Necrosis esofágica aguda (esófago negro) asociado a neoplasias digestivas / Acute esophageal necrosis (black esophagus) associated with digestive neoplasms

INTRODUCCIÓN. La necrosis esofágica aguda es un síndrome raro que se caracteriza endoscópicamente por una apariencia negra circunferencial irregular o difusa de la mucosa esofágica intratorácica, la afectación es generalmente del esófago distal y la transición abrupta de mucosa normal en la unión gastroesofágica, con extensión proximal variable. CASOS. Se presentan dos casos con diferentes comorbiliades, presentación de signos y síntomas, antecedentes y tratamiento, teniendo en común el diagnóstico a través de endoscopía digestiva alta. RESULTADOS. Caso clínico 1: tratamiento clínico basado en hidratación, suspensión de vía oral, omeprazol intravenoso y sucralfato; mala evolución clínica caracterizada por: disfagia, intolerancia oral y recurrencia del sangrado digestivo alto, se realiza colocación de gastrostomía endoscópica. Caso clínico 2: esófago con mucosa con fibrina y parches de necrosis extensa, se realiza compensación tanto de foco infeccioso pulmonar como hidratación y nutrición, en estudios complementarios se observa masa colónica, con estudio histopatológico confirmatorio de adenocarcinoma de colon en estado avanzado. DISCUSIÓN. La esofagitis necrotizante aguda es una entidad inusual, de baja prevalencia e incidencia, asociada con estados de hipoperfusión sistémica y múltiples comorbilidades que favorezcan un sustrato isquémico. Al revisar los reportes de casos que hay en la literatura médica, los casos que reportamos se correlaciona con las características clínicas, epidemiológicas, endoscópicas y factores de riesgo causales de la enfermedad. La presentación clínica más frecuente es el sangrado digestivo alto, que se debe correlacionar con el hallazgo endoscópico clásico. Nuestro primer caso reportado termina con la colocación de una gastrostomía para poder alimentarse. CONCLUSIÓN. El pronóstico de la necrosis esofágica aguda es malo y se requiere un alto índice de sospecha clínica y conocimiento de esta infrecuente patología para un diagnóstico temprano y un manejo oportuno. Se requiere una evaluación por endoscopia digestiva alta. Es una causa de sangrado gastrointestinal que conlleva tasas altas de mortalidad, principalmente en adultos mayores frágiles. El reconocimiento temprano y la reanimación agresiva son los principios fundamentales para un mejor resultado de la enfermedad.

INTRODUCTION. Acute esophageal necrosis is a rare syndrome that is characterized endoscopically by an irregular or diffuse circumferential black appearance of the intrathoracic esophageal mucosa, the involvement is generally of the distal esophagus and the abrupt transition of normal mucosa at the gastroesophageal junction, with variable proximal extension. CASES. Two cases are presented with different comorbidities, presentation of signs and symptoms, history and treatment, having in common the diagnosis through upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. RESULTS. Clinical case 1: clinical treatment based on hydration, oral suspension, intravenous omeprazole and sucralfate; poor clinical evolution characterized by: dysphagia, oral intolerance and recurrence of upper digestive bleeding, endoscopic gastrostomy placement was performed. Clinical case 2: esophagus with mucosa with fibrin and patches of extensive necrosis, compensation of both the pulmonary infectious focus and hydration and nutrition is performed, in complementary studies a colonic mass is observed, with a confirmatory histopathological study of colon adenocarcinoma in an advanced state. DISCUSSION. Acute necrotizing esophagitis is an unusual entity, with low prevalence and incidence, associated with states of systemic hypoperfusion and multiple comorbidities that favor an ischemic substrate. When reviewing the case reports in the medical literature, the cases we report correlate with the clinical, epidemiological, endoscopic characteristics and causal risk factors of the disease. The most common clinical presentation is upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which must be correlated with the classic endoscopic finding. Our first reported case ends with the placement of a gastrostomy to be able to feed. CONCLUSION. The prognosis of acute esophageal necrosis is poor and a high index of clinical suspicion and knowledge of this rare pathology is required for early diagnosis and timely management. Evaluation by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is required. It is a cause of gastrointestinal bleeding that carries high mortality rates, mainly in frail older adults. Early recognition and aggressive resuscitation are the fundamental principles for a better outcome of the disease.

Connotation of distal bleeding based on modern pathophysiological mechanism and application of Huangtu Decoction for acute coronary syndrome complicated with acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage in critical care medicine / 中国中药杂志

Huangtu Decoction, first recorded in Essentials from the Golden Cabinet(Jin Kui Yao Lue) from ZHANG Zhong-jing in Han dynasty, is used to treat distal bleeding. It is mainly treated for the syndrome of failing to control blood with spleen-yang deficiency. The connotation of distal bleeding is more extensive, including not only upper gastrointestinal bleeding in the traditional sense such as peptic ulcer bleeding, gastrointestinal tumors, gastric mucosal lesions, vascular dysplasia, esophagogastric variceal bleeding, and pancreatic and biliary tract injury, but also other anorectal diseases such as part colon and rectal cancer swelling or polyps, hemorrhoids, and anal fissure and other parts of bleeding such as epistaxis, thrombocytopenia, functional uterine bleeding, threatened abortion, and unexplained hematuria. Distal bleeding also involves syndromes of failing to keep part deficient and cold fluids in interior, such as nocturia, enuresis, clear nose, sweating, cold tears, and leucorrhea, and excessive gastrointestinal bleeding caused by anti-plate and anticoagulant drugs, unexplained positive in the fecal occult blood test, and other modern clinical new problems. The indications of Huangtu Decoction include not only lower blood, defecation before blood, distant blood, hematemesis, epistaxis, and other diseases in traditional Chinese medicine, but also three types of clinical manifestations including bleeding, deficiency syndrome, and stagnant heat syndrome. In the clinic, Huangtu Decoction can be used to treat acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding, acute coronary syndrome complicated with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding, bleeding events caused by excessive antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs, unexplained positive in the fecal occult blood test, gastrointestinal tumor with bleeding, thrombocytopenia, and other acute and critical diseases. The dosage of Cooking Stove Earthkey, Rehmanniae Radix, and Asini Corii Colla in Huangtu Decoction is the key to hemostasis.

Resección quirúrgica de tapón de cianoacrilato variceal infectado posterior a esclerosis endoscópica de várices gástricas. Caso clínico

In patients with actively bleeding gastric varices, the treatment of choice is the endoscopic use of sclerosing agents such as cyanoacrylate. We report a 69-year-old man who, after being treated with cyanoacrylate, suffered from recurrent febrile episodes. After an extensive study and broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, discarding other presumably infectious focus, the superinfection of the cyanoacrylate plug was suspected, and its surgical removal was decided. A partial gastrectomy of the gastric fundus, a splenectomy, and a distal pancreatectomy were performed. The patient evolved without fever and without new episodes of bacteremia, but with decompensation of his cirrhosis manifested by ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, pneumonia, and collections in the pancreatic bed. These complications were managed with medical treatment consisting in a long course of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Thereafter, the patient evolved satisfactorily.

Octreótido de liberación prolongada para el tratamiento de hemorragia digestiva alta en Pediatría / Long-acting Release Octreotide for Pediatric Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Resumen: Introducción: La hemorragia digestiva por hipertensión portal, sin alternativa de tratamiento endos- cópico o quirúrgico por localizaciones ectópicas, no identificadas del sitio de sangrado o caracterís ticas anatómicas, constituye un desafío terapéutico en Pediatría. El tratamiento habitual incluye la infusión de octreótido endovenoso. En los últimos años, la presentación de octreótido de liberación prolongada (OCT-LAR) para administración mensual intramuscular, resulta una alternativa tera péutica atractiva. Objetivo: Reportar el caso de un lactante con hemorragia digestiva por hiperten sión portal que recibió tratamiento exitoso con OCT-LAR. Caso Clínico: Paciente de 8 meses de vida, con malformación de vena porta extrahepática y episodios reiterados de sangrados digestivos con re querimientos transfusionales e infusiones de octréotido, sin posibilidad de tratamiento endoscópico o quirúrgico. Indicamos OCT-LAR intramuscular mensualmente. Después de diez meses de iniciado el tratamiento, el paciente no repitió sangrados digestivos y no presentó efectos adversos relacionados a la medicación. Conclusión: Consideramos que el reporte de este caso puede resultar de utilidad al presentar una nueva alternativa para el tratamiento de pacientes pediátricos con sangrado digestivo por hipertensión portal sin posibilidades terapéuticas convencionales.

Abstract: Introduction: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) secondary to portal hypertension (PHT), without endoscopic or surgical treatment options due to an ectopic or unidentified bleeding site or the patient's anatomic characteristics, is challenging in pediatric hepatology. The usual treatment in these cases includes intravenous Octreotide. Recently, the availability of long-acting release Octreo tide (OCT-LAR) for monthly intramuscular administration has become an interesting therapeutic alternative. Objective: To report the case of an infant with UGIB due to PHT who was successfully treated with OCT-LAR. Clinical Case: Eight-month-old patient with repeated episodes of UGIB due to extrahepatic portal vein malformation, requiring blood transfusions, and intravenous octreotide infusions. As neither endoscopic nor surgical treatment were feasible, we decided to start IM OCT- LAR monthly. After ten months of treatment, the patient did not present bleeding episodes. No medication-related events were observed. Conclusion: We consider that this report could help in the management of similar pediatric patients with UGIB due to PHT without conventional therapeutic possibilities.

Efficacy of lactulose in the prophylaxis of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients presenting gastrointestinal bleeding / Eficácia da lactulose na profilaxia de encefalopatia hepática em pacientes cirróticos apresentando hemorragia digestiva

SUMMARY Introduction: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a bad prognostic factor in patients with liver cirrhosis and its incidence is associated with several triggering factors being the most prevalent gastrointestinal bleeding. Lactulose, despite its questionable efficacy in the literature, is considered a first line treatment in patients with HE. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of lactulose in preventing HE in cirrhotic patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. Method: A systematic review of the literature using the Medline scientific database. Only randomized controlled clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of lactulose for HE prophylaxis in cirrhotic patients with gastrointestinal bleeding were included. Results: The incidence of HE in the intervention group was 7%, while the control group was 26% (p=0.01). There was no significant difference in the incidence of mortality in the group treated with lactulose compared to the group that was not treated (p=0.48). Conclusion: Administering lactulose to cirrhotic patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding reduces the incidence of hepatic encephalopathy.

RSUMO Introdução: encefalopatia hepática (EH) é fator de mau prognóstico no paciente com cirrose hepática e sua incidência está associada a vários fatores desencadeantes, sendo a hemorragia digestiva o mais prevalente. A lactulose, apesar de apresentar eficácia discutível na literatura, é considerada tratamento de primeira linha em pacientes com EH. Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia da lactulose na prevenção de EH em pacientes cirróticos apresentando hemorragia digestiva. Método: realizou-se revisão sistemática da literatura pela base de dados Medline. Foram incluídos apenas ensaios clínicos controlados e randomizados que avaliaram a eficácia da lactulose na profilaxia de EH em pacientes cirróticos com hemorragia digestiva. Resultados: a incidência de EH no grupo intervenção foi de 7% enquanto no grupo controle foi de 26% (p=0,01). Não houve diferença significante na incidência de mortalidade entre o grupo que recebeu lactulose e o que não recebeu (p=0,48). Conclusão: a administração de lactulose em pacientes cirróticos apresentando hemorragia digestiva alta diminui a incidência de encefalopatia hepática.

Aplicación de formalina al 4 para el tratamiento de la rectitis actínica hemorragia refractaria: variantes, técnicas y resultados / Application of formalin to 4 for the treatment of actinic rectitis refractory hemorrhage: variants, techniques and results

Introducción: Varios tratamientos se utilizan para la rectitis actínica hemorrágica, entre ellos corticoides, sucralfato, mezalasina y distintas variantes de cauterización endoscópica, aunque ninguno puede considerarse de elección. En este contexto, la aplicación local de formalina al 4% ha demostrado ser efectiva y segura cuando han fracasado otros tratamientos conservadores. Objetivo: Comunicar nuestra experiencia en el tratamiento de la rectitis actínica sangrante con formalina, describiendo las variantes técnicas de su aplicación y los resultados. Diseño: Observacional retrospectivo. Lugar de aplicación: Hospital público de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires. Pacientes y Método: Se revisaron registros hospitalarios de 10 pacientes (7 mujeres) de edad promedio 61,1±15,6 (rango 28-81) años, con rectitis sangrante posterior a radioterapia pelviana. La dosis osciló entre 7400 y 8000 cGy y el sangrado comenzó en promedio 7,2±3,1 (rango 2-12) meses luego de finalizada la misma. Todos los pacientes presentaban anemia y habían recibido uno o más tratamientos conservadores previos sin respuesta, tres de los cuales habían requerido transfusiones. La terapia con formalina se realizó con dos modalidades: Grupo I: hisopo embebido en formalina al 4% a ph 7 puesto en contacto con la superficie sangrante durante 1-2 minutos. Grupo II: instilación de un volumen de 100-200 ml, en bolos de 30-40 ml por área sangrante, mantenidos en contacto durante 30-60 segundos con posterior aspiración y lavado con solución fisiológica entre los bolos y al final del procedimiento. La respuesta fue considerada completa cuando el sangrado cesó por completo o sólo hubo esporádicas y escasas pérdidas hemáticas, que no requirieron ningún tratamiento. La respuesta parcial se definió como la mejoría en frecuencia y magnitud del sangrado que no requirió otra terapia agresiva. Resultados: Se trataron 10 pacientes (Grupo I: 8 y Grupo II: 2)... (TRUNCADO)...

Background: Several treatments are used for radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis, among these corticosteroids, sucralfate, mezalasina, and cauterization endoscopic variants, but none can be considered of choice. With varying results are described. In this context, the local application of 4% formalin has proven to be effective and safe when other conservative treatments have failed. Objective: To report on our experience in the treatment of radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis, describing the technical variants of its implementation and results. Design: Observational retrospective study. Setting: Public Hospital of the City of Buenos Aires. Patients and Methods: Hospital records of 10 patients (7 women), average age 61.1 ± 15.6 (range 28-81) years, with radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis after pelvic radiotherapy were reviewed. The doses ranged from 7400 to 8000 cGy and the bleeding started on average 7.2 ± 3.1 (range 2-12) months after it ended. All patients had anemia and had received one or more previous conservative treatments with no response, and three of them had required transfusions. Formalin therapy was performed in two ways: Group I: swab with 4% formalin at pH 7 in contact with the bleeding surface for 1-2 minutes. Group II: instillation of a volume of 100-200 ml, in 30-40 ml bolus by bleeding area, maintained in contact with that area for 30-60 seconds, with subsequent aspiration and washing with saline solution between the boluses and the end of the procedure. Treatment response was considered complete when the bleeding stopped completely or there was sporadic and limited blood loss not merequiring any treatment. Partial response was defined as improvement in the frequency and magnitude of bleeding not requiring other aggressive therapy... (TRUNCATED)...

Cobertura de la estrategia preventiva de cáncer gástrico en Chile: resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2009-2010 / Coverage of diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for the prevention of gastric cancer in Chile: results from the 2009-2010 National Health Survey

Background: In Chile, gastric cancer (GC) is a major cause of cancer related deaths. The current screening strategy consists of an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) for people aged 40 years or more with epigastric pain. Aim: To evaluate the diagnostic coverage of the use of UGE for early detection of GC in Chile. Material and Methods: As part of the digestive module of the 2009-10 National Health Survey, 5293 adults over 15 years were asked about the presence of epigastric pain, possible upper gastrointestinal bleeding (PUGB), use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs), family history of GC and having performed an UGE. Results: Persistent epigastric pain was observed in 3.4% of the population. PUGB signs were observed in 3.3% of the population. The prevalence of PPIs and H2RAs use was 4.3% and 2.2% respectively, reaching 21.6% in people aged 70 years and older. Life span prevalence of UGE was 18.3%, with differences by region, health insurance and educational level. UGE coverage in people aged 40 years or older with and without persistent epigastric pain was 14.4% and 3.2% respectively (Odds ratio 4.8, p < 0.01). The prevalence of UGE was similar among people with or without PUGB or family history of CG. Conclusions: The estimated coverage of the current GC prevention strategy in Chile is 14.4%, evaluated at a population level. Further studies are required to determine the impact of this strategy on early GC diagnosis and mortality.

Uso del ácido tranexámico como variante terapéutica en pacientes con sangrado digestivo alto no variceal / Use of tranexamic acid as a therapeutic variant in patients having high digestive blooding not from varix

Introducción: el sangrado digestivo alto no variceal es una de las primeras causas de ingreso hospitalario en el país, en los últimos años se convirtió en un grave y sensible problema de salud. Objetivo: caracterizar el comportamiento de las variables demográficas, clínicas y terapéuticas en los pacientes ingresados por esta enfermedad en el servicio de urgencia de Cirugía General del Hospital Universitario General Calixto García desde junio del 2012 a diciembre 2013. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico, prospectivo y de vigilancia poscomercialización para demostrar la efectividad del uso del ácido tranexámico como variante terapéutica precoz para detener el sangrado y evitar el resangrado en los pacientes con sangrado digestivo alto no variceal. Resultados: de un total de 104 pacientes, predominó el sexo masculino y los mayores de 70 años con 61,5 por ciento y 37,5 por ciento, respectivamente. Consumían café en exceso 94 por ciento, más del 50 por ciento, alcohol, 37 por ciento tomaba medicamentos antiinflamatorios no esteroideos. Del total de pacientes, 61,5 por ciento y el 55,8 por ciento padecían de hipertensión arterial y de gastritis crónica, respectivamente. La melena fue la forma de presentación clínica más frecuente de esta enfermedad; la endoscopia de urgencia se le realizó solo al 25 por ciento de los casos y predominó como diagnóstico la pangastritis eritematosa en el 51,1 por ciento de los pacientes. El tratamiento quirúrgico fue excepcional solo en el 2,9 por ciento de los pacientes del estudio, la estadía hospitalaria fue en el 84 por ciento de los enfermos menor de 3 días y la mortalidad general muy baja de un 1,9 por ciento. Conclusiones: los efectos del uso del ácido tranexámico en los pacientes con sangrado digestivo alto no variceal fueron beneficiosos para el tratamiento de esta enfermedad, las evidencias de sangrado activo luego de la aplicación del medicamento se redujeron de forma relevante, el tratamiento quirúrgico fue excepcional y la mortalidad muy baja(AU)

Introduction: Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the first causes of hospitalization in our country and it has become a serious and sensitive health problem in the last few years. Objective: To characterize the behaviour of the demographic, clinical and therapeutic variables found in patients admitted to the emergency general surgery service of General Calixto Garcia university hospital due to this disease from June 2012 to December 2013. Methods: Observational, analytical, prospective and postmarket surveillance study to prove the effectiveness of the tranexamic acid as an early therapeutic variant to stop bleeding and avoid re-bleeding in those patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Results: In the study group of 104 patients, males and over 70 years-old people predominated for 61.5 percent and 37.5 percent, respectively. The coffee overconsumption was seen in 94 percent, more than 50 percent took alcohol and 37 percent had non-steroidal antinflammatory drugs treatment. Of the total number of patients, 61.5 percent and 55.8 percent suffered blood hypertension and chronic gastritis, respectively. Melena was the most frequent presentation of this disease; urgent endoscopoy was performed in just 25 percent of casos and the predominant diagnosis was erythematous pangastritis in 51.1 percent of patients. The surgical treatment was used in just 2.5 percent of the study patients, the lenght of stay at hospital was less than 3 days in 84 percent and very low overall mortality rate of 1.9 percent. Conclusions: The effects of the tranexamic acido n patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding were benefitial for treating the disease; evidence of active bleeding after the use of drug significantly decrease, surgical treatment was an exception and mortality rate was very low(AU)

The comparison of esophageal variceal ligation plus propranolol versus propranolol alone for the primary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To investigate the efficacy and longterm outcome of esophageal variceal ligation (EVL) plus propranolol in comparison with propranolol alone for the primary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding. METHODS: A total of 504 patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. 330 patients were in propranolol group (Gr1) and 174 patients were in EVL plus propranolol group (Gr2). The endpoints of this study were esophageal variceal bleeding and mortality. Association analyses were performed to evaluate bleeding and mortality between Gr1 and Gr2. RESULTS: EVL was more applied in patients with high risk, such as large-sized varices (F2 or F3) or positive red color signs. Total 38 patients had bleeds, 32 in Gr1 and 6 in Gr2. The cumulative probability of bleeding at 120 months was 13% in Gr1 versus 4% in Gr2 (P=0.04). The predictive factors of variceal bleeding were red color signs (OR 2.962, P=0.007) and the method of propranolol plus EVL (OR 0.160, P=0.000). 20 patients died in Gr1 and 12 in Gr2. Mortality rates are similar in the two groups compared, 6.7% in Gr1 and 6.9% in Gr2. The cumulative probability of mortality at 120 months was not significantly different in the two groups (7% in Gr1, 12% in Gr2, P=0.798). The prognostic factors for mortality were age over 50 (OR 5.496, P=0.002), Child-Pugh class B (OR 3.979, P=0.001), and Child-Pugh class C (OR 10.861, P=0.000). CONCLUSIONS: EVL plus propranolol is more effective than propranolol alone in the prevention of the first variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Rebleeding after Initial Endoscopic Hemostasis in Peptic Ulcer Disease

Endoscopic hemostasis is the first-line treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Although several factors are known to be risk factors for rebleeding, little is known about the use of antithrombotics. We tried to verify whether the use of antithrombotics affects rebleeding rate after a successful endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer disease (PUD). UGIB patients who underwent successful endoscopic hemostasis were included. Rebleeding was diagnosed when the previously treated lesion bled again within 30 days of the initial episode. Of 522 UGIB patients with PUD, rebleeding occurred in 93 patients (17.8%). The rate of rebleeding was higher with aspirin medication (P=0.006) and after a long endoscopic hemostasis (P<0.001). Of all significant variables, procedure time longer than 13.5 min was related to the rate of rebleeding (OR, 2.899; 95% CI, 1.768-4.754; P<0.001) on the logistic regression analysis. The rate of rebleeding after endoscopic hemostasis for PUD is higher in the patients after a long endoscopic hemostasis. Endoscopic hemostasis longer than 13.5 min is related to rebleeding after a successful endoscopic hemostasis for PUD.

Hemorragia variceal: terapia con drogas vasoactivas ¿siempre o en casos seleccionados? / Variceal hemorrhage: pharmacological therapy: always or in selected cases only?

One of the most relevant complications of portal hypertension in cirrhosis is the development of gastroesophageal varices. They are present in 50 percent of patients with cirrhosis at the diagnosis. The risk of bleeding depends on the degree of portal hypertension and the severity of liver disease. Variceal hemorrhage is the most common lethal complication of cirrhosis. In the last decades there had been numerous clinical trials involving different treatment options for variceal bleeding (pharmacological, endoscopic and surgery) trying to establish the best treatment strategy. Since the rise in portal pressure is the cause of variceal rupture, therapies that can decrease portal pressure have a theoretical rationale for their use. Endoscopic treatment, although effective, has no effect on portal pressure. Vasoactive agents (vasopressin and its analogue terlipressin, somatostatin and its analogue octreotide) cause splanchnic vasoconstriction and decrease portal pressure. Pharmacological treatments have the advantage that they can be easily administered, and started as soon as the diagnosis of variceal bleeding is suspected. This makes pharmacological treatment especially attractive for centers that have no chance of emergency endoscopy. At this moment there is sufficient evidence to recommend combined treatment with vasoactive drugs and endoscopy for the control of variceal hemorrhage.

Una de las principales complicaciones de los pacientes cirróticos con hipertensión portal es el desarrollo de várices gastroesofágicas. Éstas están presentes al momento del diagnóstico en alrededor de 50 por ciento de los pacientes con cirrosis. La hemorragia variceal es la complicación letal más frecuente en los pacientes cirróticos. En las últimas décadas se han realizado múltiples esfuerzos para lograr definir la mejor combinación de técnicas (endoscópicas, farmacológicas y quirúrgicas) para disminuir la morbimortalidad asociada a la hemorragia variceal. Dado que la causa de la ruptura de las várices es un aumento de la presión portal, todas las medidas que logren disminuirla son medidas racionales para lograr detener la hemorragia. El tratamiento endoscópico, si bien efectivo, no afecta la fisiopatología de la hemorragia variceal. Las drogas vasoconstrictoras (vasopresina y su derivado terlipresina o somatostatina y su derivado octreotide) actúan a nivel de la circulación esplácnica, disminuyendo el flujo sanguíneo. El tratamiento farmacológico tiene la ventaja de ser fácilmente administrado, incluso antes de realizar una endoscopia, toda vez que se sospecha una hemorragia variceal, lo que hace particularmente atractivo su uso en centros en que no se cuenta con endoscopia de urgencia. Actualmente, existe suficiente evidencia para recomendar el uso de estos fármacos como terapia adicional a la endoscopia ante la sospecha de una hemorragia variceal.

Therapeutic applications of octreotide in pediatric patients

We report our experience with the use of octreotide as primary or adjunctive therapy in children with various gastrointestinal disorders. A pharmacy database identified patients who received octreotide for gastrointestinal diseases. Indications for octreotide use, dosing, effectiveness, and adverse events were evaluated by chart review. A total of 21 patients [12 males], aged 1 month to 13 years, were evaluated. Eleven received octreotide for massive gastrointestinal bleeding caused by portal hypertension-induced lesions [n=7], typhlitis [1], Meckel's diverticulum [1], and indefinite source [2]. Blood transfusion requirements were reduced from 23 +/- 9 mL/kg [mean +/- SD] to 8 +/- 15 mL/kg [P<0.01]. Four patients with pancreatic pseudocyst and/or ascites received octreotide over 14.0 +/- 5.7 days in 2 patients. In 3 children, pancreatic pseudocyst resolved in 12 +/- 2 days and pancreatic ascites resolved in 7 days in 2. Three patients with chylothorax received octreotide for 14 +/- 7 days with complete resolution in each. Two infants with chronic diarrhea received octreotide over 11 +/- 4.2 months. Stool output decreased from 85 +/- 21 mL/kg/day to 28 +/- 18 mL/kg/day, 3 months after initiation of octreotide. The child with dumping syndrome responded to octreotide in a week. Adverse events developed in 4 patients: Q-T interval prolongation and ventricular fibrillation, hyperglycemia, growth hormone deficiency, and hypertension. Octreotide provides a valuable addition to the therapeutic armamentum of the pediatric gastroenterologist for a wide variety of disorders. Serious adverse events may occur and patients must be closely monitored

Uso de octreotida na hemorragia digestiva alta secundária à hipertensão portal em pacientes pediátricos: experiência de um serviço terciário / Octreotide for acute gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to portal hypertension in pediatric patients: experience of a tertiary center

OBJETIVO: Descrever a evolução clínica dos episódios de hemorragia digestiva em crianças portadoras de hipertensão portal, com e sem cirrose, tratadas com octreotida. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo e descritivo de 26 episódios de sangramento digestivo em 17 pacientes (média de idade: 8,6 anos; variação: sete meses a 18,9 anos), no período de 1998 a 2006, num hospital terciário universitário. O diagnóstico de hipertensão portal foi estabelecido por ultrassonografia e a cirrose foi confirmada pela histologia e classificada quanto à gravidade pelo escore de Child-Pugh. RESULTADOS: As causas da hipertensão portal foram: obstrução extra-hepática da veia porta em 11/17 casos (65 por cento) e cirrose hepática em 6/17 (35 por cento). O sangramento foi controlado em 14/17 pacientes (82 por cento). O tempo de infusão da droga necessário para controle do sangramento foi semelhante entre cirróticos e não cirróticos, mas o declínio nos níveis de hemoglobina, o volume transfusional requerido e o tempo de internação foram maiores nos pacientes com cirrose, embora sem diferença estatística. Essas mesmas variáveis não se modificaram em relação aos dois diferentes esquemas de infusão da droga: com dose de ataque ou iniciando com dose de manutenção. Insucesso terapêutico foi observado com maior frequência entre os pacientes cirróticos (33 por cento). Hiperglicemia foi o único efeito colateral detectado durante a infusão. CONCLUSÕES: A administração de octreotida em crianças e adolescentes com sangramento digestivo por hipertensão portal foi segura e efetiva no controle do sangramento agudo, independente da causa da hipertensão portal e do esquema de infusão.

OBJECTIVE:To describe clinical data of children and adolescents with portal hypertension, during with and without liver cirrhosis, treated with octreotide during episodes of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. METHODS: Retrospective and descriptive study of 26 episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding in 17 patients (mean age: 8.6 years; range: seven months to 18.9 years) assisted at a tertiary university hospital from 1996 to 2006. Portal hypertension diagnosis was based on ultrasonography. Liver cirrhosis was confirmed by histology and hepatic function was classified according the Child-Pugh score. RESULTS: Portal hypertension etiology was extra-hepatic portal vein obstruction in 11/17 (65 percent) patients and cirrhosis in 6/17 (35 percent). Bleeding was controlled in 14/17 (82 percent) patients. Octreotide infusion requirement was similar in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients, but the decline in hemoglobin levels and the requirement of blood transfusions were greater but not significant in cirrhotic patients. The patients' responses were similar regardless of drug infusion strategy. Whether it included a loading dose or not. Treatment failure was observed mainly among cirrhotic patients (33 percent). Hyperglycemia was the only side effect detected during octreotide infusion. CONCLUSIONS: Octreotide administration in children and adolescents with digestive bleeding due to portal hypertension was safe and effective in order to control the acute episode of bleeding, regardless of the etiology of portal hypertension and infusion strategy.

Tratamiento de la rectitis actínica hemorrágica con aplicación tópica de formalina al 4 por ciento / Treatment of hemorrhagic radiation rectitis with topical application of 4percent formaldehyde

Background: Hemorrhagic radiation rectitis occurs in 15 percent of patients subjected to pelvic irradiation. One of the treatment alternatives is the topical application of 4 percent formaldehyde. Aim: To report the results of the use of topical formaldehyde in radiation rectitis. Material and Methods: Twenty patients aged 36 to 80 years (13 women) with hemorrhagic radiation rectitis were prospectively recruited. Fistula or stenosis was discarded endoscopically. Formaldehyde was applied in the operating room or at the outpatient clinic. Results: Fifteen patients required repeated transfusions. The application was performed in the operating room in five patients. Bleeding stopped in three patients with one application, in 12 patients with two applications and in four, with three applications. In one patient, bleeding did not stop after the first application and had a sigmoid perforation; therefore no further application was attempted. One patient had a severe proctitis after the procedure, which subsided with symptomatic treatment after 15 days. Conclusions: Topical formaldehyde application for hemorrhagic rectitis is effective to stop bleeding but has complications in 10 percent of patients.

Introducción: La rectitis actínica hemorrágica es una complicación que se presenta en el 15 por ciento de los pacientes sometidos a radioterapia por una neoplasia pélvica. Existen distintas alternativas para su tratamiento, entre las que se cuenta la aplicación de formalina al 4 por ciento. Presentamos los resultados del tratamiento de esta complicación en una serie prospectiva no aleatoria. Material y Método: Desde marzo de 2004 a mayo de 2007 se reclutaron en forma prospectiva todos los pacientes tratados por una rectitis actínica hemorrágica en nuestro servicio. En todos los pacientes se descartó una estenosis o fístula por endoscopia flexible. Los pacientes fueron sometidos a aplicación de formalina en pabellón o ambulatoria según la evaluación del tratante. Resultados: La serie corresponde a 20 pacientes, 13 mujeres, con un promedio de edad de 61 años (36-80), 15 requerían transfusiones a repetición. La indicación de radioterapia fue por un cáncer cérvico uterino en 9 casos, de próstata en 7 casos y endometrio en 4. El promedio de sesiones necesarias para controlar el sangrado fue de 2 (1-3); en 5 pacientes la aplicación se realizó en pabellón. Tres pacientes mejoraron con una aplicación, 12 pacientes con 2 aplicaciones y 4 con 3 procedimientos. Un paciente continúa sangrado después de un procedimiento, pero presenta una perforación de sigmoides en terreno neoplásico y no se intentó una segunda sesión, por lo que se considera un fracaso del procedimiento. Además un paciente presentó una proctitis intensa que cedió con tratamiento sintomático en 15 días, con lo que la morbilidad del procedimiento alcanza a un 10 por ciento. El éxito acumulado es de un 95 por ciento de los casos, con detención del sangrado, sin necesidad de transfusiones. Conclusión: Estimamos que el tratamiento con formalina al 4 por ciento es un procedimiento seguro para el tratamiento de la rectitis actínica hemorrágica, con buenos resultados en la gran mayoría de los pacientes ...

Uso de talidomida en sangrado recurrente por angiodisplasias gastrointestinales: Caso clínico / Thalidomide for recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding caused by angiodysplasia: Report of one case

Chronic hemodialysis patients may have recurrent bleeding from gastrointestinal angiodysplasia, that often is diffusely located in the digestive tract or in places difficult to reach with traditional endoscopes. Therefore, they cannot be locally treated or removed. We report a 70 years old man on chronic hemodialysis, with severe and persistent anemia due to bleeding from angiodysplasia of the small bowel. Despite administration of high doses of erythropoiesis stimulating agents, intravenous iron, folate, B6 and B12 vitamins, his hemoglobin levels were < 6.5g/dL, becoming totally dependent on transfusions ofred blood cells (up to 46 units per year). Recurrent bleeding was refractory to conventional management and we decided to use thalidomide at doses of 50-100 mg/day achieving rapid control of gastrointestinal bleeding and significant increase of hemoglobin levels, not requiring further transfusions.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a Jamaican perspective / La hemorragia digestiva alta: una perspectiva Jamaicana

BACKGROUND: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) remains one of the most common clinical lifethreatening emergencies which is associated with a high morbidity, mortality and medical care costs. OBJECTIVES: This study reviews the clinical features, management and outcomes ofpatients with UGIB seen at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), Jamaica, between January 2006 and December 2008. METHODS: Patients with UGIB admitted to the medical wards of the UHWI, Jamaica, between January 2006 and December 2008 were reviewed. Consecutive patients admitted with a confirmed diagnosis of UGIB were selected for analysis. Data collected included age, gender, presenting complaints, risk factors, clinical features and management. Endoscopic findings, treatment and outcomes were also reviewed. RESULTS: There were 104 patients, with a mean age of 55 years, admitted with UGIB. There were significantly more men than women (73 vs 31). Retching and vomiting were the most common presenting complaints followed by melaena and haemetemesis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use was present in 28% of patients. Overall, 80% of patients had upper GI endoscopy (EGD) and 40% were done within 24 hours of admission. The median time for performing EGD was 24 hours (mean 46 hours). The leading causes of UGIB were duodenal ulcer (28%), erosive gastritis (20%) and gastric ulcer (13%). Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) were given to 95 (91%) patients intravenously. Blood transfusion was given to 40% ofpatients. The mortality was 5.7%, rebleeding occured in 4.8% of patients and 5% underwent surgery. The average duration ofhospital stay was 6.6 days. CONCLUSION: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding was more common in men ofmiddle age in this study. Proton pump inhibitors were used in most patients. The overall mortality of5.7% is similar to other series. Early EGD and use ofendoscopic therapy may lead to a decrease in mortality in high risk patients.

ANTECEDENTES: La hemorragia digestiva alta (HDA), o sangrado gastrointestinal alto (SGA) sigue siendo una de las emergencias clínicas serias más comunes, constituye un riesgo para la vida, y se halla asociada con alta morbosidad y mortalidad, así como altos costos de cuidado médico. OBJETIVOS: Este estudio examina las características clínicas, el tratamiento, y los resultados de pacientes con HDA vistos en el Hospital Universitario de West Indies (UHWI), Jamaica, de enero de 2006 a diciembre de 2008. MÉTODOS: Los pacientes con HDA ingresados en las salas de UHWI, Jamaica, de enero de 2006 a diciembre de 2008fueron sometidos a examen. Pacientes consecutivos ingresados con un diagnóstico confirmado de HDA, fueron seleccionados para análisis. Los datos recopilados incluyeron edad, género, dolencias, factores de riesgo, rasgos clínicos y tratamiento. Se examinaron los hallazgos endoscópicos, el tratamiento y los resultados. RESULTADOS: Hubo 104 pacientes, con una edad promedio de 55 años, ingresados con HDA. Había significativamente más hombres que mujeres (73 contra 31). Arcadas y vómitos fueron las dolencias más comunes, seguidas por melena y hematemesis. El uso de medicamentos antiinflamatorios no esteroidales estuvo presente en 28% de los pacientes. En general, al 80% de los pacientes les fue practicada endoscopia GI alta (EGD), el 40% de las cuales fueron realizadas dentro de las 24 horas tras del ingreso. El tiempo promedio de la realización del EGD fue 24 horas (46 horas promedio). Las causas principales de HDA fueron la úlcera duodenal (28%), la gastritis erosiva (20%) y la úlcera gástrica (13%). A 95 (91%) pacientes se les administró inhibidores de la bomba de protón (IBP) de forma intravenosa. Al 40% de los pacientes se les hizo una transfusión de sangre. La mortalidad fue de 5.7%. Se produjo resangrado en 4.8% de los pacientes y al 5% se les practicó cirugía. La duración promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue de 6.6 días. CONCLUSIÓN: La hemorragia digestiva alta fue más común en los hombres de mediana edad en este estudio. Se usaron inhibidores de bomba de protón en la mayoría de los pacientes. La mortalidad general de 5.7% es similar a otras series. La EGD temprana y el uso de la terapia endoscópica pueden llevar a una disminución de la mortalidad entre los pacientes de alto riesgo.

new candidate as a hemostatic agent for difficult situations during variceal bleeding: ankaferd blood stopper

Variceal bleeding is the most challenging emergent situation among the causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite substantial improvement, a need remains for therapeutic armamentarium of such cases, which is easy, effective and without side-effect. Ankaferd blood stopper [ABS] is a standardized herbal extract acting as a hemostatic agent on the bleeding or injured areas. In this observational study, a total of four patients with variceal bleeding were treated with endoscopic ABS application. The lesions were bleeding gastric varices [n:3] and bleeding duodenal varix [n:l]. ABS was selected as a bridge to definitive therapies due to unavailability or inappropriateness of bleeding lesions to conventional measures. ABS was instilled or flushed onto the bleeding areas by sclerotherotherapy needle or heater probe catheter. Periprocedural control of the bleeding was achieved in all instances. Thereafter, on an elective basis, two patients with gastric varices underwent cyanoacrylate injection, while third underwent Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and embolization. The patient with duodenal varix refused further therapy, after a few hours after admission and was discharged. He again presented the same day with rebleeding, but died before any attempt could be made to control his bleeding. ABS seems to be effective in cases of variceal bleeding as a bridge to therapy. Its major advantages are the ease of use and lack of side-effects

Blood loss and transcapillary refill in uncontrolled treated hemorrhage in dogs

Objetive: This study evaluated retroperitoneal hematomas produced by bilateral injury of iliac arteries (uncontrolled hemorrhage), blood volume loss, transcapillary refill, the effects of volume replacement on retroperitoneal bleeding and the hemodynamic changes with and without treatment. Methods: Initial blood volume was determined with Tc99m-labelled red cells, and bleeding was evaluated by means of a portable scintillation camera positioned over the abdomen. Previously splenectomized mongrel dogs (16.8 ± 2.2 kg) were submitted to hemorrhage for 30 minutes and randomized into three groups: I - no treatment (n=7); II - treatment with 32 mL/kg of Lactated Ringer's for three to five minutes (n=7); and III - treatment with 4 mL/kg of 7.5 percent NaCl plus 6.0 percent dextran 70 for three to five minutes (n=7). They were studied for an additional 45 minutes. Results: Volume replacement produced transitory recovery in hemodynamic variables, including mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and cardiac index, with significant increase in dogs treated with 32 mL/kg of Lactated Ringer's and 7.5 percent NaCl plus 6.0 percent dextran 70 (p<0.001, against no treatment), along with a decrease (p<0.001) in the systemic vascular resistance index. Groups II and III had significant initial decreases in hematocrit and hemoglobin. The treated dogs (groups II and III) presented rebleeding, which was greater during treatment with 32 mL/kg of Lactated Ringer's (group II). Conclusions: Despite the rebleeding observed in treated groups, the utilization of hypertonic saline solution with dextran proved to be effective in the initial reanimation, producing evident transcapillary refill, while the Lactated Ringer's solution produced capillary extravasation and was ineffective in the initial volume replacement in this model of uncontrolled hemorrhage.