Heterogeneity of clinical management of low-grade gastric lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue. An audit of 198 patients in Spain / Heterogeneidad en el tratamiento clínico del linfoma gástrico de tejido linfoide asociado a mucosas de bajo grado. Una auditoría de 198 pacientes en España

Introduction: Cure of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with gastric lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) leads to long-term clinical remission in the initial stages. As it is a rare disease, its management in clinical practice remains largely unknown and heterogeneity of care remains a concern. The aim was to audit the management and evolution of a large series of low-grade gastric MALT lymphomas from thirteen Spanish hospitals. Materials and methods: Multicentre retrospective study including data on the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with gastric low-grade MALT lymphoma from January 1998 to December 2013. Clinical, biological and pathological data were analyzed and survival curves were drawn. Results: One-hundred and ninety-eight patients were included. Helicobacter pylori was present in 132 (69%) patients and 103 (82%) in tumors confined to the stomach (stage EI) and was eradicated in 92% of patients. Chemotherapy was given in 90 (45%) patients and 43 (33%) with stage EI. Marked heterogeneity in the use of diagnostic methods and chemotherapy was observed. Five-year overall survival was 86% (89% in EI). Survival was similar in EI patients receiving aggressive treatment and in those receiving only antibiotics (p=0.577). Discussion: Gastric MALT lymphoma has an excellent prognosis. We observed, however, a marked heterogeneity in the use of diagnostic methods or chemotherapy in early-stage patients

Introducción: La cura de la infección por Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) en pacientes con linfoma gástrico de tejido linfoide asociado mucosas (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue [MALT]) conduce a la remisión clínica a largo plazo en los estadios iniciales. Al tratarse de una enfermedad rara, su tratamiento en la práctica clínica en muchas ocasiones se desconoce y la heterogeneidad de la atención sigue siendo motivo de preocupación. El objetivo es auditar el tratamiento y la evolución de una gran serie de linfomas gástricos MALT de bajo grado procedentes de 13 hospitales españoles. Materiales y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo y multicéntrico que incluye datos sobre el diagnóstico y el seguimiento de pacientes con linfoma MALT gástrico de bajo grado desde enero de 1998 hasta diciembre del 2013. Se analizaron los datos clínicos, biológicos y patológicos, y se trazaron las curvas de supervivencia. Resultados: Se incluyó a 198 pacientes. El H. pylori estaba presente en 132 (69%) de los pacientes y en 103 (82%) tumores confinados al estómago (estadio EI) y se erradicó en el 92% de los pacientes. Se administró quimioterapia a 90 (45%) de los pacientes y a 43 (33%) en estadio EI. Se observó una marcada heterogeneidad en el uso de los métodos de diagnóstico y de la quimioterapia. La supervivencia global a los 5 años fue del 86% (89% en estadio EI). La supervivencia fue similar en los pacientes en estadio EI que recibieron tratamiento agresivo y en los que recibieron solo antibióticos (p=0,577). Discusión: El linfoma MALT gástrico presenta un pronóstico excelente. Sin embargo, se observó una marcada heterogeneidad en el uso de los métodos de diagnóstico o la quimioterapia en pacientes en estadio inicial

Heterogeneity of clinical management of low-grade gastric lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue. An audit of 198 patients in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Cure of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with gastric lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) leads to long-term clinical remission in the initial stages. As it is a rare disease, its management in clinical practice remains largely unknown and heterogeneity of care remains a concern. The aim was to audit the management and evolution of a large series of low-grade gastric MALT lymphomas from thirteen Spanish hospitals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Multicentre retrospective study including data on the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with gastric low-grade MALT lymphoma from January 1998 to December 2013. Clinical, biological and pathological data were analyzed and survival curves were drawn. RESULTS: One-hundred and ninety-eight patients were included. Helicobacter pylori was present in 132 (69%) patients and 103 (82%) in tumors confined to the stomach (stage EI) and was eradicated in 92% of patients. Chemotherapy was given in 90 (45%) patients and 43 (33%) with stage EI. Marked heterogeneity in the use of diagnostic methods and chemotherapy was observed. Five-year overall survival was 86% (89% in EI). Survival was similar in EI patients receiving aggressive treatment and in those receiving only antibiotics (p=0.577). DISCUSSION: Gastric MALT lymphoma has an excellent prognosis. We observed, however, a marked heterogeneity in the use of diagnostic methods or chemotherapy in early-stage patients.

Valor predictivo pretratamiento del cociente neutrófilos/linfocitos circulantes sobre la posibilidad de resección R0 en el cáncer gástrico / Pretreatment predictive value of blood neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in R0 gastric cancer resectability

INTRODUCCIÓN: Se necesitan nuevos parámetros, complementarios al TNM clínico, para orientar preoperatoriamente acerca de la resecabilidad R0 del cáncer gástrico. Analizaremos el posible valor predictivo del cociente neutrófilos/linfocitos (N/L) circulantes sobre dicha resecabilidad. MÉTODOS: Estudiamos retrospectivamente 257 carcinomas gástricos, diagnosticados consecutivamente y sin tratamiento neoadyuvante. Realizamos un análisis univariante y multivariante de la frecuencia de casos con resección R0 entre los grupos con cociente N/L «normal» (< 5) y «patológico» (≥ 5). Adicionalmente, estudiamos el subgrupo de pacientes operados (n = < 5 o ≥ 5. RESULTADOS: Fueron operados 156 casos, con 139 resecciones R0. Registramos un cociente N/L elevado en 46 casos (17,9%). Globalmente, la resecabilidad R0 fue superior en los pacientes con cociente N/L < 5: 59,7% frente al cociente ≥ 5: 28,6% (p < 0,001; OR = 3,76; IC 95% = 1,78-8,04). En el análisis multivariante se confirma la relación entre cociente N/L < 5 y resección R0 (p = 0,006; OR = 3,86; IC 95% = 1,46-10,22). En el subgrupo de pacientes operados se mantiene la mayor frecuencia de resección R0 en los casos con cociente < 5: 91,3% frente a 72,2% (p = 0,015; OR = 4,04; IC 95% = 1,23-13,26). CONCLUSIONES: De modo global, un cociente N/L < 5 en el momento del diagnóstico del cáncer gástrico se relaciona de modo significativo e independiente con una mayor frecuencia de resección tumoral R0. En el subgrupo de pacientes operados se confirma esta mayor proporción de resección R0 en los casos con cociente N/L < 5

INTRODUCTION: New parameters complementary to clinical TNM classification are needed, to orient preoperative on the possibility of a R0 gastric cancer resection. We analysed the possible predictive value of blood neutrophil/lymphocytic ratio (N/L) in relation to resectability. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-seven gastric cancers consecutively diagnosed and without neoadjuvant treatment were retrospectively studied. Univariate and multivariate analysis of the frequency of R0 cases was performed between groups with a normal N/L ratio (< 5) and pathological N/L ratio (≥ 5). Furthermore, we studied the subgroup of operated patients (n = 156) analysing the frequency of R0 resection according to N/L ratio < 5 or ≥ 5. RESULTS: One hundred and fifty-six patients underwent surgical intervention, of which 139 had R0 resections. A high N/L ratio was registered in 46 cases (17.9%). Globally, resectability was higher in patients with a N/L ratio < 5: 59.7% vs. N/L ratio ≥ 5: 28.6% (P < .001; OR = 3.76; 95% C = 1.78-8.04). The relation between N/L ratio < 5 and R0 resection was confirmed in the multivariate (P = .006; OR = 3.86; 95% CI = 1.46-10.22). In the operated subgroup, the higher frequency of R0 resection achievement is maintained in cases with N/L ratio < 5: 91.3% vs. 72.2% (P = .015; OR =4.04; 95% CI = 1.23-13.26). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of a N/L ratio < 5 at the diagnosis of a gastric carcinoma is related in a significant and independent way with a higher frequency of R0 tumoral resection, globally. This higher proportion of R0 resection cases in patients with a N/L < 5 ratio is confirmed in the subgroup of operated patients

Pretreatment predictive value of blood neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in R0 gastric cancer resectability. / Valor predictivo pretratamiento del cociente neutrófilos/linfocitos circulantes sobre la posibilidad de resección R0 en el cáncer gástrico.

INTRODUCTION: New parameters complementary to clinical TNM classification are needed, to orient preoperative on the possibility of a R0 gastric cancer resection. We analysed the possible predictive value of blood neutrophil/lymphocytic ratio (N/L) in relation to resectability. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-seven gastric cancers consecutively diagnosed and without neoadjuvant treatment were retrospectively studied. Univariate and multivariate analysis of the frequency of R0 cases was performed between groups with a normal N/L ratio (<5) and pathological N/L ratio (≥5). Furthermore, we studied the subgroup of operated patients (n=156) analysing the frequency of R0 resection according to N/L ratio<5 or≥5. RESULTS: One hundred and fifty-six patients underwent surgical intervention, of which 139 had R0 resections. A high N/L ratio was registered in 46 cases (17.9%). Globally, resectability was higher in patients with a N/L ratio<5: 59.7% vs. N/L ratio≥5: 28.6% (P<.001; OR=3.76; 95% CI=1.78-8.04). The relation between N/L ratio<5 and R0 resection was confirmed in the multivariate (P=.006; OR=3.86; 95% CI=1.46-10.22). In the operated subgroup, the higher frequency of R0 resection achievement is maintained in cases with N/L ratio<5: 91.3% vs. 72.2% (P=.015; OR=4.04; 95% CI=1.23-13.26). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of a N/L ratio<5 at the diagnosis of a gastric carcinoma is related in a significant and independent way with a higher frequency of R0 tumoral resection, globally. This higher proportion of R0 resection cases in patients with a N/L<5 ratio is confirmed in the subgroup of operated patients.

Prevalence of severe esophagitis in Spain. Results of the PRESS study (Prevalence and Risk factors for Esophagitis in Spain: A cross-sectional study).

BACKGROUND: *N.P. and M.P. contributed equally to this study.The current prevalence of esophagitis in southern Europe is unknown. In addition, the risk factors for reflux esophagitis are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to assess the prevalence and risk factors for esophagitis in Spain. METHODS: A prospective, observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study (PRESS study) was conducted among 31 gastrointestinal endoscopy units throughout Spain. A total of 1361 patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were enrolled. Sociodemographic, clinical and treatment data were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 95% of patients were Caucasian and 52% were male (mean age: 53 ± 17 years). The most frequent symptoms prompting endoscopy were heartburn (40%), regurgitation (26%) and dysphagia (15%). Fifty-four percent of patients undergoing endoscopy were receiving proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment. Esophagitis (mainly mild-moderate) was present in 154 (12.4%) patients. The severe form was recorded in only 11 (0.8%) patients. Multivariate analysis results indicated that the likelihood of esophagitis was higher in men (OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.31-2.78), in patients with high GERD-Q scores (OR = 1.256, 95% CI = 1.176-1.343), weight increase (OR = 1.014, 95% CI = 1.003-1.025) and high alcohol consumption (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.16-5.36). CONCLUSION: Severe esophagitis is a rare finding in the Spanish population. Male gender, high GERD-Q score, weight increase and high alcohol consumption are main risk factors for its appearance.

Valor pronóstico pretratamiento del antígeno carcinoembrionario en el cáncer colorrectal operado. ¿Es útil en todos los estadios del tumor? / Prognostic value of preoperative carcinoembryogenic antigen: Is it useful in all stages of colorectal cancer?

INTRODUCCIÓN: Publicaciones recientes han reactivado la discusión sobre el valor pronóstico de la elevación pretratamiento del antígeno carcinoembrionario (CEA) en el cáncer colorrectal. Debido a los resultados discordantes comunicados, pretendemos analizar en nuestro medio esta posible capacidad predictiva, globalmente y en los diferentes estadios tumorales. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Estudiamos retrospectivamente 303 cánceres colorrectales resecados consecutivamente con intención curativa, analizando la mortalidad debida al tumor. Determinamos la frecuencia de casos con CEA pretratamiento patológico (>5 mg/l). Comparamos mediante análisis univariante y multivariante las curvas de supervivencia entre los casos con CEA normal y patológico, tanto en el global de la serie como en los diferentes estadios pTNM. RESULTADOS: La frecuencia de pacientes con CEA > 5 mg/l fue del 31%. La mediana de seguimiento clínico alcanzó los 83 meses. En el análisis multivariante de la serie global, la supervivencia fue desfavorable para los casos con CEA elevado: hazard ratio (HR) = 1,89; intervalo de confianza al 95% (IC 95%) = (1,15-3,10); p = 0,012. Al efectuar el análisis de supervivencia en los diversos estadios, únicamente se mantiene el valor predictivo en el estadio II (n = 104): HR = 3,02; IC 95% = (1,22-7,45); p = 0,017. CONCLUSIONES: Antes del inicio del tratamiento, un 31% de nuestros cánceres colorrectales resecados con intención curativa presentaron unos valores patológicos de CEA. Considerando la serie globalmente, la elevación del CEA pretratamiento presenta, de modo independiente, un valor pronóstico desfavorable sobre la supervivencia, pero al analizar su valor predictivo según los diferentes estadios, solo mantiene su significación en el estadio pTNM II

INTRODUCTION: Recent reports have reopened discussion of the prognostic value of elevated pre-treatment carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in colorectal cancer. Due to the discrepancies in the published results, we aimed to analyze the possible predictive value of CEA, both overall and in different tumoral stages in our environment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively studied 303 consecutive patients with colorectal cancer resected with curative intent by analysing tumor-related mortality. The frequency of patients with increased CEA levels (> 5 mg/l) was registered. Univariate and multivariate analyses of survival curves were performed, comparing patients with increased CEA levels and those with CEA levels within normal limits, both in the overall series and in the different pTNM tumoral stages. RESULTS: Frequency of patients with CEA > 5 mg/l was 31%. The median clinical follow-up was 83 months. A poor survival rate was registered in the multivariate analysis of the whole series in patients with high CEA levels: hazard ratio (HR) = 1.81; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = (1.15-3.10); P=.012. This predictive value was only maintained in stage II in the survival analysis of the distinct tumoral stages (n = 104): HR = 3.02; 95% CI = (1.22-7.45); P=.017. CONCLUSIONS: Before treatment, 31% of our patients with colorectal cancer resected with curative intent had pathological CEA values. In the overall series, a high pretreatment CEA level showed an independent prognostic value for poor survival. When pTNM tumoral stages were analyzed separately, CEA level had predictive value only in pTNM II tumors

[Prognostic value of preoperative carcinoembryogenic antigen: Is it useful in all stages of colorectal cancer?]. / Valor pronóstico pretratamiento del antígeno carcinoembrionario en el cáncer colorrectal operado. ¿Es útil en todos los estadios del tumor?

INTRODUCTION: Recent reports have reopened discussion of the prognostic value of elevated pre-treatment carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in colorectal cancer. Due to the discrepancies in the published results, we aimed to analyze the possible predictive value of CEA, both overall and in different tumoral stages in our environment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively studied 303 consecutive patients with colorectal cancer resected with curative intent by analysing tumor-related mortality. The frequency of patients with increased CEA levels (> 5mg/l) was registered. Univariate and multivariate analyses of survival curves were performed, comparing patients with increased CEA levels and those with CEA levels within normal limits, both in the overall series and in the different pTNM tumoral stages. RESULTS: Frequency of patients with CEA>5mg/l was 31%. The median clinical follow-up was 83 months. A poor survival rate was registered in the multivariate analysis of the whole series in patients with high CEA levels: hazard ratio (HR)=1.81; 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=(1.15-3.10); P=.012. This predictive value was only maintained in stage II in the survival analysis of the distinct tumoral stages (n=104): HR=3.02; 95% CI=(1.22-7.45); P=.017. CONCLUSIONS: Before treatment, 31% of our patients with colorectal cancer resected with curative intent had pathological CEA values. In the overall series, a high pretreatment CEA level showed an independent prognostic value for poor survival. When pTNM tumoral stages were analyzed separately, CEA level had predictive value only in pTNM II tumors.

Valor predictivo de la hipoalbuminemia pre-tratamiento sobre el pronóstico del cáncer colorrectal resecado / Predictive value of pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia in prognosis of resected colorectal cancer

INTRODUCCIÓN: La albúmina forma parte de la respuesta sistémica inflamatoria antitumoral, por lo que analizaremos su valor en el pronóstico pre-operatorio del carcinoma colorrectal (CCR).Pacientes y métodos Estudio retrospectivo y observacional de una serie de CCR resecados consecutiva y programadamente. Efectuamos un análisis estadístico univariante y multivariante de la supervivencia entre los casos con y sin hipoalbuminemia pretratamiento (< 3,5 g/dl), globalmente y en el subgrupo en estadio pTNM II . Adicionalmente, comparamos el índice de mortalidad debida al tumor a los 5 años entre los casos con y sin hipoalbuminemia. Resultados Revisamos 207 pacientes (mediana de seguimiento: 81 meses). En el análisis multivariante global los casos con normoalbuminemia presentaron unas curvas de supervivencia superiores a las de los pacientes con hipoalbuminemia: (HR = 2,82; IC 95% = [1,54-5,19]; p = 0,001). Este mejor pronóstico de la normoalbuminemia se mantiene en el estadio pTNM II: (HR = 3,76; IC 95% = [1,40-10,08]; p = 0,009). El índice de mortalidad a los 5 años fue inferior en los casos con normoalbuminemia: global=18,8 versus 42,9% (OR = 3,24; IC 95% = [1,48-7,12]; p = 0,001); estadio pTNM II=13,3 versus 44,4% (OR = 5,2; IC 95% = [1,36-20,34]; p = 0,004). CONCLUSIÓN: Una hipoalbuminemia pre-tratamiento < 3,5g/dl se relaciona, de modo independiente, con una menor supervivencia tras la resección, tanto globalmente como en los CCR en estadio pTNM II. De confirmarse estos resultados la hipoalbuminemia constituiría un sencillo y significativo marcador de mal pronóstico, disponible desde el momento del diagnóstico

INTRODUCTION: Albuminemia is part of the antitumoral systemic inflammatory response. We therefore analyzed its possible value in establishing the preoperative prognosis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, observational study of a series of consecutive patients who underwent CRC resection. Univariate and multivariate analyses of survival curves were performed in patients with and without pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia (< 3.5 g/dl), both in the overall group of patients and in the subgroup of those with pTNM stage II tumors. In addition, we compared the 5-year tumor-related mortality in patients with and without hypoalbuminemia. RESULTS: A total of 207 patients were reviewed (median follow-up: 81 months). In the overall multivariate analysis, survival curves were better in patients with normal albumin levels than in those with hypoalbuminemia (HR = 2.82; CI 95% = [1.54-5.19]; P = .001). This better prognostic value of normal albumin levels was also significant in pTNM stage II tumors: (HR = 3.76; CI 95% = [1.40-10.08]; P = .009). The 5-year mortality index was lower in patients with normal albumin levels: overall series = 18.8% vs 42.9% (OR =3.24; CI 95% = [1.48-7.12]; p = 0.001); pTNM stage ii=13.3% vs 44.4% (OR = 5.2; CI 95% = [1.36-20.34]; P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia (< 3.5 g/dl) was independently related to shorter survival after tumor resection, both in the overall series of patients and in pTNM stage II CRC. If these results are confirmed, hypoalbuminemia would be a simple and significant marker of poor prognosis, available at the initial diagnosis

[Predictive value of pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia in prognosis of resected colorectal cancer]. / Valor predictivo de la hipoalbuminemia pre-tratamiento sobre el pronóstico del cáncer colorrectal resecado.

INTRODUCTION: Albuminemia is part of the antitumoral systemic inflammatory response. We therefore analyzed its possible value in establishing the preoperative prognosis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, observational study of a series of consecutive patients who underwent CRC resection. Univariate and multivariate analyses of survival curves were performed in patients with and without pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia (<3.5g/dl), both in the overall group of patients and in the subgroup of those with pTNM stage ii tumors. In addition, we compared the 5-year tumor-related mortality in patients with and without hypoalbuminemia. RESULTS: A total of 207 patients were reviewed (median follow-up: 81 months). In the overall multivariate analysis, survival curves were better in patients with normal albumin levels than in those with hypoalbuminemia (HR=2.82; CI 95%=[1.54-5.19]; P=.001). This better prognostic value of normal albumin levels was also significant in pTNM stage ii tumors: (HR=3.76; CI 95%=[1.40-10.08]; P=.009). The 5-year mortality index was lower in patients with normal albumin levels: overall series=18.8% vs 42.9% (OR=3.24; CI 95%=[1.48-7.12]; p=0.001); pTNM stage ii=13.3% vs 44.4% (OR=5.2; CI 95%=[1.36-20.34]; P=0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-treatment hypoalbuminemia (<3.5g/dl) was independently related to shorter survival after tumor resection, both in the overall series of patients and in pTNM stage ii CRC. If these results are confirmed, hypoalbuminemia would be a simple and significant marker of poor prognosis, available at the initial diagnosis.

[Does endoscopist fatigue play a role in incomplete colonoscopies and detection of polypoid lesions?]. / ¿Influye el posible cansancio del endoscopista en la frecuencia de colonoscopias incompletas y de las lesiones polipoideas diagnosticadas?

INTRODUCTION: Nowadays, the possible effect of endoscopist fatigue on the results of colonoscopies is under discussion. We aimed to analyze possible differences in cecal intubation and the polyp and adenoma detection rate, depending on whether colonoscopies were performed at the beginning or at the end of the daily endoscopy session and to analyze the influence of the queue position on the detection rate. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed with 1,000 ambulatory and consecutive colonoscopies, divided into 2 groups: «early¼ and «late¼ procedures. A total of 95 colonoscopies were excluded due to poor colon cleansing. After confirming that patient characteristics were homogenous in the two groups, we compared the frequency of complete colonoscopies and the polyp and adenoma detection rate. Possible differences between the 2 groups in the polyp detection rate according to the colonoscopy schedule were analyzed. RESULTS: The overall polyp and adenoma detection rates were 44.2 and 30.5%, respectively, with no significant differences among 13 different endoscopists; polyps: p = 0.21; adenomas: p=0.63. No significant differences were found between the «early group¼ (n= 532) and the «late group¼ (n = 373) in the rates of complete colonoscopies [97.2 vs 99.4% (p=0.92)], the polyp detection rate [45.9 vs 41.8% (p=0.23)], the adenoma detection rate [30.8 vs 30% (p=0.80)] or the serrated adenoma rate [2.1% vs 1.6% (p=0.62)]. The lesion detection rate did not vary in relation to the «queue position¼: polyps [p = 0.60, and adenomas: p = 0.83. CONCLUSIONS: In our series, endoscopist fatigue at the end of the day had no influence on the complete colonoscopy rate or on the polyp and adenoma detection rate. There were no differences in the number of polypoid lesions detected according to the timing of the colonoscopy schedule.

Localización endoscópica del cáncer colorrectal: estudio de su precisión y posibles factores de error / Endoscopic localization of colorectal cancer: study of its accuracy and possible error factors

Introducción: una correcta localización preoperatoria del cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es muy importante, siendo variables las tasas de error de localización endoscópica publicadas. Objetivo: determinar la precisión de la localización endoscópica del CCR, comparándola con la del TAC preoperatorio. Analizar las variables que pudieran asociarse a una localización endoscópica errónea. Pacientes y métodos: revisamos la localización endoscópica y por TAC de una serie de CCR sin cirugía previa. Estudiamos la concordancia entre localización endoscópica y radiológica frente a la operatoria, comparando la precisión de la endoscopia y del TAC. Analizamos la frecuencia de diagnósticos endoscópicos incorrectos con respecto a una serie de variables del paciente, de la endoscopia y del tumor. Resultados: estudiamos 237 CCR, en 223 pacientes. La concordancia con la localización quirúrgica fue: colonoscopia = 0,87 y TAC = 0,69. La precisión de la localización endoscópica fue: 91,1% (87,3-95); TAC: 76,2% (70,8-82): p = 0,00001; OR = 3,22 (1,82-5,72). El cáncer obstructivo presentó mayor frecuencia de localización errónea: 18% frente al no obstructivo: 5,7%, p = 0,0034; OR = 3,65 (1,35-9,96). Los errores endoscópicos de localización variaron según la ubicación tumoral, siendo más frecuentes en descendente: 36,3%, p = 0,014; OR = 6,23 (1,38-26,87) y ciego: 23,1%, p = 0,007; OR = 3,92 (1,20-12,43). Conclusiones: la precisión endoscópica para la localización del CCR resultó muy elevada y significativamente superior a la del TAC. El carácter obstructivo del tumor y el asentar en descendente o ciego se asocian con un significativo aumento del riesgo de error en la localización endoscópica del CCR(AU)

Introduction: accurate preoperative localization of colorectal cancer (CRC) is very important, with a wide range of published error rates. Aim: to determine accuracy of endoscopic localization of CRC in comparison with preoperative computed tomography (CT). To analyse variables that could be associated with a wrong endoscopic localization. Patients and methods: endoscopic and CT localization of a series of CRC without previous surgery were reviewed. We studied the concordance between endoscopic and radiologic localization against operative findings comparing accuracy of endoscopy and CT. We analysed the frequency of wrong endoscopic diagnoses with regard to a series of patient, endoscopy and tumor variables. Results: two hundred thirty seven CRC in 223 patients were studied. Concordance with surgical localization was: colonoscopy = 0.87 and CT = 0.69. Endoscopic localization accuracy was: 91.1%; CT: 76.2%: p = 0.00001; OR = 3.22 (1.82-5.72). Obstructive cancer presented a higher rate of wrong localization: 18 vs. 5.7% in non-obstructive tumors (p = 0.0034; OR = 3.65 (1.35- 9.96). Endoscopic localization mistakes varied depending on tumor location, being more frequent in descending colon: 36.3%, p = 0.014; OR = 6.23 (1.38-26.87) and cecum: 23.1%, p = 0.007; OR = 3.92 (1.20-12.43). Conclusions: endoscopic accuracy for CRC localization was very high and significantly better than CT accuracy. Obstructive tumor and those located in the descending colon or cecum were associated with a significant increase of the error risk of CRC endoscopic localization(AU)

Valor predictivo de la infiltración por linfocitos T intraepiteliales (CD3) en el pronóstico del cáncer colorrectal resecado / No disponible

Introducción: El carcinoma colorrectal (CCR) puede inducir una respuesta inmunitaria antitumoral mediada por linfocitos T, que expresan el CD3.ObjetivosAnalizar el valor pronóstico de la expresión tisular de CD3 intraepitelial (CD3I) globalmente y en los estadios tumorales menos avanzados. Métodos Revisamos 251 CCR resecados, con evolución controlada, estudiando inmunohistoquímicamente la expresión de CD3I. Determinamos mediante análisis multivariante las variables con valor pronóstico independiente sobre la supervivencia del CCR. Analizamos la expresión de CD3I (+), en relación con la supervivencia y la progresión tumoral, globalmente y en los pacientes en estadio pTNM (I-II), estableciendo su sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo (VP+) y negativo y precisión diagnóstica. Resultados Un 25,9% de los CCR fueron CD3I (+). Tras un seguimiento medio de 74 meses, la expresión CD3I (+) mostró un valor pronóstico favorable para la supervivencia en el análisis multivariante (p=0,045). Las curvas de supervivencia y no progresión tumoral resultaron más favorables en los casos CD3I (+), tanto globalmente (p=0,009 y p=0,004, respectivamente), como en estadio I-II (p=0,029 y p=0,015). La especificidad (E) y valor predictivo positivo (VP+) de la expresión de CD3I (+) fueron: supervivencia global, E=0,89; VP+=0,91. Estadio (I-II): E=0,94; VP+=0,98. Sin progresión tumoral global: E=0,89; VP+=0,88. Estadio (I-II): E=0,92; VP+=0,96.ConclusionesLa expresión de CD3I conlleva un valor pronóstico favorable independiente, con porcentajes significativamente superiores de supervivencia y de no progresión tumoral, manteniéndose este mejor pronóstico en los estadios menos avanzados (I-II) y presentando unas elevadas tasas de especificidad y valor predictivo positivo (AU)

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) can induce an anti-tumoral immune response mediated by T-lymphocytes, which express CD3.Objectives: To analyze the prognostic value of tissue expression of intraepithelial CD3 (CD3I) both overall and in the early tumoral stages. Methods: We revised 251 patients with resected CRC and favorable clinical course. CD3I expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Multivariate analysis was used to analyze the variables independently associated with survival. We analyzed CD3I(+) expression in relation to survival and tumoral progression, both overall and in patients with pTNM(I-II) stage tumors. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy ofCD3I expression were analyzed. Results: A total of 25.9% of patients with CRC were CD3I(+). After a mean follow-up of74 months, CD3I(+) expression showed a favorable prognostic value for survival in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.045). Survival curves and absence of tumoral progression were more favorable in CD3I(+) cases, both overall (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004, respectively), and in stages I-II(p = 0.029 and p = 0.015). The specificity and positive predictive value of CD3I(+) were as follows: Survival: overall: specificity =0.89; positive predictive value =0.91. Stage (I-II): specificity =0.94;positive predictive value =0.98. Absence of tumoral progression: overall: specificity = 0.89;positive predictive value =0.88. Stage (I-II): specificity =0.92; positive predictive value =0.96.Conclusions: CD3I expression has an favorable independent prognostic value, with statistically significantly higher percentages of survival and absence of tumoral progression. This more favorable outcome is maintained in the less advanced stages (I-II). CD3I expression shows high specificity and positive predictive value (AU)

[Predictive value of intraepithelial (CD3) T-lymphocyte infiltration in resected colorectal cancer]. / Valor predictivo de la infiltración por linfocitos T intraepiteliales (CD3) en el pronóstico del cáncer colorrectal resecado.

INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer (CRC) can induce an anti-tumoral immune response mediated by T-lymphocytes, which express CD3. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the prognostic value of tissue expression of intraepithelial CD3 (CD3I) both overall and in the early tumoral stages. METHODS: We revised 251 patients with resected CRC and favorable clinical course. CD3I expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Multivariate analysis was used to analyze the variables independently associated with survival. We analyzed CD3I(+) expression in relation to survival and tumoral progression, both overall and in patients with pTNM(I-II) stage tumors. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy of CD3I expression were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 25.9% of patients with CRC were CD3I(+). After a mean follow-up of 74 months, CD3I(+) expression showed a favorable prognostic value for survival in the multivariate analysis (p=0.045). Survival curves and absence of tumoral progression were more favorable in CD3I(+) cases, both overall (p=0.009 and p=0.004, respectively), and in stages I-II (p=0.029 and p=0.015). The specificity and positive predictive value of CD3I(+) were as follows: Survival: overall: specificity =0.89; positive predictive value =0.91. Stage (I-II): specificity =0.94; positive predictive value =0.98. Absence of tumoral progression: overall: specificity=0.89; positive predictive value =0.88. Stage (I-II): specificity =0.92; positive predictive value =0.96. CONCLUSIONS: CD3I expression has an favorable independent prognostic value, with statistically significantly higher percentages of survival and absence of tumoral progression. This more favorable outcome is maintained in the less advanced stages (I-II). CD3I expression shows high specificity and positive predictive value.

Drawing up an individual risk index for development of metachronous neoplastic lesions in resected colorectal cancer.

AIM: to identify possible risk factors for the development of metachronous lesions in colorectal cancer (CRC) which would allow to establish a post-surgical individual prognostic index. PATIENTS AND METHODS: three hundred eighty-two surgically treated CRC were reviewed. We compared the incidence of metachronous lesions in 40 variables concerning patient clinical data and initial neoplastic findings. An individual risk index for metachronicity was drawn up including those variables which presented significant differences in multivariate logistic regression, dividing patients into three groups. RESULTS: variables with prognostic value for metachronicity were distal cancer location: OR = 2.30 (1.03-5.13), alcohol intake: OR = 2.20 (1.08-4.48), presence of synchronous adenomas: isolated: OR = 2.47 (1.03-4.48), multiple: OR = 4.26 (1.78-10.17), and presence of synchronous advanced adenoma: OR = 2.91 (1.52-12.60). Tumor MUC-5 expression proved to have a protective role: OR = 0.23 (0.08-0.66). An individual risk score was established considering these variables and patients could be classified into three groups, with a discrimination power for metachronicity of p < 0.0000001. Classification in high and low risk groups had a sensitivity = 75.32%, specificity = 84.21%, positive predictive value = 75.34%, negative predictive value = 92.31% and global diagnostic accuracy = 80.75%. CONCLUSIONS: the identification of risk factors for the development of metachronous lesions allow to calculate, at the time of surgical treatment, an individual prognostic index and to classify patients into three different risk groups. In high and low risk groups, both specificity and accuracy were acceptable for the prognosis of metachronous lesions, being remarkable the negative predictive power of our classification, which could become relevant when planning a different endoscopic follow up of these patients.

Elaboración de un índice individual del riesgo para el desarrollo de lesiones neoplásicas metacrónicas en el cáncer colorrectal resecado / Drawing up an individual risk index for development of metachronous neoplastic lesions in resected colorectal cancer

Objetivo: identificar posibles factores de riesgo para desarrollar lesiones metacrónicas en el cáncer colorrectal, elaborando un índice pronóstico individual del riesgo. Material y métodos: revisamos 382 cánceres colorrectales resecados. Comparamos la diferente incidencia de lesiones metacrónicas en 40 variables referentes al paciente y a las lesiones neoplásicas iniciales. Con aquellas que mostraron diferencias significativas en el análisis estadístico multivariable, elaboramos un índice individual de riesgo, clasificando los pacientes en 3 grupos de riesgo de metacronicidad. Resultados: las variables con valor pronóstico para la metacronicidad fueron: localización distal del cáncer: OR = 2,30 IC 95% (1,03-5,13); consumo de alcohol: OR = 2,20 IC 95% (1,08-4,48); presencia de adenoma sincrónico único: OR = 2,47 IC 95% (1,03- 4,48) o múltiple: OR = 4,26 IC 95% (1,78-10-17) y adenoma avanzado: OR = 2,91 IC 95% (1,52-12,60). La expresión tisular de MUC-5 en el tumor mostró valor protector: OR = 0,23 IC 95% (0,08-0,66). Con estas variables se elaboró un índice pronóstico para el desarrollo de lesiones metacrónicas, clasificando a los individuos en tres grupos de riesgo, con un poder de discriminación de p < 0,000001. El índice mostró una sensibilidad de 75,32%, especificidad = 84,21%, valor predictivo positivo = 75,34%, negativo = 92,31%, con una precisión diagnóstica = 80,75%. Conclusiones: la identificación de variables de riesgo para desarrollar lesiones metacrónicas permitió calcular, desde la cirugía, un índice pronóstico individual, clasificando los pacientes en 3 grupos de riesgo. Los grupos de alto y bajo riesgo registraron una aceptable especificidad y precisión para el pronóstico de lesiones metacrónicas, destacando el elevado poder predictivo negativo de nuestra clasificación, que aconsejaría un diferente seguimiento endoscópico(AU)

Aim: to identify possible risk factors for the development of metachronous lesions in colorectal cancer (CRC) which would allow to establish a post-surgical individual prognostic index. Patients and methods: three hundred eighty-two surgically treated CRC were reviewed. We compared the incidence of metachronous lesions in 40 variables concerning patient clinical data and initial neoplastic findings. An individual risk index for metachronicity was drawn up including those variables which presented significant differences in multivariate logistic regression, dividing patients into three groups. Results: variables with prognostic value for metachronicity were distal cancer location: OR= 2.30 (1.03-5.13), alcohol intake: OR = 2.20 (1.08-4.48), presence of synchronous adenomas: isolated: OR = 2.47 (1.03-4.48), multiple: OR = 4.26 (1.78-10.17), and presence of synchronous advanced adenoma: OR= 2.91 (1.52- 12.60). Tumor MUC-5 expression proved to have a protective role: OR = 0.23 (0.08-0.66). An individual risk score was established considering these variables and patients could be classified into three groups, with a discrimination power for metachronicity of p < 0.0000001. Classification in high and low risk groups had a sensitivity = 75.32%, specificity = 84.21%, positive predictive value = 75.34%, negative predictive value = 92.31% and global diagnostic accuracy = 80.75%. Conclusions: the identification of risk factors for the development of metachronous lesions allow to calculate, at the time of surgical treatment, an individual prognostic index and to classify patients into three different risk groups. In high and low risk groups, both specificity and accuracy were acceptable for the prognosis of metachronous lesions, being remarkable the negative predictive power of our classification, which could become relevant when planning a different endoscopic follow up of these patients(AU)

Clinical patterns and outcomes of ischaemic colitis: results of the Working Group for the Study of Ischaemic Colitis in Spain (CIE study).

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of prospective studies evaluating the natural history of colonic ischaemia (CI). We performed such a study to evaluate the clinical presentation, outcome, and mortality as well as clinical variables associated with poor prognosis. METHODS: An open, prospective, and multicentre study was conducted in 24 Spanish hospitals serving a population of 3.5 million people. The study included only patients who met criteria for definitive or probable CI. A website (www.colitisisquemica.org) provided logistical support. RESULTS: A total of 364 patients met criteria for inclusion. CI was suspected clinically in only 24.2% of cases. The distribution of clinical patterns was as follows: reversible colopathy (26.1%), transient colitis (43.7%), gangrenous colitis (9.9%), fulminant pancolitis (2.5%), and chronic segmental colitis (17.9%). A total of 47 patients (12.9%) had an unfavorable outcome as defined by mortality and/or the need for surgery. Multivariate analysis identified the following signs as independent risk factors for an unfavorable outcome: abdominal pain without rectal bleeding [odds ratio (OR) 3.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.6-9.3], non-bloody diarrhoea (OR 10; 95% CI = 3.7-27.4), and peritoneal signs (OR 7.3; 95% CI = 2.7-19.6). Unfavorable outcomes also were more frequent in isolated right colon ischaemia (IRCI) compared with non-IRCI (40.9 vs. 10.3%, respectively; p < 0.0001). The overall mortality rate was 7.7%. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical presentation of CI is very heterogeneous, perhaps explaining why clinical suspicion of this disease is so low. The presence of IRCI, and occurrence of peritoneal signs or onset of CI as severe abdominal pain without bleeding, should alert the physician to a potentially unfavorable course.

Prospective observational study of the incidental findings on endoscopic ultrasonography: should a complete exploration always be performed?

OBJECTIVES: To quantify the additional non-suspected new diagnoses made on upper endosonography (EUS) which were unknown before the procedure, and to analyse their influence on the management of patients. A further objective was to evaluate the influence that previous radiological or endoscopic explorations have on the capacity of EUS to diagnose these unsuspected lesions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: During a 2-year period every patient sent to our unit for upper EUS underwent a complete investigation, after signing an informed consent document. An upper EUS was considered as complete whenever the gut wall, pancreas, biliary tract, ampulla, large abdominal vessels, liver, spleen, left adrenal gland, posterior mediastinum and thyroid lobes had been explored. An additional diagnosis (AD) was defined as a diagnosis made on EUS that was previously unknown and not suspected. A significant additional diagnosis (SAD) was defined as an AD that required further study. The results of complementary explorations carried out before EUS were registered. RESULTS: A total of 239 patients were included in the study. ADs were found in 92 patients (38.5%), which were considered to be SADs in 27 patients (11.3%). Those patients had previously undergone computed tomography (CT) and those who underwent more than one exploration had fewer incidences of ADs on EUS (p=0.03 and p=0.02, respectively). No exploration alone or in combination with others showed any influence on the capacity of EUS to find a SAD (p >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In our series, an AD was found on upper endosonography in 38.5% of the patients studied, and a SAD in 11.3%. The probability of finding a SAD on EUS is not influenced by previous endoscopic or radiologic explorations.

Eradication of Helicobacter pylori for the prevention of peptic ulcer rebleeding.

AIM: To evaluate the effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication on ulcer bleeding recurrence in a prospective, long-term study including more than 400 patients. METHODS: Patients with peptic ulcer bleeding were prospectively included. H. pylori infection was confirmed by rapid urease test, histology or (13)C-urea breath test. Several eradication regimens were used. Ranitidine 150 mg was administered daily until eradication was confirmed by breath test 8 weeks after completing eradication therapy. Patients with therapy failure received a second or third course of therapy. Patients with eradication success did not receive maintenance anti-ulcer therapy, and were controlled yearly with a repeated breath test. RESULTS: Four hundred and twenty-two patients were followed up for at least 12 months, with a total of 906 patient-years of follow up. Mean age was 59 years, and 35% were previous nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) users. Sixty-nine percent had duodenal, 24% gastric, and 7% pyloric ulcer. Recurrence of bleeding was demonstrated in two patients at 1 year (incidence: 0.22% per patient-year of follow up), which occurred after NSAID use in both cases. CONCLUSION: Peptic ulcer rebleeding does not occur in patients with complicated ulcers after H. pylori eradication. Maintenance anti-ulcer (antisecretory) therapy is not necessary if eradication is achieved.