Risk factors for functional dyspepsia, erosive and non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Conflicting data exists regarding risk factors associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Functional Dyspepsia (FD). Few studies examine anxiety/depression in relation to GERD phenotypes (Esophagitis/EE, and Non-Erosive Reflux Disease/NERD), FD, and Rome-IV syndromes. Our aim was to evaluate the association between epidemiological factors and comorbidities with GERD phenotypes, FD, and Rome-IV syndromes, as well as their relationship with anxiety/depression. METHODS: 338 subjects were selected from 357 patients referred to three tertiary-centers for endoscopic evaluation. Every subject was interviewed individually to administer three validated questionnaires: GERD-Q, Rome-IV and HADS. RESULTS: 45/338 patients were controls, 198/58.6% classified as GERD, 81/24.0% EE (49/14.5% symptomatic, and 32/9.5% asymptomatic), 117/34.6% NERD, 176/52.1% FD (43/12.7% epigastric pain syndrome, 36/10.7% postprandial distress syndrome, and 97/28.7% overlapping syndrome). 81 patients were mixed GERD-FD. Multivariate analysis found significant independent associations: age in NERD and FD; sex in EE, asymptomatic EE and FD; body mass index in NERD and FD; alcohol in EE; anxiety/depression in FD; use of calcium channel antagonists in EE; and inhalers in FD. We compared controls vs different groups/subgroups finding significantly more anxiety in NERD, FD, all Rome-IV syndromes, and mixed GERD-FD; more depression in FD, overlapping syndrome, and mixed GERD-FD; and higher levels of anxiety+depression in NERD, FD, overlapping syndrome, and mixed GERD-FD. CONCLUSIONS: NERD and FD share demographic and psychopathological risk factors which suggests that they may form part of the same pathophysiological spectrum. Regarding NERD anxiety was predominant, and in FD anxiety+depression, suggesting that both processes may require complementary psychological therapy.

Ex vivo evaluation of adhesive strength and barrier effect of a novel treatment for esophagitis.

AIM: To investigate the mucoadhesive strength and barrier effect of Esophacare® (Atika Pharma SL, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) in an ex vivo model of gastro-oesophageal reflux. METHODS: An ex vivo evaluation through the Falling Liquide Film Technique with porcine esophagi was performed, compared to a positive control (Ziverel®; Norgine, Amsterdam), after different washing periods with saline, acidified saline (pH 1.2) and acidified saline with pepsin (2000U/mL). RESULTS: The adhesive mean strength on the oesophageal mucosa of Esophacare was 94.7 (6.0)%, compared to 27.6 (19.1)% of the positive control (p<0.05). These results were homogeneous across the different washes and throughout the tissue. The area covered by 1mL of Esophacare, and its respective persistence after washing was also assessed, yielding a mean global persistence of 74.29 (19.7)% vs. 18.9 (12.3)% for the control (p<0.05). In addition, after 30min exposure to acidified saline with pepsin, Esophacare shows a protective effect on the oesophageal mucosa, detectable histologically: preserved integrity and structure of the apical layers was observed, as well as reduced permeability to the washing solution. CONCLUSIONS: Esophacare shows an adhesive strength close to 100%, irrespective of the washing solution applied or the oesophageal region studied. Histologically, it reduces the abrasive effects of the acidic solution on the oesophageal epithelium, reducing permeability to the washing solution. The results in this ex vivo model of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) support its therapeutic potential.

Good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. An expert review from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología.

INTRODUCTION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very prevalent in the general population, with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, requiring accurate diagnosis and treatment. AIM: The aim of this expert review is to establish good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and personalized treatment of GERD. METHODS: The good clinical practice recommendations were produced by a group of experts in GERD, members of the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG), after carrying out an extensive review of the published literature and discussing each recommendation at a face-to-face meeting. This document does not aim to be a clinical practice guideline with the methodology such a document requires. RESULTS: Fifteen experts on GERD formulated 27 good clinical practice recommendations for recognizing the symptoms and complications of GERD, the rational use of diagnostic tests and medical treatment, the identification and management of refractory GERD, the overlap with functional disorders, endoscopic and surgical treatment, and GERD in the pregnant woman, older adult, and the obese patient. CONCLUSIONS: An accurate diagnosis of GERD is currently possible, enabling the prescription of a personalized treatment in patients with this condition. The goal of the good clinical practice recommendations by the group of experts from the AMG presented in this document is to aid both the general practitioner and specialist in the process of accurate diagnosis and treatment, in the patient with GERD.

Endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

The endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has evolved significantly in the past 20 years. Current practices include devices specifically designed for GERD. Newer techniques aim to use less extra equipment, to be less costly, and to use accessories readily available in endoscopy units, as well as using standard endoscopes to apply such techniques. It is of utmost importance to properly select the patients for endoscopic therapy, and it should be done in a multidisciplinary approach.

El tratamiento endoscópico de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) ha evolucionado significativamente en los últimos 20 años. Las prácticas actuales incluyen dispositivos diseñados específicamente para la ERGE. Las técnicas más nuevas tienen como objetivo utilizar menos equipos adicionales, ser menos costosos y utilizar accesorios fácilmente disponibles en las unidades de endoscopia, así como utilizar endoscopios estándar para aplicar dichas técnicas. Es de suma importancia seleccionar adecuadamente a los pacientes para la terapia endoscópica, y debe hacerse en un enfoque multidisciplinario.

Fenotipos de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico: una visión basada en su fisiopatología.

The advancement of knowledge in pathophysiology and underlying etiologies of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has allowed the development of the concept of disease beyond the acidity of reflux. The variability in the symptom presentation and the response to treatment cannot be attributed only to reflux composition, since esophageal factors, such as structural, mechanical, biochemical, and physiological aspects, play an important role. The proposed personalized approach to GERD uses a stepwise approach that optimizes performance and phenotypic outcome while minimizing invasiveness, risk, and cost. Throughout the staggered approach to determine the GERD phenotype, clinicians may choose to stop further testing and continue treatment if available information identifies a different GERD phenotype. Since not all phenotypes GERD are the same and not all treatments are appropriate for all patients, therapeutic strategies must be personalized according to their phenotype.

El avance del conocimiento sobre la fisiopatología y la etiología subyacentes a la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) ha permitido que el desarrollo de esta se extienda más allá de la acidez del reflujo. La variabilidad en la presentación de los síntomas y la respuesta al tratamiento no se puede atribuir solo a la composición del reflujo, ya que factores esofágicos, como aspectos estructurales, mecánicos, bioquímicos y fisiológicos, desempeñan un papel importante. El enfoque personalizado propuesto para la ERGE utiliza un método gradual que optimiza el rendimiento y el resultado fenotípico, y minimiza la invasividad, el riesgo y el costo. A lo largo del método escalonado para determinar el fenotipo de la ERGE, los médicos pueden optar por detener las pruebas adicionales y continuar con el tratamiento si la información disponible identifica un fenotipo de ERGE distinto. Dado que la ERGE no es la misma y no todos los tratamientos disponibles para controlarla son apropiados para todos los pacientes, las estrategias terapéuticas deben personalizarse de acuerdo con su fenotipo.

Gastroesophageal reflux management after vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

VSG is the most used surgical procedure in the world. Among the main complications linked to this procedure is GERD. It is apparent that endoscopic control protocols should be undertaken in all patients recovering from a VSG procedure. This is particularly key when taking into account the large number of patients suffering from GERD that show no symptoms, a situation that in many cases leads to severe esophagitis or even adenocarcinoma. Once the pertinent diagnostic tests have been carried out, the specialist should seek a conservative medical treatment including PPI. In the event that this treatment should fail, the next step to be considered should be a surgical procedure. In this case, the ideal procedure would be a reconversion to gastric bypass due to its low-risk and its results. There are other alternatives such as the Stretta, Linx or ARMS procedures; however, further research is necessary to prove their reliability.

Gastroesophageal reflux after sleeve gastrectomy: The dimension of the problem.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and effective bariatric surgery in terms of weight loss and longterm improvement or resolution of comorbidities. However, its achilles heel is the possible association with the development with the novo and/or worsening of pre-existing gastroesophageal reflux disease. The anatomical and mechanical changes that this technique induces in the esophagogastric junction, support or contradict this hypothesis. Questions such as «what is the natural history of gastroesophageal reflux in the patient undergoing gastric sleeve surgery?¼, «how many patients after vertical gastrectomy will develop gastroesophageal reflux?¼ and «how many patients will worsen their previous reflux after this technique?¼ are intended to be addressed in the present article.

Study of gastroesophageal reflux. Interpretation of functional tests in the obese patient.

Overweight and obesity are a public health problem and in 1997 obesity was recognized as a global epidemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Overweight and obesity affect almost 60% of adults and one in three children in Europe according to the most recent WHO report. Objectively, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as the presence of characteristic esophageal mucosal damage assessed by endoscopy and/or the demonstra-tion of pathological acid exposure by reflux monitoring studies. The prevalence of GERD is increased in obese patients In overweight and obese patients, the clinical symptoms of GERD are especially present in the supine position and this correlates with more frequent episodes of nocturnal reflux in the 24-h pH monitoring, there is also an increase in the number of refluxes with content acid. In the population with symptoms, digestive endoscopy detects data of erosive esophagitis in 50% of patients, while 24-h pH-impedanciometry diagnoses 92% of patients with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) The presence of persistent GERD in the mucosa affects esophageal motility and patients may develop ineffective esophageal motility-type disorders, so we will review the interpre-tation of the functional tests that determine motility, which is esophageal manometry, and those that determine reflux gastroesophageal, acid and non-acid, which is the pH measure-ment with or without 24-h impedanciometry.

The Mexican consensus on non-cardiac chest pain. / Consenso mexicano sobre dolor torácico no cardiaco.

INTRODUCTION: Non-cardiac chest pain is defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by retrosternal pain similar to that of angina pectoris, but of non-cardiac origin and produced by esophageal, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, or psychiatric diseases. AIM: To present a consensus review based on evidence regarding the definition, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of non-cardiac chest pain, as well as the therapeutic options for those patients. METHODS: Three general coordinators carried out a literature review of all articles published in English and Spanish on the theme and formulated 38 initial statements, dividing them into 3 main categories: (i)definitions, epidemiology, and pathophysiology; (ii)diagnosis, and (iii)treatment. The statements underwent 3rounds of voting, utilizing the Delphi system. The final statements were those that reached >75% agreement, and they were rated utilizing the GRADE system. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The final consensus included 29 statements. All patients presenting with chest pain should initially be evaluated by a cardiologist. The most common cause of non-cardiac chest pain is gastroesophageal reflux disease. If there are no alarm symptoms, the initial approach should be a therapeutic trial with a proton pump inhibitor for 2-4weeks. If dysphagia or alarm symptoms are present, endoscopy is recommended. High-resolution manometry is the best method for ruling out spastic motor disorders and achalasia and pH monitoring aids in demonstrating abnormal esophageal acid exposure. Treatment should be directed at the pathophysiologic mechanism. It can include proton pump inhibitors, neuromodulators and/or smooth muscle relaxants, psychologic intervention and/or cognitive therapy, and occasionally surgery or endoscopic therapy.

In search of the grail: A race for acid suppression. / La búsqueda del Grial: una carrera por la supresión ácida.

Proton pump inhibitors are the reference standards for the treatment of acid-related diseases. Acid suppression in gastroesophageal reflux disease is associated with a high rate of mucosal cicatrization, but symptom response differs among endoscopic phenotypes. Extraesophageal manifestations have a good clinical response in patients that present with abnormal acid exposure (diagnostic test) in the esophagus. Proton pump inhibitors have shown their effectiveness for reducing symptom intensity in nighttime reflux and sleep disorders, improving quality of life and work productivity. That can sometimes be achieved through dose modifications by splitting or increasing the dose, or through galenic formulation. Proton pump inhibitors are not exempt from controversial aspects related to associated adverse events. Technological development is directed at improving proton pump inhibitor performance through increasing the half-life, maximum concentration, and area under the curve of the plasma concentrations through galenic formulation, as well as creating safer and more tolerable drugs. The present review is focused on the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic properties, and technological advances for increasing the pharmacologic performance of a proton pump inhibitor.

Eficacia diagnóstica de la impedancia basal nocturna media, un nuevo parámetro para el estudio de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico / Diagnostic efficacy of mean nocturnal basal impedance, a new parameter for the study of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Resumen Introducción y objetivos: el análisis de la impedancia basal nocturna media (IBNM) se ha propuesto para incrementar la precisión diagnóstica de enfermedad por reflujo erosiva (ERGE). Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de esta prueba en un grupo de pacientes con ERGE conocida. Materiales y métodos: incluimos 123 individuos (58 con ERGE y 65 controles sanos) a quienes se les realizó pH-impedanciometría (pH-IMM) consecutiva entre enero de 2015 y junio de 2017. Todos los pacientes tenían endoscopia tomada en los 6 meses previos. El tiempo de exposición ácida (TEA) anormal (>4,2%) y la presencia de pirosis y/o regurgitación en los 6 meses previos fueron los criterios para el diagnóstico de ERGE. Se encontraron 58 pacientes con ERGE, 24 con enfermedad por reflujo erosiva (ERE) y 34 con enfermedad por reflujo no erosiva (ERNE). Los 65 restantes fueron controles sanos (CS) asintomáticos con EGD y pH-IMM normales. Todos los trazos de pH-IMM se reanalizaron para medir la IBNM por un segundo observador que desconocía los datos previos. El análisis estadístico incluyó pruebas múltiples de Bonferroni para comparar los grupos; regresión lineal para variables continuas; y análisis de curva ROC para buscar valor IBNM con mayor rendimiento. Para los diferentes parámetros de precisión diagnóstica se utilizó el punto de corte de la IBNM. Se usó significancia estadística con valor de p <0,01 e intervalos de confianza de 95% (IC 95%) para todos los cálculos. Resultados: los pacientes con ERE y ERNE presentaron valores de IBNM significativamente más bajos que el grupo control (p <0,01). Se observó una correlación negativa entre los valores de la IBNM y TEA (r = 0,59; p = <0,001), y también entre la IBNM y número de eventos de reflujo (r = 0,37; p = <0,001). En el análisis de curva ROC, el área bajo la curva de la IBNM fue de 0,941 (IC 95%: 0,894-0,987) y el punto de corte con mayor eficiencia 1102 ohms (sensibilidad 98,5%; especificidad 84,5%). Usando este valor (<1,102), la IBNM tuvo una sensibilidad para detectar ERGE de 91% (ERNE 86% y ERE 100%) y una especificidad de 98%. Conclusión: la IBNM tiene alta sensibilidad y especificidad para el diagnóstico de la ERGE. Adicionar esta prueba al análisis convencional de la pH-impedancia y a los métodos actuales de estudio de la ERGE puede mejorar significativamente nuestra capacidad para diagnosticar la enfermedad.

Abstract Introduction and Objectives: Analysis of nocturnal basal impedance (IBNM) has been proposed as a way to increase accuracy of GERD diagnosis. Our objective was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of this test in a group of patients known to have GERD. Materials and methods: We included 123 individuals: 58 with GERD and 65 healthy controls. They underwent consecutive pH-impedance monitoring between January 2015 and June 2017. All had undergone endoscopy in the 6 months prior to testing. Criteria used for diagnosis of GERD were abnormal acid exposure time (AET > 4.2%), pyrosis and/or regurgitation in the previous 6 months. We found 58 patients with GERD of whom 24 had erosive reflux disease (ERE) and 34 had non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). The remaining 65 were asymptomatic healthy controls with normal endoscopic results and pH impedance monitoring. A second observer who did not know the previous data measurements analyzed all pH impedance monitoring traces for IBMN. Statistical analysis included multiple Bonferroni tests for comparison between groups, linear regression for continuous variables, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to find high performance IBNM values. The IBNM cutoff point was used for diagnostic precision parameters. Statistical significance was set at p <0.01, and 95% confidence intervals were used for all calculations. Results: IBNM measures were significantly lower for patients with ERE and NERD than for the control group (p <0.01). A negative correlation was observed between IBNM and acid exposure time values ​​(r = 0.59, p = <0.001) and also between IBNM and number of reflux events (r = 0.37, p = <0.001). ROC curve analysis found that the area under the curve for IBNM was 0.941 (95% CI: 0.894-0.987), and the cutoff point with the highest efficiency was 1,102 ohms (sensitivity 98.5%, specificity 84.5%). Using this value (<1.102), the IBNM had a sensitivity for detecting GERD of 91% (NERD 86% and ERE 100%) and a specificity of 98%. Conclusion: IBNM has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of GERD. Addition of this test to conventional pH-impedance analysis and current methods for studying GERD can significantly improve our ability to diagnose this disease.

Reflujo gastroesofágico y esofagitis erosiva / GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX AND EROSIVE ESOPHAGITIS

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de esofagitis erosiva asociada a la sintomatología de reflujo gastroesofágico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio prospectivo, descriptivo, transversal. Con una población de 153 pacientes con síntomas de enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico. La muestra se conformó con los pacientes en los que se evidenció esofagitis erosiva durante la endoscopia digestiva superior, en el periodo comprendido entre noviembre y diciembre 2012 en el Hospital Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño, Caracas Venezuela. Resultados: 45 pacientes (29,4%) presentaron esofagitis erosiva, siendo en su mayoría de sexo femenino y edad entre 35 a 65 años. No hubo relación de frecuencia y severidad de pirosis con esofagitis erosiva, tampoco en cuanto al IMC o tiempo de evolución de los síntomas. La relación entre la presencia de síntomas nocturnos y hernia hiatal si fue estadísticamente significativa (p=0,034). Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos son similares a las estadísticas conocidas a nivel mundial del porcentaje de esofagitis erosiva en pacientes con síntomas de ERGE. La mayoría de los pacientes se corresponden al sexo femenino, con un IMC normal y dentro del grupo adulto contemporáneo.

Objective: To determine the frequency of erosive esophagitis associated with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Methods: We performed a prospective, descriptive, transversal study. Our population were 153 patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, the sample comprises those patients whose erosive esophagitis was evident during upper endoscopy gastrointestinal in the period between November and December 2012 in the Hospital Dr. Miguel Perez Carreño, Caracas Venezuela. Results: 45 patients (29,4%) had erosive esophagitis, of these the majority were female and between 35-65 years old. No relationship was found between the frequency and severity of heartburn with erosive esophagitis. Niether with respect to BMI or duration of symptoms. The relationship between the presence of hiatal hernia and nocturnal symptoms was statistically significant (p=0,034). Conclusions: There is a relation between the results obtained and the known worldwide statistics on the percentage of patients with erosive GERD. The presence of hiatal hernia and nocturnal symptoms was significant. Most patients were female, with a normal BMI group and within the adult contemporary ages.

Evaluación intraoperatoria de la distensibilidad de la unión gastroesofágica en fundoplicatura antireflujo / Intraoperative assessment of the distensibility of the gastroesophageal junction in antireflux fundoplication

Introducción: La alteración de la distensibilidad de la unión gastro esofágica (UGE) es un factor etiológico para la enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico. El incremento de la distensibilidad permite el reflujo de contenido gástrico incrementa las relajaciones transitorias del esfínter, el número de reflujos y la exposición al ácido. Ha sido descrito que la UGE puede ser calibrada en el acto operatorio utilizando sonda balón, que permite una medida en tiempo real de la capacidad, diámetro y presión de la UGE. Objetivos: evaluar la utilidad de la medida de la distensibilidad de la UGE como predictor de éxito en fundoplicatura laparoscópica (FPL) mediante el uso de la sonda Endoflip ® (Crospon) utilizada intra operatoriamente en pacientes sometidos a FPL como tratamiento anti reflujo practicando mediciones antes y después de la plicatura. Materiales y métodos: La FP se realizó según técnica de Toupet. Se tomaron medidas de distensión del balón con llenado de 40 ml de solución salina 0,2% a) después de la inducción de la anestesia b) después de la reparación de la crura y c) al finalizar el arropado. Los datos fueron analizados por t students. P<0,05 fue considerado significativo. Resultados: Fueron evaluados 9 pacientes, el promedio de edad fue de 45,2; en todos los pacientes existía indicación de cirugía, todos presentaban hernia hiatal. La FPL redujo el promedio de distensibilidad de la UGE de 52,8 mm2/mmHg a 29,8 mm2/mmHg (p=0,0021, (43,5%). Conclusión: Este método permite tomar decisiones en cirugía de la UGE donde el valor objetivo de la distensibilidad puede definir el éxito de la cirugía y evitar eventos adversos post operatorios.

Introduction: The altered distensibility of the gastro esophageal junction (GEJ) is recognized as a primary pathophysiologic factor in the development of gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD). The increase in GEJ distensibility allows reflux of large volumes of gastric contents into the esophagus, increases transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter and increases the number of reflux and esophageal exposure to acid. Moreover, other pathologies with functional obstruction of the GEJ as achalasia have very little distensibility. Recently was reported that GEJ can be calibrated during surgery using balloon catheter, allowing real-time measurement of capacity, diameter and GEJ pressure during surgery. Objectives: To review the usefulness of the measurement of the distensibility of the GEJ as a predictor of success in laparoscopic fundoplication (LP) using Endoflip® commercial catheter, used intra-operatively in patients undergoing LP anti reflux surgery practicing measurements before and after plication. Material and Methods: The Toupet Fundoplication (TFP) was performed under standard technique, balloon distension measurements were taken, filling with 40 ml of 0.2% saline solution as specified by the manufacturer: a) after induction of anesthesia and once the pneumo peritoneum was stabilized b) After repairing the crura of the diaphragm and c) after the wrapping. Data was analyzed by students t P <0.05 and was considered significant. Results: A total of 9 patients (6 men), age average was 45.2 (32-72), all patients had previous functional and endoscopic studies and surgical indication existed, they all had a diagnosis of hiatal hernia, they all signed informed consent. No patient had postoperative complications. The Toupet Fundoplication (TFP) significantly reduced average GEJ distensibility to 40 ml of 52.8 to 29.8 mm2/mmHg mm2/mmHg (p = 0.0021, which represents a reduction of 43.5%). Conclusion: This method allows the gastro surgical team to make decisions on GEJ surgery in which the target value of distensibility can define the success of the surgery and avoid postoperative adverse events.

Esófago de Barrett / Barrett’s esophagus

El esófago de Barrett (EB) es una condición adquirida cuyo resultado es una lesión grave de la mucosa esofágica en la cual, el epitelio escamoso esofágico normal es reemplazado por un epitelio columnar con células caliciformes denominado "metaplasia intestinal especializada" (MIE), y cuya importancia radica en la posible evolución hacia el adenocarcinoma esofágico. Es importante hacer énfasis en que, para poder definir el EB, la metaplasia columnar que sustituye al epitelio escamoso esofágico debe ser de tipo intestinal, pura o combinada con otros patrones histológicos, y no exclusivamente de tipo oxíntico o fúndico, como anteriormente se consideraba, ya que la metaplasia intestinal es la que concede un riesgo oncogénico y posee, por lo tanto, potencial preneoplásico, no siendo así con las restantes. Por consiguiente, la importancia clínica del EB radica en su potencial preneoplásico y en el riesgo de transformación cancerosa (adenocarcinoma esofágico) que se ha estimado cuarenta veces mayor que en la población general. Es el resultado de una enfermedad crónica de reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) y representa la etapa final de la evolución natural de esta enfermedad

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is an acquired condition that results in serious esophageal mucosal injury in which the normal esophageal squamous epithelium is replaced by columnar epithelium with goblet cells called "specialized intestinal metaplasia" (SIM), its significance lies in the possible evolution towards esophageal adenocarcinoma. It is important to emphasize that, in order to define BE, columnar metaplasia replacing the esophageal squamous epithelium must be of intestinal type only, or combined with other histological patterns, and not exclusively of a gastric type as previously thought, as is SIM that provides an oncogenic risk and has, therefore, pre-neoplastic potential. Therefore, the clinical significance of BE is its preneoplastic potential and the risk of cancerous transformation (esophageal adenocarcinoma) that has been estimated to be forty times greater than in the general population. BE is the result of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and represents the final stage of the natural history of this disease

Utilidad del cuestionario GERDQ para diagnóstico de enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico en personal de centro médico privado en Caracas / Purpose of the GERDQ questionnaire for the diagnosis of GERD in a private center in Caracas

La enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) es una condición crónica caracterizada por el reflujo del contenido gástrico hacia el esófago, ocasionando síntomas molestos y complicaciones. Recientemente, se ha propuesto un cuestionario diagnóstico de reflujo gastroesofágico (GERDQ) con una sensibilidad del 82% y especificidad 84%, respectivamente. Determinar la utilidad del GERDQ en diagnóstico de enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico en un centro de salud privado de cuarto nivel. Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, basado en la aplicación del cuestionario GERDQ a una población de 335 trabajadores personal de salud y administrativo de un centro de salud privado de cuarto nivel, de febrero a abril 2012. El registro de datos y tratamiento estadístico se hizo a través SPSS 7.5.2S para Windows. 335 individuos respondieron el cuestionario, edades comprendidas entre 18 y 60 años, se excluyeron 35, el 67% fue de género femenino, en 55 individuos (18,66%) la probalidad de ERGE fue de 0%, en 156 (52,00%) fue de 50%, en 65 (21,66%) fue de 79%, y 24 individuos (8,00%), fue 89% de probabilidad de ERGE. El GERDQ es una herramienta útil y sencilla para determinar la probabilidad diagnóstica de ERGE

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when reflux content from the stomach is the cause of bothersome symptoms and/or complications. It can be diagnosed based on symptoms through a GERD questionnaire (GERDQ), with a reported sensibility of 82% and specificity of 84%. To determine the prevalence of GERD in a private medical center in Caracas from February to April, 2012. Descriptive, cross sectional study, based on the application of a validated questionnaire. Population was represented by the health care and administrative personnel of health care center in Caracas. 335 subjects completed the questionnaire. Ages ranged from 18 to 60 years, 35 subjects were excluded. 67% were female. In 56 (18,66%) subjects, GERD probability was 0%, in 156 (52,00%), probability was 50%, in 65 (21,66%) probability was 79% and in 24 (8,00%) subjects, probability was 89%. The GERDQ is a useful and simple tool to determine the diagnostic probability of ERGE

Esofagitis de cambios mínimos y su relación con los bucles capilares papilares intraepiteliales del esófago, en pacientes con enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico, usando endoscopios con flexible spectral imaging color enhancement / Minimal change esophagitis and its relation with esophageal intra papillary epithelial capillary loops in patients with gerd using flexible spectral imaging color enhancement endoscopes

La esofagitis de reflujo, es una entidad clínica que forma parte de la enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE). A pesar que la endoscopia, tiene una excelente especificidad en 90% - 95%, su sensibilidad es sólo del 50%. Más del 50% de los pacientes con síntomas de ERGE han sido diagnosticados como enfermedad por reflujo no erosivo, (ERNE). El análisis más cuidadoso de los estudios publicados, reporta que la mayoría de los pacientes con ERNE tenían pequeños cambios en la mucosa del esófago distal, específicamente proximal a la línea Z; introduciéndose con estos hallazgos el término de esofagitis de cambios mínimos. Pero también cambios característicos de los bucles capilares papilares intraepiteliales (BCPIE) han sido demostrados, en pacientes con esofagitis de cambios mínimos por ERGE. Evaluar y comparar en pacientes con el diagnóstico de ERNE y en pacientes controles, la alteración morfológica de BCPIE en el esófago distal, con la intención de diagnosticar esofagitis de cambios mínimos, utilizando endoscopios de alta resolución con magnificación, cromoscopia electrónica e imagen espectral FICE. Estudio de corte transversal, prospectivo, con un muestreo no probabilístico, de tipo intencional y grupo control, realizado con pacientes que asistieron a la consulta ambulatoria del servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario de Caracas y de la Clínica El Ávila, desde mayo de 2007 a noviembre de 2011. De 156 pacientes con diagnóstico de ERNE y 100 pacientes de grupo control. Grupo control: 100 pacientes, 3 pacientes con BCPIE tipo II (1%). Grupo ERNE 156 pacientes, 5 tenían un patrón: Tipo I considerado normal y 151 tenían un patrón de los BCPIE alterado: 146 con patrón de BCPIE Tipo II (96,68%), sensibilidad 97%, especificidad 97%; 5 (3,31%), tenían un patrón de BCPIE Tipo III sensibilidad 5% y especificidad 0%. Los cambios anatómicos encontrados en los BCPIE de la mucosa del esófago, cuando se hace una endoscopia digestiva...

Reflux esophagitis is a clinical entity that is part of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Although endoscopy has an excellent specificity of 90% -95%, its sensitivity is only 50%. Over 50% of patients with symptoms of GERD have been diagnosed as non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). More careful analysis of the published studies reported that most NERD patients had minor changes in the distal esophageal mucosa, specifically proximal to the Z line; introducing with these findings the term of Minimal Change Esophagitis. Also changes characteristic of Intra Papillary Epithelial Capillary Loops (BCPIE) have been demonstrated in patients with Minimal Change Esophagitis by GERD. To evaluate and compare patients with the diagnosis of NERD and controls, BCPIE morphological alteration in the distal esophagus, with the intention of diagnosing minimal change esophagitis, using high-resolution magnification endoscopes, electronic and spectral imaging chromoscopy FICE. Prospective, cross-sectional study with a non-probability sampling, intentional kind and control group, of patients attending the outpatient clinic of the Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Caracas and of Avila Clinic, from May 2007 to November 2011. Of 156 patients diagnosed with NERD and 100 patients in the control group. Control group: 100 patients, 3 patients with type II BCPIE (1%). NERD group 156 patients, 5 had a pattern: Type I considered normal and 151 had a pattern of altered BCPIE: 146 BCPIE with a Type II pattern (96, 68%), sensitivity 97%, specificity 97%; 5 (3, 31%), had BCPIE with a Type III pattern Sensitivity 5% and Specificity 0%. The anatomical changes found in BCPIE at the esophageal mucosa, when an endoscopy is performed in patients with GERD, allow the diagnosis of Minimal Change Esophagitis. The BCPIE type II pattern is the most frequently found in Minimal Change Esophagitis. The indication of Endoscopy with high definition magnification....

Erosiones dentales en pacientes con diagnóstico de enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico en el Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza / Dental erosions in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease in national Hospital Arzobispo Loayza

INTRODUCCIÓN: La ERGE es considerada como la causa de morbilidad digestiva más frecuente en la población, siendo la erosión dental una manifestación extra esofágica en la cavidad bucal. OBJETIVOS: determinar la asociación entre erosiones dentales y esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofagico de acuerdo al grado de esofagitis, grado de erosion dental, sexo y edad. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, observacional y correlacional en 150 pacientes con ERGE diagnosticados endoscópicamente como esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofágico (graduados según clasificación de Los Angeles) en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Arzobispo Loayza (2011-2012). Posterior a la endoscopia los pacientes fueron sometidos a una evaluación clínica dental a fin de investigar la presencia de erosiones dentales previa firma de consentimiento informado. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvo una prevalencia de 30% (45 pacientes) con erosiones dentales y ERGE, el 100% manifestó acidez en la boca y regurgitación ácida. Respecto al sexo, el femenino presentó un promedio de 2.35 erosiones en el sector anterior en la superficie palatina en grado 1 mientras que en el sexo masculino se encontró un promedio de 1.86 erosiones en el sector anterior de la superficie palatina en grado 2. De acuerdo a la edad se obtuvo un promedio de 3.50 erosiones en la superficie incisal grado 1 en el sector anterior en pacientes mayores de 70 años seguida de un promedio de 3.11 erosiones en la superficie palatina grado 1 en pacientes de 20 a 30 años. De acuerdo al total de superficies evaluadas el grupo etario comprendido entre 30 y 40 años conforman la mayoría de población afectada. Respecto al grado de esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofágico se encontró en el grupo de Esofagitis por reflujo Los Ángeles "D" un promedio de 6.0 erosiones en el sector anterior en la superficie palatina grado 2 y en el sector anterior en la superficie palatina grado 1 y en el grupo de pacientes con esofagitis Los Angeles "A" y "B" con promedios respectivos de 2.3 y 2.2 y en el sector anterior en la superficie incisal Grado 1. y esofagitis Los Angeles "D". Existe asociación significativa (p=0.002) entre el grado de esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofágico y grado de erosión dental. CONCLUSIONES: en el presente estudio se ha encontrado clara asociación entre el grado de las erosiones dentarias y el grado esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofágico. Las erosiones dentarias son más frecuentes en varones mayores de 70 años, en quienes las erosiones dentales se dieron en el sector anterior en la superficie incisal grado 1. Las superficies más erosionadas se encontraron en mujeres en el sector anterior en la superficie palatina grado 1. En pacientes con esofagitis por reflujo gastroesofágico Los Ángeles "A"," B" y "C" se observa mayor número de piezas dentarias erosionadas sea de grado 1 ó 2. Los síntomas: acidez en la boca y regurgitaciones ácidas que llegan hasta la boca son un indicador importante para la presencia de erosiones dentarias en pacientes con ERGE. La superficie palatina de las piezas antero superiores fueron las que tuvieron mayor presencia de erosiones en pacientes con ERGE.

INTRODUCTION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is considered as one of the most common digestive disease in the population, being the dental erosion a manifestation extra-esophageal in the oral cavity. OBJETIVES: investigate asociation between erosion and GERD according to esophagitis grade, erosion grade, sex and age. MATERIAL AND METHODS: descriptive, observational, and correlational study in 150 patients with endoscopically diagnosed GERD, grades of esophagitis according to the classification of Los Angeles, in the Department of Gastroenterology at Arzobispo Loayza Hospital (20112012). Patients after the procedure underwent a dental evaluation to investigate the presence of dental erosion by eroding tooth surface. RESULTS: We obtained a prevalence of 30% (45) patients with GERD and dental erosions of which 100% had symptoms consistent with acidity in the mouth and acid regurgitation. According to the sex the female sex showed an average of 2.35 erosions on the palatal surface in grade 1 and in male’s an average of 1.86 erosions on the palatal surface in grade 2. According to the age the highest average was 3.50 in the incisal erosion on the surface grade 1 in the anterior in patients older than 70 years followed by an average of 3.11 incisal erosion on the surface grade 1 in patients 20 to 30 years. According to the total areas assessed (by age) patients between 30 and 40 years were the most affected population. According to degree of esophagitis the follows were: an average of 6.0 erosions in the anterior palatal surface in grade 2 with esophagitis Los Angeles "D"; in the anterior palatal surface in Grade 1 with esophagitis Los Angeles "A" and "B" with respective averages of 2.3 and 2.2 and in the anterior incisal surface in Grade 1 with esophagitis Los Angeles "D". According to the Chi2 test exists a significant association (p = 0.002) between the degree of esophagitis and degree of dental erosion. CONCLUSIONS: A significant association exists between GERD and dental erosions. The presence and degree of dental erosion as predominant age occurred in patients older than 70 years in the previous Grade 1 incisal surface. According to the sex; eroded surface was predominant in females in the anterior sector palatal surface in grade 1.According to the degree of gastroesophageal reflux disease (esophagitis) is determined that the highest number of erosions was presented at the anterior sector on the palatal surface grade 2 with esophagitis Los Angeles "D". The symptoms compatible with heartburn and acid regurgitation in to the mouth that reaches to the oral cavity is an important indicator for the presence of dental erosions in patients with GERD. The tooth surface with the highest presence of dental erosions in patients with GERD was the palatal surface of anterior teeth.

Estudio por manometría esofágica de pacientes con enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico, en Cuba / Esophagel manometry study of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, in Cuba

La Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesofágico es el resultado de varias situaciones, con un desequilibrio entre los factores defensivos y la integridad de la barrera antirreflujo. El diagnóstico se realiza por los elementos clínicos, la endoscopia, la histología y la pHmetría esofágica. La Manometría Esofágica nos permite co- nocer el estado de la barrera antirreflujo y los trastornos motores se asocian a estos pacientes, que facilitan el desarrollo de la enfermedad. En este trabajo se estudian las características de los factores de motilidad, a través de la manometría esofágica, en un grupo de pacientes, con Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroeso fágico.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is the result of several situations, with an imbalance between the defensive factors, and the integrity of the antireflux barrier. Diagnosis is made by clinical, endoscopy, histology and esophageal pHmetry. Esophageal manometry allows us to understand the behavior of this barrier and the disease´s development. In this paper, we study the charactequeristics of motility factors, by esophageal manometry, in a group of patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

Primer consenso venezolanode enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico / Venezuelan consensus on gastroesophageal reflux diseases

El Consenso Venezolano de Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesófágico (ERGE) se realizó con el objeto de proveer guías para mejorar la identificación, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de este trastorno en el país. Los coordinadores establecieron las líneas de consenso, basado en una revisión sistemática de la literatura médica de los últimos 15 años a partir de 1995. Participaron 55 miembros con el aval de sus respectivas cátedras y sociedades locales de gastroenterología. Éstos revisaron y presentaron los temas con sus niveles de evidencia y grados de recomendación para discutirlos y votarlos en una reunión plenaria. Tras un informe final de los miembros, los coordinadores prepararon las declaraciones finales. El consenso concluyó que la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico tiene una prevalencia estimada del 11,54% en Venezuela, a predominio del sexo femenino (Grado B). El diagnóstico es fundamentalmente clínico, basado en la presencia de síntomas típicos y/o atípicos, e incluso síntomas de alarma que sugieren alguna complicación (Grado B). La endoscopia es importante en la investigación de la presencia de esofagitis de reflujo y laringitis de reflujo (Grado B). Las otras pruebas diagnósticas como lo son la pHmetría esofágica de 24 horas con o sin impedancia intraluminal multicanal son importantes en los pacientes que no tienen esofagitis, tienen síntomas atípicos o cuando hay falla en la respuesta al tratamiento médico (Grado B). La radiología, manometría esofágica y el ultrasonido endoscópico no están indicados en el diagnóstico de la ERGE (Grado B). El objetivo del tratamiento es reducir la exposición ácida en el esófago y con esto: aliviar los síntomas, cicatrizar las lesiones en la mucosa esofágica, prevenir la recurrencia y las complicaciones. Los inhibidores de bomba de protones deberían ser la primera opción en el tratamiento en el síndrome de ERGE y en la esofagitis por reflujo tanto en la fase aguda como durante el mantenimiento...

The Venezuelan Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Consensus was carried out in order to provide guidelines to improve the identification, diagnosis and treatment of this illness in Venezuela.  The coordinators established the consensuslines, based on a systematic revision of the medical literature of the last 15 years starting from 1995. 55 physicians participated with the support of their respective medical schools and local societies. They revised and presented the topics with their respective evidence levels and recommendation grades to discuss and vote them in a plenary meeting. After a final report of the members, the coordinators prepared the definitive declarations. The consensus concluded that GERD prevalence in Venezuela is 11,54%, higher in women than men (Grade B). The diagnosis is mainly clinical, based on the presence of typical and/or atypical symptoms and alarm symptoms that may suggest the presence of complications (Grade B). Endoscopy is important when reflux esophagitis and laryngitis are present (Grade B). Other diagnostic tests as ambulatory 24 hours pH monitoring with or without multichannel intraluminal impedance are important in patients without esophagitis, with atypical symptoms or when there is flaw in the answer to the medical treatment (Grade B). Radiology, esophageal manometry and endoscopic ultrasonography are not indicated in the diagnosis of GERD (Grade B). The objective of the treatment is to reduce the presence of acid in the esophagus and consequently: alleviate the symptoms and heal lesions in the esophagus mucosa to prevent recurrence and complications. Proton pump inhibitors should be the first option drug in the treatment of GERD syndrome andin esophagitis during the acute and the maintenance phase using standard or half dose (Grade A). So far, pokinetics are drugs with a limited use in GERD patients; they stimulate the esophagus/gastric motility...

Laringitis crónica asociada a reflujo gastroesofágico: La perspectiva del gastroenterólogo / Reflux laryngitis: a Gastroenterologist's perspective

La enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) es una causa frecuente de consulta en gastroenterología. La ERGE tiene manifestaciones digestivas y extradigestivas. Las manifestaciones extradigestivas que con mayor frecuencia se asocian a ERGE son la tos crónica, laringitis crónica y dolor torácico. La laringitis crónica, definida como la inflamación de la laringe que persiste por más de unas semanas, se asocia de manera frecuente a ERGE en la práctica clínica. Sin embargo, en varios estudios donde se utilizó la monitoría de pH esofágico como herramienta diagnóstica, no se encontró una clara asociación entre laringitis crónica y reflujo. Además, estudios en los que se manejaron inhibidores de bomba de protones en pacientes con sospecha de laringitis crónica por reflujo, mostraron una alta tasa de fracaso terapéutico, ya que en la gran mayoría de los casos, los síntomas persistían a pesar de una adecuada inhibición de la secreción ácida. Consideramos que aunque la ERGE puede ser la responsable de algunos episodios de laringitis crónica, no es la enfermedad que está asociada con mayor frecuencia, y en muchos de los casos en los que se ha descartado razonablemente la ERGE como responsable de los síntomas, deben investigarse de manera exhaustiva otras causas.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a frequent cause of consultations with gastroenterologists. Extra-digestive symptoms such as chronic coughing, laryngitis and chest pain are frequently associated with GERD. Chronic laryngitis is one of the symptoms most often associated with GERD, yet various studies which have used monitoring esophageal pH as a diagnostic tool have not found any clear association between chronic laryngitis and reflux. Moreover, studies which have treated patients suspected of having chronic laryngitis caused by reflux with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have had had rates of therapeutic failures. Symptoms continue to persist in these patients despite adequate inhibition of acid secretion. To date, no evidence exists of the association between chronic laryngitis and GERD, much less evidence of a causal relation. We consider that, although GERD may be responsible for some episodes of chronic laryngitis, it is not the illness most frequently associated with it, and in the many cases in which GERD has been reasonably ruled out, other potential causes must be investigated.