Proton pump inhibitors: the good, the bad, and the unwanted.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed classes of medications in the United States. By inhibiting gastric H/K adenosine triphosphatase via covalent binding to the cysteine residues of the proton pump, they provide the most potent acid suppression available. Long-term PPI use accounts for the majority of total PPI use. Absolute indications include peptic ulcer disease, chronic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use, treatment of Helicobacter pylori, and erosive esophagitis. Although PPIs are generally considered safe, numerous adverse effects, particularly associated with long-term use have been reported. Many patients receiving chronic PPI therapy do not have clear indications for their use, prompting consideration for reduction or discontinuation of their use. This article reviews the indications for PPI use, the adverse effects/risks involved with their use, and conditions in which their use is controversial.

Pancreatic cancer: an endoscopic perspective.

Pancreatic cancer continues to be a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The advent of endoscopic ultrasound-guided interventions have brought about a paradigm shift in the endoscopic approach to diagnosis, treatment and palliation of this common malignancy. The last decade has witnessed significant advances in techniques of endoscopic biliary drainage, endoluminal stenting, celiac plexus neurolysis and image-guided radiation therapy, which have transformed the scope of palliation in pancreatic cancer. Moreover, endoscopic ultrasound-aided intratumoral delivery of fiducials, radioisotopes and chemotherapeutic agents have shown promising results and warrant further investigation. This review summarizes the recent advances in endoscopic applications for the management of pancreatic neoplasms.

A rare case of peritoneal sarcoidosis in a 36-year-old construction worker.

A 36-year-old man was admitted for persistent abdominal pain and weight loss. He had had significant exposure to asbestos, as he had been active in cleanup after the World Trade Center attack. A CT scan of his abdomen was initially read as peritoneal carcinomatosis without evidence of ascites. Infectious etiology was subsequently ruled out and diagnostic laparoscopy was performed for tissue diagnosis revealing noncaseating granulomas consistent with peritoneal sarcoidosis. Of note, he had an elevated CA-125 level on admission, which is unique in males with peritoneal sarcoidosis.