Changes in the severity of gastric mucosal inflammation associated with Helicobacter pylori in humans coinfected with intestinal helminths.

BACKGROUND: Though a few studies in animal models suggest that intestinal helminths (IH) favorably affect evolution of gastritis associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) the studies supporting this concept in humans are only a few and are based on serological data. METHODS: To evaluate the possible influence of IH on the human gastric mucosa, three groups of Venezuelan adults with gastropathy (endoscopically diagnosed) were studied: H. pylori-/IH- (n = 17), H. pylori+/IH- (n = 18), and H. pylori+/IH+ (n = 11). Histological analysis (hematoxylin-eosin) and immunohistochemical staining (peroxidase) for cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), and interleukin 4 (IL-4) were undertaken in gastric antral biopsies. RESULTS: Expression of the four cytokines was detected in all individuals in varying degrees, but proinflammatory cytokines were expressed in a higher degree in the H. pylori+/IH- group, mainly IL-1ß (Th1-dominant immune response), associated with a higher degree of both histological inflammation and gastric cancer risk index (GCRI), as compared to the H. pylori-/IH- group. In contrast, an increased expression of IL-4 and a reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines (Th2-dominant response), plus the tendency to a lower degree of mononuclear infiltration, mucosal atrophy in gastric corpus, and GCRI, were evidenced in the coinfected group. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the present study is perhaps the first histological evidence of a possible modulatory effect of IH on the gastric mucosal inflammatory response due to H. pylori infection in humans.

Gastroenterology training in Latin America.

Latin America is characterized by ethnic, geographical, cultural, and economic diversity; therefore, training in gastroenterology in the region must be considered in this context. The continent's medical education is characterized by a lack of standards and the volume of research continues to be relatively small. There is a multiplicity of events in general gastroenterology and in sub-disciplines, both at regional and local levels, which ensure that many colleagues have access to information. Medical education programs must be based on a clinical vision and be considered in close contact with the patients. The programs should be properly supervised, appropriately defined, and evaluated on a regular basis. The disparity between the patients' needs, the scarce resources available, and the pressures exerted by the health systems on doctors are frequent cited by those complaining of poor professionalism. Teaching development can play a critical role in ensuring the quality of teaching and learning in universities. Continuing professional development programs activities must be planned on the basis of the doctors' needs, with clearly defined objectives and using proper learning methodologies designed for adults. They must be evaluated and accredited by a competent body, so that they may become the basis of a professional regulatory system. The specialty has made progress in the last decades, offering doctors various possibilities for professional development. The world gastroenterology organization has contributed to the speciality through three distinctive, but closely inter-related, programs: Training Centers, Train-the-Trainers, and Global Guidelines, in which Latin America is deeply involved.

Comparison of three methods based on endoscopic gastric biopsies for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori active infection in a clinical setting.

CONTEXT: The correct diagnosis and effective treatment of Helicobacter pylori gastric infection are essential in controlling this infection. OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnostic value of three tests based in endoscopic gastric biopsies histopathological evaluation with hematoxylin-eosin (H-E) staining, urease rapid test and microbiological culture for detecting Helicobacter pylori active infection, in order to make recommendations for daily clinical practice. METHODS: Gastric biopsies from 115 adult patients (85 female/30 male) were obtained by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and studied by histopathological evaluation with H-E (antrum-corpus), urease test in 2 hours (antrum) and microbiological culture (antrum). RESULTS: Helicobacter pylori active infection was diagnosed in 67% of patients. Helicobacter pylori active infection was detected by histopathological evaluation with H-E, urease test and microbiological culture in 87%, 79% and 70% of the positive cases, respectively. There were significant differences when histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test rapid test when compared with microbiological test (P<0.01). There was no significant difference between histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test (P = 0.7). The kappa index of agreement for histopathological evaluation with H-E/urease test was 0.56, histopathological evaluation with H-E/microbiological culture 0.6, and urease test/microbiological culture 0.64. CONCLUSIONS: In a hospital setting like the one studied, histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test are the most recommended tests for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori active infection based in endoscopic biopsies. If pathological information of gastric lesions will be required, histopathological evaluation with H-E is essential. Urease test is mandatory if a prompt diagnosis is necessary. Microbiological culture can be used in cases of persistent or complicated infection, which may require studies on Helicobacter virulence or antimicrobial susceptibility. Selected cases might demand a combination of several tests. The three tests exhibit a good concordance level for Helicobacter pylori active infection diagnosis.

Frecuencia de cáncer hepatobiliopancreático y su relación con diabetes mellitus en pacientes del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo / Hepatobiliopancreatic cancer frequency and its relationship to diabetes mellitus in patients of the hospital universitario de Maracaibo

La diabetes mellitus se ha asociado con la presencia de algunos tipos de cáncer del tracto digestivo, sobre todo en los últimos años se ha relacionado con el cáncer de hígado, el páncreas y las vías biliares. Es por ello que se realizó el presente estudio retrospectivo con el objetivo de determinar la frecuencia del cáncer hepatobiliopancreático y su asociación con la presencia de diabetes en pacientes del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo durante el periodo 2006-2012. Noventa y siete casos fueron registrados; con diagnóstico de neoplasias hepáticas malignas primarias (hepatocarcinoma-colangiocarcinoma intrahepático) 26,8%, Colangiocarcinomas extrahepáticos distales 21,6%, tumor de Klatskin 16,5%, cáncer de páncreas 10,3%, tumor periampular 5,2% y tumor de vesícula biliar 5,2%. En los pacientes diabéticos los tumores más frecuentes fueron el cáncer de páncreas y neoplasias hepáticas malignas primarias (94,8%, p<0,01). No se observó en el resto de los pacientes estudiados asociación significativa entre el diagnóstico de cáncer con la presencia de diabetes. Se necesitan estudios prospectivos con el fin de establecer los factores que pudieran influir en la génesis del cáncer en los pacientes diabéticos, tales como el tipo de tratamiento, alteraciones metabólicas y otros factores inflamatorios que pudiesen estar involucrados.

Diabetes mellitus has been associated with the presence of some types of cancer of the digestive tract, especially in recent years has been linked to cancer of the liver, pancreas and bile ducts. That is why we undertook the present retrospective study in order to determine the frequency of hepatobiliopancreatic cancer and its association with the presence of diabetes in patients at Maracaibo University Hospital during the period 2006-2012. 97 cases were reported, with a diagnosis of primary hepatic malignancies (hepatocellular carcinoma, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma) 26.8% 21.6% distal extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, Klatskin tumor 16.5% 10.3% pancreatic cancer, tumor periampullar 5,2% and gallbladder tumor 5.2%. In diabetic patients, the most common tumors were pancreatic cancer and primary hepatic malignancies (94.8%, p<0,01). It was not observed in the rest of the patients significant association between cancer diagnosis and the presence of diabetes. Prospective studies are needed in order to establish the factors that may influence the genesis of cancer in diabetic patients, such as the type of treatment, metabolic and inflammatory factors that may be involved.

Predictores de recurrencia de sangrado en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva alta no variceal / Predictors of bleending recurrence in patients with non-varicose upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Introducción: La tasa de resangrado en hemorragia digestiva alta no variceal continúa siendo elevada. Objetivo: identificar los predictores de falla terapéutica endoscópica en adultos con hemorragia digestiva alta recurrente no variceal atendidos en el Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo entre enero, 2006 y diciembre, 2010 que ameritaron una segunda endoscopia. Materiales y Métodos: estudio retrospectivo y transversal. La muestra fue dividida en grupo A (resangró) y B (no resangró). Resultados: del total de 380 casos que recibieron terapia inicial, 271 úlceras (71,3% p<0,0001) representaron el tipo de lesión más frecuente, correspondiendo con los 24 casos que resangraron (6,31%). Las lesiones que resangraron se ubicaron en segunda porción de duodeno (20,8%), fundus gástrico (16,6%) y cara posterior de bulbo duodenal (12,5%). De éstas, 11 fueron úlceras (54,5% duodenales vs 45,4% gástricas), tipo Forrest IA, IB y IIA (p<0,03), con vaso expuesto >2mm (media 5mm, DE±3mm). Conclusión: los predictores de falla terapéutica endoscópica (úlcera ≥2cms, ubicación en cara posterior de bulbo duodenal, Forrest IA, IB y IIA, y terapia endoscópica aplicada durante el primer episodio de sangrado) contribuyen de manera independiente al aumento del riesgo del resangrado.

Introduction: Rebleeding’s rate in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding remains high. Aim: Identify predictors of endoscopic therapy failure in adult patients with recurrent non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding treated at the Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo between January, 2006 and December, 2010 that required a second endoscopy. Methods: a retrospective and cross sectional study. The sample was divided into Group A (with rebleeding) and Group B (without rebleeding). Results: of the 380 cases who received therapy during the first endoscopy, 271 ulcers (71,3% p <0,0001) represented the most frequent type of injury, being consistent with the 24 cases that rebleed (6,31%). Rebleeding lesions were located in second portion of duodenum (20,8%), gastric fundus (16,6%) and posterior duodenal bulb (12,5%). Meanwhile, the rebleeding ulcers (n=11), were duodenal 54,5% vs gastric 45,4%, classified as Forrest IA, IB and IIA (p <0,03), with exposed vessel >2mm. Conclusions: the predictors of endoscopic therapy failure in our location are similar to those established (ulcer size ≥2cms, placed on posterior duodenal bulb, Forrest IA, IB and IIA, and endoscopic therapy applied during the first episode) and contribute independently to increased risk of rebleeding despite applying the recommended therapeutic.

Comparison of three methods based on endoscopic gastric biopsies for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori active infection in a clinical setting / Comparação de três métodos baseados em biopsias gástricas endoscópicas para o diagnóstico da infecção ativa pelo Helicobacter pylori em um ambiente clínico

CONTEXT: The correct diagnosis and effective treatment of Helicobacter pylori gastric infection are essential in controlling this infection. OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnostic value of three tests based in endoscopic gastric biopsies histopathological evaluation with hematoxylin-eosin (H-E) staining, urease rapid test and microbiological culture for detecting Helicobacter pylori active infection, in order to make recommendations for daily clinical practice. METHODS: Gastric biopsies from 115 adult patients (85 female/30 male) were obtained by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and studied by histopathological evaluation with H-E (antrum-corpus), urease test in 2 hours (antrum) and microbiological culture (antrum). RESULTS: Helicobacter pylori active infection was diagnosed in 67 percent of patients. Helicobacter pylori active infection was detected by histopathological evaluation with H-E, urease test and microbiological culture in 87 percent, 79 percent and 70 percent of the positive cases, respectively. There were significant differences when histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test rapid test when compared with microbiological test (P<0.01). There was no significant difference between histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test (P = 0.7). The kappa index of agreement for histopathological evaluation with H-E/urease test was 0.56, histopathological evaluation with H-E/microbiological culture 0.6, and urease test/microbiological culture 0.64. CONCLUSIONS: In a hospital setting like the one studied, histopathological evaluation with H-E and urease test are the most recommended tests for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori active infection based in endoscopic biopsies. If pathological information of gastric lesions will be required, histopathological evaluation with H-E is essential. Urease test is mandatory if a prompt diagnosis is necessary. Microbiological culture can be used in cases of persistent or complicated infection, which may require studies on Helicobacter virulence or antimicrobial susceptibility. Selected cases might demand a combination of several tests. The three tests exhibit a good concordance level for Helicobacter pylori active infection diagnosis.

CONTEXTO: O diagnóstico correto e o tratamento eficaz da infecção pelo Helicobacter pylori são essenciais no controle desta infecção. OBJETIVO: Comparar o valor de três testes de diagnóstico baseado em biopsias gástricas endoscópicas: avaliação histopatológica com hematoxilina-eosina (H-E), teste da urease e cultura microbiológica para a detecção da infecção ativa pelo H. pylori, com a finalidade de recomendações para a clínica diária prática. MÉTODOS: Biopsias gástricas de 115 pacientes (85 mulheres e 30 homens) foram obtidas por endoscopia digestiva alta e estudadas por avaliação histopatológica com H-E (antro-corpo), teste de urease em 2 horas (antro) e cultura microbiológica (antro). RESULTADOS: Infecção ativa pelo H. pylori foi diagnosticada em 67 por cento dos pacientes e detectada pela avaliação histopatológica com H-E, pelo teste de urease e pela cultura microbiológica em 87 por cento, 79 por cento e 70 por cento dos casos positivos, respectivamente. Houve diferenças significativas quando a avaliação histopatológica com H-E e o teste rápido de urease quando comparadas com a cultura microbiológica (P<0,01). Não houve diferença significativa entre a avaliação histopatológica com H-E e o teste de urease (P = 0,7). O índice kappa para avaliação histopatológica com H-E/teste de urease foi de 0,56, avaliação histopatológica com H-E/cultura microbiológica 0,6, e teste de urease/cultura microbiológica 0,64. CONCLUSÕES: Em condições similares ao estudado, avaliação histopatológica com H-E e teste de urease são os testes mais recomendados para o diagnóstico de infecção ativa pelo H. pylori com base em biopsias endoscópicas. A avaliação histopatológica com H-E é essencial quando exigido o estudo de lesões gástricas. O teste de urease é obrigatório no caso de diagnóstico precoce rápido. A cultura microbiológica pode ser usada em casos de infecção persistente ou complicada, que podem exigir estudos sobre a virulência ou susceptibilidade do Helicobacter aos antimicrobianos. Os casos selecionados podem exigir a combinação de vários testes. Os três testes apresentam bom nível de concordância para o diagnóstico da infecção ativa pelo H. pylori.

Marcadores serológicos de hepatitis B y C en embarazadas del estado Zulia, Venezuela / Serological markers of hepatitis B and C in pregnant Zulia state, Venezuela

Para diseñar programas eficientes de vacunación masiva, debemos conocer la prevalencia de infección por virus de Hepatitis B y C en la población de embarazadas. Dado que la data regional es escasa, llevamos a cabo un estudio prospectivo de determinación de AgHBs, antiHBc, anti-HBs y antiVHC. Se recolectaron muestras serológicas de 3.588 embarazadas en control pre-natal referidas al Laboratorio del Sistema Regional de Salud del Estado Zulia, independientemente de edad de gestación en el período Enero 2007-Diciembre 2008. Las muestras fueron procesadas por ELISA (TecnoSuma). Los casos positivos se refirieron a Hepatología del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo. Se detectó AgHBs(+) 3 casos (0,08%) y la combinación AgHBs(-), antiHBc(+), antiHBs(+) que indica seroconversión adecuada en 69 casos (1,92%). Cinco casos (0.13%) se reportaron AgHBs (-), antiHBc(+), antiHBs(-). La mayoría no había tenido contacto con VHB, pero 7,24% de ellas (260 casos) habían sido vacunadas y tenían marcadores negativos. La prevalencia de Hepatitis B y C fue de 2.1% y 0,44% (16 casos) respectivamente. A pesar de la baja prevalencia, madres AgHBs+ tienen gran riesgo de trasmisión vertical y sus hijos se beneficiarían del despistaje para garantizarles inmunización activa y pasiva inmediatamente después del parto...

In order to design adequate vaccination programs it is necessary to known the Hepatitis B and C virus infection prevalence among pregnant women. Given our poor regional data, we conducted a prospective study for HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs y anti-HCV seropositivity. Serological samples from 3.588 pregnant women no matter gestational age, referred to the Pre-birth Control Consult at the Regional System of Health in Zulia State, between January 2007 and December 2008. Samples were processed by ELISA (TecnoSuma). Positive cases were referred to the Hepatology consult at the Maracaibo University Hospital. HBsAg prevalence was 0.08% (3 cases). We found 1, 92% prevalence (69 cases) for HBsAg (-), antiHBc(+), AntiHBs(+), indicator of adequate seroconversion. Five cases (0, 13%) were reported as HBsAg (-), antiHBc(+), AntiHBs(-). Most women had not contact with HB virus but 260 cases (7, 24%) had received the vaccine and they had other negative markers. Hepatitis B prevalence was 2,1% and Hepatitis C prevalence was 0,44% (16 cases). Despite low prevalence, mothers HBsAg+ have great risk to infection vertical transmission to their child and they will be beneficiated from the HBV screening in order to receive immediate active and passive immunization after delivery...

Primeras experiencias con el uso de la videocápsula endoscópica para el estudio de pacientes con diagnóstico presuntivo de enfermedad del intestino delgado, en el servicio de gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo - edo. Zulia, de diciembre-2008 a mayo-2009 / First experiences with the use of video capsule endoscopy for the study of patients with presumptive diagnosis of small bowel disease in the department of gastroenterology, University Hospital of Maracaibo - edo. Zulia, December 2008 to May 2009

Caracterizar la utilidad de la Videocápsula Endoscópica de Intestino Delgado (VCE-ID) para diagnosticar enteropatías en pacientes del Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo (SG-HUM). Se revisaron retrospectivamente, 14 casos estudiados mediante VCE-ID, entre diciembre 2008 y mayo 2009. 8 femeninos, 6 masculinos; 13-63 años (X + 1DE: 42,9 + 15,8 años). Indicaciones para la VCEID: Diarrea crónica (DC) (3), Síndrome de Malabsorción Intestinal (SMI) (3), Angiodisplasia duodenal y/o colónica (ADDC) (3), Anemia y Hemorragia de Origen Oscuro (AHDOO) (3), sospecha de Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal (1) y Anemia Crónica (1). Hallazgos más frecuentes: malformaciones vasculares, puntillado blanquecino, atrofia y cicatrices lineales, erosiones y mucosa intestinal normal; lesiones extraintestinales: 50%; visualización subóptima (heces o sangre): 28,6%. La VCE-ID contribuyó a esclarecer el diagnóstico en 100% de los casos con DC, SMI, ADDC y de ADDID, y en un 66% de los casos con AHDOO. El resultado no fue concluyente en 14,3% del total de los casos. La VCE-ID fue una herramienta muy útil para el esclarecimiento de la etiología de los casos de DC, SMI y ADDC-ID en pacientes del SG-HUM. Sin embargo, esta técnica deberá ser complementada con otros recursos diagnósticos, en algunos casos en los cuales la visualización sea subóptima o el resultado no sea concluyente...

To characterize the utility of video capsule endoscopy for small intestine (VCE-SI) in the diagnosis of patients with enteropathy, from the Gastroenterology Service, Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo (GS-HUM). Fourteen cases studied by mean of VCE-SI were revised retrospectively, from December 2008 to May 2009. 8 females, 6 males; age: 13 to 63 (X + 1DE: 42,9 + 15,8 years). Indications for VCE-SI: Chronic diarrhea (CD) (3), intestinal malabsorption syndrome (IMS) (3), duodenal and/or colonic angiodysplasia (DCAD) (3), Anemia and obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (AOGIB) (3), suspect of inflammatory intestinal disease (1) and chronic anemia without evident bleeding (1). More frequents findings were: vascular malformations, nodular whitish puncture over the mucous, atrophy and linear scars, erosions and normal intestinal mucosa; extraintestinal injuries: 50%; suboptimal visualization (feces or blood): 28,6%. VCE-SI was useful to elucidates the diagnosis in 100% of cases with CD, IMS or cases with DC, SMI y DCAD, and in 66% of cases with AOGIB. Results weren´t conclusive in 14,3% of cases. VCE-SI was a very useful tool for elucidation of etiologic diagnosis in cases of CD, IMS or DCAD in patients from GS-HUM. However, this technique should be complimented with another diagnostic resourses, in cases of suboptimal visualization or non conclusive findings...

Enteroscopia de doble balón reporte preliminar servicio de gastroenterología hospital universitario de Maracaibo-Venezuela

La experiencia de enteroscopia doble balón como abordaje del intestino delgado en su totalidad, data del año 2001 y pocos han sido los reportes en Venezuela. Nos propusimos presentar la experiencia con este novedoso método, del Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo „Centro Regional de Referencia de Gastroenterología, Endoscopia y Hepatología‰. Métodos: se realizaron 32 procedimientos de enteroscopia doble balón en 27 pacientes, 24 por abordaje anterógrado, 8 abordaje retrógrado y 4 por abordaje combinado. Se revisaron las indicaciones, los hallazgos, la realización de procedimientos terapéuticos y las complicaciones. Resultados: la inserción del enteroscopio más allá del ligamento de Treitz fue de 100% y de la válvula ileocecal (62,5%). La observación de la totalidad del intestino delgado fue posible en 4 (12,5%) de los pacientes con acceso combinado. Se encontraron hallazgos positivos en 20 (62,5%) de 32 procedimientos. Se realizó terapia endoscópica en 9 con sangrado de origen oscuro con presencia de malformaciones. Se tomaron 8 biopsias. No hubo complicaciones. Conclusiones: la enteroscopia doble balón es un procedimiento efectivo y seguro que permite la evaluación completa del intestino delgado con la posibilidad de tomar biopsias para diagnóstico y realizar terapia endoscópica, con buena tolerancia y pocas complicaciones.

The experience of double balloon enteroscopy in the approach of the small bowel dates from 2001, and few have been the reports in Venezuela. We proposed to investigate our experience of this novel method in the Gastroenterology Service of The University Hospital of Maracaibo „Gastroenterology, Endoscopy and Hepatology Regional Center of Referral‰. Methods: we performed 32 procedures of double balloon enteroscopy 24 anterograde approaches, 8 retrograde approaches and 4 combined approaches. We reviewed the indications, the findings, the therapeutic procedures and the complications. Results: the insertion of the enteroscope beyond the ligament of Treitz, was possible in all of the procedures; the insertion in the ileocecal valve was possible in 62.5%. The entire small bowel was observed in 4 of 32 procedures. There were positive findings in 20 of 32 procedures, 9 vascular malformations and 1 polipectomy. We took 8 biopsies. No complications occurred. Conclusions: Double balloon enteroscopy allows the visualization of the entire small bowel with the possibility of taking biopsies for diagnostic endoscopy treatment purposes, with good tolerance and few complications.

Características epidemiológicas, endoscópicas e histológicas de pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal

La enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal: (Rectocolitis Ulcerosa Idiopática y Enfermedad de Crohn) presenta diferentes características epidemiológicas, endoscópicas e histológicas. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal retrospectivo ? prospectivo, donde se aplicó un formulario desde enero hasta noviembre 2006 para determinar las características epidemiológicas, endoscópicas, e histológicas de los pacientes. Resultados: Se encontró 28 pacientes con Rectocolitis Ulcerosa Idiopatica y 6 pacientes con Enfermedad de Crohn. En RCUI predominó el sexo femenino (53.6%), raza mezclada (92.9%), antecedentes familiares ausentes (78.6%) sin antecedentes personales de importancia (82.1%), con Pancolitis (53.6%) y duración de la enfermedad entre 6 meses y 5 años el (60.8%). En Crohn se presentó similar distribución de sexo, la raza predominante fue la mezclada (83.3%), ningun antecedente familiar, habito tabáquico y localización solo en Colon (50%) y 66.6% tenían menos de 1 año del diagnostico. En Rectocolitis el grupo etáreo mas frecuente (35.7%) de 30 ? 39 años, en Crohn 33.3% en grupos etáreos de 30-39 y 40-49 años. Los síntomas mas frecuentes fueron similares en ambas dolor abdominal y diarrea con o sin sangre. Los hallazgos endoscopicos 53.6% enfermedad moderada con reporte histológico de ulceras, abscesos o distorsión de las criptas 82.4% en rectocolitis y Ulceraciones lineales o serpenginosas en segmentos efectuando recto en 100%, histología de conglomerado de macrófagos (83.3%) y granulomas no caseosos o epiteloides en 66.7% en Crohn. Conclusiones: Los resultados coinciden en su mayoría con los reportados en la literatura internacional y deben servir como base de datos para la realización de estudios prospectivos.

The aim of this study was to determine epidemiologic characteristics, endoscopic and histologic findings of Inflamatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn`s disease (CD) performed in outpatients in the Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo between January and November 2006. Through a descriptive, retrospective-prospective, transversal. study the information was recorded with a cuestionary, 28 pacients had UC and 6 CD, female was most frequent in 53.6%, Hispanic race (92.9%), without any family(78.6%) or personal past history (82.1%). Pancolitis was present in 53.6%. The time of illness was between 6 months to 5 years (60.8%). CD had similar sex distribution, Hispanic race was predominant in 83.3%, no tabaco habit and colon only presentation in 50%. 66.6% had one year or less with the diagnosis. UC was more frequent between 30-39 years of age (35.7%), CD more frequent between 30-39 and 40-49 years of age (33.3%). The most frequent clinical feature was abdominal pain, diarrhea with/ without blood. Endoscopic features were moderate illness 53.6%, with crypt architectural distortion, abscess, and ulcers (82.4%) in UC. CD segmental involment with skip areas, deep linear ulcerations rectum spared 100% and epitheloid granulomas 66.7% and infiltration of macrophages 83.3%. This report was similar in current issue and could be used in prospective studies.

Pólipos de colon: Una revisión de 1 año de experiencia en un centro de referencia

Los pólipos colorectales son lesiones elevadas de origen epitelial. Pueden ser pediculados, subpediculados y sésiles. Se clasifican en lesiones neoplásicas y no neoplásicas. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo donde se revisaron los informes de colonoscopia y de anatomía patológica año 2004, teniendo en cuenta datos de identificación, motivo del estudio, características endoscópicas, anatomopatológicas, hallazgos endoscópicos asociados y técnicas de polipectomía empleada. Resultados: se encontraron pólipos colorectales en 49 informes de pacientes de 799 estudios endoscopicos realizados (6,13%) con predominio del sexo femenino (73,5%) y mayor frecuencia desde la quinta década de la vida. El motivo de consulta fue variado: desde dolor abdominal, hemorragia digestiva inferior e indicación de polipectomía. En cuanto a las características endoscópicas los pólipos sésiles fueron los más frecuentes y se localizaron en su mayoría en el recto. El tamaño preponderante fue de 5 a 10mm y su presentación generalmente fue única. El tipo histológico predominante es el hiperplásico con 42,9%, con un 40,8% de adenomatosos. El 100% de los pólipos adenomatosos presentaron algún grado de displasia. Las técnicas de polipectomía empleada fueron de pinza fría y asa de diatermia. Conclusiones: los pólipos no neoplásicos hiperplásicos y adenomatosos son los mas frecuentes por lo que es necesario realizar polipectomía y estudio histológico de todas estas lesiones.

Colorectal polyps are elevated epithelial lesions and can be pediculate, subpediculate or sessile. They are classified in non neoplastic and neoplastic polyps. Methods: Descriptive and retrospective study. Endoscopies reports and pathological anatomies reports from 2004, we reviewed personal data, endoscopic and pathologic characteristics of the polyps, endoscopic associate findings and technique of polipectomies. Results: Colorectales polyps in 49 patients from 799 endoscopies (6.13%) corresponding most prevalence to the female sex (73.5%) with more frequency in the fifth decade of life. The reason of consult varied from abdominal pain to lower gastrointestinal bleeding and polipectomy indication. The polyp endoscopic characteristics showed that sessile were more frequent, located in their majority in the rectum, the preponderant size was from 5 to 10 mm and mostly unique. The histopathology type of the polyps was hyperplasic with a42.9% and adenomatous 40.8%. 100% The adenomatous polyps had some grade of dysplasia. The techniques for endoscopy polipectomy were cold biopsy forced and diathermic snare . Conclusions: hiperplastic and adenomatous polyps are the most common, lesions, these lesions justify endoscopic polypectomy and histological examination.

Proteína C reactiva como marcador de severidad en pacientes con Pancreatitis Aguda

El objetivo del estudio fue establecer la utilidad de la proteína C reactiva (PCR) como marcador de severidad en pacientes con pancreatitis aguda (PA), evaluados en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo. Durante los meses de Marzo a Diciembre de 2006. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio prospectiva, descriptiva, correlacional, Se analizaron las variables: edad, sexo, formas clínicas, etiología, criterios de Ranson, grados de Baltazar y valores de PCR. La PCR se determinó mediante técnica cuantitativa, utilizando reactivo de látex. Resultados: Se estudiaron 35 pacientes con predomino del sexo femenino 20 (57,14%) y mas frecuente entre la tercera y cuarta década de la vida. En relación a los criterios de Ranson 25 (71,43%) presentaron menos de 3 criterios de Ranson, con valores de PCR entre 8 y 128 mg/dl, 10 (28,57%) obtuvieron º 3 criterios de Ranson y el rango de PCR entre 128 a 256 mg/dl, (p= 0,0011).Se demostró asociación positiva entre las cifras de PCR y criterios de Ranson (r= 0,871, p=0,0001) y no se observó entre PCR y Baltazar. Predominó la PA de etiología biliar en 16 (45,71%) El promedio 146,28μ80,22 de PCR encontrados en pacientes con PA alcohólica fue ligeramente superior al compararlo con las otras causas. Conclusión: La PCR es una prueba de laboratorio útil para determinar la severidad de PA.

The objective of this study was to establish the utility of c- reactive protein (CRP) as a marker of severity in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP), evaluated in the Gastroenterology service at the University Hospital of Maracaibo between March and December of 2006. Methods: This was a Prospective, descriptive and correlational study. The variables analyzed were age, sex, clinical presentation, etiology, Ranson´s criteria, Baltazar score and CRP values. CRP was determined through the quantitative technique, using the latex reagent. Results: We studied 35 patients, predominantly female 20 (57.14%), in the thirth and fourth decade of their lives. Regarding Ranson´s criteria, 25 (71.43%) presented less than 3 items, with CRP values between 8 and 128 mg/dl, 10 (28.57%) had º 3 with a CRP range between 128 and 256 mg/ dl, (p= 0.0011). A strong association between CRP and Ransom´s criteria was demonstrated (r= 0.871, p=0,0001), not observed between CRP and Balthazar score. AP of biliary etiology predominated in 16 (45.71%) The average 146,28μ80,22 CRP found in patients with alcoholic AP was higher when compared to the other etiologies. Conclusion: CRP is an useful laboratory test in order to determine the severity of AP.

Relación del factor de crecimiento insulina tipo I y la malnutrición en pacientes adultos con enfermedad hepática crónica compensada

Los pacientes con hepatopatía crónica presentan malnutrición en grados variables. Uno de los factores implicados en la malnutrición es la deficiencia del factor de crecimiento insulina tipo I. Objetivo: determinar la relación del factor de crecimiento insulina I y la mal nutrición en pacientes con enfermedad hepática crónica compensada. Materiales y métodos: grupo A, formado por 31 pacientes con enfermedad hepática crónica Child Pugh A y grupo B, 16 controles sanos. A los pacientes se les realizó historia clínica, laboratorio, evaluación antropométrica y se determinó el FCI-1 por técnica de inmunoensayo enzimático. Se aplicó T student con el programa computarizado SPSS y un valor de p < 0,05 fue estadísticamente significativo. Resultados: grupo A: 31 pacientes con enfermedad hepática crónica alcohólica y no alcohólica edad entre 40 y 66 años; grupo B: control 16 sujetos en edades entre 30 y 62 años. En el grupo A se encontró un 41,94% de pacientes normales, 38,71% con sobrepeso, 12,9% con obesidad tipo 1 y 6,45% con déficit. En el grupo B todos los controles eran nutricionalmente sanos. El FCI-1 en el grupo A fue de 47+22ng/ml y en controles 79+33 ng/ml p < 0,05. Conclusión: los niveles sericos de F CI-1 son estadísticamente menores (p < 0,05) en pacientes con enfermedad hepática crónica compensada que en controles sanos, y parecen relacionarse con el grado de malnutrición.

Patients with chronic liver disease have malnutrition in variable degrees. One of the factors implied in malnutrition is the deficiency of insulin growth factor type 1. Objective: to determine the relationship of insulin-like growth factor 1 and malnutrition in patients with compensated chronic liver disease. Materials and methods: group A: 31 patients with chronic liver disease Child Pugh A and group B: 16 healthy controls. The patients were submitted to a clinical history, laboratory, anthropometric evaluation and IGF-1 was determined by enzymatic immunoassay technique. T student was applied with the SPSS online program and a value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: group A: 31 patients with chronic liver disease, alcoholic and non alcoholic, ages between 40 and 66 years, group B: control 16 healthy individuals, with ages between 30 and 62 years. In group A 41.94% of patients were normal, 38.71% with overweight, 12.9% with obesity type 1 and 6.45% with deficit. In group B all the controls were healthy, nutritionally. IGF- 1 in group A was 47 + 22ng/ml and in controls 79 + 33ng/ml p < 0.05. Conclusion: The serum levels of IFG-1 are statistically lower (p< 0.05) in patients with compensated chronic liver disease than in healthy controls and they seem to be related with the malnutrition degree.

Calidad de los Programas de Postgrado de Gastroenterología en Venezuela: Parte II. Percepción del estudiante (satisfacción del usuario)

Cuando hablamos de la calidad de los postgrados hablamos de calidad en salud, siendo fundamental aquella percibida por los usuarios de los mismos. Aproximadamente setenta residentes se forman actualmente en los 16 postgrados de Gastroenterología nacionales, dentro de programas que difieren en currículum, estructura, objetivos, perfil del egresado, etc. Después de haber evaluado, en la versión preliminar de este trabajo, la existencia de un diseño curricular estructurado y explícito, identificando sus características físicas, académicas y de investigación, gerencial-administrativas y disponibilidad de recursos humanos, el objetivo de la segunda parte de este estudio fue evaluar la calidad de los mismos desde otro ángulo complementario y necesario: la satisfacción de sus usuarios. La muestra estuvo representada por 46 estudiantes que respondieron en forma anónima. Resultados: a pesar de que el 13% de los estudiantes calificaron su postgrado como calidad A (excelente) y el 8,6% lo evaluaron como calidad B (bueno), la gran mayoría (71,7%) lo consideraron C (deficiente) y el 6,5%, calidad D (muy deficiente). La percepción de los usuarios difiere de la distribución de calidad determinada anteriormente a partir de información suministrada por los directores de los postgrados, quienes piensan que más del doble de los mismos (57% vs 21,7%) son calidad A-B (distribución específica de directores A: 4,2%, B: 42,8%, C: 35,7%, D: 7,1%). La evaluación de 16 indicadores individuales detectó deficiencias similares a las señaladas desde el punto de vista de los directores de los programas. Como Comisión de Educación SVG proponemos medidas correctivas concretas, unificación de criterios de currículum y asesoramiento en los indicadores de los problemas detectados.

When we talk about Post-graduated education we are talking about Health Quality. The quality perceived by the users is basic. There are approximately seventy students within the sixteen Post-graduated Programs in Gastroenterology in Venezuela. All of them differ in curriculum, academic and research structure and even in their own graduated profile. We previously evaluated the presence of a structured curricular design as well as the identification of human resources, physical, academic, research and management features. Now, our aim was to test their individual and global quality through the point of view of their users: the students. The sample was 46 students who answered anonymously. Results: In the userÊs landscape, 13% and 8.7% of the Programs were graded A and B, according to quality. An important group (71.7%) graded C and 6.5% D. Users perception differs from Directors perception who evaluated more than half (57%) as A-B Quality, versus 21,7% in A-B Quality from the users point of view. Evaluation of individual quality indicators detected similar deficiencies as detected in the previous research. As members of the educational Committee of the Venezuelan Society of Gastroenterology, we propose curriculum standardization and advise to solve the deficient indicators of quality detected.