Genotipos de virulencia de Helicobacter pylori y su asociación con lesiones precursoras de malignidad gástrica y parámetros histológicos en pacientes colombianos / Helicobacter pylori virulence genotypes and their relationship with precursor lesions of gastric malignancy and histological parameters in infected patients in Colombia

Se determinó la presencia de los genotipos de virulencia de Helicobacter pylori y su asociación con las lesiones precursoras de malignidad gástrica y parámetros histológicos en pacientes con síntomas de dispepsia del suroccidente de Colombia. Se realizó reacción en cadena de polimerasa (PCR) para la caracterización genética de vacA, cagA, babA2 y sabA. Se empleó la prueba de chi cuadrado o Fischer para evaluar la asociación de cada genotipo sobre el desenlace clínico. En los pacientes con lesiones precursoras de malignidad gástrica se encontró que el 86,3% presentaron el genotipo vacA s1/m1, el 68,1% cagA+ y los genotipos babA2+ y sabA+ con el 68,8% y 55,8%, respectivamente. También, se demostró la asociación entre los genotipos de virulencia y el grado severo de infiltración de células polimorfonucleares. Además, se encontró una asociación entre la combinación de los genes vacA/cagA, vacA/sabA y babA2/sabA. Este estudio proporciona evidencia acerca de la asociación de los genotipos de virulencia del H. pylori y la inflamación gástrica en pacientes infectados.

The aim of this research was to determine the presence of Helicobacter pylori virulence genotypes and their association with precursor lesions of gastric malignancy and histological parameters in patients with dyspepsia symptoms in southwestern Colombia. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for the genetic characterization of vacA, cagA, babA2 and sabA. The chi-square or Fischer test were used to evaluate the association between each genotype and the clinical outcome. We found that 86.3% of the patients with precursor lesions of gastric malignancy presented the vacA s1/m1 genotype, 68.1% had the cagA+ genotype and 68.8% and 55.8% had the babA2+ and sabA+ genotypes, respectively. Our results show association between virulence genotypes and severe degree of polymorphonuclear cell infiltration. In addition, we found an association between the combination of vacA/cagA, vacA/sabA and babA2/sabA genes. This study provides evidence about the association of H. pylori virulence genotypes and gastric inflammation in infected patients.

Monteverdia ilicifolia: um protetor gástrico / Monteverdia ilicifolia: a gastric protector / Monteverdia ilicifolia: protector gástrico

Monteverdia ilicifolia, conhecida popularmente como espinheira-santa, é uma planta da família Celastraceae de relevante ação terapêutica devido às suas propriedades medicinais, principalmente a sua atividade gastroprotetora, possuindo efeitos comprovados sobre acidez e úlceras estomacais. Desta forma o objetivo deste trabalho foi encontrar na literatura evidências para o uso terapêutico da M. ilicifolia, como uma alternativa frente aos fármacos sintéticos disponíveis na indústria farmacêutica voltados para o tratamento de problemas estomacais. Foi utilizado no presente trabalho a base de dados Google acadêmico. Os distúrbios estomacais afetam milhares de pessoas, influenciando de forma negativa na qualidade de vida da população e gerando prejuízos ao sistema de saúde. Os fármacos com atividade sobre a secreção da acidez gástrica são as medicações mais prescritas para essas enfermidades, destacando-se os antagonistas do receptor H2 de histamina e os inibidores da bomba de prótons, amplamente utilizados para o tratamento de úlceras e gastrite. Com o tempo, esses medicamentos passaram a ser indiscriminadamente utilizados, prática que põem em risco a saúde íntegra dos pacientes, mediante aos diversos efeitos adversos que esses medicamentos podem causar. As plantas medicinais têm sido aplicadas na terapia de diversas doenças em toda a história da humanidade. Nesse contexto, a espinheira-santa surge como uma alternativa segura e eficaz para a prevenção e tratamento dessas patologias. Dentre os compostos bioativos que podem desempenhar a atividade gastroprotetora, destacam-se os taninos, triterpenos e flavonóides. Os estudos analisados demonstram que a M. ilicifolia possui relevante ação terapêutica, com potencial para substituir os fármacos usualmente empregados no tratamento de úlceras e gastrite.

The Monteverdia ilicifolia, popularly known as espinheira-santa, is a plant of the Celastraceae's family with relevant therapeutic action due to its medicinal properties, mainly its gastroprotective activity, and possesses proven effects on acidity and stomach ulcers. The aim of this work was to find in the literature evidence for the therapeutic use of M. ilicifolia, as an alternative to the synthetic drugs available in the pharmaceutical industry for the treatment of stomach problems. The academic Google database was used in this work. Stomach disorders affect thousands of people, negatively influencing the population's quality of life and causing damage to the health system. The drugs with activity on gastric acid secretion are the most prescribed medications for these diseases, especially histamine H2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors, widely used for the treatment of ulcers and gastritis. Over time, these drugs began to be used indiscriminately, a practice that jeopardizes the health of patients, due to the various adverse effects that these drugs can cause. Medicinal plants have been applied in the therapy of various diseases throughout human history. In this context, the espinheira-santa emerges as a safe and effective alternative for the prevention and treatment of these pathologies. Among the bioactive compounds that can perform a gastroprotective activity, tannins, triterpenes, and flavonoids stand out. The analyzed studies demonstrate that M. ilicifolia has relevant therapeutic action, with the potential to replace the drugs usually used in the treatment of ulcers and gastritis.

Monteverdia ilicifolia, conocida popularmente como espinheira-santa, es una planta de la familia Celastraceae de relevante acción terapéutica por sus propiedades medicinales, principalmente su actividad gastroprotectora, con efectos probados sobre la acidez y las úlceras estomacales. Así, el objetivo de este trabajo fue encontrar evidencia en la literatura para el uso terapéutico de M. ilicifolia, como alternativa a las drogas sintéticas disponibles en la industria farmacéutica destinadas al tratamiento de problemas estomacales. En este trabajo se utilizó la base de datos académica de Google. Los trastornos estomacales afectan a miles de personas, influyendo negativamente en la calidad de vida de la población y provocando daños en el sistema de salud. Los fármacos con actividad sobre la secreción ácida gástrica son los más prescritos para estas enfermedades, especialmente los antagonistas de los receptores H2 de histamina y los inhibidores de la bomba de protones, muy utilizados para el tratamiento de úlceras y gastritis. Con el tiempo, estos medicamentos comenzaron a utilizarse de forma indiscriminada, práctica que pone en riesgo la salud de los pacientes, debido a los diversos efectos adversos que estos fármacos pueden ocasionar. Las plantas medicinales se han aplicado en la terapia de diversas enfermedades a lo largo de la historia humana. En este contexto, la espinheira-santa surge como una alternativa segura y eficaz para la prevención y el tratamiento de estas patologías. Entre los compuestos bioactivos que pueden realizar actividad gastroprotectora destacan los taninos, los triterpenos y los flavonoides. Los estudios analizados demuestran que M. ilicifolia tiene una acción terapéutica relevante, con potencial para reemplazar los fármacos habitualmente utilizados en el tratamiento de úlceras y gastritis.

Refractory iron deficiency anemia as an early manifestation of autoimmune gastritis in a teenager / Anemia ferropénica refractaria como presentación temprana de gastritis autoinmune en un adolescente

Abstract Autoimmune gastritis is an underdiagnosed disease in the pediatric population due to the absence of specific signs and symptoms and late clinical manifestations. Iron deficiency anemia has recently been identified as an early hematological manifestation, allowing an early diagnostic approach. We present the case of a Colombian teenager, with no history of autoimmunity, with refractory iron deficiency. He underwent extension studies; biopsies and serology compatible with autoimmune gastritis were documented, requiring parenteral iron in its evolution. This pathology is underdiagnosed in our context since early diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion to prevent associated complications.

Resumen La gastritis autoinmune es una enfermedad subdiagnosticada en la población pediátrica. Lo anterior se debe a la ausencia de signos y síntomas específicos y manifestaciones clínicas tardías. Recientemente se ha identificado la anemia ferropénica como una manifestación hematológica precoz, lo que permite un enfoque diagnóstico temprano. Se presenta el caso de un adolescente colombiano, sin antecedentes de autoinmunidad, con ferropenia refractaria, en el que se realizaron estudios de extensión y se documentaron biopsias y serología compatible con gastritis autoinmune, con requerimiento de hierro parenteral en su evolución. Esta patología es subdiagnosticada en nuestro medio, ya que el diagnóstico temprano requiere un alto índice de sospecha, lo que permite la prevención de las complicaciones asociadas.

Gastritis enfisematosa. Reporte de un caso en el adulto mayor / Emphysematous gastritis. Report of a case in the elderly

Introducción: la gastritis enfisematosa es una patología poco común pero con alta mortalidad, su presentación clínica es insidiosa, la imagen por tomografía se distingue por un patrón de burbujas lineales con engrosamiento de la pared gástrica. Caso clínico: paciente masculino de 78 años, previamente sano, funcional, que fue ingresado por fractura pertrocantérica de cadera izquierda, quien durante la hospitalización presenta delirium hiperactivo, distención abdominal con disminución de perístalsis además de hipotensión arterial, se realiza tomografía abdominal con evidencia de dilatación gástrica y múltiples burbujas de aire en pared. Es manejado con antibiótico de amplio espectro, fluidoterapia y nutrición parenteral, con respuesta favorable.Conclusiones: la edad avanzada no conlleva por sí misma un peor pronóstico de la enfermedad, la evidencia apoya que un diagnóstico precoz y la intervención terapéutica temprana, son las medidas que han demostrado ser efectivas para la disminución de la mortalidad en pacientes con gastritis enfisematosa

Introduction: Emphysematous gastritis is an uncommon pathology but with high mortality, its clinical presentation is insidious, the tomography image is distinguished by a pattern of linear bubbles with thickening of the gastric wall.Background: This is a 78-year-old male, previously healthy, functional, who was admitted for pertrochanteric fracture of the left hip, who during hospitalization presented hyperactive delirium, abdominal distention with decreased perstalsis in addition to arterial hypotension, an abdominal tomography with evidence of gastric dilation and multiple air bubbles in the wall. He is managed with a broad spectrum antibiotic, fluid therapy and parenteral nutrition, with a favorable response.Conclusions: Advanced age does not in itself lead to a worse disease prognosis, the evidence supports that early diagnosis and early therapeutic intervention are the easures that have proven to be more effective in reducing mortality in patients with emphysematous gastritis.

Rifabutina: terapia de rescate eficaz para la infección por Helicobacter pylori, revisión de la literatura actual / Rifabutin: therapeutic alternative for Helicobacter pylori infection, actual literature review

Resumen La infección por Helicobacter pylori se asocia con enfermedades gastroduodenales como gastritis crónica, úlcera péptica y adenocarcinoma gástrico. Actualmente se dispone de diferentes esquemas terapéuticos, sin embargo, el uso indiscriminado de antibióticos generó resistencia en este agente, razón para estudiar alternativas y reevaluar los criterios que determinan la selección de un esquema en específico. El objetivo de esta revisión fue describir los principios generales de tratamiento de acuerdo a guías de referencia y recomendaciones de autores independientes, y exponer el uso de la rifabutina como alternativa terapéutica. En la búsqueda bibliográfica se usaron los términos "Helicobacter pylori" AND "rifabutin", en las bases de datos PubMed, SciELO y el motor de búsqueda Google Scholar®. La evidencia actual sugiere que el uso de rifabutina como terapia de rescate es apropiado y seguro, y sería la alternativa ideal en casos de multirresistencia o difícil acceso a pruebas de susceptibilidad antibiótica. MÉD.UIS.2022;35(1): 31-42.

Abstract Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with gastroduodenal diseases such as chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric adenocarcinoma. Nowadays, there are different therapeutic regimens, however, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics generated resistance in this agent, reason to study alternatives and reevaluate the criteria that determines the selection of a specific regimen. The aim of this review was to describe the general principles of treatment according to reference guidelines and recommendations of independent authors, and to present the use of rifabutin as a therapeutic alternative. The bibliographic search was performed using the terms "Helicobacter pylori" AND "rifabutin" in the databases PubMed, SciELO and the search engine Google Scholar®. Current evidence suggests that the use of rifabutin as rescue therapy is appropriate and safe, and would be an ideal alternative in cases of multidrug resistance or difficult access to antibiotic susceptibility tests. MÉD.UIS.2022;35(1): 31-42.

Asociación de los resultados de dos pruebas diagnósticas de infección por Helicobacter pylori / Association of the results of two diagnostic tests for Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori es un microrganismo que se considera que afecta al 50% de la población. Se realizó un estudio con diseño no experimental, correlacional y transversal, con el objetivo de determinar la asociación de los resultados de pruebas diagnósticas de infección por H. pylori a través de biopsia obtenida por endoscopía superior y prueba de antígeno de la superficie en mues-tras de heces en 100 pacientes atendidos en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Centro Clínico Quirúrgico Ambulatorio (Hospital del Día) Efrén Jurado López del Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS), en la ciudad de Guayaquil, Ecuador, durante 2019. La media de la edad en la muestra de estudio fue 37,5 años, con un predominio del género femenino (78%). El 65% de las pruebas de antígeno para la detección de H. pylori en heces resultaron negativas. Los repor-tes de las pruebas de antígeno en heces e histopatología permitieron apreciar diferencias entre estos, pero con predominio de las coincidencias en los diagnósticos positivos. Existió una asocia-ción estadísticamente significativa entre las lesiones inflamatorias de la mucosa gástrica producto de la gastritis crónica atrófica y la infección por H. pylori. Los resultados de las dos pruebas diag-nósticas tuvieron una correlación lineal positiva y débil con significación estadística.

Helicobacter pylori is a microorganism that affects 50% of the population worldwide. A study with a non-experimental, correlational, and cross-sectional design was carried out in order to determine the association of the results of diagnostic tests for H. pylori infection through biopsy obtained by upper endoscopy and surface antigen test in samples of feces in 100 patients. These ones were treated at the Gastroenterology Service of the Ambulatory Surgical Clinic Center (Hospital del Día) Efrén Jurado López of the Ecuadorian Institute of Social Security (IESS), in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, during 2019. The mean age in the study sample was 37.5 years old, with a predominance of the female gender (78%). 65% of stool antigen tests for H. pyloriwere negative. The reports of the stool antigen test and histopathology allowed to appreciate differences between them, but with a predominance of the coincidences in the positive diagno-ses. There was a statistically significant association between the inflammatory lesions of the gastric mucosa because of chronic atrophic gastritis and the infection by H. pylori. The results of the two diagnostic tests had a positive and weak linear correlation with statistical significance

Papel da biópsia da incisura angular no estadiamento da gastrite e na avaliação de risco do câncer gástrico / Role of incisura angularis biopsy in gastritis staging and risk assessment of gastric cancer

Introdução: A atrofia gástrica (AG) e metaplasia intestinal (MI) são condições préneoplásicas no desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico, onde a avaliação endoscópica e histopatológica baseia-se no sistema atualizado de Sydney que inclui uma biópsia da incisura angular (IA) na sua avaliação, assim como os sistemas de estadiamento de risco de câncer gástrico Operative Link on Gastritis Assessment (OLGA) e o Operative Link on Gastritis Assessment using Intestinal Metaplasia (OLGIM). Objetivo: Comparar as classificações OLGA e OLGIM com e sem a biópsia da IA. Além disso, determinar a prevalência de Helicobacter pylori (HP) e das alterações pré-neoplásicas (AG, MI e displasia) por região biopsiada, e ainda identificar os achados exclusivos da IA, além de identificar potenciais fatores de risco para câncer gástrico associados às alterações pré-neoplásicas. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo observacional, retrospectivo e prospectivo, descritivo, unicêntrico com 350 pacientes sem diagnóstico de neoplasia gástrica, que realizaram endoscopia digestiva alta com biópsias na Gastroclínica Itajaí, no período de novembro de 2017 até outubro de 2018 (retrospectivo) e de março de 2020 a maio de 2022. A classificação histopatológica de gastrite obedeceu ao sistema Sydney atualizado, e a avaliação do risco de câncer gástrico aos sistemas OLGA e OLGIM. A metodologia aplicada avaliou os escores dos sistemas OLGA e OLGIM com e sem a avaliação da biópsia da IA. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando medidas descritivas (frequências, porcentagens, média, desvio padrão, intervalo de confiança de 95%). A comparação entre os ranks foi feita pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis ou Wilcoxon. Para analisar a relação entre as frequências foi utilizado o teste exato de Fisher bilateral. O score de Wilson com correção de continuidade foi aplicado ao intervalo de confiança. Resultados: A idade mediana foi de 54,7 anos, sendo 52,5% pacientes do gênero feminino e 47,5% do gênero masculino. A comparação entre o protocolo de biópsias empregado (corpo + antro [CA] vs corpo + antro + incisura [CAI]) e os estágios OLGA e OLGIM apresentou uma diminuição significativa em ambos os sistemas de estadiamento quando aplicado o protocolo de biópsia restrito ao corpo e antro (OLGA CAI vs CA; p 0,008 / OLGIM CAI vs CA; p 0,002). A prevalência das lesões pré-malignas (AG, MI e displasia) da mucosa gástrica foi de (33,4%, 34% e 1,1%, respectivamente) na amostra total. A região do antro foi o sítio que apresentou significativamente maior número de alterações (p≤0,0001), exceto para a positividade da infecção por HP, a qual esteve presente em 24,8% dos pacientes. Não foi possível fazer correlação entre os fatores de risco para desenvolvimento do câncer gástrico com os achados histológicos devido à baixa prevalência dos mesmos e a casuística ter resultado em uma amostra bastante limitada. Conclusão: A biópsia da incisura angular é importante porque aumentou o número de casos em estágios mais avançados de atrofia e metaplasia intestinal. O estudo apresentou limitações, onde a principal delas foi a amostra relativamente pequena e composta por indivíduos saudáveis apesar de idosos na sua maior parte

Introduction: Gastric atrophy (GA) and intestinal metaplasia (IM) are pre-neoplastic conditions in the development of gastric cancer, where endoscopic and histopathological evaluation is based on the updated Sydney system that includes a biopsy of the incisura angularis (IA), as well as the Operative Link on Gastritis Assessment (OLGA) and Operative Link on Gastritis Assessment using Intestinal Metaplasia (OLGIM) gastric cancer risk staging systems. Objective: To compare the OLGA and OLGIM classifications with and without IA biopsy. In addition, to determine the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (HP) and preneoplastic changes (AG and IM) by biopsied region, and to identify the exclusive findings of IA. Also, to identify potential risk factors for gastric cancer associated with pre-neoplastic changes. Materials and Methods: Observational, retrospective and prospective, descriptive, unicentric study with 350 patients without a diagnosis of gastric cancer, who underwent upper digestive endoscopy with biopsies at Gastroclínica Itajaí, from November 2017 to October 2018 (retrospective) and from March 2020 to May 2022. The histopathological classification of gastritis followed the updated Sydney system, and the gastric cancer risk assessment followed the OLGA and OLGIM systems. The methodology applied evaluated the scores of the OLGA and OLGIM systems with and without the assessment of the IA biopsy. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive measures (frequencies, percentages, mean, standard deviation, 95% confidence interval). Ranks were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis or Wilcoxon tests. To analyze the relationship between the frequencies, the bilateral Fisher's exact test was used. Wilson's score with continuity correction was applied to the confidence interval. Results: The median age was 54,7 years, with 52,5% female patients and 47,4% male patients. The comparison between the used biopsies protocol (corpus + antrum [CA] vs corpus + antrum + incisura angularis [CAI]) and the OLGA and OLGIM stages showed a significant decrease in both staging systems when the biopsy protocol restricted to the corpus and antrum was applied (OLGA CAI vs CA; p 0,008 / OLGIM CAI vs CA; p 0,002). The prevalence of pre-malignant lesions (GA, IM and dysplasia) of the gastric mucosa was (33,4%, 34% and 1,1%, respectively) in the total sample. The antrum region was the site that presented a significantly higher number of alterations (p≤0,0001), except for the positivity of HP infection, which was present in 24,8% of the patients. It was not possible to make a correlation between the risk factors for the development of gastric cancer and the histological findings because the casuistry resulted in a very limited sample with low prevalence of risk factors. Conclusion: Incisura angularis biopsy is important because it increased the number of cases in more advanced stages of intestinal metaplasia and atrophy. The study had limitations, the main one being the relatively small sample composed of healthy individuals, although mostly elderly

Infección por Helicobacter pylori y la hemorragia digestiva alta / Helicobacter Pylori infection and upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Determinar la relación entre la infección por Helicobacter pylori y hemorragia digestiva alta (HDA) y su frecuencia fue el objetivo de la investigación, siendo ésta de tipo descriptivo correlacional con 50 pacientes con hemorragia digestiva, que acudieron al Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza de Perú, durante los meses de julio a octubre del 2021. Se elaboró un instrumento de recolección de información para las variables; edad, género, procedencia, ocupación y grado de instrucción. Se determinó la presencia de H. pylori a través de la realización de biopsia gástrica (identificación histopatológica). Para determinar la correspondencia entre las variables de la investigación, se utilizó la correlación de Pearson. Al evaluar el riesgo entre las patologías gastrointestinales y sufrir HDA se encontró para enfermedad ulcero péptica un (OR=7,1 IC: 1,394-35,987), gastritis (OR=13,7 IC: 1,068-174,81), y litiasis vesicular (OR=1,2 IC: 1,056-1,352). Dentro de los hábitos de los pacientes con HDA, 1 de cada 4 reportó consumir bebidas alcohólicas, 1 de cada 8 manifestó tabaquismo, y 1 de 2 reportó hábito cafeico. Se encontró una correlación positiva entre las variables hemorragia digestiva alta e infección por H. Pylori, ya que el coeficiente reportado es igual a 0,685. Se determinó una correlación positiva entre las variables hemorragia digestiva alta e infección por H. pylori en pacientes valorados por el servicio de gastroenterología del hospital. La infección por H. Pylori es de prevalencia elevada en la población general, sin embargo, el estudio muestra que no se manifiesta frecuentemente con sintomatología sangrante alta(AU)

Determining the relationship between infection by Helicobacter pylori and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGH) and its frequency was the objective of the investigation, this being descriptive correlational with 50 patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, who attended the Gastroenterology Service of the Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital. from Peru, during the months of July to October 2021. An information recollection instrument was developed for the variables; age, gender, origin, occupation and level of education. The presence of H. pylori was determined by performing a gastric biopsy (histopathological identification). To determine the correspondence between the research variables, the Pearson correlation was used. When evaluating the risk between gastrointestinal pathologies and suffering from UGIB, peptic ulcer disease (OR=7.1 CI: 1.394-35.987), gastritis (OR=13.7 CI: 1.068-174.81), and gallstones were found. (OR=1.2 CI:1.056-1.352). Among the habits of patients with HDA, 1 out of 4 reported consuming alcoholic beverages, 1 out of 8 reported smoking, and 1 out of 2 reported a coffee habit. A positive correlation was found between the variables upper gastrointestinal bleeding and H. Pylori infection, since the reported coefficient is equal to 0.685. A positive correlation was found between the variables upper gastrointestinal bleeding and H. pylori infection in patients assessed by the gastroenterology service of the hospital. H. Pylori infection is highly prevalent in the general population, however, the study shows that it does not manifest frequently with high bleeding symptoms(AU)

Caracterización clínico-histopatológica de la gastritis crónica / Clinical-histopathological characterization of chronic gastritis

La gastritis es una enfermedad con una alta morbilidad a nivel mundial, el principal factor de riesgo es la infección por Helicobacter pylori. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas, histopatológica y endoscópicas en una población con gastritis crónica. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional de tipo descriptivo, retrospectivo, se incluyeron 49 pacientes que acudieron a la consulta externa del área de gastroenterología, de 18 a 65 años, a quienes se realizó el estudio histopatológico y endoscópico en el Servicio de Gastroenterología en el Hospital General Quevedo, de Los Ríos-Ecuador, durante septiembre 2017 ­ septiembre 2018. Resultados: Se observó predominio del género masculino (65%); en mayores de 40 años (55%), la epigastralgía y la sensación de acidez estomacal, 39% y 35% respectivamente, fueron los síntomas más frecuentes, La positividad para Helicobacter pylori, alcanzó el 86%, y la lesión no erosiva un 73%, existió mayor presencia de la forma no atrófica (84%) sobre la atrófica. Conclusiones: La gastritis crónica predominó en el grupo etario mayor a 40 años y de género masculino, siendo los factores de riesgo de mayor prevalencia la infección por Helicobacter pylori y los asociados al consumo de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos, mala alimentación, alcohol y tabaco, los síntomas como epigastralgía y la sensación de acidez estomacal fueron los más frecuentes. El hallazgo endoscópico fue mayor para las formas no erosivas, y de acuerdo a la histopatología la gastritis no atrófica antral moderada fue la más frecuente(AU)

Gastritis is a disease with high morbidity worldwide, the main risk factor is Helicobacter pylori infection. Objective: To describe the clinical, histopathological and endoscopic characteristics in a population with chronic gastritis. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, retrospective study was carried out, including 49 patients who attended the outpatient consultation of the gastroenterology area, aged 18 to 65 years, who underwent a histopathological and endoscopic study in the Gastroenterology Service at the Quevedo General Hospital, Los Ríos-Ecuador, during September 2017 - September 2018. Results: A predominance of the male gender was observed (65%); In people over 40 years of age (55%), epigastralgia and the sensation of heartburn, 39% and 35% spectively, were the most frequent symptoms, the positivity for Helicobacter pylori, reached 86%, and the non-erosive lesion 73 %, there was a greater presence of the non-atrophic form (84%) over the atrophic one. Conclusions: Chronic gastritis predominated in the age group over 40 years of age and male, the most prevalent risk factors being Helicobacter pylori infection and those associated with the consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, poor diet, alcohol and tobacco. symptoms such as epigastric pain and the sensation of heartburn were the most frequent. The endoscopic finding was greater for non-erosive forms, and according to histopathology, moderate antral non-atrophic gastritis was the most frequent(AU)

Fecal calprotectin levels used as a noninvasive method for screening for chronic gastritis in pediatric patients. A descriptive study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Gastritis consists of inflammation of the gastric mucosa and is one of the main causes of dyspeptic symptoms in children. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the presence of inflammation by evaluating fecal calprotectin (FC) in children diagnosed with chronic gastritis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Descriptive study in Pediatric Gastroenterology Department of Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital in Turkey. METHODS: Between January 2016 and July 2018, FC levels were compared retrospectively in children with chronic gastritis (histopathology-based diagnosis), patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and healthy children. RESULTS: A total of 67 chronic gastritis patients (61.2% girls) with a mean age of 13.09 ± 3.5 years were evaluated. The mean FC levels were 153.4 μg/g in the chronic gastritis group, 589.7 μg/g in the IBD group and 43.8 μg/g in the healthy group. These levels were higher in chronic gastritis patients than in healthy individuals (P = 0.001) and higher in IBD patients than in the other two groups (P < 0.001). The FC level in the patients with chronic active gastritis (156.3 μg/g) was higher than in those with chronic inactive gastritis (150.95 μg/g) (P = 0.011). Among the patients with chronic active gastritis, the FC level was significantly higher in Helicobacter pylori-positive individuals than in negative individuals (P = 0.031). CONCLUSION: We confirmed the association between increased FC and chronic gastritis. Elevated FC levels may be seen in patients with chronic active gastritis. In order to be able to use FC as a screening tool for chronic gastritis, further studies in a larger study group are needed.

PREX2 gene's expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of patients with H. pylori infection / Expressão do gene PREX2 em células epiteliais antrais gástricas em pacientes com infecção por H. pylori

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The Prex2 protein is a member of the Rac family proteins that belongs to small G proteins with a critical role in cell migration, cell proliferation, and apoptosis through its effects on PI3K cell signaling pathway and phosphatase activity of PTEN protein. The effect of PREX2 gene expression has been shown in some cancer cells. A survey of PREX2 gene expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of gastric cancer patients with Helicobacter pylori various genotypes infection can conduct to better understanding H. pylori infection's carcinogenesis. METHODS: In a case-control study, PREX2 gene expression was evaluated in gastric antral biopsy samples on four groups of patients referred to Sanandaj hospitals, including gastritis with (n=23) and without (n=27) H. pylori infection and gastric cancer with (n=21) and without (n=32) H. pylori infection. Each gastric biopsy sample's total RNA was extracted and cDNA synthesized by using Kits (Takara Company). The PREX2 gene expression was measured using the relative quantitative real-time RT-PCR method and ΔΔCt formula. RESULTS: The PREX2 gene expression increased in gastric antral biopsy samples of gastritis and gastric cancer patients with H. pylori infection (case groups) than patients without H. pylori infection (control groups) 2.38 and 2.27 times, respectively. The patients with H. pylori vacA s1m1 and sabB genotypes infection showed a significant increase of PREX2 gene expression in gastric cancer antral epithelial cells. CONCLUSION: H. pylori vacA s1m1 and sabB genotypes have the positive correlations with PREX2 gene expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of gastritis and gastric cancer patients.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A proteína Prex2 é membro das proteínas da família Rac que pertencem a pequenas proteínas G com um papel crítico na migração celular, na proliferação celular e na apoptose através de seus efeitos na via de sinalização celular PI3K e atividade fosfatase da proteína PTEN. O efeito da expressão genética PREX2 tem sido mostrada em algumas células cancerosas. Um levantamento da expressão genética PREX2 em células epiteliais antrais gástricas de pacientes infectados com vários genótipos de Helicobacter pylori pode conduzir a um melhor entendimento da carcinogênese da infecção por H. pylori. MÉTODOS: Em estudo de caso-controle, a expressão genética PREX2 foi avaliada em amostras de biópsia antral gástrica em quatro grupos de pacientes encaminhados aos hospitais de Sanandaj, incluindo gastrite com (n=23) e sem (n=27) infecção por H. pylori e de câncer gástrico com (n=21) e sem (n=32) infecção por H. pylori. O RNA total de cada amostra de biópsia gástrica foi extraído e cDNA sintetizado por meio de kits (Takara Company). A expressão genética PREX2 foi medida utilizando-se o método RT-PCR em tempo real quantitativo relativo e a fórmula ΔΔCt. RESULTADOS: A expressão genética PREX2 aumentou em amostras de biópsia antral gástrica de pacientes com gastrite e câncer gástrico com infecção por H. pylori (grupos de casos) em relação aos sem infecção por H. pylori (grupos de controle) 2,38 e 2,27 vezes, respectivamente. Os pacientes com infecção por genótipos H. pylori vacA s1m1 e sabB apresentaram um aumento significativo da expressão genética PREX2 em células epiteliais antrais de câncer gástrico. CONCLUSÃO: Os genótipos H. pylori vacA s1m1 e sabB têm correlações positivas com a expressão genética PREX2 em células epiteliais antrais gástricas de pacientes com câncer gástrico e gastrites.

CARACTERIZAÇÃO DAS ENDOSCOPIAS DIGESTIVAS ALTAS REALIZADAS NO MUNICÍPIO DE MOSSORÓ-RN / CHARACTERIZATION OF HIGH DIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPIES PERFORMED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MOSSORÓ-RN

Objetivou-se caracterizar as EDA realizadas na Comunidade de Saúde de Mossoró, RN, no período de 2008 a 2013, definindo a taxa de exames normais e a prevalência dos principais achados sugestivos de patologias digestivas. Trata-se de um estudo transversal e retrospectivo, no qual se analisou 10311 laudos de EDA. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas pelo SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 20.0), com nível de confiança95% e um p < 0,05, utilizando-se testes Qui-quadrado. Pelos dados levantados, constatamos que a EDA é um exame prático e seguro, com raríssimas complicações, sendo a agitação e a presença de alimento no estômago as limitações mais comuns. Na análise descritiva geral observou-se que a maioria dos exames foi realizada no gênero feminino, formando mais de 70% da amostra total. A faixa etária predominante, independente do gênero, foi 41 a 60 anos. As patologias frequentes no segmento esofágico foram as Esofagites. No segmento gástrico, a maior frequência de achados foram as Gastrites, que são mais frequentes com o avançar da idade. Na Transição Gastroduodenal, as úlceras de Canal Pilórico são os achados mais descritos, mas observamos também modestos achados de duodenites. No duodeno, os principais achados foram úlceras duodenais, seguidas pelas duodenites e sinais de atrofia. Portanto, as EDA são mais realizadas no gênero feminino, mas apresentam maior percentual de exames normais, sendo a maior frequência de achados encontrada no gênero masculino. Assim, após analisar as 10.311 EDA, é possível prever os achados mais comuns encontrados a EDA.

This study aimed to characterize the EDA held in Mossoro Health Community, RN, from 2008 to 2013, setting the rate of normal examinations and the prevalence of the main findings suggestive of digestive pathologies. It is a cross-sectional retrospective study, which analyzed 10,311 reports of EDA. Statistical analyzes were performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 20.0), with a confidence level 95% and p <0.05, using chi-square tests. Raised by the data, we found that EDA is a practical and safe exam, with very few complications, agitation and presence of food in the stomach the most common limitations. In general descriptive analysis it was observed that most of the exams was held in females, forming more than 70% of the total sample. The predominant age group, regardless of gender, was 41-60 years. The frequent pathologies in esophageal segment were Esophagitis. Gastric segment, the highest frequency of findings were Gastritis, which are more common with advancing age. Gastroduodenal in Transition, the Channel Pyloric ulcers are the most described findings, but also observed modest findings of duodenitis. In the duodenum, the main findings were duodenal ulcers, followed by duodenitis and signs of atrophy. Therefore, the EDA are more performed in females, but have a higher percentage of normal results, with the highest frequency of findings found in males. So after analyzing 10,311 EDA, it is possible to predict the most common findings EDA.

Correlação entre o sistema sanguíneo ABO e portadores de gastrite / Correlation between the ABO blood group system and gastritis

RESUMO: Introdução: A infecção pelo Helicobacter pylori (HP) e fatores ambientais são importantes fatores de risco para gastrite. Estudos apontam correlação entre o sistema ABO e doenças gastrointestinais. Objetivos: caracterizar o perfil sociodemográfico de portadores de gastrite e HP e sua correlação com o sistema do grupo sanguíneo ABO. Materiais e métodos: Estudo prospectivo e descritivo, realizado em Aracaju, Sergipe, Brasil, de abril/2018 a maio/2019. Amostra constituída por 133 pacientes que realizaram endoscopia digestiva alta, análise histopatológi-ca e tipagem sanguínea. Foram diagnosticados com gastrite 93 pacientes. Utilizou-se questionário sociodemográ-fico e clínico. Os dados foram analisados pelo RCore Team 2019 e submetidos a análises descritivas e inferenciais. Nível de significância 5%. Resultados: Idade média 53,7 anos (DP 17,4) sendo 48 (51,6%) do sexo masculino (p=0,018), 56 (65,9%) pardos, 45 (52,9%) casados e 33 (35,5%) tinham empregos fixos. Dos portadores de gastrite, 59 (63,4%) eram do tipo sanguíneo O. Dentre os tipos de gastrite, 31(33,4%) eram enantematosa leve e 16 (51,6%) desses eram do tipo O. Houve prevalência do tipo O em todos os graus de atividade inflamatória. Foi detectado H. pylori em 29 (31,2%) pacientes, sendo o fenótipo O mais prevalente nos graus moderado e severo da infecção. Conclusão: Os homens foram mais acometidos de gastrite, independente do tipo segundo a classificação de Sydney. O fenótipo sanguíneo O foi mais prevalente nos portadores de gastrite, naqueles que apresentaram atividade inflamatória à histologia e em portadores de H. pylori grau moderado e severo. (AU)

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection and environmental factors are important risk factors for gastritis. Studies show a correlation between the ABO system and gastrointestinal diseases. Aims: To characterize the sociodemographic profile of patients with gastritis and HP and its correlation with the ABO blood group system. Materials and methods: Prospective and descriptive study, carried out in Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil, from April / 2018 to May / 2019. Samples were collected from 133 patients who underwent upper digestive endoscopy, histo-pathological analysis, and blood typing. Out of which, 93 patients were diagnosed with gastritis. A sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire was also used. Data analyzed by RCore Team 2019 and submitted to descriptive and inferential analyzes. Results: Average age 53.7 (SD 17.4) with 48 (51.6%) being male (p = 0.018), 56 (65.9%) brown, 45 (52.9%) married and 33 (35.5%) pursuing permanent jobs. Fifty-nine patients (63.4%) out of those with gastritis were blood type O. Among the types of gastritis, 31 (33.4%) were mild enanthematous and 16 (51.6%) of these were type O. There was a prevalence type O in all degrees of inflammatory activity. H. pylori were detected in 29 (31.2%) patients; the most prevalent phenotype being the moderate and severe degrees of infection. Conclusion: Men were mostly affected by gastritis, regardless of the type according to the Sydney classification. The blood phenotype O was more prevalent in patients with gastritis, in those who had inflammatory activity at histology and in patients with moderate, and severe H.pylori. (AU)

Gastrite crônica por Helicobacter pylori em pacientes com condições pré-malignas: avaliação dos sistemas OLGA e OLGIM e desempenho de biomarcadores séricos / Helicobacter pylori chronic gastritis on patients with premalignant conditions: olga and olgim evaluation and serum biomarkers performance

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: H. pylori chronic atrophic gastritis is a premalignant lesion, and its staging, according to OLGA and OLGIM systems aims to identify patients at increased risk of developing gastric cancer and optimize their follow-up. GastroPanel®, serum biomarkers panel including pepsinogen I (PGI), pepsinogen II (PGII), Gastrin 17 (G17) and anti- H. pylori antibodies is a noninvasive test for adenocarcinoma risk assessment in chronic H. pylori gastritis patients. OBJECTIVE: Prospective study to evaluate the concordance between OLGA and OLGIM grading systems, as well as to evaluate GastroPanel´s performance in patients with premalignant lesions secondary to H. pylori chronic gastritis in Brazil. METHODS: Patients with H. pylori chronic gastritis with premalignant lesions confirmed by histology were recruited from the gastrointestinal clinic of a University Hospital. All participants underwent endoscopic examination with biopsies which were reported according to updated Sydney system and premalignant lesions grading systems (OLGA and OLGIM). Blood samples were collected for biomarkers serological analysis (GastroPanel®, Biohit, Helsinki, Finland). The cut off values used to define high risk patients were those recommended by the manufacturer: PGI ≤30 µm/L and PGI/PGII ≤3. RESULTS: 41 patients were recruited: 28 women, 13 men, mean age 67.3 (47-89, SD: 9.6) years. By OLGA system, were obtained: OLGA 0 (n=1), OLGA I (n=7), OLGA II (n=17), OLGA III (n=9), and OLGA IV (n=7). By OLGIM system, were obtained: OLGIM 0 (n=14), OLGIM I (n=5), OLGIM II (n=10), OLGIM III (n=10), and OLGIM IV (n=2). Regarding histological staging among patients staged as low risk (OLGA/OLGIM 0, I and II) and high risk (OLGA/OLGIM III and IV) for gastric cancer development, the concordance rate found between both classifications was 85.4%. Considering high risk patients, those patients thus included in at least one of the systems the final distribution of our sample considered 24 low-risk and 17 high-risk patients for the development of gastric cancer. To determine by GastroPanel® whether the patient would be at low or high risk of developing gastric cancer, PGI showed a sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 0.47 (95%CI: 0.26-0.69), 0.67 (95%CI: 0.47-0.82), and 0.58 (95%CI: 0.43-0.72), respectively, while PGI/PGII showed sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 0.06 (95%CI: 0.01-0.27), 0.83 (95%CI: 0.64-0.93) and 0.51 (95%CI: 0.36-0.66), respectively. CONCLUSION: The histological classifications OLGA and OLGIM presented a substantial concordance rate among themselves. Simultaneous use of both histological classification systems increased the identification's rate of high-risk patients. Biomarker analysis was not effective to distinguish low to high risk patients in the studied population. Further studies are needed to validate its use in clinical practice in Brazil.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Gastrite atrófica crônica por H. pylori constitui lesão pré-maligna e seu estadiamento de acordo com os sistemas OLGA e OLGIM, visa identificar pacientes com maior risco de desenvolver câncer gástrico e otimizar seu acompanhamento. GastroPanel® é um teste não invasivo composto por painel de biomarcadores séricos incluindo pepsinogênio I (PGI), pepsinogênio II (PGII), gastrina 17 (G17) e anticorpos anti- H. pylori para avaliação de risco de adenocarcinoma gástrico em pacientes com gastrite crônica por H. pylori. OBJETIVO: Estudo prospectivo para avaliar a concordância entre os sistemas de classificação OLGA e OLGIM, bem como avaliar o desempenho do GastroPanel® em pacientes com lesões pré-malignas secundárias à gastrite crônica por H. pylori no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com gastrite crônica por H. pylori portadores de lesões pré-malignas confirmadas por histologia (gastrite atrófica e metaplasia intestinal) foram recrutados no ambulatório de gastroenterologia de um hospital universitário. Todos os participantes foram submetidos a exame endoscópico com biópsias de antro e corpo gástricos analisadas de acordo com o Sistema Sydney atualizado e estadiadas pelos Sistemas OLGA e OLGIM de classificação das gastrites. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para análise sorológica de biomarcadores (GastroPanel®, Biohit, Helsinki, Finlândia). Os valores de corte utilizados para definir pacientes de alto risco para desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico foram os recomendados pelo fabricante: PGI ≤30 µm e PGI/PGII ≤3. RESULTADOS: Foram recrutados 41 pacientes: 28 mulheres, 13 homens, idade média 67,3 (47-89, DP: 9,6) anos. Pelo sistema OLGA, foram obtidos: OLGA 0 (n=1), OLGA I (n=7), OLGA II (n=17), OLGA III (n=9) e OLGA IV (n=7). Pelo sistema OLGIM, foram obtidos: OLGIM 0 (n=14), OLGIM I (n=5), OLGIM II (n=10), OLGIM III (n=10) e OLGIM IV (n=2). Em relação ao estadiamento histológico entre os pacientes de baixo risco (OLGA/OLGIM 0, I e II) e alto risco (OLGA/OLGIM III e IV) para o desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico, a taxa de concordância encontrada entre as duas classificações foi de 85,4%, com valor kappa=0,678 (IC95%: 0,440-0,916). Considerando como pacientes de alto risco, aqueles assim estadiados em pelo menos um dos sistemas, a distribuição final de nossa amostra encontrou 24 pacientes de baixo risco e 17 de alto risco para o desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico. Na determinação pelo GastroPanel® para classificação do paciente como de baixo ou alto risco para desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico, PGI mostrou sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia de 0,47 (IC95%: 0,26-0,69), 0,67 (IC95%: 0,47-0,82) e 0,58 (IC95%: 0,43-0,72), respectivamente, enquanto a razão PGI/PGII mostrou sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia de 0,06 (IC95%: 0,01-0,27), 0,83 (IC95%: 0,64-0,93) e 0,51 (IC95%: 0,36-0,66), respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: As classificações histológicas OLGA e OLGIM apresentaram taxa de concordância substancial entre si. O uso simultâneo de ambos os sistemas de classificação histológica aumentou a taxa de identificação de pacientes de alto risco para desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico. Os resultados do GastroPanel® não foram eficazes para distinguir pacientes de baixo e alto risco para desenvolvimento de câncer gástrico na população estudada. Mais estudos são necessários para validar seu uso na prática clínica no Brasil.

Helicobacter pylori and colorectal neoplasms: a concise review / Helicobacter pylori e neoplasias colorretais: revisão concisa

ABSTRACT Helicobacter pylori is the main etiological agent of all malignant tumors caused by an infectious disease. It is a major, at times dominant, factor in the pathogenesis of a large spectrum of diseases such as acute and chronic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, gastric carcinoma, and lymphoma. Epidemiological and experimental studies suggest that H. pylori chronic infection may be related to different extragastric diseases, including colorectal neoplasms. This concise review aims to explore the association of H. pylori infection with colorectal cancer and adenoma, including the recent epidemiological findings, the diagnostic methods employed to detect H. pylori and virulent factors, and the potentially involved mechanisms. Furthermore, is attempted to establish the current data integration for causal inference using the Bradford-Hill causality criteria. The weak, although global, strength of the epidemiological positive association between H. pylori infection and colonic neoplasms associated to new mechanisms postulated to explain this interaction, including intestinal dysbiosis, should stimulate future studies. Prospective confirmatory studies to establish the role of H. pylori eradication in the process of carcinogenic transformation of the colonic epithelium may define its eventual role in the treatment and prevention of colonic neoplasms.

RESUMO Helicobacter pylori é o principal agente etiológico dos tumores malignos causados por doenças infecciosas. Constitui fator importante, às vezes dominante, na patogênese de um amplo espectro de doenças como gastrite aguda e crônica, úlceras gástricas e duodenais, carcinoma gástrico e linfoma. Estudos epidemiológicos e experimentais sugerem que a infecção crônica por H. pylori pode estar relacionada a diferentes doenças extragástricas, incluindo neoplasias colorretais. Esta concisa revisão tem como objetivo explorar a associação da infecção por H. pylori com câncer colorretal e adenoma, incluindo os recentes achados epidemiológicos, os métodos de diagnóstico empregados para detectar H. pylori e seus fatores de virulência com os mecanismos potencialmente envolvidos nesta relação. Além disso, procura-se estabelecer a integração dos dados atuais na busca de inferência causal com o emprego dos critérios de causalidade de Bradford-Hill. A associação epidemiológica positiva entre infecção por H. pylori e neoplasias do cólon embora classificada como fraca - porém global - do ponto de vista epidemiológico, quando associada a mecanismos recentemente postulados para explicar essa interação, incluindo disbiose intestinal, deverá estimular a realização de investigações futuras. Estudos prospectivos confirmatórios para estabelecer o papel da erradicação do H. pylori no processo de transformação carcinogênica do epitélio do cólon são aguardados para definir seu eventual papel no tratamento e prevenção de neoplasias do cólon.

Gastritis enfisematosa en asociación con un adenocarcinoma gástrico, a propósito de un caso / Emphysematous gastritis in association with gastric adenocarcinoma. A case report

Resumen A través del presente reporte se describe un caso de gastritis enfisematosa, una rara condición clínica consistente en la invasión de la pared gástrica por microorganismos productores de gas. Puede resultar en una situación fatal debido a lo inespecífico de su clínica y a lo tórpido de su evolución. En este caso se describe a un paciente anciano de 77 años, con alta fragilidad, quien cursaba con un cuadro de gastritis enfisematosa que no respondió a manejo médico y requirió gastrectomía de urgencia. Adicionalmente, cursaba con un adenocarcinoma gástrico ulcerado infiltrante, que previamente no había sido diagnosticado, como probable factor condicionante y desencadenante.

Abstract This report describes a case of emphysematous gastritis, a rare clinical condition consisting of invasion of the gastric wall caused by gas-producing bacteria. It can lead to fatal outcomes due to the unspecific nature of the symptoms and its torpid course. The following is the case of a highly fragile 77-year-old male patient, who presented with symptoms of emphysematous gastritis that did not respond to medical treatment and required emergency gastrectomy. In addition, the patient had an infiltrating ulcerated gastric adenocarcinoma, which had not previously been diagnosed and was a probable conditioning and triggering factor.

Hallazgos en la endoscopia digestiva alta en niños con talla baja / Findings of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in children with short stature

Resumen Introducción: en el estudio de la baja talla de origen digestivo en niños no hay un patrón de paraclínicos preestablecido; sin embargo, la endoscopia de vías digestivas puede ser una herramienta útil para tal fin. Objetivo: reportar una serie de casos de niños con diagnóstico de baja talla a quienes se les indicó una endoscopia de vías digestivas altas como parte de su estudio. Reporte de casos: se incluyeron 15 niños entre los 2 y 16 años de edad, 53,3% niñas, 26,7% desnutridos según el índice de masa corporal y la talla para la edad, 66,7% con baja talla grave y 33,3% con baja talla moderada. El 53,3% presentó dolor abdominal, el 46,7% no tuvo ganancia de peso, el 26,7% tuvo inapetencia y el 13,3% tuvo vómito, entre otros. Entre el 40,0% y el 93,4% presentaron macro- o microscópicamente esofagitis, gastritis y duodenitis. Los hallazgos microscópicos más importantes fueron duodenitis crónica con giardiasis, úlceras duodenales, hiperplasia nodular linfoide duodenal, Helicobacter pylori y duodenitis crónica eosinofílica. Conclusiones: a pesar de que la endoscopia de vías digestivas es un método poco utilizado y no bien descrito en el estudio de niños con baja talla, este reporte de casos describe organicidad en un 80,0% de los niños analizados.

Abstract Introduction: The study of short stature of digestive origin in children shows no pre-established laboratory patterns. However, endoscopy of the digestive tract may be a useful tool for this purpose. Objective: To report a series of cases of children with a diagnosis of short stature who underwent upper digestive tract endoscopy as part of their study. Case report: 15 children between the ages of 2 and 16 years were included; 53.3% were girls. 26.7% presented with malnutrition according to their body mass index and height-for-age, 66.7% had short stature, and 33.3% moderate short stature. Abdominal pain was reported in 53.3% of the cases, and no weight gain in 46.7%. Other symptoms were lack of appetite in 26.7%, vomiting in 13.3%, among others. Between 40% and 93.4% of the children presented macro and/or microscopic esophagitis, gastritis, and duodenitis. The most important microscopic findings were chronic duodenitis with giardiasis, duodenal ulcers, duodenal nodular lymphoid hyperplasia, Helicobacter pylori, and chronic eosinophilic duodenitis. Conclusions: Although endoscopy of the digestive tract is a method barely used and not well described in the study of children with short stature, this case report describes organicity in 80% of the children analyzed.

Increased expression of interleukin-6 gene in gastritis and gastric cancer

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) induces an intense inflammatory response, mediated by proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6 and its membrane receptor (IL-6R), which activates important signaling pathways in the development of gastric disease and cancer. We investigated the gene and protein expression of IL-6 and IL-6R and the influence of polymorphisms rs1800795, rs1800796, and rs1800797 on its gene expression together with H. pylori infection. Furthermore, an in-silico analysis was performed to support our results. Gastric biopsies were obtained from patients with gastric symptoms and patients with gastric cancer (GC) and were divided into groups (Control, Gastritis, and Cancer). H. pylori was detected by PCR. Real-time-qPCR was employed to determine gene expression, and western blot assay was used to analyze protein expression levels. PCR-RFLP was used to characterize IL-6 polymorphisms. Bioinformatics analyses were performed using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and GEO2R to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs). H. pylori was detected in 43.3% of the samples. Statistically significant differences were found for IL-6 (P=0.0001) and IL-6R (P=0.0005) genes among the three groups, regardless of the presence of H. pylori. Among patients with H. pylori infection, the IL-6 and IL-6R gene and protein expressions were significantly increased, highlighting IL-6 gene overexpression in patients with GC. No statistically significant differences were found for the rs1800795, rs1800796, and rs1800797 polymorphisms compared to IL-6 gene expression. The results indicated that the IL-6 polymorphisms do not influence its expression, but IL-6 and IL-6R expression seems to be altered by the presence of H. pylori.