopic Procedures: A Prospective, Multicenter Study.

INTRODUCTION: Advances in endoscopy and open-access systems led to an increase in endoscopic procedures. However, overuse of endoscopy has been consistently reported. This study aims to assess the appropriateness of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy referral in the private and public setting. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective, multicenter study at 2 public and 5 private endoscopy units. Patients scheduled for elective EGD or colonoscopy were enrolled. Clinical data and endoscopy findings were recorded. Appropriateness of endoscopy was defined according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guidelines (for EGD) and the European Panel on Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy II (for colonoscopy). RESULTS: Regarding EGD: 215 patients enrolled (43.7% were males) with a mean age of 61.0 ± 15.1 years; 54.0% (n = 116) were in public hospitals. Referral by a gastroenterologist was made for 34.9% (n = 75). Appropriate indications were made for 62.3% (n = 134): 42.4% in private versus 79.3% in public endoscopy units (odds ratio [OR] 5.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.85-9.49; p < 0.01). Rate of appropriate EGD was 74.7% for gastroenterologist referral and 56.1% for other specialties (OR 2.31; 95% CI 1.24-4.28; p < 0.01). Diagnostic yield for relevant findings was 47.9%. No association between indication appropriateness, gastroenterologist referral, and relevant endoscopic findings was found. Regarding colonoscopy: 287 patients enrolled (49.1% were males) with a mean age of 60.4 ± 14.4 years; 48.1% (n = 138) were in public hospitals. Referral by a gastroenterologist was made for 20.6% (n = 59). Appropriate indications were made for 70.0% (n = 201): 53.0% in private vs. 88.4% in public endoscopy units (OR 6.75; 95% CI 3.66-12.47; p < 0.01). Diagnostic yield was 57.1%. Relevant endoscopic diagnosis was associated with indication: 63.2% in the appropriate vs. 43.0% in the nonappropriate indication group (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION: A significant percentage of endoscopies, mainly in the private setting, were performed without an appropriate indication. This influenced the diagnostic yield. The use of adequate criteria is fundamental for the rational use of an open-access system.

INTRODUÇÃO: O avanço em endoscopia digestiva e a existência de sistemas open-acess levaram a um aumento quantitativo de endoscopias. Porém, a sobreutilização da endoscopia tem sido reportada na literatura. Este estudo tem como objetivo aferir prospectivamente as indicações para endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) e endoscopia digestiva baixa (EDB) em unidades de saúde públicas e privadas. DOENTES E MÉTODOS: Estudo prospetivo, multicêntrico, que incluiu doentes submetidos a endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) ou baixa (EDB) com intuito não terapêutico em 2 unidades hospitalares públicas e 5 unidades privadas. Adequabilidade da indicação definida pelas recomendações da American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EDA) e do European Panel on Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy II (EDB). RESULTADOS: EDA: Incluídos 215 doentes (masculino ­ 43.7%; idade média ­ 61.0 ± 15.11 anos), 54.0% (n = 116) em unidades hospitalares públicas. Referenciação por gastrenterologista em 34.9% (n = 75). Indicação considerada adequada em 62.3% (n = 134): 42.4% em unidades privadas versus 79.3% em unidades públicas (odds ratio [OR] 5.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.85­9.49, p < 0.01). Indicação adequada em 74.7% com referenciação por gastrenterologista versus 56.1% por não-gastrenterologista (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.24­4.28; p < 0.01). Identificados achados endoscópicos relevantes em 47.9%. EDB: Incluídos 287 doentes (masculino ­ 49.1%; idade média ­ 60.4 ± 14.4 anos), 48,1% (n = 138) em unidades públicas. Referenciação por gastrenterologista em 20.6% (n = 59). A indicação foi considerada adequada em 70.0% (n = 201): 53.0% em unidade privada versus 88.4% em unidade pública (OR 6.75, 95% CI 3.66­12.47; p < 0.01). Achados endoscópicos relevantes em 57.1%: 77.7% (n = 129) em exames com indicação adequada vs 22.3% (n = 37) sem indicação adequada (p < 0.05). CONCLUSÕES: Neste estudo, uma percentagem significativa dos procedimentos endoscópicos foi realizada sem indicação apropriada, especialmente no sector privado, o que influenciou a rentabilidade diagnóstica. A prescrição tendo por base critérios definidos é fundamental para o uso racional de um sistema de acesso livre.

O uso de fitoterápicos no tratamento do diabetes mellitus: uma revisão da literatura / Use of phytotherapes in the treatment of diabetes mellitus: a literature review / El uso de medicamentos a base de hierbas en el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus: una revisión de la literatura

No Brasil, aproximadamente 9,1 milhões de pessoas são portadoras de diabetes mellitus, uma doença proveniente de falhas nos mecanismos metabólicos e que tem por consequência a hiperglicemia e várias outras complicações. Entre os programas ofertados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde para o seu controle, destaca-se a fitoterapia, que vem se mostrando bastante eficaz, conforme evidenciam os resultados de diferentes estudos. Por meio deste artigo de revisão, propõe-se conhecer e analisar a produção científica publicada acerca do uso de fitoterápicos e plantas medicinais no tratamento do diabetes mellitus. Para tal, optou-se pela realização de um estudo bibliográfico, em que foram analisadas publicações a partir de 1990. As plantas que obtiveram resultados positivos em diversos estudos foram as espécies: Bauhinia forficata (pata-de-vaca), Syzygium cumini (jamelão), Sphagneticola trilobata (insulina), Cissus sicyoides L (insulina vegetal), carqueja, tintura de mororó, Stevia rebaudiana, Chrysobalanus icaco Lin (abajeru), Myrcia multiflora (pedra-ume-caá) e epicarpo da romã. As evidências acerca dos benefícios proporcionados pelo uso das plantas medicinais corroboram a necessidade de investimento para sua utilização adequada e melhoria da qualidade de vida do paciente diabético.

In Brazil, approximately 9.1 million people live with diabetes mellitus (DM), a disease that results from failures in metabolic mechanisms and leads to hyperglycemia and several other complications. Among the programs provided by the Unified Health System for DM control, phytotherapy stands out as quite effective, as reported by different studies. Thus, this literature review proposes to examine and analyze the scientific production published on the use of herbal medicines and medicinal plants in treating diabetes mellitus. To this end, articles published starting from 1990 were analyzed. The plants Bauhinia forficata (cow's foot), Syzygium cumini (jamelão), Sphagneticola trilobata (insulin), Cissus sicyoides L (vegetable insulin), gorse, Mororó tincture, Stevia rebaudiana, Chrysobalanus icaco Lin (abajeru), Myrcia multiflora (rock-hume-caá), and pomegranate Epicarp obtained positive results in several studies. Evidence on the benefits provided by medicinal plants corroborates the need for investment aimed at proper phytotherapy and at improving the quality of life of diabetic patients.

En Brasil, aproximadamente 9,1 millones de personas tienen diabetes mellitus, una enfermedad causada por fallas en los mecanismos metabólicos y que resultan en hiperglucemia y varias otras complicaciones.  Entre los programas que ofrece el Sistema Único de Salud para su control, se destaca la fitoterapia, que ha demostrado ser bastante eficaz, como lo demuestran los resultados de diferentes estudios. A través de este artículo de revisión se propone conocer y analizar la producción científica publicada sobre el uso de hierbas y plantas medicinales en el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus. Para ello, se decidió realizar un estudio bibliográfico, donde se analizaron publicaciones de 1990. Las plantas que obtuvieron resultados positivos en varios estudios fueron las especies: Bauhinia forficata (pata-de-vaca), Syzygium cumini (jamelão), Sphagneticola trilobata (insulina), Cissus sicyoides L (insulina vegetal), tojo, tintura de Mororó, Stevia rebaudiana, Chrysobalanus icaco Lin. (abajeru), Myrcia multiflora (Piedra-hume-caá) y Epicarpio de la granada. La evidencia sobre los beneficios que brinda el uso de plantas medicinales corrobora la necesidad de inversión para su adecuado uso y mejora de la calidad de vida del paciente diabético.

Prevalence of Barrett's esophagus in a Southern European country: a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Identification of Barrett's esophagus (BE) with the treatment of dysplasia is essential to prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Moreover, determination of BE prevalence is important to define subsequent management strategies. However, precise estimates on BE prevalence from several European countries are lacking. We aimed to determine BE prevalence in a Southern European country. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multicenter study from November 2019 to February 2020 was performed defining BE as a columnar extent in the distal esophagus greater than or equal to 1 cm with intestinal metaplasia. RESULTS: A total of 1550 individuals, 51% male with a mean age of 62 (SD = 15) years undergoing upper endoscopy were included. The overall BE prevalence was 1.29% (95% confidence interval: 0.73-1.85); significantly higher in men [2.05% (1.06-3.04)] vs. women [0.53% (0.01-1.04)]. Of the 20 BE patients, eight were newly diagnosed and 12 were under surveillance. The median extent was C3 (min 0; max 16) M4.5 (min 2; max 16). One patient each had EAC (0.06%) and high-grade dysplasia (0.06%) at the time of endoscopy. There was no difference in prevalence between geographical regions, centers, use of sedation or experience of endoscopists. Considering all reports, 93% used standardized terminology, 23% accurate photodocumentation and 69% photodocumented the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). Furthermore, 80% used Prague classification, 55% Seattle protocol, 60% distance to the squamocolumnar junction, 75% to the EGJ and 40% to the hiatal pinch. When considering only reports with EGJ photodocumentation or Prague classification, the prevalence was 1.78% (0.91-2.64) or 1.03% (0.53-1.53). CONCLUSION: We report for the first time BE prevalence in Southern Europe and report a low overall prevalence in an unselected population. Future studies need to determine progression rates and how to improve quality metrics.

Predictors for incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid in primary biliary cholangitis. Data from a national registry of liver disease.

BACKGROUND: The current standard of treatment in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), although a considerable proportion of patients show incomplete response resulting in disease progression. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of incomplete response to UDCA and determine associated patients' characteristics. METHODS: Patients with PBC as main diagnosis were included from a national multicentric patient registry-Liver.pt. Main endpoints included incomplete response to UDCA treatment according to Barcelona, Paris I and Paris II criteria, Globe and UK PBC scores and the association between baseline characteristics and incomplete response according to Paris II criteria. RESULTS: A total of 434 PBC patients were identified, with a mean age of 55 years and 89.2% females. Nearly half of patients were asymptomatic at diagnosis and 93.2% had positive anti-mitochondrial antibodies. Almost all patients (95.6%) had been prescribed at least one drug for PBC treatment. At the last follow-up visit, 93.3% were under treatment of which 99.8% received UDCA. Incomplete response to UDCA was observed in 30.7%, 35.3%, 53.7% and 36.4% of patients according to Barcelona, Paris I, Paris II criteria and Globe score, respectively. After adjusting for age and sex, and accordingly to Paris II criteria, the risk for incomplete biochemical response was 25% higher for patients with cirrhosis at diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.25; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.02-1.54; p = 0.033) and 35% (95%CI:1.06-1.72; p = 0.016) and 5% (OR = 1.05; 95%CI:1.01-1.10; p = 0.013) for those with elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). CONCLUSION: A considerable proportion of patients showed incomplete biochemical response to UDCA treatment according to Paris II criteria. Cirrhosis, elevated GGT and ALP at diagnosis were identified as associated risk factors for incomplete response. Early identification of patients at risk of incomplete response could improve treatment care and guide clinical decision to a more careful patient monitorization.

Sexual Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multicenter, National-Level Study.

BACKGROUND: The impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on sexual health is a leading concern among patients. Most studies focus on sexual dysfunction rather than patient-perceived sexual quality of life (SQoL). We aimed to assess SQoL in IBD patients compared with healthy controls. METHODS: This is a multicenter, cross-sectional study of IBD patients (n = 575 with Crohn's disease and n = 294 with ulcerative colitis), compared with healthy controls (n = 398), that used an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. This multimodal questionnaire included sociodemographic data and 4 validated instruments: Short IBD Questionnaire, Social Desirability Scale, Sexual QoL Questionnaire-Male/Female, Nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire. RESULTS: Inflammatory bowel disease patients reported lower SQoL (men: 77.29 vs 83.83; P < 0.001; women: 70.40 vs 81.63; P < 0.001) compared with controls. Among IBD patients, SQoL was positively correlated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and negatively correlated with depression symptoms. Perianal disease was associated with lower HRQoL and higher incidence of depression, but only impacted SQoL in men. In linear regression analysis for men, SQoL was associated with age, marital status, and depression (ß, -2.101; 95% confidence interval [CI], -2.505 to -1.696; P < 0.001). In women, SQoL was associated with depression (ß, -1.973; 95% CI, -2.313 to -1.632; P < 0.001) only. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IBD had impaired SQoL compared with healthy controls. Age, widow status, and depression were independent predictors of SQoL in men with IBD, whereas in women depression was the only independent predictor. Emotional and self-esteem issues were the main concerns reported by IBD patients regarding sexual health.

Variation between Pathological Measurement and Endoscopically Estimated Size of Colonic Polyps.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Accurate determination of colonic polyp size is vital to an appropriate surveillance. The main aim of this study was to evaluate variation between the polyp size reported by the endoscopist and its pathological measurement. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of all colonic adenomatous polyps resected in a 12-month period was performed at our center. Endoscopic and pathological size for each polyp were compared, and overestimation rates, underestimation rates, and endoscopic-pathological variation (EPV) were calculated. RESULTS: Among the 573 polyps that were included, the mean endoscopic and pathological sizes were 8.00 and 6.66 mm, respectively. The most frequent error, in 62.1%, was overestimation by the colonoscopist. Overestimation and EPV were associated with resection technique (higher in endoscopic mucosal resection and smaller with biopsy forceps) and colonoscopist. They were not associated with years of experience in colonoscopy. Overestimation was more frequent in larger polyps. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows significant discordance between endoscopic and pathological size of colonic polyps with a clear tendency for endoscopic overestimation. Larger polyps are more difficult to accurately assess than smaller ones. This propensity for error was not related to colonoscopist's years of experience and seems to be an individual tendency.

INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVOS: A precisão na determinação do tamanho de pólipos do cólon é vital para uma vigilância adequada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a variação entre o tamanho reportado pelo endoscopista e pelo anatomo-patologista. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma análise retrospetiva de todos os pólipos adenomatosos ressecados, num período de 12 meses, no nosso centro. O tamanho endoscópico e patológico de cada pólipo foi comparado e foram calculadas as taxas de sobrestimativa, subestimativa e a variação endoscópica-patológica (VEP). RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 573 pólipos, tamanho endoscópico e patológico médio de 8,00 e 6,66 milímetros, respetivamente. O erro mais frequente, em 62.1% foi a sobrestimativa pelo endoscopista. A sobrestimativa e a VEP associaram-se à técnica de resseção (maior na resseção endoscópica da mucosa e mais pequena na pinça de biópsias) e ao colonoscopista. Não se associaram aos anos de experiáncia em colonoscopia. A sobrestimativa foi mais frequente nos pólipos maiores. CONCLUSÕES: O nosso trabalho mostrou uma discordância significativa entre o tamanho endoscópico e patológico de pólipos do cólon com uma clara tendáncia para a sobrestimativa. Os pólipos maiores são mais difíceis de avaliar com precisão do que os mais pequenos. Esta propensão para o erro não se relacionou com os anos de experiáncia em colonoscopia e parece ser uma tendáncia individual.

The influence of Bauhinia forficata Link subsp. pruinosa tea on lipid peroxidation and non-protein SH groups in human erythrocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Bauhinia forficata (BF) has been traditionally used as tea in folk medicine of Brazil for treatment of Diabetes mellitus (DM). AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the effects of BF leaf tea on markers of oxidative damage and antioxidant levels in an experimental model of hyperglycemia in human erythrocytes in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Human erythrocytes were incubated with high glucose concentrations or glucose and BF tea for 24h and 48h. After incubation lipid peroxidation and non-protein SH levels were analyzed. Moreover, quantification of polyphenols and flavonoids, iron chelating property, scavenging of DPPH, and prevention of lipid peroxidation in isolated lipids were also assessed. RESULTS: A significant amount of polyphenols and flavonoids was observed. The main components found by LC-MS analysis were quercetin-3-O-(2-rhamnosyl) rutinoside, kaempferol-3-O-(2-rhamnosyl) rutinoside, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside. BF tea presents important antioxidant and chelating properties. Moreover, BF tea was effective to increase non-protein SH levels and reduce lipid peroxidation induced by high glucose concentrations in human erythrocytes. CONCLUSION: The antioxidant effects of BF tea could be related to the presence of different phenolic and flavonoids components. We believe that these components can be responsible to protect human erythrocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations against oxidative damage.