Coronary artery disease as a risk factor for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are at an increased cardiovascular risk. On the contrary, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). However, it is not known whether patients with significant CHD show a higher frequency of liver fibrosis. This study aimed to determine the frequency of MASLD and liver fibrosis in patients with CHD and to assess whether coronary stenosis is significantly associated with MASLD and fibrosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This observational and analytical study included adult patients without any known liver disease who underwent coronary angiography for suspected coronary artery disease (Jul 2021-Jul 2022). The presence of significant CHD (> 50% stenosis of at least one coronary artery) was determined. Liver elastography (FibroScan®) was performed up to 6 months after the coronary angiographic study to determine liver fibrosis, a measurement of liver stiffness (> 6.5 Kpa). Fisher's test, Mann-Whitney U test, and logistic regression models were used (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The study included 113 patients (76% men, average age: 63 years [standard deviation: 9.9]), of which 72% presented with significant CHD. The prevalence rate of MASLD was 52%. Liver fibrosis was present in 12% of the patients and all patients in the significant CHD group (p = 0.007). An increase in the number of vessels with significant CHD increased the probability of liver fibrosis (odds ratio, 1.79; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-3.04; p = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS: MASLD is highly prevalent in patients with significant CHD but without known liver damage. These data suggest that MASLD and liver fibrosis should be investigated in patients with CHD. The presence of confounding variables, especially the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, should be evaluated in further studies.

[Utility of the detection of autoantibodies in autoinmune liver diseases using immunoblot]. / Evaluación del panel de enfermedades hepáticas autoinmunes (INMUNOBLOT) en el diagnóstico de enfermedades hepáticas.

INTRODUCTION: For the diagnosis of liver diseases, clinical criteria, biochemical, immunological and histological parameters are included. The autoimmune panel is an immunoblot that contemplates the detection of antibodies against 9 different hepatic antigens, which could guide the diagnosis of these pathologies. OBJECTIVE: To describe the usefulness of the autoimmune panel in the diagnosis of liver diseases. METHODS: Observational, descriptive study. All autoimmune panels performed between January 2020 and August 2021 (n = 279) were reviewed, and the ones with positive result selected (n = 101). Clinical records were reviewed, including: clinical, biochemical, immunological and histological characteristics. Diagnosis was determined by clinical suspicion (clinical, biochemical and immunological parameters), only through autoimmune panel, and according to liver biopsy in available cases. RESULTS: 45 patients with complete clinical history were included in the analysis; 82% women, median age 58 years (16-79). Clinical suspicions included autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in 12 patients (27%), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in 10 patients (22%), overlap syndrome (AIH/PBC) in 17 (38%), and others in 6 (13%). The diagnosis of PBC was confirmed by autoimmune panel in 9/10 and 11/17 patients with clinical suspicion of PBC and HAI/PBC, respectively. Of the 27 patients with initial clinical suspicion of PBC, 14 had negative AMA and AMA-M2 (6 had Sp100 and 5 gp210 as the only markers and 3 had positive Sp100 and PML). In 10/14 patients, the diagnosis was confirmed by panel and/or compatible liver biopsy. CONCLUSION: The autoimmune panel turns out to be a useful diagnostic tool for liver diseases, especially PBC in isolation or in overlap syndrome.

Evaluación del panel de enfermedades hepáticas autoinmunes (INMUNOBLOT) en el diagnóstico de enfermedades hepáticas / Utility of the detection of autoantibodies in autoinmune liver diseases using immunoblot

INTRODUCTION: For the diagnosis of liver diseases, clinical criteria, biochemical, immunological and histological parameters are included. The autoimmune panel is an immunoblot that contemplates the detection of antibodies against 9 different hepatic antigens, which could guide the diagnosis of these pathologies. OBJECTIVE: To describe the usefulness of the autoimmune panel in the diagnosis of liver diseases. Methods: Observational, descriptive study. All autoimmune panels performed between January 2020 and August 2021 (n = 279) were reviewed, and the ones with positive result selected (n = 101). Clinical records were reviewed, including: clinical, biochemical, immunological and histological characteristics. Diagnosis was determined by clinical suspicion (clinical, biochemical and immunological parameters), only through autoimmune panel, and according to liver biopsy in available cases. RESULTS: 45 patients with complete clinical history were included in the analysis; 82% women, median age 58 years (16-79). Clinical suspicions included autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in 12 patients (27%), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in 10 patients (22%), overlap syndrome (AIH/PBC) in 17 (38%), and others in 6 (13%). The diagnosis of PBC was confirmed by autoimmune panel in 9/10 and 11/17 patients with clinical suspicion of PBC and HAI/PBC, respectively. Of the 27 patients with initial clinical suspicion of PBC, 14 had negative AMA and AMA-M2 (6 had Sp100 and 5 gp210 as the only markers and 3 had positive Sp100 and PML). In 10/14 patients, the diagnosis was confirmed by panel and/or compatible liver biopsy. CONCLUSION: The autoimmune panel turns out to be a useful diagnostic tool for liver diseases, especially PBC in isolation or in overlap syndrome.

Colangiocarcinoma y hepatocolangiocarcinoma combinado en pacientes con cirrosis / Cholangiocarcinoma and combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma in cirrhotic patients

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a primary hepatic tumor, frequently found in patients with liver cirrhosis and biliary tract diseases. Its varieties include isolated CCA or "combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma" (cHCC-CCA). The latter is uncommon, with poorly defined diagnostic criteria and natural history. Aim: To characterize patients with cirrhosis with a pathological diagnosis of CCA and cHCC-CCA. Material and Methods: Forty-nine liver biopsies with a pathological diagnosis of CCA were reviewed. The clinical records of patients were reviewed to fetch demographic variables, etiology of cirrhosis and clinical presentation. Results: Eight of the 49 patients had cirrhosis (16% of CCA biopsies reviewed). Their median age was 64 (27-71) years and five were females. Four patients had CCA, three patients cHCC-CCA and one had a bifocal tumor. Patients in the CCA group were more commonly symptomatic. Alpha-fetoprotein and CA 19-9 levels were elevated in one of eight and four of six patients, respectively. Within 12 months from diagnosis, five of eight patients died. Conclusions: In most of these cases, the diagnosis of cHCC-CCA and CCA was made in the liver explant study without previous imaging diagnosis. This reinforces the usefulness of the histological study, in specific cases, prior to liver transplantation and emphasizes the importance of systematic explant exploration in these cases.

Nutrición y enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal: posibles mecanismos en la incidencia y manejo / Nutrition and inflammatory bowel disease: possible mechanisms of diet on the incidence and management

La enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII), cuyos fenotipos más frecuentes son la enfermedad de Crohn (EC) y la colitis ulcerosa (CU), tiene una etiología multifactorial, que resulta de la interacción de factores genéticos, ambientales y del microbioma. Su incidencia ha aumentado en las últimas décadas, así como también lo ha hecho la occidentalización de la dieta: alta en grasas, carbohidratos refinados, azúcar, carnes rojas y alimentos procesados. Una dieta occidental es considerada como factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de EII, ya que está asociada a disbiosis, alteración de la barrera intestinal y de la inmunidad del huésped. Existen diversas dietas de eliminación que podrían ejercer un rol en la inducción/mantención de la remisión. Sin embargo, la mayoría requiere estudios de mejor calidad científica para poder recomendarlas. A su vez, existen suplementos nutricionales que estarían asociados a la incidencia y curso de la enfermedad. El objetivo de esta revisión es mostrar el posible rol de la dieta en la incidencia de la EII, y las estrategias dieto-terapéuticas, incluyendo suplementos específicos y nutrición enteral, considerando periodos de crisis y remisión.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), most frequent phenotypes Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis, have a multifactorial etiology, resulting from genetics, environmental triggers and microbiome alterations. Its incidence has been increasing as well as the western diet, high in fat, refined carbohydrates, sugar, red meat and processed foods. A western diet is considered a risk factor for the development of IBD, since it is associated with dysbiosis, alteration of the intestinal barrier and host immunity. There are several elimination diets that could play a role in induction/maintenance of remission. However, most of them require better quality scientific studies. Also, there are nutritional supplements associated with the incidence and evolution of the disease. The aim of this review is to show the possible role of the diet in the incidence, and diet-therapeutic strategies, including specific supplements and enteral nutrition, considering periods of active disease and remission

Clinical characteristics and predictors of hospitalization among 7, 108 ambulatory patients with positive RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 during the acute pandemic period / Características clínicas e preditores de hospitalização entre 7. 108 pacientes ambulatoriais com RT-PCR positivo para SARS-CoV-2 durante o período de pandemia aguda

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe baseline characteristics of outpatients with a positive RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 and to define whether "red flags" (new-onset fever, dyspnea, and chest pain) can predict clinical worsening during the isolation period. Methods: This was an epidemiological, observational, descriptive study. Between March and September of 2020, all outpatients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a tertiary medical center located in Santiago de Chile were included. Demographic variables, comorbidities, red flags, and other symptoms were compiled using follow-up surveys at specific time points. The risk of clinical worsening (hospitalization) and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated. Results: A total of 7,108 patients were included. The median age was 38 years (range, 0-101), and 52% were men. At baseline, 77% of the patients reported having characteristic symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The most prevalent onset symptoms were headache (53%), myalgia (47%), and fever (33%). According to the follow-up surveys, the incidence of symptoms decreased during the isolation period; however, 28% of the patients still presented with symptoms on day 14. The risk of hospitalization for patients with new-onset fever and dyspnea during the follow-up period was HR = 7.43 (95% CI, 3.85-14.3, p<0.01) and HR = 5.27 (95% CI, 1.52-18.30; p < 0.01 for both), respectively. New-onset chest pain showed no association with clinical worsening. Conclusions: In this sample of outpatients with a recent diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, a survey-based monitoring of symptoms was useful to identify those at risk of clinical worsening. New-onset fever and dyspnea during the isolation period were considered as red flags associated with clinical worsening and warrants prompt medical evaluation.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever as características basais de pacientes ambulatoriais com RT-PCR positivo para SARS-CoV-2 e definir se os sintomas de alerta para gravidade (febre, dispneia e dor torácica de início recente) podem prever piora clínica durante o período de isolamento. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico, observacional e descritivo. Entre março e setembro de 2020, foram incluídos todos os pacientes ambulatoriais com teste positivo para SARS-CoV-2 em um centro médico terciário localizado em Santiago do Chile. Variáveis demográficas, comorbidades, sintomas de alerta para gravidade e outros sintomas foram compilados usando pesquisas de seguimento em intervalos específicos. Também foram calculados o risco de piora clínica (hospitalização) e as razões de risco (RR) ajustadas. Resultados: Foi incluído um total de 7.108 pacientes. A mediana de idade foi de 38 anos (variação: 0-101), e 52% eram homens. No início do estudo, 77% dos pacientes relataram sintomas característicos de infecção por SARS-CoV-2. Os sintomas recentes mais prevalentes foram cefaleia (53%), mialgia (47%) e febre (33%). De acordo com as pesquisas de seguimento, a incidência de sintomas diminuiu durante o período de isolamento; no entanto, 28% dos pacientes ainda apresentavam sintomas no dia 14. O risco de hospitalização para pacientes com febre e dispneia de início recente durante o período de seguimento foi RR = 7,43 (IC95%: 3,85-14,3; p < 0,01) e RR = 5,27 (IC95%: 1,52-18,30; p < 0,01 para ambos), respectivamente. A dor torácica de início recente não mostrou associação com a piora clínica. Conclusões: Nesta amostra de pacientes ambulatoriais com um diagnóstico recente de infecção por SARS-CoV-2, um monitoramento dos sintomas baseado em pesquisa foi útil para identificar aqueles com risco de piora clínica. Febre e dispneia de início recente durante o período de isolamento foram consideradas sintomas de alerta associados ao agravamento clínico e justificam avaliação médica imediata.

¿Están recibiendo los pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal una adecuada inmunización? / Are patients with inflammatory bowel disease receiving adequate immunisation?

Introducción: El tratamiento de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) puede aumentar el riesgo de infección. La inmunización es parte del manejo integral de la atención de estos pacientes. El objetivo de este estudio es describir la prescripción y adherencia a la vacunación en pacientes con EII e identificar los posibles factores asociados a esta. Métodos: Estudio analítico, descriptivo, transversal en pacientes de un Programa de EII de Chile, entre abril y junio de 2019. A los pacientes se les solicitó responder un cuestionario acerca de la adherencia a la vacunación. La información de las vacunas se obtuvo del Registro Nacional de Inmunizaciones. Se realizó análisis estadístico descriptivo y de asociación (χ2; p<0,05). Resultados: Se incluyeron 243 pacientes con EII (148 colitis ulcerosa [CU], 86 enfermedad de Crohn [EC] y 9 EII no clasificable). Solo 6 pacientes (2%) recibieron el esquema de inmunización completo. Las vacunas con los mayores porcentajes fueron contra la influenza (67%), virus hepatitis B (40%), neumocócica 13-valente (34%) y neumocócica 23-polisacárida (16%), siendo las dos primeras más frecuentes en EC vs. CU (p≤0,05). La administración de la vacuna contra la influenza ha aumentado significativamente, alcanzando un 67% el 2019. La encuesta mostró que el 23% no ha sido inmunizado con ninguna vacuna, principalmente por falta de tiempo, falta de prescripción médica y el alto costo económico. Conclusiones: En esta cohorte, aunque las tasas de vacunación son más altas que las reportadas previamente, la adherencia al programa de inmunización debe mejorar, siendo consideradas desde el diagnóstico por el equipo multidisciplinario.(AU)

Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) treatment may increase the risk of infections. Vaccines are part of the comprehensive IBD patient care. The aim of this study was to describe indications and adherence of immunizations in IBD and identify possible associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytic study was conducted in patients from an IBD Program of a tertiary center in Chile, between April – June 2019. Patients were asked to answer a vaccine survey and information also was obtained from the National Immunization Registry. Descriptive and association statistic were used (χ2; p<0.05). Results: A total of 243 patients were included (148 ulcerative colitis (UC), 86 Crohn's disease (CD) and 9 non-classifiable IBD). Only six patients (2%) of IBD patients received a complete immunization schedule. The highest vaccine rates were against influenza (67%), hepatitis B virus (40%), 13-valent pneumococcal (34%) and 23-polysaccharide pneumococcal (16%). The influenza vaccine rate has significantly increased, reaching 67% in 2019. The survey showed that 23% of patients have not been immunized with any vaccine, mainly due to lack of time, lack of medical prescription and high cost. Conclusions: In this cohort, although vaccination rates are higher than previously reported, adherence to IBD immunization program would be improved, being considered since diagnosis by the multidisciplinary team.(AU)

Embarazo en enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal: experiencia en una cohorte chilena / Pregnancy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Experience of a Chilean cohort

Introducción: El diagnóstico de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) se realiza, en un alto porcentaje, durante la edad reproductiva. La EII en remisión es el mejor escenario para planificar el embarazo. Objetivos: Describir las características clínicas del embarazo y del recién nacido, evaluando la actividad de la enfermedad en el momento de la concepción y en la evolución del embarazo en un centro terciario en Chile. Métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, incluyó a mujeres con EII que habían tenido un parto durante 2017-2020. Los datos demográficos, clínicos y obstétricos se obtuvieron del Registro de EII. Se realizó análisis estadístico descriptivo y de asociación (χ2, p ≤ 0,05). Resultados: Se incluyeron 60 mujeres en el estudio. Al inicio del embarazo, 21 (35%) presentaban actividad inflamatoria y 39 (65%) estaban en remisión. Del grupo con actividad, 16 (66%) permanecieron activas y seis tuvieron un aborto espontáneo. Aquellas en remisión, 26 (69%) permanecieron en esta condición; nueve pacientes (15%) habían suspendido el tratamiento, seis de las cuales presentaron actividad durante el embarazo. El consejo preconcepcional fue realizado en 23/60 pacientes, siendo mayor en el grupo que permaneció en remisión durante el embarazo (65% vs. 35%, p = 0,02). Pacientes con brotes durante el embarazo tuvieron mayor probabilidad de embarazo pretérmino (< 37 semanas) y recién nacido de menor peso comparado con el grupo que permaneció en remisión (89 vs. 74%; p = 0,161) y (2,885 vs. 3,370 g; p = 0,0014), respectivamente. Conclusión: La remisión durante el embarazo presenta los mejores resultados y el consejo preconcepcional permite un mejor control de la EII durante el embarazo.(AU)

Background: In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) a high percentage of women are diagnosed during their reproductive age. IBD in remission is the ideal scenario when planning a pregnancy. Aims: To describe the clinical characteristics of pregnancy/newborn and assess disease activity at the time of conception and throughout the pregnancy in patients with IBD treated at a tertiary centre in Chile. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed women diagnosed with IBD who were pregnant or delivered between 2017 and 2020. Demographic, clinical, obstetric and delivery data were obtained from the IBD registry, approved by the local IRB. Descriptive statistics and association tests were performed (χ2, p ≤ 0.05). Results: Sixty women with IBD were included. At the beginning of pregnancy, 21 (35%) had active disease and 39 (65%) were in remission. Of those with active disease, 16 (66%) remained active and 6 had spontaneous abortions. In those who were in remission, 26 (69%) remained in this condition. Nine patients (15%) discontinued treatment, and 6 of these had inflammatory activity during pregnancy. Preconception counselling was performed in 23 of the 60 patients, being higher in the group that remained in remission during pregnancy (65% vs. 35%, p = 0.02). Patients who had a flare during pregnancy had more probability of preterm birth (<37 weeks) and newborn with lower weight compared with the group that always remained in remission (89% vs. 74%, p = 0.161) and (2.885 vs 3.370 g; p = 0.0014). Conclusion: Remission presents better outcomes in pregnancy and preconception counselling would allow a better IBD control during pregnancy.(AU)

Infliximab en enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal. ¿Es necesario premedicar? / Infliximab in inflammatory bowel disease. Is premedication necessary?

Introducción: El uso de infliximab (IFX) en enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) se ha asociado con un riesgo de 1-6% de reacciones a la infusión. La utilidad de premedicación con corticoides, paracetamol y/o antihistamínicos es controvertido. Objetivo: Evaluar si en pacientes con EII que utilizan IFX hay diferencias en las reacciones secundarias a infusión entre aquellos que utilizan o no premedicación. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, observacional, retrospectivo en pacientes con EII, que han utilizado IFX entre enero 2009 y julio 2019. Se definieron como reacciones agudas aquellas ocurridas en las primeras 24 hrs.postinfusión y tardías después de ese período, clasificándose en leves, moderadas y severas. Se usó estadística descriptiva y de asociación (χ2; p < 0,05). Resultados: Se incluyeron 1.263 infusiones en un total de 64 pacientes, 52% hombres. Mediana de infusiones por paciente 22 (2-66). El 100% de las infusiones en inducción fueron con premedicación y en mantenimiento el 57%. La premedicación fue realizada con hidrocortisona, clorfenamina y paracetamol. La mayoría de las reacciones fueron agudas, de gravedad leve a moderada y ningún paciente necesitó descontinuar IFX. En mantenimiento hubo 9/718 (1,2%) reacciones a la infusión con premedicación y 4/358 (1,1%) sin ésta, sin diferencias significativas (p = 0,606). En inducción hubo 8/187 (4,3%) reacciones a la infusión, significativamente mayor al compararlas con ambos grupos de mantenimiento. Conclusión: En esta cohorte de pacientes, el no usar premedicación en fase de mantenimiento de IFX no aumentó el número de eventos adversos a este fármaco. Estos resultados sugieren que su indicación no sería necesaria.(AU)

Background: The use of infliximab (IFX) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been associated with a 1-6% risk of infusion reactions. The usefulness of premedication with corticosteroids, paracetamol and /or antihistamines is controversial. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess, in IBD patients on IFX, whether there are differences in secondary reactions to the infusion between those who use premedication or not. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed identifying patients with a diagnosis of IBD who received IFX at our institution between January 2009 and July 2019. Acute reactions were defined as those that occurred in the first 24 hours postinfusion and late reactions for more than 24 hours. Infusion reactions were classified as mild, moderate and severe. Descriptive and association statistics were used (χ2; p < 0.05). Results: Sixty-four patients were included with 1,263 infusions in total, 52% men. Median infusions per patient was 22 (2-66). All induction infusions were administered with premedication, and in maintenance in 57% of them. Premedication was given with hydrocortisone, chlorphenamine and paracetamol. Most of reactions were acute, mild or moderate in severity and no patient needed to discontinue IFX. In the maintenance group, there were 9/718 (1.2%) infusion reactions with premedication and 4/358 (1.1%) without it (p = 0.606). In the induction group, there were 8/187 (4.3%) infusion reactions, significantly higher when compared with both maintenance groups. Conclusions: In this group, premedication use during maintenance was not effective at reducing the rate of infusion reactions. These results suggest that premedication would not be necessary.(AU)

Efectos del ejercicio en enfermedades del tubo digestivo / The effects of excercise on gastrointestinal diseases

Actualmente, existe una mayor evidencia acerca de los efectos positivos de la actividad física, y en especial del ejercicio, sobre algunas enfermedades del sistema gastrointestinal, lo cual tiene relación principalmente con su rol antiinflamatorio a nivel sistémico. Sin embargo, es necesario considerar algunas variables del ejercicio, tales como el volumen e intensidad de éste. Específicamente, el realizar ejercicios de larga duración y alta intensidad, asociados a estados de deshidratación, postprandiales y con altas temperaturas ambientales, podría contribuir a la expresión fisiológica del síndrome gastrointestinal inducido por el ejercicio y a la aparición y/o empeoramiento de los síntomas en las enfermedades del tracto gastrointestinal. Si se controlan dichas variables, realizar ejercicio aeróbico de moderada intensidad y, adicionalmente, durante menos de 60 minutos, serían seguros para disminuir el riesgo y controlar de mejor manera los síntomas de algunas patologías gastrointestinales.

Currently, there is an increase evidence about the beneficial effects of physical activity, particularly of physical exercise in some diseases of the gastrointestinal system, related to its systemic anti-inflammatory role. However, it is necessary to consider some of the exercise variables such as volume and exercise intensity. Specifically, the execution of long duration and high intensity exercises, together with a state of dehydration, postprandial and high environmental temperature, could contribute to the physiological expression of the exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome and the expression and/or worsening of gastrointestinal diseases symptoms.

Factores ambientales en el desarrollo y evolución de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal / Environmental risk factors in the development and evolution of inflammatory bowel disease

Environmental factors may influence the development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and modify its natural history. The objective of this review is to evaluate current evidence about environmental factors associated with the disease. A better knowledge about the pathogenesis of the disease can lead to better treatment strategies and suggestions to prevent the disease.

Experiencia del trasplante de microbiota fecal a través de colonoscopía en el tratamiento de la infección por Clostridium difficile recurrente / Fecal microbiota transplantation through colonoscopy for Clostridium difficile recurrent infection: report of eight cases

Background: Most cases of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) respond to a standard course of antibiotics, however recurrent CDI is becoming common and alternative therapeutic strategies are needed. In this scenario, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been suggested. Aim: To describe the efficacy and safety of FMT for the treatment of recurrent CDI. Patients and Methods: Review of medical records of all patients with recurrent CDI treated with FMT between April 2013 and April 2017. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted including details of treatment prior to FMT, rate of FMT treatment success and clinical course during follow-up period. Telephone surveys were conducted to determine patient satisfaction. Results: Eight patients aged 19 to 82 years (six women) underwent FMT. They experienced a median of four previous episodes of CDI (range 3-8). The mean duration of CDI was 18 days (range 3-36) before FMT. All procedures were performed by colonoscopy. Effectiveness with one session of FMT was 100%. During the follow-up period (median 24 months, range 7-55), two patients developed CDI, one of them after using antibiotics. Adverse events were reported in three patients. Two had bloating and one patient with Crohn's disease and a history of bacteremia had an episode of Escherichia coli bacteremia. All patients would use FMT again if necessary. Conclusions: FMT through colonoscopy appears to be a safe, effective and long-lasting therapy in cases of recurrent CDI.

Utilidad de la monitorización terapéutica de infliximab en el manejo de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal / Usefulness of therapeutic monitoring of infliximab in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Background: Primary non-response and secondary loss of response (LOR) are significant problems of biological therapy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in IBD patients receiving these drugs can improve outcomes. Aim: To measure serum infliximab levels and anti-infliximab antibodies (ATI) in patients with IBD post-induction phase and during maintenance therapy assessing the clinical course of IBD. Patients and Methods: Prospective study of IBD patients receiving infliximab between July 2016-May 2017. Group-A included patients who received induction therapy while Group-B included patients who were in maintenance therapy. TDM was performed in serum samples collected at weeks-14 and 30 in Group-A and before the infliximab maintenance dose in Group-B. Clinical scores, fecal calprotectin and endoscopic score were also evaluated. Results: Of 14 patients in Group-A, 57% achieved endoscopic response. Median serum infliximab concentrations at week-14 and 30 were 2.65 AU/mL (0.23-32.58) and 2.3 AU/mL (0.3-16.8), respectively. Patients with mucosal healing had non-significantly higher median infliximab concentrations at week- 14, as compared to week 30 (median 3.2 vs 2.2 AU/ml, respectively, p 0.6). ATI >10 ug/mL were found in one and seven patients at week-14 and 30, respectively. At 52 weeks of follow-up, four patients (31%) had LOR. Group-B included 36 patients, 33% had LOR. Median serum concentrations of infliximab were 1.4 AU/mL (0.27-7.03). No significant differences in serum infliximab concentration were observed between patients in remission and those with inflammatory activity. Seventeen patients had ATI >10 ug/mL. Conclusions: Clinical algorithms using TDM might help to optimize the pharmacological therapy of IBD.

Neumonía por Pneumocystis jiroveci post inicio de tratamiento con infliximab en paciente con enfermedad de Crohn / Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia following infliximab therapy in patient with Crohn's disease

There are no evidence-based guidelines about prophylaxis against Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia in inflammatory bowel disease. We report a case of P. jiroveci pneumonia in patient with Crohn's disease receiving infliximab and methotrexate. This case emphasizes the importance of considering the possibility of this infection in inflammatory bowel disease patients treated on biological therapy.

Terapia de inducción acelerada con infliximab en paciente con colitis ulcerosa grave refractaria a corticoides: caso clínico / Acute severe ulcerative colitis treated with accelerated infliximab induction: case report

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires early recognition, hospitalization and adequate treatment. Currently, the use of infliximab in ulcerative colitis (UC) is recommended in the case of severe disease refractory to corticosteroids, once that superimposed bacterial or viral infections (such as cytomegalovirus or Clostridium difficile) have been excluded. However, conventional weight-based regimens of infliximab might be insufficient for patients with ASUC. Accelerated infliximab induction regimen may increase its serum concentration levels and efficacy by reducing early colectomy rates in these patients. We report a 34 year old female presenting with an ASUC. She was initially treated with hydrocortisone 300 mg/day and mesalazine enemas 4 g/day with an unfavorable clinical response. At the fifth day of therapy, an accelerated induction therapy with infliximab was started in doses of 10 mg/kg at weeks 0, 1 and 4. After the second dose, there was a favorable response with reduction of abdominal pain, stool frequency and hematochezia. She was discharged with prednisone and azathioprine. After a year of starting infliximab, the patient remains in clinical remission.

Experiencia local con natalizumab en pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn refractaria a anti-TNF: casos clínicos / Natalizumab for the treatment of Crohns disease: report of three cases

Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF) agents have dramatically changed the management of Crohn’s Disease (CD). However, a significant number of these patients do not respond at all or cease to respond to antibodies against TNF. In this clinical situation, the options include intensification of anti-TNF therapy by either increasing the dose or by shortening the administration interval, the use of a second anti-TNF or medications with a different mechanism of action. Among the later, Natalizumab, a humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody against α4β1 and α4β7 integrins, is safe and effective in inducing and maintaining remission in active CD patient’s refractory to anti-TNF. In spite of this, Natalizumab use has been limited because of an increased risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalophaty which results from reactivation of the John Cunningham (JC) virus. However, the presence of antibodies against JC virus in serum can be used to reduce the risk for this complication. We report three patients with Crohn’s disease refractory to treatment with infliximab, who responded successfully to the use of Natalizumab.

Linfoma difuso de células grandes B rectal en un paciente con colitis ulcerosa / Rectal diffuse large B cell lymphoma appearing after immunosuppression for ulcerative colitis: report of one case

Primary colorectal lymphoma is a rare form of presentation of gastrointestinal tract lymphomas. Inflammatory bowel disease and its treatment are risk factors for its development. We report a 47-year-old male patient with Ulcerative Colitis of two years of evolution, treated initially with azathioprine and later on with infliximab. Due to a relapse in symptoms after the second dose of infliximab, a new coloncoscopy was performed showing a rectal ulcerative lesion, corresponding to a large cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The patient was successfully treated with RCHOP chemotherapy (Rituximab cyclophosphamide doxorubicin vincristine prednisone). He is currently in disease remission.

Caracterización de pacientes con cáncer colorrectal esporádico basado en la nueva subclasificación molecular de consenso / Characterization of patients with sporadic colorectal cancer following the new Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMS)

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an heterogeneous disease. Three carcinogenic pathways determine its molecular profile: microsatellite instability (MSI), chromosomal instability (CIN) and CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP). Based on the new molecular classification, four consensus CRC molecular subtypes (CMS) are established, which are related to clinical, pathological and biological characteristics of the tumor. Aim: To classify Chilean patients with sporadic CRC according to the new consensus molecular subtypes of carcinogenic pathways. Material and Methods: Prospective analytical study of 53 patients with a mean age of 70 years (55% males) with CRC, operated at a private clinic, without neoadjuvant treatment. From normal and tumor tissue DNA of each patient, CIN, MSI and CIMP were analyzed. Combining these variables, tumors were classified as CMS1/MSI-immune, CMS2/canonical, CMS3/metabolic and CMS4/mesenchymal. Results: CMS1 tumors (19%) were located in the right colon, were in early stages, had MMR complex deficiencies and 67% had an activating mutation of the BRAF oncogene. CMS2 tumors (31%) were located in the left colon, had moderate differentiation, absence of vascular invasion, lymphatic and mucin. CMS3 tumors (29%) were also left-sided, with absence of vascular and lymphatic invasion, and 29% had an activating mutation of the KRAS oncogene. CMS4 tumors (21%) showed advanced stages and presence of metastases. Conclusions: This new molecular classification contributes to understanding the heterogeneity of tumors. It is possible to differentiate molecular subgroups of a single pathological diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, opening the door to personalized medicine.

Presencia de Escherichia coli intracelular en mucosa intestinal de pacientes con Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal y su asociación con características clínicas y el uso de corticosteroides / Presence of intracellular Escherichia coli in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Background: Different strains of invasive Escherichia coli (E. coli), isolated from intestinal mucosa of patients, are related to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Aim: To evaluate an association between intracellular E. coli and IBD; its clinical characteristics and use of steroids. Material and Methods: Sixty one patients with Crohn's disease and 83 with ulcerative colitis were studied. To determine the intracellular E. coli content, colonoscopy biopsies of these patients and 29 control subjects were processed using the gentamicin protection assay. Differences in the bacterial content between patient groups were evaluated using Mann-Whitney test, while the association between presence of E. coli with endoscopic activity, location/extension and use of corticosteroid as anti-inflammatory treatment were evaluated with Fisher's exact test or Chi-square test. Results: E. coli strains were detected in 36.1, 39.3 and 10.3% of patients with ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and controls, respectively. The number of bacteria per biopsy in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis was significantly higher than in controls (p < 0.01 between patients and controls). In ulcerative colitis, significant associations were found between the presence of bacteria and disease location and use of corticosteroids. In Crohn's disease, no association was found. Conclusions: IBD are associated with the presence of intracellular E. coli strains in the intestinal mucosa, suggesting an alteration in the microbiota or loss of integrity of the epithelial barrier. The association of intracellular E. coli with clinical features and the use of corticosteroids in ulcerative colitis suggests that different factors could promote colonization or proliferation of these bacteria.