Fecal immunochemical test for hemoglobin versus fecal calprotectin to monitor endoscopic activity in inflammatory bowel disease

Aim: endoscopy identifies inflammatory activity, however, it is an unpleasant test and is not always accessible. The aim of the study was to compare the usefulness of quantitative fecal immunochemical test (FIT) versus fecal calprotectin (FC) to determine endoscopic activity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: cross-sectional prospective observational study. The stool samples were collected within three days before starting the preparation for the colonoscopy. We used the Mayo index for ulcerative colitis (UC) and the simplified endoscopic index for Crohn’s disease (CD). Mucosal healing (MH) was defined as the score 0 points in each of the endoscopic indices. Results: eighty-four patients were included, 40 (47.6 %) with UC. In patients with IBD, FIT and FC showed a significant correlation with the presence of inflammatory activity/MH on endoscopy, with no statistically significant differences between the two receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Both tests improved their diagnostic performance when assessing patients with UC; the Spearman correlations between FIT and FC and endoscopic inflammatory activity were r = 0.6 (p = 0.0001) and r = 0.7 (p = 0.0001), respectively. In Crohn’s disease, the diagnostic utility of both tests was lower. Conclusions: FIT is an alternative to monitor endoscopic activity among ulcerative colitis patients. In Crohn’s disease, more studies are needed to determine the role of fecal biomarkers. (AU)

Sociodemographic Determinants for the Health-Related Quality of Life of Patients with Vascular Amputations as Determined with the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire.

BACKGROUND: To identify the sociodemographic variables independently related to the different dimensions of the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ). METHODS: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted, with a sample of 61 Spanish vascular amputees (Valencia, Spain). Included in this study are the results of the PEQ and explanatory-sociodemographic variables, as well as a descriptive and analytic analysis. RESULTS: Gender differences were observed in "appearance" and "perception of appearance" (significantly higher levels for men). Older patients tended to have worse scores in "utility", "frustration", "social burden" and "deambulation". More favorable scores were obtained for those residing in rural areas in "social burden" and "deambulation". Educational level had a positive correlation with scores. CONCLUSION: Gender, age, place of residence, and educational level could be considered determinants of the quality of health related to prosthesis adaptation in vascular amputees. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Knowing the influential variables in the process of prosthetization will allow better adaptation and an improvement in the quality of life.

Validity and Reliability of Administrative Coded Data for the Identification of Hospital-Acquired Infections: An Updated Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct an updated assessment of the validity and reliability of administrative coded data (ACD) in identifying hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). METHODS: We systematically searched three libraries for studies on ACD detecting HAIs compared to manual chart review. Meta-analyses were conducted for prosthetic and nonprosthetic surgical site infections (SSIs), Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs), ventilator-associated pneumonias/events (VAPs/VAEs) and non-VAPs/VAEs, catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), and central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). A random-effects meta-regression model was constructed. RESULTS: Of 1,906 references found, we retrieved 38 documents, of which 33 provided meta-analyzable data (N = 567,826 patients). ACD identified HAI incidence with high specificity (≥93 percent), prosthetic SSIs with high sensitivity (95 percent), and both CDIs and nonprosthetic SSIs with moderate sensitivity (65 percent). ACD exhibited substantial agreement with traditional surveillance methods for CDI (κ = 0.70) and provided strong diagnostic odds ratios (DORs) for the identification of CDIs (DOR = 772.07) and SSIs (DOR = 78.20). ACD performance in identifying nosocomial pneumonia depended on the ICD coding system (DORICD-10/ICD-9-CM  = 0.05; p = .036). Algorithmic coding improved ACD's sensitivity for SSIs up to 22 percent. Overall, high heterogeneity was observed, without significant publication bias. CONCLUSIONS: Administrative coded data may not be sufficiently accurate or reliable for the majority of HAIs. Still, subgrouping and algorithmic coding as tools for improving ACD validity deserve further investigation, specifically for prosthetic SSIs. Analyzing a potential lower discriminative ability of ICD-10 coding system is also a pending issue.

Meta-analysis of validity of echogenic intracardiac foci for calculating the risk of Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Echogenic intracardiac foci are a second trimester marker associated with aneuploidy in high-risk populations. The objective of this study is to assess the validity of echogenic intracardiac foci for Down syndrome detection in the second trimester ultrasound scan. A systematic search in major bibliographic databases was carried out (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL). Twenty-five studies about echogenic intracardiac foci were selected for statistical synthesis in this systematic review. Those 25 considered to be relevant were then subjected to critical reading, following the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme criteria, by at least three independent observers. Then, the published articles were subjected to a meta-analysis. A global sensitivity of 21.8% and a 4.1% false positive rate were obtained. The positive likelihood ratio was 5.08 (95% confidence interval, 4.04-6.41). The subgroups analysis did not reveal statistically significant differences. In conclusion, echogenic intracardiac foci as an isolated marker could be a tool to identify-rather than exclude-the high-risk group of Down syndrome, although it should be noted that it shows low sensitivity.

¿Cómo se maneja la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal en los servicios de digestivo en España? Resultados de la Encuesta GESTIONA-EII / How is inflammatory bowel disease managed in Spanish gastroenterology departments? The results of the GESTIONA-EII survey

Introducción: no en todos los centros nacionales existen unidades ni especialistas dedicados a la EII. El objetivo de la SEPD fue conocer, a través de una encuesta a sus socios, datos sobre el manejo de la EII en los servicios de digestivo de España. Material y métodos: encuesta en línea (telemática) realizada entre el 2 de febrero y el 9 de marzo de 2015, a socios de la SEPD (remitida a 2.017 socios numerarios con actividad clínica) divididos en tres categorías: jefes de servicio, digestivos generales y digestivos especializados en EII. Se muestran los resultados de las últimas dos incluyendo preguntas demográficas y otras más específicas sobre el modo y recursos con los que se cuenta para atender a estos pacientes. Resultados: se recibieron 166 encuestas completas (tasa de respuesta del 8,19%, con distribución entre todas las CC. AA. menos La Rioja), excluyendo las de los jefes de servicio. Sesenta digestivos se consideraban expertos en EII y 106 se consideraban no expertos en EII, bien generales o especializados en otros ámbitos, siendo el principal el área de endoscopias. Un 28% de los digestivos no expertos afirmaron que sus hospitales tienen unidades de EII y en un 46% existe una consulta monográfica. Pero un 26% refería que ellos mismos son los que ven y tratan los pacientes de EII. Los digestivos expertos en EII refieren disponer de una estructura con recursos para desarrollar su tarea aunque existe carencia de cirujanos expertos en EII sobre todo en centros comarcales. Conclusiones: al menos 2 de cada 3 expertos en EII, socios de la SEPD parecen disponer de recursos para desarrollar su tarea (enfermería, unidad de día, línea telefónica, base de datos, derivación, sesiones conjuntas). Existe ámbito de mejora (correo-e para contacto con pacientes, cirujano con dedicación específica, ausencia de protocolos de derivación) y 2 de cada 3 están preocupados por el control del gasto farmacéutico. Dado que un número de pacientes considerable sigue siendo tratado por médicos generalistas, programas para favorecer una rápida derivación podrían ayudar (AU)

Introduction: Not all national health centers include specialized units or clinicians devoted to inflammatory bowel disease. The goal of the survey was to gain an insight into the management of this disease within Spanish gastroenterology departments via a survey among their members. Material and methods: An online survey was conducted in February and March 2015, among SEPD members (2017 clinician members), who were split into three categories: heads of department, general gastroenterologists, and experts in this disease. The results of the last two surveys are reported, including demography-related questions and specific questions on the strategies and resources available for the care of these patients. Results: A total of 166 responses were received (response rate 8.19%), excluding those from heads of department (previously published). Sixty gastroenterologists considered themselves experts in inflammatory bowel disease, and 106 non-experts in it, the latter being either general gastroenterologists or specialists in other areas, mainly endoscopy. Twenty-eight percent of non-expert gastroenterologists said their hospitals had specific units, with a monographic clinic in 46%. However, 26% reported that they were treating affected patients themselves. Experts in inflammatory bowel disease reported that their institute had resources to support their work, but there was a lack of surgeons with expertise in this condition, particularly in county hospitals. Conclusions: At least, within SEPD members, 2 out of 3 experts in inflammatory bowel disease seem to have the resources available for their work (nurses, day unit, telephone line, database, referrals, joint sessions). Although there is room for improvement (email to contact patients, devoted surgeon, absence of referral protocols), and 2 out of 3 are concerned about pharmacy costs. Since a substantial number of patients remain treated by general practitioners, rapid referral programs might be helpful in this setting (AU)

Estudio español multicéntrico de estimacion de incidencia de la pancreatitis crónica / Spanish multicenter study to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis

Objetivo: estimar la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica en España diagnosticada mediante ecoendoscopia y evaluar los factores de riesgo y las complicaciones locales detectadas. Material y métodos: estudio observacional, descriptivo, de los casos diagnosticados de pancreatitis crónica en los centros sanitarios españoles con unidad de ecoendoscopia. Mediante un cuestionario estructurado se valoró la incidencia de la enfermedad (casos detectados en 18 meses: de enero 2011 a junio 2012), los factores de riesgo, el número de criterios ecoendoscópicos y la clasificación de Rosemont, así como la frecuencia de complicaciones locales. Resultados: se seleccionaron 23 centros sanitarios con un área de referencia total de 14.752.704 habitantes. En el periodo de estudio se diagnosticaron 1.031 casos de pancreatitis crónica, con una incidencia de 4,66 casos por 105 habitantes-año (IC 95% 4,65-4,67). El consumo de tabaco y el de alcohol aparecen como factores de riesgo en el 63,8% y 66,7% de los casos, respectivamente. El 53,3% de los pacientes tenía > 5 criterios endoscópicos de pancreatitis crónica y el 69% presentó hallazgos sugestivos o consistentes para pancreatitis crónica según la clasificación de Rosemont. Las calcificaciones (34,7%), los pseudoquistes (16%) y la presencia de un tumor pancreático inflamatorio (10,4%) fueron las complicaciones más prevalentes. Conclusiones: la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica en España es similar a otros países europeos. Dada la amplia difusión de la técnica, las unidades de ecoendoscopia son esenciales en la detección de la enfermedad, y su actividad y resultados permiten la estimación de la incidencia de pancreatitis crónica sobre áreas poblacionales amplias y representativas (AU)

Objective: To estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain as diagnosed with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and to assess the risk factors and complications detected. Material and method: A descriptive, observational study of chronic pancreatitis cases diagnosed in Spanish health care centers with an EUS unit. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate the incidence of the disease (cases identified over 18 months: from January 2011 to June 2012), risk factors, EUS criteria, Rosemont classification, and frequency of local complications. Results: Twenty-three centers were selected serving a total reference area of 14,752,704 population. During the study period 1,031 chronic pancreatitis cases were diagnosed, with an incidence of 4.66 cases per 105 inhabitants/year (95% CI: 4.65-4.67). Tobacco and alcohol use appear as risk factors in 63.8% and 66.7% of cases, respectively. Of these, 53.3% met > 5 EUS criteria for chronic pancreatitis, and 69% had findings suggestive of or consistent with chronic pancreatitis according to the Rosemont classification. Most prevalent complications included calcifications (34.7%), pseudocysts (16%), and presence of an inflammatory pancreatic tumor (10.4%). Conclusions: The incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain is similar to that of other European countries. Given the widespread use of the technique, EUS units are key in detecting the disease, and their activity and results allow to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis over wide, representative population areas (AU)

Spanish multicenter study to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain as diagnosed with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and to assess the risk factors and complications detected. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A descriptive, observational study of chronic pancreatitis cases diagnosed in Spanish health care centers with an EUS unit. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate the incidence of the disease (cases identified over 18 months: from January 2011 to June 2012), risk factors, EUS criteria, Rosemont classification, and frequency of local complications. RESULTS: Twenty-three centers were selected serving a total reference area of 14,752,704 population. During the study period 1,031 chronic pancreatitis cases were diagnosed, with an incidence of 4.66 cases per 105 inhabitants/year (95% CI: 4.65-4.67). Tobacco and alcohol use appear as risk factors in 63.8% and 66.7% of cases, respectively. Of these, 53.3% met > 5 EUS criteria for chronic pancreatitis, and 69% had findings suggestive of or consistent with chronic pancreatitis according to the Rosemont classification. Most prevalent complications included calcifications (34.7%), pseudocysts (16%), and presence of an inflammatory pancreatic tumor (10.4%). CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of chronic pancreatitis in Spain is similar to that of other European countries. Given the widespread use of the technique, EUS units are key in detecting the disease, and their activity and results allow to estimate the incidence of chronic pancreatitis over wide, representative population areas.

Manejo del problema clínico del estreñimiento con molestias abdominales en adultos. Encuesta nacional en Atención Primaria y Aparato Digestivo / Management of the clinical issue of constipation with abdominal complaints in adults. A national survey of Primary Care physicians and gastroenterologists

El síndrome del intestino irritable y el estreñimiento funcional constituyen un problema de salud relevante y frecuente. Sin embargo, la realidad clínica presenta a un paciente con estreñimiento que se acompaña o no de otras molestias abdominales (dolor, distensión, molestia abdominal) con una frecuencia variable. El objetivo del estudio fue obtener información sobre el volumen de trabajo que suponen los pacientes con estreñimiento y molestias abdominales asociadas, las conductas clínicas predominantes, las necesidades formativas y las posibles ayudas a la práctica diaria tanto en el ámbito de Atención Primaria como en Aparato Digestivo. La conducta clínica de médicos de ambos niveles es globalmente similar, a pesar del diferente nivel asistencial: utilización de tratamientos empíricos y pruebas diagnósticas guiadas por la clínica, con algunas diferencias en la utilización de la colonoscopia (no siempre indicable directamente desde Primaria). En lo referente a las percepciones, cabe destacar que para los médicos de Primaria las medidas generales y los laxantes osmóticos son los mejor valorados; para los médicos de Digestivo, lo son los laxantes osmóticos, las combinaciones de laxantes y la linaclotida. Por otro lado, más de la mitad de todos los encuestados consideran que es bastante difícil diferenciar entre ambos diagnósticos. Finalmente, existen unas notables necesidades formativas autorreconocidas en ambos niveles, además de la exigencia de generar guías y protocolos que ayuden en la práctica clínica a abordar este problema. La fortaleza de este estudio es proporcionar una fotografía conjunta del abordaje médico y de las percepciones del problema del estreñimiento con molestias abdominales desde el punto de vista médico. La autodeclaración (sin validación formal) y la tasa de respuesta con posible sesgo a profesionales más motivados son sus debilidades (AU)

Irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation represent a relevant and common health issue. However, real-world clinical practice includes patients with constipation who may or may not have other abdominal complaints (pain, bloating, abdominal discomfort) with variable frequency. The goal of the present study was to obtain information on the workload entailed by patients with constipation and associated abdominal complaints, predominant clinical behaviors, education needs, and potential daily practice aids both in Primary Care and gastroenterology settings. The clinical behavior of doctors is generally similar at both levels, despite differences in healthcare approach: use of empiric therapies and clinically guided diagnostic tests, with some differences in colonoscopy use (not always directly accessible from Primary Care). Regarding perceptions, general support and osmotic laxatives are most valued by PC doctors, whereas osmotic laxatives, combined laxatives, and linaclotide are most valued by GE specialists. Furthermore, over half of respondents considered differentiating both diagnoses as challenging. Finally, considerable education needs are self-acknowledged at both levels, as is a demand for guidelines and protocols to help in managing this issue in clinical practice. A strength of this study is its providing a joint photograph of the medical approach and the perceptions of constipation with abdominal discomfort from a medical standpoint. Weaknesses include self-declaration (no formal validation) and a response rate potentially biased by professional motivation (AU)

A case-control study of post-traumatic endophthalmitis at a Spanish hospital.

Our aim was to identify the potential risk factors for developing post-traumatic endophthalmitis (PTE) and the possible measures of prevention. Retrospective case-control study, with 15 cases of PTE and 2 matched controls. We reviewed the medical records of the cases and their respective controls during the period 1996-2008 at a Spanish Hospital. We collected demographic data and information about the type of trauma, the potential risk factors, comorbidities, microbial isolations, antimicrobial susceptibility, administered treatments, and the visual outcome. The independent predictor factors identified for PTE were intraocular foreign body (IOFB) (OR 5.48; CI 95 % 1.05-28.7), dirty wound (OR 4.91; CI 95 % 0.96-25.3), and wound closure delays of 24 h or more (OR 5.48; CI 95 % 1.05-28.7). The probability of endophthalmitis in patients without these risk factors was 5.9 %, but ascended to 65.3 % and 90.3 %, in those patients with two and three risk factors, respectively. Infected patients presented a complication rate of 80 %, with an evisceration rate of 53 %; both were significantly associated with infection. The visual outcome was poor and related to the presence of IOFB and virulent microorganisms (Bacillus sp., filamentous fungus), visual acuity at presentation, and retinal detachment. Patients who presented an IOFB, dirty wound, and delayed wound closure were 15 times more likely to develop infection, and when infected, patients fared much worse than those non-infected. We thus recommend aggressive prophylactic measures in patients with these risk factors, adding antifungal prophylaxis when the injury is contaminated with vegetable matter.

Comparative effectiveness of ultrasonophoresis and iontophoresis in impingement syndrome: a double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the effectiveness of ultrasonophoresis and iontophoresis with sodium diclofenac used in addition to an exercise program for patients with impingement syndrome. DESIGN: Multicentre, double-blind, placebo randomized controlled trial. SETTING: "Mancha Centro" Outpatient primary care clinic (Spain). PARTICIPANTS: A total of 175 patients were considered, of whom 88 met criteria and agreed. INTERVENTION: The patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a) standard treatment (supervised exercises and cryotherapy) along with placebo iontophoresis and placebo ultrasonophoresis; b) standard treatment, iontophoresis, and placebo ultrasonophoresis; and c) standard treatment, ultrasonophoresis, and placebo iontophoresis. All patients received 15 treatment sessions. OUTCOME MEASURES: Baseline, 6-, and 12-week evaluations were carried out. Functionality, pain, range of motion, strength and quality of life were assessed with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), Constant-Murley score, and SF-36 scale. RESULTS: Ultrasonophoresis group experienced significant decreases in pain compared to the standard treatment group (12.7 and 13.5 points in "bodily pain" dimension of SF-36; and 1,5 and 2,2 points in "pain" dimension of Constant Murley after 6 and 12 weeks of therapy, respectively). They also reported improved range of motion compared to the exercises group (2,1 points in Constant-Murley after 6 weeks and 12 weeks), better vitality and overall health (SF-36 dimensions). Iontophoresis, however, led to no significant improvements when added to the standard treatment. CONCLUSION: In patients with impingement syndrome, a combination of ultrasonophoresis and an exercise program are better than a combination of iontophoresis and the same exercise program or the exercise program alone.

Cross-cultural validation of the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire in vascular amputees fitted with prostheses in Spain.

BACKGROUND: The lack of specific prosthetic-related outcome instruments for Spanish amputees must be addressed. OBJECTIVE: To elaborate a culturally equivalent version of the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire in the Spanish language. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-cultural questionnaire validation. METHODS: Two-step process for cultural adaptation: forward and backward translations of English original and Spanish translated versions; assessment of both construct and criterion validity and reliability in a group of vascular amputees. RESULTS: A total of 61 patients were recruited, 44 men (72.1%) and 17 women (27.9%), with a median age of 71.1 years (standard deviation: 7.7 years; range: 51-87 years). In the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire-Spanish, the lowest scores were for gait and frustration, and the highest scores were for noise and stump health. Internal consistency of the questionnaire was acceptable (>0.70) for four of the scales used in the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire but poor (<0.50) for the scales relating to appearance and stump health. Correlations with the quality-of-life levels as measured by the Short Form-36 were positive and mostly significant. CONCLUSION: Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire-Spanish could assess the quality of life in patients who have undergone vascular amputations and then been fitted with a prosthetic limb. The questionnaire shows adequate criteria validity when compared with other instruments for measuring quality of life. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire-Spanish could be a valid and reliable instrument for assessing adaptation to prostheses in vascular amputees. The questionnaire adds information relevant to the patient and the physician and may identify cases with poor expected adaptation to the prosthesis.

The management of lactose intolerance among primary care physicians and its correlation with management by gastroenterologists: the SEPD-SEMG national survey.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The understanding of lactose intolerance (LI) is limited in some professional settings. Sociedad Española de Patología Digestiva (SEPD) and Sociedad Española de Medicina General (SEMG) have developed a survey in order to: a) Analyze primary care physicians (PCPs) knowledge and clinical management; and b) to compare results with those of a previous survey of Spanish gastroenterologists (GEs). MATERIAL AND METHODS: An online questionnaire was sent to SEMG members with 27 items on various issues: Demographics, occupational characteristics, outlook on LI, diagnostic tests, treatment, and follow-up. Results were compared to those from a survey of GEs. RESULTS: A total of 456 PCPs responded, versus 477 GEs. PCPs had an older mean age and longer professional experience. Level of understanding of LI was similar, albeit a higher proportion of PCPs lacked epidemiological awareness (p < 0.01). GEs tended to consider LI a "minor" condition (71.3 vs. 40.1%; p > 0.001), and LI symptoms as overlapping those of irritable bowel syndrome (93.5 vs. 88.2%; p = 0.005), although symptoms perceived as suspicious of LI were similar in both groups. Dietary recommendations were recognized as the primary therapeutic approach. CONCLUSION: This study reveals the outlook of PCPs on LI, and allows comparison with that of GEs, as a basis for the development of strategies aimed at improving LI understanding, approach and management in our setting.

Manejo de la intolerancia a la lactosa entre los médicos de atención primaria y su correlación con la de los especialistas en digestivo: encuesta nacional SEPD-SEMG / The management of lactose intolerance among primary care physicians and its correlation with management by gastroenterologists: The SEPD-SEMG national survey

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: el conocimiento sobre la intolerancia a la lactosa (IL) es limitado en algunos ámbitos profesionales. La Sociedad Española de Patología Digestiva (SEPD) y la Sociedad Española de Medicina General (SEMG) han elaborado una encuesta con los objetivos de: a) analizar el nivel de conocimiento y de manejo clínico de los médicos de atención primaria (MAP); y b) comparar sus resultados con los de la encuesta ya realizada entre los gastroenterólogos españoles (GE). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se envió un cuestionario online a los socios de la SEMG, con 27 preguntas sobre distintas cuestiones: demografía y características laborales, actitud frente a la IL, métodos de diagnóstico, tratamiento y seguimiento. Los resultados fueron comparados con los de la encuesta a GE. RESULTADOS: se recopilaron 456 respuestas de MAP, que se compararon con las proporcionadas por 477 GE. Los MAP presentaron una edad media y experiencia profesional mayor. El nivel de conocimiento sobre IL fue parecido, si bien una mayor proporción de MAP desconocía la epidemiología del problema (p < 0,01). Los GE tendieron a considerar a la IL una patología "menor" (71,3 vs. 40,1%; p > 0,001), y a sus síntomas superponibles a los del síndrome del intestino irritable (93,5 vs. 88,2%; p = 0,005), si bien los síntomas reconocidos como sospechosos de IL fueron similares entre ambos grupos. Las recomendaciones dietéticas fueron reconocidas como la principal medida terapéutica. CONCLUSIÓN: este estudio permite conocer la actuación de los MAP ante la IL y compararla con la de los GE, como base para el desarrollo estrategias para mejorar el conocimiento, actitud y tratamiento de la IL en nuestro medio

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS:The understanding of lactose intolerance (LI) is limited in some professional settings. Sociedad Española de Patología Digestiva (SEPD) and Sociedad Española de Medicina General (SEMG) have developed a survey in order to: a) Analyze primary care physicians (PCPs) knowledge and clinical management; and b) to compare results with those of a previous survey of Spanish gastroenterologists (GEs). MATERIAL AND METHODS: An online questionnaire was sent to SEMG members with 27 items on various issues: Demographics, occupational characteristics, outlook on LI, diagnostic tests, treatment, and follow-up. Results were compared to those from a survey of GEs. RESULTS: A total of 456 PCPs responded, versus 477 GEs. PCPs had an older mean age and longer professional experience. Level of understanding of LI was similar, albeit a higher proportion of PCPs lacked epidemiological awareness (p < 0.01). GEs tended to consider LI a "minor" condition (71.3 vs. 40.1%; p > 0.001), and LI symptoms as overlapping those of irritable bowel syndrome (93.5 vs. 88.2%; p = 0.005), although symptoms perceived as suspicious of LI were similar in both groups. Dietary recommendations were recognized as the primary therapeutic approach. CONCLUSION: This study reveals the outlook of PCPs on LI, and allows comparison with that of GEs, as a basis for the development of strategies aimed at improving LI understanding, approach and management in our setting

Drug consumption and additional risk factors associated with microscopic colitis: Case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Microscopic colitis has now emerged as a common cause of chronic diarrhoea, but its aetiology remains unknown. Some studies suggest that commonly prescribed drugs and other additional risk factors may be triggers. AIMS: To evaluate the effects of drug intake and other risk factors on microscopic colitis patients. METHODS: A prospective, case-control study with all consecutive adult patients referred to the Hospital General de Tomelloso (Ciudad Real, Spain) for chronic watery diarrhoea (from 2008 to 2011) was performed. Microscopic colitis was diagnosed following the commonly accepted histopathological criteria. RESULTS: 46 consecutive new cases of microscopic colitis and 317 chronic diarrhoea controls were recruited. Five independent risk factors significantly associated with microscopic colitis were identified: Abdominal pain (OR 3.25; 95%CI, 1.49-7.08), weight loss (OR 2.67; 95%CI, 1.16-6.15), celiac disease (OR 15.3; 95%CI, 3.70-63.5), topiramate intake (OR 13.6; 95%CI, 1.84- 100.8), and older age at diagnosis (OR 1 year increase 1.022; 95%CI, 1.002-1.042). Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was associated with microscopic colitis in the subgroup of patients who fulfilled irritable bowel syndrome criteria (38.5% vs. 10.8%; p < 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Microscopic colitis is associated with autoimmune disease, an increased age at diagnosis, topiramate intake and only in a sub-group of irritable bowel disease patients with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Drug consumption and additional risk factors associated with microscopic colitis: case-control study

BACKGROUND: Microscopic colitis has now emerged as a common cause of chronic diarrhoea, but its aetiology remains unknown. Some studies suggest that commonly prescribed drugs and other additional risk factors may be triggers. AIMS: To evaluate the effects of drug intake and other risk factors on microscopic colitis patients. METHODS: A prospective, case-control study with all consecutive adult patients referred to the Hospital General de Tomelloso (Ciudad Real, Spain) for chronic watery diarrhoea (from 2008 to 2011) was performed. Microscopic colitis was diagnosed following the commonly accepted histopathological criteria. RESULTS: 46 consecutive new cases of microscopic colitis and 317 chronic diarrhoea controls were recruited. Five independent risk factors significantly associated with microscopic colitis were identified: Abdominal pain (OR 3.25; 95%CI, 1.49-7.08), weight loss (OR 2.67; 95%CI, 1.16-6.15), celiac disease (OR 15.3; 95%CI, 3.70-63.5), topiramate intake (OR 13.6; 95%CI, 1.84- 100.8), and older age at diagnosis (OR 1 year increase 1.022; 95%CI, 1.002-1.042). Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was associated with microscopic colitis in the subgroup of patients who fulfilled irritable bowel syndrome criteria (38.5% vs. 10.8%; p < 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Microscopic colitis is associated with autoimmune disease, an increased age at diagnosis, topiramate intake and only in a sub-group of irritable bowel disease patients with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

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Reference ranges for the pulsatility index of the fetal aortic isthmus in singleton and twin pregnancies.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to estimate reference ranges for the pulsatility index (PI) of the fetal aortic isthmus in uncomplicated singleton and twin pregnancies during the second half of pregnancy. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study involving 543 healthy fetuses: 361 singleton pregnancies and 182 twin pregnancies between 19 and 36 weeks' gestation. The aortic isthmus PI was measured in 2 sonographic planes: the longitudinal aortic arch view and the 3-vessel and trachea view. We evaluated the reproducibility of aortic isthmus PI measurements between these planes by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients and limits of agreement. Scans were performed by 2 physicians, and intraobserver agreement was also measured. Regression analysis was used to estimate gestational age reference values for the aortic isthmus PI. RESULTS: The aortic isthmus PI was significantly correlated with gestational age in singletons and twins during the second half of pregnancy (P < .01). We did not find significant differences between reference ranges in singletons and twins or between the sonographic views. CONCLUSIONS: This study offers reference ranges for the aortic isthmus PI during the second half of gestation in singleton and twin pregnancies. Mean aortic isthmus PI values were similar in both types of gestations as well as both sonographic views. The aortic isthmus PI may be reliably obtained from either sonographic view.

Short-term relationship between hip fracture and weather conditions in two Spanish health areas with different climates.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate differences in the short-term relationship between weather conditions and the incidence of hip fracture in people aged 65 and over among two regions of Spain. METHODS: Hip fracture incidence was calculated for the years 2000-2008 for residents of Health Area 14 in Valencian Community (Mediterranean climate) and the "Mancha Centro" Health Area in Castilla-La Mancha (inland climate), Spain. The relationship between hip fracture incidence and weather was analyzed with a case-crossover design and explored in subgroups defined by sex, age, and fracture type. RESULTS: In the inland area, a positive and significant tendency for hip fracture incidence was observed (annual increase: 1.5%) whereas in the Mediterranean area a seasonal increase of 9% was noted in autumn and winter with respect to spring. Weather conditions, especially wind, were significantly associated with hip fracture incidence: days with more frequent windy periods and/or a greater wind velocity were associated with an increase in hip fracture incidence of 51% in the Mediterranean area and 44% in the inland area. CONCLUSIONS: Hip fracture incidence exhibits seasonal changes that differ between the Mediterranean and inland areas. The short-term relationship with climate, although similar in both areas, may partly explain these seasonal changes.

Association between medication and intestinal intussusception in children: a case-crossover study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the association between the appearance of intussusception in children and medication intake in the immediately preceding period (2-15 days). METHODS: A case-crossover design was used. We selected cases of children admitted with a diagnosis of intussusception (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, 860) to the major hospitals in the city of Valencia, Spain, from 2006 to 2009. We then estimated the association between the episode of intussusception and the intake of prescription medication during the preceding 2, 7, and 15 days (case period) and for the same time window 1, 2, 3, and 4 months prior (control period). Data on previous drug administration were obtained from the Pharmaceutical Service Manager System. RESULTS: A total of 95 cases (65.3% boys and 34.7% girls) were selected; 76.6% were younger than the age of 2 years. The association between intussusception and prior drug use varied depending on the exposure window: 15-day odds ratio (OR), 1.45 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.86-2.43); 7-day OR, 1.46 (95% CI, 0.80-2.67); and 2-day OR, 2.26 (95% CI, 1.10-4.64). These associations were greater for children aged younger than 2 years and were usually due to the recent administration (preceding 2 days) of antibiotics (OR, 8.00; 95% CI, 1.47-43.7). CONCLUSIONS: Intussusception was more common among boys aged younger than 2 years. A positive and significant association was observed when drugs were administered 2 to 7 days before the onset of symptoms in children younger than the age of 2 years.