BEHIND THE PROTON PUMP INHIBITOR PRESCRIPTION: AN INTERNATIONAL SURVEY ON PHYSICIAN PRACTICES AND KNOWLEDGE.

BACKGROUND: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed worldwide, often resulting in their overuse. Consequently, it is essential to identify the likely causes of this overuse to facilitate their appropriate prescription. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess physician prescribing patterns, their knowledge of PPIs, and factors affecting their knowledge. METHODS: An online survey was conducted among Latin American and Spanish physicians, collecting the following data: professional information, patterns of PPI usage, familiarity with published evidence, and the management approach in three hypothetical case-scenarios. Participant knowledge was categorized as sufficient or insufficient based on the results of the case scenarios. Subsequently, subgroup analysis was performed based on physician training level, years in practice, specialty, and time since the last PPI literature review. RESULTS: A total of 371 physicians participated in the survey. Thirty-eight percent frequently prescribe PPIs, primarily for prophylactic purposes (57.9%). Eighty percent were unfamiliar with PPI deprescribing strategies, and 54.4% rarely reviewed the ongoing indication of patients taking a PPI. Sixty-four percent demonstrated sufficient knowledge in the case-scenarios. A significant association was observed between specialty type (medical vs surgical: 69.4% vs 46.8%, P<0.001), the timing of the PPI indication literature review (<5 years vs >5 years: 71.4% vs 58.7%, P=0.010), and sufficient knowledge. CONCLUSION: While most participants prescribed PPIs regularly and for prophylaxis purposes, the majority were unfamiliar with deprescribing strategies and rarely reviewed ongoing indications. Sufficient knowledge is correlated with recent literature reviews and medical specialty affiliation. BACKGROUND: • The study aims to evaluate physician prescribing patterns, assess their knowledge of proton pump inhibitors, and identify factors influencing their knowledge. BACKGROUND: • An online survey of Latin American and Spanish physicians assessed proton pump inhibitor usage patterns and case-scenario responses, categorizing knowledge, and conducting subgroup analysis based on training, experience, specialty, and literature review timing. BACKGROUND: • Thirty-eight percent of surveyed physicians commonly prescribed proton pump inhibitors, and among them, 80% were unfamiliar with deprescribing strategies, with 54.4% rarely reviewing ongoing indications. BACKGROUND: • Sufficient knowledge was correlated with recent literature reviews and medical specialty affiliations.

Secondary aorto-duodenal fistula: a diagnostic challenge in a patient with fever and anemia.

A 69-year-old male, three years post-endovascular exclusion for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, presented with asthenia and fever. An abdominal CT scan showed no gastrointestinal tract communications, abscess, or contrast extravasation. Tc-99m-HMPAO-labeled leukocytes scintigraphy with SPECT/CT revealed increased uptake on the posterior surface of the aortic graft, along with air bubbles in its right iliac limb. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed, revealing a duodenal ulcer in the transition between the second and third portions. The ulcer exhibited yellow graft tissue at its center. The patient underwent in situ reconstruction, involving the replacement of the infected prosthetic graft, and the duodenal defect was addressed through segmental resection and duodenojejunal anastomosis. Secondary aorto-duodenal fistula (SADF), a rare complication of vascular surgery, may arise from factors such as local infection or graft-bowel contact. SADF, often located in the duodenum, poses a high mortality risk, necessitating early diagnosis. Clinical presentation varies from significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding to obscured bleeding.

Bastidores da prescrição de inibidores de bomba de prótons: uma pesquisa internacional sobre práticas e conhecimentos médicos / Behind the proton pump inhibitor prescription: an international survey on physician practices and knowledge

ABSTRACT Background: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed worldwide, often resulting in their overuse. Consequently, it is essential to identify the likely causes of this overuse to facilitate their appropriate prescription. Objective: This study aims to assess physician prescribing patterns, their knowledge of PPIs, and factors affecting their knowledge. Methods: An online survey was conducted among Latin American and Spanish physicians, collecting the following data: professional information, patterns of PPI usage, familiarity with published evidence, and the management approach in three hypothetical case-scenarios. Participant knowledge was categorized as sufficient or insufficient based on the results of the case scenarios. Subsequently, subgroup analysis was performed based on physician training level, years in practice, specialty, and time since the last PPI literature review. Results: A total of 371 physicians participated in the survey. Thirty-eight percent frequently prescribe PPIs, primarily for prophylactic purposes (57.9%). Eighty percent were unfamiliar with PPI deprescribing strategies, and 54.4% rarely reviewed the ongoing indication of patients taking a PPI. Sixty-four percent demonstrated sufficient knowledge in the case-scenarios. A significant association was observed between specialty type (medical vs surgical: 69.4% vs 46.8%, P<0.001), the timing of the PPI indication literature review (<5 years vs >5 years: 71.4% vs 58.7%, P=0.010), and sufficient knowledge. Conclusion: While most participants prescribed PPIs regularly and for prophylaxis purposes, the majority were unfamiliar with deprescribing strategies and rarely reviewed ongoing indications. Sufficient knowledge is correlated with recent literature reviews and medical specialty affiliation.

RESUMO Contexto: Os inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBPs) são amplamente prescritos em todo o mundo, muitas vezes resultando em seu uso excessivo. Consequentemente, é essencial identificar as prováveis causas desse uso excessivo para facilitar sua prescrição adequada. Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar o padrão de prescrição dos médicos, seu conhecimento sobre IBPs e fatores que afetam seu conhecimento. Métodos: Uma pesquisa on-line foi conduzida entre médicos latino-americanos e espanhóis, coletando os seguintes dados: informações profissionais, padrões de uso de IBP, familiaridade com evidências publicadas e abordagem de manejo em três casos-cenários hipotéticos. O conhecimento dos participantes foi categorizado em suficiente ou insuficiente com base nos resultados dos cenários de caso. Posteriormente, a análise de subgrupos foi realizada com base no nível de formação do médico, anos de prática, especialidade e tempo desde a última revisão da literatura dos IBPs. Resultados: Um total de 371 médicos participaram da pesquisa. Trinta e oito por cento prescrevem frequentemente IBP, principalmente para fins profiláticos (57,9%). Oitenta por cento não estavam familiarizados com as estratégias de prescrição de IBP, e 54,4% raramente revisaram a indicação contínua de pacientes em uso de IBP. Sessenta e quatro por cento demonstraram conhecimento suficiente nos cenários-caso. Observou-se associação significativa entre o tipo de especialidade (médica vs cirúrgica: 69,4% vs 46,8%, P<0,001), o momento da revisão da literatura de indicação do IBP (<5 anos vs >5 anos: 71,4% vs 58,7%, P=0,010) e conhecimento suficiente. Conclusão: Embora a maioria dos participantes prescrevesse IBPs regularmente e para fins de profilaxia, no entanto, não estava familiarizada com estratégias de prescrição e raramente revisava as indicações em andamento. O conhecimento suficiente está correlacionado com revisões recentes da literatura e afiliação à especialidade médica.

Influence of enlarged waist circumference and hypertriglyceridemia in the severity of acute pancreatitis: A retrospective study / Influencia del aumento de la circunferencia de la cintura y la hipertrigliceridemia en la gravedad de la pancreatitis aguda: un estudio retrospectivo

Introduction: Acute pancreatitis is a frequent inflammatory gastrointestinal disorder with high mortality rates in severe forms. An early evaluation of its severity is key to identify high-risk patients. This study assessed the influence of waist circumference together with hypertriglyceridemia on the severity of acute pancreatitis. Methods: A retrospective study was performed, which included patients admitted with acute pancreatitis from March 2014 to March 2021. Patients were classified into four phenotype groups according to their waist circumference and triglyceride levels: normal waist circumference and normal triglycerides; normal waist circumference and elevated triglycerides; enlarged waist circumference and normal triglycerides; and enlarged waist circumference and triglycerides, namely hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype. Clinical outcomes were compared among the groups. Results: 407 patients were included. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and intensive care unit admission were most frequent among patients in the HTGW phenotype group, at 44.9% and 8.2%, respectively. The incidence of local complications was higher in the normal waist circumference with elevated triglycerides group (27%). On multivariable analysis, an enlarged waist circumference was related to an increase of 4% and 2% in the likelihood of developing organ failure and SIRS, respectively. Hypertriglyceridemia was an independent risk factor for both organ failure and local complications. Conclusions: HTGW phenotype was significant related to developing of SIRS. It seems that an enlarged waist circumference has a greater role than hypertriglyceridemia in the development of SIRS. Obesity and hypertriglyceridemia were both independent risk factors for organ failure. Patients with hypertriglyceridemia were more likely to develop local complications. (AU)

Introducción: La pancreatitis aguda es una patología frecuente con altas tasas de mortalidad en sus formas graves. Este estudio evaluó la influencia de la circunferencia de la cintura (CC) junto con la hipertrigliceridemia en la gravedad de la pancreatitis aguda. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo que incluyó pacientes con pancreatitis aguda desde 2014 hasta 2021. Los pacientes se clasificaron en cuatro grupos fenotípicos según su CC y los niveles de triglicéridos: CC normal y triglicéridos normales, CC normal y triglicéridos elevados, CC aumentada y triglicéridos normales, y CC aumentada y triglicéridos elevados, es decir, el fenotipo cintura hipertrigliceridémica (HTGW). Resultados: Se incluyeron 407 pacientes. El síndrome de respuesta inflamatoria sistémica (SIRS) y la admisión a la unidad de cuidados intensivos fueron más frecuentes entre los pacientes con fenotipo HTGW, en 44,9 y 8,2%, respectivamente. La incidencia de complicaciones locales fue mayor en el grupo de CC normal con triglicéridos elevados (27%). En el análisis multivariable, una CC aumentada se relacionó con un aumento de 4 y 2% en la probabilidad de desarrollar fallo orgánico y SIRS, respectivamente. La hipertrigliceridemia fue un factor de riesgo tanto para el fallo orgánico como para las complicaciones locales. Conclusiones: El fenotipo HTGW se relacionó con el desarrollo de SIRS. Parece que una CC aumentada tiene un papel más importante que la hipertrigliceridemia en el desarrollo de SIRS. La obesidad y la hipertrigliceridemia fueron factores de riesgo independientes para el fallo orgánico. Los pacientes con hipertrigliceridemia tenían más probabilidades de desarrollar complicaciones locales. (AU)

Value of CRP/albumin ratio as a prognostic marker of acute pancreatitis: a retrospective study / Valor del cociente PCR/albúmina como marcador pronóstico de pancreatitis aguda: un estudio retrospectivo

Introduction: the C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio is an inflammatory marker that has shown promise in the prognosis of critically ill patients. This study is aimed to assess the value of CRP/albumin ratio to predict severity in acute pancreatitis. Methods: a retrospective study was performed using a prospectively collected database of patients diagnosed with AP admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology between March 2014 and December 2021. Results: among 722 patients included in the study, 78.67 % had mild, 15.65 % had moderately severe, and 5.67 % had severe acute pancreatitis. The CRP/albumin ratio was significantly associated with severe AP (OR 1.02; 95 % CI: 1.01-1.03; p < 0.001), and each ten-unit increase in the ratio was associated with a 20 % increased likelihood of severe acute pancreatitis. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) value of the CRP/albumin ratio in severe acute pancreatitis was 0.68 (95 % CI: 0.58-0.77), which was higher than that of the Ranson criteria (0.62). The optimal cut-off value for predicting severe acute pancreatitis was 7.51, with a sensitivity of 63.4 % and specificity of 65.6 %. Conclusions: despite its low sensitivity and specificity, the CRP/albumin ratio could be used as a complementary marker to the current scoring systems for the initial assessment of acute pancreatitis prognosis. It is easily obtainable and can provide additional prognostic information to clinicians.(AU)

EARLY-ONSET COLORECTAL CANCER: AN ELEVEN-YEAR ANALYSIS OF CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AT A TERTIARY HEALTHCARE CENTER.

•The incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) has significantly increased worldwide, often leading to advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. •This study investigates the clinicopathological characteristics of EO-CRC cases at an academic healthcare center in Spain. •The majority of patients with EO-CRC were diagnosed between 40-49 years of age. •Left-sided tumors were more common, and most patients were diagnosed at advanced stages. •Moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma was the most frequent histological type, with 18.8% showing KRAS mutation and 11.9% showing BRAF mutation. Background - Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) incidence has increased significantly worldwide in recent years, and these individuals frequently have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. This study examines the clinicopathological characteristics of EO-CRC cases diagnosed at an academic healthcare center in Spain. Methods - A retrospective record review study of patients diagnosed with EO-CRC from 2010 to 2021 was performed. Clinical and pathological data were collected. Results - A total of 101 patients were included. The majority of cases (75.3%) were diagnosed in the age group between 40 and 49 years, specifically within the subgroup of 46-49 years. A family history of colorectal cancer was found in 23% of patients. Left-sided tumors were more common (43.6%), and most patients were diagnosed at advanced stages (34.7% at stage III and 32.7% at stage IV). The majority of patients (94.1%) were symptomatic, with rectal bleeding being the most prevalent clinical presentation. The most frequent histological type was moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma (44.6%). KRAS mutant tumors were found in 18.8% and BRAF mutant tumors in 11.9%. 67.3% had microsatellite stability. Tumor recurrence occurred in 24.8% of the patients, while 27.7% of the patients died. Conclusion - From 2010 to 2021, EO-CRC accounted for 3% of all colorectal cancer cases. To improve early diagnosis and treatment, physicians should maintain a high suspicion of red flag symptoms in young patients. To decrease EO-CRC morbidity and mortality, starting diagnostic screening tests at age 45 should be considered.

Câncer colorretal de início precoce: uma análise de onze anos das características clinicopatológicas em um centro de saúde terciário / Early-onset colorectal cancer: an eleven-year analysis of clinicopathological characteristics at a tertiary healthcare center

ABSTRACT Background: Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) incidence has increased significantly worldwide in recent years, and these individuals frequently have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. This study examines the clinicopathological characteristics of EO-CRC cases diagnosed at an academic healthcare center in Spain. Methods: A retrospective record review study of patients diagnosed with EO-CRC from 2010 to 2021 was performed. Clinical and pathological data were collected. Results: A total of 101 patients were included. The majority of cases (75.3%) were diagnosed in the age group between 40 and 49 years, specifically within the subgroup of 46-49 years. A family history of colorectal cancer was found in 23% of patients. Left-sided tumors were more common (43.6%), and most patients were diagnosed at advanced stages (34.7% at stage III and 32.7% at stage IV). The majority of patients (94.1%) were symptomatic, with rectal bleeding being the most prevalent clinical presentation. The most frequent histological type was moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma (44.6%). KRAS mutant tumors were found in 18.8% and BRAF mutant tumors in 11.9%. 67.3% had microsatellite stability. Tumor recurrence occurred in 24.8% of the patients, while 27.7% of the patients died. Conclusion: From 2010 to 2021, EO-CRC accounted for 3% of all colorectal cancer cases. To improve early diagnosis and treatment, physicians should maintain a high suspicion of red flag symptoms in young patients. To decrease EO-CRC morbidity and mortality, starting diagnostic screening tests at age 45 should be considered.

RESUMO Contexto: A incidência de câncer colorretal de início precoce (CCR-IP) tem aumentado significativamente em todo o mundo nos últimos anos, e esses indivíduos frequentemente apresentam doença avançada no momento do diagnóstico. Este estudo examina as características clinicopatológicas dos casos de CCR-IP diagnosticados em um centro de saúde acadêmico na Espanha. Métodos: Realizado um estudo retrospectivo de revisão de prontuários de pacientes diagnosticados com CCR-IP de 2010 a 2021. Dados clínicos e patológicos foram coletados. Resultados: Foram incluídos um total de 101 pacientes. A maioria dos casos (75,3%) foi diagnosticada na faixa etária entre 40 e 49 anos, especificamente dentro do subgrupo de 46 a 49 anos. Histórico familiar de câncer colorretal foi encontrado em 23% dos pacientes. Tumores do lado esquerdo foram mais comuns (43,6%), e a maioria dos pacientes foi diagnosticada em estágios avançados (34,7% no estágio III e 32,7% no estágio IV). A maioria dos pacientes (94,1%) apresentava sintomas, sendo o sangramento retal a apresentação clínica mais prevalente. O tipo histológico mais frequente foi adenocarcinoma moderadamente diferenciado (44,6%). Tumores com mutação KRAS foram encontrados em 18,8% e tumores com mutação BRAF em 11,9%. 67,3% apresentavam estabilidade de microssatélites. A recorrência do tumor ocorreu em 24,8% dos pacientes, enquanto 27,7% dos pacientes morreram. Conclusão: De 2010 a 2021, o CCR-IP representou 3% de todos os casos de câncer colorretal. Para melhorar o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento, os médicos devem manter uma alta suspeita de sintomas de alerta em pacientes jovens. Para diminuir a morbidade e a mortalidade do CCR-IP, a consideração de iniciar exames de triagem diagnóstica aos 45 anos deve ser considerada.

Value of CRP/albumin ratio as a prognostic marker of acute pancreatitis: a retrospective study.

INTRODUCTION: the C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio is an inflammatory marker that has shown promise in the prognosis of critically ill patients. This study is aimed to assess the value of CRP/albumin ratio to predict severity in acute pancreatitis. METHODS: a retrospective study was performed using a prospectively collected database of patients diagnosed with AP admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology between March 2014 and December 2021. RESULTS: among 722 patients included in the study, 78.67 % had mild, 15.65 % had moderately severe, and 5.67 % had severe acute pancreatitis. The CRP/albumin ratio was significantly associated with severe AP (OR 1.02; 95 % CI: 1.01-1.03; p < 0.001), and each ten-unit increase in the ratio was associated with a 20 % increased likelihood of severe acute pancreatitis. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) value of the CRP/albumin ratio in severe acute pancreatitis was 0.68 (95 % CI: 0.58-0.77), which was higher than that of the Ranson criteria (0.62). The optimal cut-off value for predicting severe acute pancreatitis was 7.51, with a sensitivity of 63.4 % and specificity of 65.6 %. CONCLUSIONS: despite its low sensitivity and specificity, the CRP/albumin ratio could be used as a complementary marker to the current scoring systems for the initial assessment of acute pancreatitis prognosis. It is easily obtainable and can provide additional prognostic information to clinicians.

Unusual Case of Pseudomembranous Colitis Presenting as Fever of Unknown Origin Diagnosed by Tc-99m-HMPAO-labeled Leukocytes SPECT/CT.

The fever of unknown origin (FUO) represents a complex diagnostic challenge due to the wide range of etiologies that could cause it, including neoplastic, infectious, rheumatic/inflammatory, and miscellaneous disorders. Several nuclear medicine techniques have proven to be valuable tools for guiding etiologic diagnosis in the setting of FUO. One of these is technetium-99m (Tc-99m)-hexamethylpropylene amine oxime (HMPAO)-labeled leukocyte scintigraphy, which is a diagnosis method that allows in most cases the localization and evaluation of the extension of an occult infection. This paper presents an uncommon case of pseudomembranous colitis without diarrhea as etiology of FUO diagnosed by Tc-99m-HMPAO-labeled leukocytes.

Influence of enlarged waist circumference and hypertriglyceridemia in the severity of acute pancreatitis: A retrospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Acute pancreatitis is a frequent inflammatory gastrointestinal disorder with high mortality rates in severe forms. An early evaluation of its severity is key to identify high-risk patients. This study assessed the influence of waist circumference together with hypertriglyceridemia on the severity of acute pancreatitis. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed, which included patients admitted with acute pancreatitis from March 2014 to March 2021. Patients were classified into four phenotype groups according to their waist circumference and triglyceride levels: normal waist circumference and normal triglycerides; normal waist circumference and elevated triglycerides; enlarged waist circumference and normal triglycerides; and enlarged waist circumference and triglycerides, namely hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype. Clinical outcomes were compared among the groups. RESULTS: 407 patients were included. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and intensive care unit admission were most frequent among patients in the HTGW phenotype group, at 44.9% and 8.2%, respectively. The incidence of local complications was higher in the normal waist circumference with elevated triglycerides group (27%). On multivariable analysis, an enlarged waist circumference was related to an increase of 4% and 2% in the likelihood of developing organ failure and SIRS, respectively. Hypertriglyceridemia was an independent risk factor for both organ failure and local complications. CONCLUSIONS: HTGW phenotype was significant related to developing of SIRS. It seems that an enlarged waist circumference has a greater role than hypertriglyceridemia in the development of SIRS. Obesity and hypertriglyceridemia were both independent risk factors for organ failure. Patients with hypertriglyceridemia were more likely to develop local complications.

Adult sigmoidorectal intussusception as an unexpected cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

A 95-years-old woman presented with sudden-onset rectal bleeding. All other systems were reviewed and were negative. The patient had a past medical history of Alzheimer disease, congestive heart failure, arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus type 2. Vital signs were normal. There were neither signs of peritoneal irritation nor intestinal obstruction. On digital rectal examination, a soft mass was palpated about 9 cm from the anal verge. Routine analytical tests were within normal limits. The abdominal CT showed a sigmoidorectal intussusception. It was performed a colonoscopy revealing a segment of sigmoid telescoping into the rectum about 15cm from the anal verge. On this invaginated segment, there was a large sessile polyp, which was biopsied. Rectal bleeding was self-limited without additional measures. The histological examination showed tubular adenoma with high-grade dysplasia. Intussusception in the adult is uncommon, representing less than 5% of all cases of intussusception. Most of the cases are due to malignant lesions, which are pulled forward during peristalsis, leading to invagination. The early diagnosis represents a diagnostic challenge due to the clinical features are nonspecific, including symptoms of intestinal obstruction and rectal bleeding.

Assessment of gastric-acid suppressants prescribing at an internal medicine service of a tertiary hospital in Latin America: A retrospective record review study

Gastric-acid suppressants are one of the most frequently used classes of drugs worldwide. Several studies about their overprescribing have been carried out in recent years. The aim of the study was to assess the appropriateness of these drugs at an internal medicine service of a tertiary hospital in Venezuela. A retrospective record review of patients admitted to the internal medicine service from January 2020 to February 2021 was performed. Data about indications for gastric-acid suppressants, the type used, and their continuation at discharge were collected. The prescribing was grouped into two categories, appropriate or inappropriate, according to current clinical guidelines. Of the 1203 patients who were newly prescribed gastric-acid suppressants in hospital during the study period, 993 (82.5%) had an inappropriate prescription. Prophylaxis of peptic ulcers in low-risk patients was the most frequent no evidence-based indication (20.24%). Seven hundred sixty-two patients were discharged on gastric-acid suppressants. Of these, 74.7% did not have an acceptable indication to continue this treatment on an outpatient basis. Many hospitalized patients in a Venezuelan academic tertiary healthcare center were given gastric acid suppressants not in accordance with the current clinical practice guidelines.

Los supresores del ácido gástrico son uno de los grupos farmacológicos más frecuentemente prescritos en todo el mundo. En los últimos años se han realizado varios estudios sobre su prescripción inadecuada. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la idoneidad de estos medicamentos en un servicio de medicina interna de un hospital de tercer nivel en Venezuela. Se realizó una revisión retrospectiva de historias medicas de pacientes ingresados en el servicio de medicina interna desde enero de 2020 hasta febrero de 2021. Se recogieron datos sobre indicaciones de supresores de ácido gástrico, tipo utilizado y su continuación al alta. La prescripción se agrupó en dos categorías, adecuada o inadecuada, según las guías clínicas vigentes. Entre los 1203 pacientes a los que se les prescribió recientemente supresores de ácido gástrico en el hospital durante el período de estudio, 993 (82,5%) tenían una prescripción inapropiada. La profilaxis de úlceras pépticas en pacientes de bajo riesgo fue la indicación no basada en evidencia más frecuente (20,24%). Setecientos sesenta y dos pacientes fueron dados de alta con supresores de ácido gástrico. De estos, el 74,7% no tenía una indicación apropiada para continuar este tratamiento de forma ambulatoria. Un alto número de pacientes hospitalizados en un centro asistencial de nivel terciario en Venezuela fueron prescritos con supresores de ácido gástrico que no se ajustaban a las guías de práctica clínica vigentes.

Assessment of gastric-acid suppressants prescribing at an internal medicine service of a tertiary hospital in Latin America: A retrospective record review study.

Gastric-acid suppressants are one of the most frequently used classes of drugs worldwide. Several studies about their overprescribing have been carried out in recent years. The aim of the study was to assess the appropriateness of these drugs at an internal medicine service of a tertiary hospital in Venezuela. A retrospective record review of patients admitted to the internal medicine service from January 2020 to February 2021 was performed. Data about indications for gastric-acid suppressants, the type used, and their continuation at discharge were collected. The prescribing was grouped into two categories, appropriate or inappropriate, according to current clinical guidelines. Of the 1203 patients who were newly prescribed gastric-acid suppressants in hospital during the study period, 993 (82.5%) had an inappropriate prescription. Prophylaxis of peptic ulcers in low-risk patients was the most frequent no evidence-based indication (20.24%). Seven hundred sixty-two patients were discharged on gastric-acid suppressants. Of these, 74.7% did not have an acceptable indication to continue this treatment on an outpatient basis. Many hospitalized patients in a Venezuelan academic tertiary healthcare center were given gastric acid suppressants not in accordance with the current clinical practice guidelines.

Assessment of tolerance and acceptability between mannitol solution and polyethylene glycol as bowel preparation for colonoscopy: a three-center study.

INTRODUCTION: Adequate bowel preparation is one of the most important factors related to the yield of colonoscopy. Lowquality bowel preparation has been associated with lower adenoma detection rates and increased healthcare expenses. Bowel preparation is a major impediment to undergo colonoscopy since it is perceived as an unpleasant experience by patients. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to assess tolerance and acceptability of the bowel preparation using either polyethylene glycol (PEG) or mannitol solution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We enrolled 140 patients with indications of screening for colorectal cancer or with suspected large bowel diseases. They received either mannitol solution or PEG as bowel preparation. Patients were asked to fill a questionnaire about the bowel preparation experience. RESULTS: Patients perceived more burdensome the preparation with PEG than mannitol for the variables nausea overall experience, post-procedure discomfort, disagreeable flavor, volume ingested and cost (p<0.05). A similar tolerance was reported for abdominal pain, bloating and anal irritation (p>0.05). The acceptability was 82.9% and 71.4% in the Mannitol group and in the PEG group, respectively (p=0.10). CONCLUSION: Acceptance of the bowel preparation between mannitol solution and PEG was comparable. However, mannitol was better tolerated by the patients in regard to most of the evaluated items.

Assessment of tolerance and acceptability between mannitol solution and polyethylene glycol as bowel preparation for colonoscopy: a three-center study / Evaluación de tolerancia y aceptabilidad entre la solución de manitol y el polietilenglicol como preparación intestinal para la colonoscopía: un estudio de tres centros

ABSTRACT Introduction: Adequate bowel preparation is one of the most important factors related to the yield of colonoscopy. Low quality bowel preparation has been associated with lower adenoma detection rates and increased healthcare expenses. Bowel preparation is a major impediment to undergo colonoscopy since it is perceived as an unpleasant experience by patients. Objective: This study was aimed to assess tolerance and acceptability of the bowel preparation using either polyethylene glycol (PEG) or mannitol solution. Materials and methods: We enrolled 140 patients with indications of screening for colorectal cancer or with suspected large bowel diseases. They received either mannitol solution or PEG as bowel preparation. Patients were asked to fill a questionnaire about the bowel preparation experience. Results: Patients perceived more burdensome the preparation with PEG than mannitol for the variables nausea overall experience, post-procedure discomfort, disagreeable flavor, volume ingested and cost (p<0.05). A similar tolerance was reported for abdominal pain, bloating and anal irritation (p>0.05). The acceptability was 82.9% and 71.4% in the Mannitol group and in the PEG group, respectively (p=0.10). Conclusion: Acceptance of the bowel preparation between mannitol solution and PEG was comparable. However, mannitol was better tolerated by the patients in regard to most of the evaluated items.

RESUMEN Introducción: La preparación intestinal adecuada es uno de los factores más importantes relacionados con el rendimiento de la colonoscopía. La preparación intestinal de baja calidad se ha asociado con tasas de detección de adenoma más bajas y mayores gastos de atención sanitaria. La preparación intestinal es un impedimento importante para someterse a una colonoscopía, ya que los pacientes la perciben como una experiencia desagradable. Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la tolerancia y la aceptabilidad de la preparación intestinal utilizando polietilenglicol (PEG) o solución de manitol. Materiales y métodos: Fueron incluidos 140 pacientes con indicación de pesquisa de cáncer colorrectal o con sospecha de enfermedades del intestino grueso. Los pacientes recibieron solución de manitol o PEG como preparación intestinal. Se pidió a los pacientes que completaran un cuestionario sobre la experiencia de preparación intestinal. Resultados: Los pacientes percibieron más agobiante la preparación con PEG que el manitol para las variables náuseas, experiencia general, molestias posteriores al procedimiento, sabor desagradable, volumen ingerido y costo (p<0,05). Se informó una tolerancia similar para el dolor abdominal, distensión abdominal e irritación anal (p>0,05). La aceptabilidad fue de 82,9% y 71,4% en el grupo de manitol y en el grupo de PEG, respectivamente (p=0,10). Conclusión: La aceptación de la preparación intestinal entre la solución de manitol y el PEG fue comparable. Sin embargo, el manitol fue mejor tolerado por los pacientes con respecto a la mayoría de las variables evaluadas.

Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis in a patient with food bolus impaction / Pseudodiverticulosis intramural esofágica en un paciente con impactación de bolo alimentario

Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis is an uncommon esophageal benign disease. The typical finding during endoscopy is the presence of numerous pinhead-sized outpouchings along the esophageal wall. We reported a case of food bolus impaction secondary to esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis. A 67-year-old man presented with sudden-onset dysphagia. Multiple tiny orifices were revealed during upper endoscopy. In addition, there were an impacted food bolus and an esophageal web. The patient was treated with balloon dilatation and proton pump inhibitors. As a result the symptoms disappeared completely. Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis is a rare cause of food bolus impaction and its treatment is directed towards the underlying associated conditions as well as the resolution of complications.

La pseudodiverticulosis intramural esofágica es una enfermedad benigna del esófago poco común. El hallazgo típico durante la endoscopia es la presencia de numerosos sáculos del tamaño de una cabeza de alfiler a lo largo de la pared esofágica. Reportamos un caso de impactación de bolo alimentario secundario a pseudodiverticulosis esofágica intramural. Un hombre de 67 años presentó disfagia de aparición repentina. Se encontraron múltiples orificios pequeños en la endoscopia superior. Además, hubo un bolo alimentario impactado y una red esofágica. El paciente fue tratado con dilatación con balón e inhibidores de la bomba de protones. Como resultado, los síntomas desaparecieron por completo. La pseudodiverticulosis intramural esofágica es una causa rara de impactación del bolo alimentario y su tratamiento se dirige a las condiciones asociadas subyacentes, así como a la resolución de complicaciones.

CHROMOENDOSCOPY USING TOLUIDINE BLUE PLUS LUGOL'S SOLUTION FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF ESOPHAGEAL PREMALIGNANT LESIONS AND SUPERFICIAL NEOPLASMS IN HIGH-RISK PATIENTS.

BACKGROUND: Esophageal cancer is the eighth most common cancer. The prognosis is bleak in patients with advanced stages. Patients with early disease have a better prognosis than those with advanced stage. There are several techniques for the screening of premalignant and superficial lesions including chromoendoscopy. OBJECTIVE: This article aimed to determine the effectiveness of chromoendoscopy with toluidine blue combined with Lugol's solution for diagnosis of esophageal premalignant and superficial neoplastic lesions in high risk patients. METHODS: Routine white light upper endoscopy was performed. Toluidine blue was sprayed from the gastroesophageal junction to 20 cm of the dental arch. Then the uptake dye areas were characterized. Later Lugol's solution was sprayed. Areas with less-intense staining were characterized. Biopsy of the toluidine blue capturing areas and areas with less-intense staining of Lugol's solution were taken. In the cases where lesions were not evidenced after application of dyes, biopsies four quadrants of the esophageal mucosa were taken. The samples were evaluated by a digestive pathologist. RESULTS: Barrett's esophagus was the most common premalignant lesion and the early neoplastic lesion was adenocarcinoma with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity 85.7%, positive predictive value 30%, negative predictive value 100%, positive likelihood ratio 7 negative likelihood ratio 0. CONCLUSION: Chromoendoscopy with toluidine blue combined with Lugol's solution is a useful tool in the screening of esophageal premalignant lesions and superficial neoplasms.

Utilização da cromoendoscopia com azul de toluidina mais solução de Lugol para diagnóstico precoce de lesões pré-malignas esofágicas e neoplasias superficiais em pacientes de alto risco / Chromoendoscopy using toluidine blue plus lugol's solution for early diagnosis of esophageal premalignant lesions and superficial neoplasms in high-risk patients

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Esophageal cancer is the eighth most common cancer. The prognosis is bleak in patients with advanced stages. Patients with early disease have a better prognosis than those with advanced stage. There are several techniques for the screening of premalignant and superficial lesions including chromoendoscopy. OBJECTIVE: This article aimed to determine the effectiveness of chromoendoscopy with toluidine blue combined with Lugol's solution for diagnosis of esophageal premalignant and superficial neoplastic lesions in high risk patients. METHODS: Routine white light upper endoscopy was performed. Toluidine blue was sprayed from the gastroesophageal junction to 20 cm of the dental arch. Then the uptake dye areas were characterized. Later Lugol's solution was sprayed. Areas with less-intense staining were characterized. Biopsy of the toluidine blue capturing areas and areas with less-intense staining of Lugol's solution were taken. In the cases where lesions were not evidenced after application of dyes, biopsies four quadrants of the esophageal mucosa were taken. The samples were evaluated by a digestive pathologist. RESULTS: Barrett's esophagus was the most common premalignant lesion and the early neoplastic lesion was adenocarcinoma with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity 85.7%, positive predictive value 30%, negative predictive value 100%, positive likelihood ratio 7 negative likelihood ratio 0. CONCLUSION: Chromoendoscopy with toluidine blue combined with Lugol's solution is a useful tool in the screening of esophageal premalignant lesions and superficial neoplasms.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O câncer de esôfago é o oitavo câncer mais comum. O prognóstico é sombrio em pacientes com estágios avançados. Pacientes com doença precoce têm um melhor prognóstico do que aqueles com estágio avançado. Existem várias técnicas para a triagem de lesões pré-malignas e superficiais, incluindo cromoendoscopia. OBJETIVO: Este artigo objetivou determinar a efetividade da cromoendoscopia com azul de toluidina combinada com a solução de Lugol para o diagnóstico de lesões neoplásicas pré-malignas e superficiais esofágicas em pacientes de alto risco. MÉTODOS - A endoscopia de luz branca de rotina foi realizada de forma rotineira. O azul do toluidina foi pulverizado desde a junção gastroesofágica até 20 cm da arcada dentária. As áreas impregnadas pela tintura da tomada foram então caracterizadas. Mais adiante a solução de Lugol foi pulverizada. Áreas com coloração menos intensa foram caracterizadas. Foram realizadas biópsias das áreas de captura de azul de toluidina e áreas com coloração menos intensa da solução de Lugol. Nos casos onde as lesões não foram evidenciadas após a aplicação das tinturas, foram feitas biópsias em quatro quadrantes da mucosa esofágica. As amostras foram avaliadas por um patologista especializado. RESULTADOS: O esôfago de Barrett foi a lesão pré-maligna mais frequente e a lesão neoplásica precoce foi adenocarcinoma com sensibilidade de 100%, especificidade de 85,7%, valor preditivo positivo de 30%, valor preditivo negativo 100%, razão de verossimilhança positiva 7 e razão de verossimilhança negativa 0. CONCLUSÃO: A cromoendoscopia com azul de toluidina combinada com a solução de Lugol é uma ferramenta útil na triagem de lesões pré-malignas esofágicas e neoplasias superficiais.

Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis in a patient with food bolus impaction.

Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis is an uncommon esophageal benign disease. The typical finding during endoscopy is the presence of numerous pinhead-sized outpouchings along the esophageal wall. We reported a case of food bolus impaction secondary to esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis. A 67-year-old man presented with sudden-onset dysphagia. Multiple tiny orifices were revealed during upper endoscopy. In addition, there were an impacted food bolus and an esophageal web. The patient was treated with balloon dilatation and proton pump inhibitors. As a result the symptoms disappeared completely. Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis is a rare cause of food bolus impaction and its treatment is directed towards the underlying associated conditions as well as the resolution of complications.