Endoscopic submucosal dissection in gastric lesions: the 100 cases experience from a tertiary reference center in West.

OBJECTIVE: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an endoscopic treatment method widely used in premalignant and malignant lesions in countries of the Far East. This method, which is difficult technically and has a high complication risk rate, has rarely been performed in the West, because of the fewer number of upper gastrointestinal lesions. In the present study, we aimed to present our results of gastric ESD procedures in respect to the learning curve. METHODS: A total of 100 ESD procedures, which were performed in the stomach between April 2012 and September 2014, were recorded prospectively before and after the procedure. Patient data were analyzed retrospectively. ESD procedures were numbered chronologically; the first 30 patients constituted group 1, whereas the rest were classified as the group 2. ESD results were compared between the groups. RESULTS: In a total of 95 patients, 100 gastric ESDs were performed. The overall en-bloc and complete resection rates were 93% and 92%, respectively. In respect of the learning curve, there were significant differences in the sizes of lesions and tissues obtained, procedure duration and dissection rate, snare use and knife preferences between groups (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, p = 0.003, p < 0.001, p = 0.009, and p < 0.001, respectively). No significant difference was detected in the en-bloc and complete resection rates and complications between the groups. CONCLUSION: According to guideline recommendations and masters for ESD, if ESD training is initiated and continued, successful ESD may be performed in localized lesions in the stomach.

The usage of overtube has a favorable effect on endoscopic submucosal dissection.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) may be very time consuming, and depending on the anesthesia, the contents of the stomach may reflux to the esophagus and cause the patient to aspirate. To prevent these situations, many practitioners suggest using an overtube, but no study has been done to evaluate the effect of the use of an overtube while performing the ESD procedure. Our aim was to investigate the effects of performing an upper gastrointestinal ESD with and without overtube. METHODS: Records of patients who underwent ESD were evaluated for histopathological results, complications, speed of dissection, dosages of anesthetic medications, and number of suctions performed during the procedure. The patients were classified into two depending on whether an overtube was used or not. RESULTS: There were a total of 58 patients on which 63 upper gastrointestinal ESD procedures were performed. Regarding age, gender, localization of the lesions, duration of the procedures, dosage of propofol, histopathological results, rate of complete resection, and rate of en-bloc resection, there was no difference between the two groups (p > 0,05). But the size of the lesions, the size of the resected specimen, and the speed of dissection were statistically different in two groups (p = 0.018, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively).The need for suction during the procedure was much lower in the overtube group than those with no overtube (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that using an overtube during an upper gastrointestinal ESD decreases the need for suction, favors the speed of dissection, and eases the comfort of the procedure.

Evaluation of the relationship between serum ghrelin, C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels, and disease activity in inflammatory bowel diseases.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Ghrelin is a 28 aminoasid peptide hormone, have generally focused upon this peptide's role upon growth and energy metabolism. Recently, studies investigating ghrelin's effect upon inflammation and immune response have gained importance. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of ghrelin levels, Creactive protein and interleukin-6 levels in establishing disease activity. METHODOLOGY: 52 cases with ulcerative colitis and 33 with Crohn's disease, total 85 patients, were included in this study. The serum ghrelin levels of the patients in remission and of those with active disease were compared. RESULTS: The mean serum ghrelin level in active patients (1243 ± 648 pg/ml), was found to be higher than those in remission (466 ± 214 pg/ml) (p<0.001). In establishing the disease activity, CRP is a the most effective marker compared to the other two inflammatory markers. AUC values were established as; CRP: 0.947 (95% CI,0.903-0.992),ghrelin:0.934(95% CI, 0.884-0.984) and interleukin-6: 0.756 (95% CI, 0.648- 0.864). DISCUSSION: Serum ghrelin level can be used with CRP as an important marker in establishing the mucosal damage in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Effects of mucosal TNF-alpha levels on treatment response in Crohn's disease patients receiving anti-TNF treatment.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: We aimed to find out if mucosal TNF-α (m-TNF-α) levels have predictive impact on anti-TNF treatment response in Crohn's disease (CD). METHODOLOGY: TNF-alpha values were determined with immunohistochemical staining of intestinal biopsies taken from 35 subjects on anti-TNF treatment for CD and 25 controls. Correlation between m-TNF-α levels and anti-TNF treatment were evaluated. RESULTS: m-TNF-α levels were determined higher in CD group (28.0±8.9 vs 5.8±2.1; P<0.001). m-TNF-α levels were lower in CD patients who were hospitalized (23.0±8.7 vs. 30.3±8.1; P=0.024). Although not to a statistically significant level, favorable parameters such as clinical remission (28.5±8.0 vs. 26.4±11.8, p=0.419) and mucosal healing (29.9±8.2 vs. 23.9±9.2, p=0.097) were increased in patients with high m-TNF-α levels whereas unfavorable parameters such as relapse (26.0±9.4 vs. 29.7±8.2, P=0.107), surgery requirement (22.8±11.1 vs. 29.1±8.1, P=0.147), steroid requirement (25.9±9.0 vs. 28.6±8.9, P=0.595), and anti-TNF intensification (22.3±3.8 vs. 28.5±9.0, P=0.183) were increased in patients with low m-TNF-α levels. CONCLUSIONS: High mucosal TNF-α levels before treatment have favorable effects on anti-TNF treatment response in CD. Presence of high m-TNF-α levels at the diagnosis may be encouraging in early initiation of anti-TNF treatment.

Hepcidin as a predictor of disease severity in acute pancreatitis: a single center prospective study.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Predicting the severity of acute pancreatitis is limited to clinical, laboratory and radiological risk factors. Hepcidin levels increase in acute inflammation. We aimed to assess the relationship between hepcidin and C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cells (WBC) and multi-detector computerized tomography (MDCT) in predicting the severity of pancreatitis. METHODOLOGY: We undertook a prospective review of 59 consecutive patients with acute pancreatitis admitted to our clinic. Biochemical values were measured from blood samples taken within 2 hours of admission and from between 2 and 72 hours related to the time of symptom onset. RESULTS: In predicting severe acute pancreatitis, hepcidin was superior to CRP and WBC (Area Under the Curve (AUC)=0.79, p=0.003; AUC=0.69, p=NS; AUC=0.53, p=NS, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, hepcidin was found to be superior to CRP in predicting the severity of pancreatitis.

The use of radial endosonography findings in the prediction of cholangiocarcinoma in cases with distal bile duct obstructions.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: We retrospectively collected the data of radial endosonographic (EUS) imaging findings of the patients with the distal bile duct obstructions due to different benign and malignant conditions. We aimed to assess and analyze the EUS findings in the distal bile duct obstruction which can predict or detect the existence of cholangiocarcinoma originating from the distal bile duct wall. METHODOLOGY: We gathered the data of 192 cases with distal biliary stricture due to various causes which all were diagnosed. RESULTS: With EUS, The sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma in lesions were respectively as following: Firstly, small hypoechoic mass which interrupts to see lumen and choledoch wall with total occlusion at distal choledoch: 75.8%, 88.1%. Secondly, hypoechoic and irregular thickening than surrounding regions at distal choledoch wall: 68.1%, 87.3%. Thirdly, appearance of lumen prompt termination at distal choledoch: 57.1%, 87.6%. Lastly, appearance where lumen narrows short segment: 13.6 %, 59.3 %. CONCLUSIONS: EUS findings including hypoechoic mass appearance completely occluding the lumen or heterogeneously increased irregular wall-thickness in the distal bile duct were found to be highly predictive and sensitive for detecting malignancy originating from the distal bile duct.

Evaluation of early atherosclerosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

BACKGROUND: Data regarding early atherosclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease are limited and conflicting results are present. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to evaluate serological and sonographical evidence of subclinical vascular involvement in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: Thirty-nine patients with inflammatory bowel disease (20 Crohn's disease, and 19 ulcerative colitis patients) and 31 healthy controls were consecutively enrolled in the study. Flow mediated dilatation of the brachial artery and intima media thickness assessments of the common carotid artery were measured sonographically. Soluble CD40 ligand levels were evaluated. Crohn's disease activity index and modified Truelove-Witt's criteria were also noted. RESULTS: Age, sex distribution, serum lipids, smoking status, and intima media thickness of the common carotid artery were similar between the inflammatory bowel disease patients and controls (p > 0.05). However, both endothelium dependent and independent flow mediated dilatation values were significantly impaired in the inflammatory bowel disease group compared with healthy controls (p < 0.05). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and soluble CD40 ligand values were significantly increased in inflammatory bowel disease patients compared with controls (p < 0.05), and soluble CD40 ligand was negatively correlated with flow mediated dilatation (r = -0.3, p < 0.05). Flow mediated dilatation was significantly predicted from the concentrations of C-reactive protein and soluble CD40 ligand. CONCLUSION: Functional atherosclerosis is present in inflammatory bowel disease before early structural changes occur in vasculature. Higher sCD40L may indicate worse vascular outcome for IBD.

Comparison of multidetector CT and endoscopic ultrasonography in malignant pancreatic mass lesions.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has been shown to be superior to conventional CT in detecting and staging pancreatic cancer. We conducted a prospective trial to compare EUS and MDCT, in discriminating benign/malignant, in determining local and vascular invasion of a suspected pancreatic cancer and deciding its resectability. METHODOLOGY: The study was performed at the Gastroenterology Department of Izmir Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, from June 2009 to June 2010, all patients with suspected pancreatic and periampullary tumors referred to our department were enrolled. A total of 56 patients were evaluated at the beginning. Five patients having distal CBD tumor (n=2), gallbladder tumor (n=1) and papillary tumor (n=2) were excluded from the study. Analysis was done for the remaining 51 patients. RESULTS: For the diagnosis of resectability/unresectability, EUS alone demonstrated a definite role in 4 (9%) of the 43 patients in confirming surgical and pathologic results and MDCT alone demonstrated a definite role in 6 (14%) of the 43 patients in confirming their results. An accurate diagnostic decision regarding resectability/unresectability was accomplished in 27 (63%) patients with EUS and MDCT. CONCLUSIONS: While MDCT is clinically quite effective, in terms of a correct resectability/unresectability decision, EUS should also be used.

GSTP1 gene methylation profiles in Helicobacter pylori (+) and (-) antral intestinal metaplasia and distal gastric tumour patients in Turkish population.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gastric cancer (GC) is the second most common malignancy worldwide, with a high mortality rate. The incidence of GC has declined in the western countries during the last decades. The glutathione S-transferases comprise a group of enzymes that are critical in the detoxification of carcinogens. In this study we aimed at the relationship GSTP-1 methylation in patients with intestinal metaplasia with and without Helicobacter pylori infection, gastric cancer and controls. METHODOLOGY: The methylation status of GSTP1 gene was analyzed by methylation specific PCR after bisulfate modification in H. pylori (+) (n=25) and (-) (n=25) intestinal metaplasia (IM) patients, GC (n=25) and control subjects (n=15) between September 2009 to November 2011. RESULTS: During the study period 90 patients who underwent endoscopic examination were included in the study. When we considered the GSTP1 gene methylation profile in all of the groups; 26 (28%)patients had methylated GSTP1 gene, 31 (34%) patients had unmethylated GSTP1 gene and 33 (36%) patients had heterogeneously methylated GSTPI gene. CONCLUSIONS: GSTP1 gene methylation profile is not appropriate for early diagnosis of cases with gastric cancer.

Role of radial endosonography in the diagnosis of acute cholangitis.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: We aimed to assess radial endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) features of the bile duct wall as well as biliary luminal liquid characteristics in cases with acute cholangitis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This prospective study was performed during the period from January 2009 to February 2010 in a tertiary referral center. Twenty-eight patients with acute cholangitis and 60 patients without acute cholangitis but with cholestasis due to gallstone disease were enrolled in the study. During radial EUS examination, sonographic features of the common bile duct wall, the intraductal luminal content, and nearby periductal structures were investigated. Mild hyperechogenic-heterogenic appearances with waving-type movements without acoustic shadowing enclosing one-third of the common bile duct were noted as purulent materials. RESULTS: EUS indicated an increased focal and/or diffuse concentric bile duct wall thickness (>1.5 mm) in 68 and 27% of the cases with and without acute cholangitis, respectively. The mean bile duct wall thickness was 1.9 mm (0.9-2.9 mm) and 1.1 mm (0.6-2.1 mm) in the study and control groups, respectively (P < 0.05). On EUS, a pericholedochal hypoechoic strand more than 1.5 cm in length was present in 13 of 28 patients with acute cholangitis (46%). It was less than 1 cm long in 11 cases without acute cholangitis (18%). Bile duct content with heterogenous dense echogenicity without acoustic shadowing was present in 18 patients (64%) with acute cholangitis and in two patients (3%) without cholangitis. Those 20 patients were successfully drained with a same-day endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) procedure which confirmed purulent biliary content after sphincterotomy. Same-day ERCP revealed no purulent material drainage from the bile duct in the other eight patients without cholangitis. The accuracy and positive and negative predictivity of diffuse concentric wall thickening and a peribiliary hypoechoic strand of greater than 1.5 cm in length for a diagnosis of acute cholangitis were 91, 86.3, and 67.1%, and 76, 72, and 54%, respectively. For purulent material, the accuracy and positive and negative predictive values of EUS for acute cholangitis were noted to be 87, 93.3, and 82%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Through this study, it was concluded that EUS findings such as diffuse and/or concentric wall thickening of more than 1.5 mm and intraductal heterogenous echogenicity without acoustic shadowing are highly accurate and predictive for diagnosing acute cholangitis.

Characteristics of Newly Diagnosed Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Across Turkey: Prospective Multicenter Observational 3K Registry Study.

AIMS: To evaluate patient profile for epidemiological and clinicopathological characteristics and potential risk/prognostic factors in newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients across Turkey. METHODS: A total of 547 patients (mean (SD) age 62.6 (10.3) years, 81.9% were males) were included in this registry study. Data on patient characteristics, etiologies of HCC, laboratory values, and tumor characteristics and stages were recorded at study enrollment. RESULTS: HBV infection (68.2%) was the leading etiology, followed by HCV infection (17.2%), HDV infection (5.5%), alcohol (6.4%), and NAFLD (3.5%), as the major etiologies. Considering that 51.6% of the patients had >5 cm HCC, 44% were Child-Pugh B/C and 57% were BCLC B-D, it appears that a significant group of HCC patients were diagnosed at advanced stages. Of 540 patients, 271 (50.2%) were referred or applied with the diagnosis of HCC. Patients with HCC at presentation had larger tumor size (median (min-max) 6.6 (0-30) vs. 4.8 (0-90) cm, P < .001) and more advanced BCLC stage (Stage C-D in 40.8% vs. 26.4%, respectively, P = .005), compared to patients who were diagnosed during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings revealed that HBV infection was the leading etiology and a moderate-to-advanced disease was evident in more than half of patients at the time of diagnosis. HCC patients diagnosed at follow-up had smaller tumor size and earlier BCLC stage.

Association of macroscopic gut inflammation with disease activity, functional status and quality of life in ankylosing spondylitis.

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the frequency of intestinal inflammation and its association with disease activity, functional status and quality of life in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). A total of 25 patients with AS had undergone ileocolonoscopy and concomitant histological study. Clinical and demographical parameters, BASDAI, BASFI, and SF-36 scores were compared between patients with and without macroscopic gut inflammation (MGI). Colonoscopic study revealed MGI in 9 patients and macroscopically normal gut mucosa in 16 patients. On histological examination, of 25 patients 20 had gut inflammation, mostly in ileum. BASDAI score was higher (P < 0.05), SF-36 pain and physical scores, and chest expansion measurement were lower (P = 0.00, P = 0.01, P = 0.01), duration of morning stiffness was longer (P = 0.01) in patients with MGI. Serum C-reactive protein, erytrocyte sedimentation rate levels were similar between groups (P > 0.05). There is high prevalence of histological gut inflammation in AS patients. More active disease should suggest gut inflammation in AS patients.

Endoscopic sphincterotomy alone in the management of low-grade biliary leaks due to cholecystectomy.

AIM: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is important in the diagnosis and management of postoperative bile leaks. Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) alone, ES with stent or nasobiliary drain (NBD) placement and stent or NBD without ES are the methods of choice. In the present study, we aimed to show the efficacy of ES alone in the management of low-grade (LGL) cystic duct stump (CDS) leaks due to cholecystectomy. METHODS: Between September 2005 and January 2008, ES was carried out on 31 patients with LGL from the CDS due to cholecystectomy who were referred to the endoscopy unit of Izmir Ataturk Training and Research Hospital. Biliary leakage was detected by biliary discharge from a tube drain inserted during the operation. In cases of retaining common bile duct stones, balloon extraction was carried out. If bile discharge continued, a stent was introduced for cessation of the leak as a second procedure. RESULTS: The success rate of ES alone was 87.1% (27 of 31 patients). In four patients (12.9%), ES alone was inadequate, therefore a stent was placed. The biliary leak ceased gradually and stopped in all patients at a mean of 11 (7-21) days. Balloon extraction of retained stones was carried out in six patients (19.6%). In two (6.5%) patients, mild hemorrhage and in two patients self-limited pancreatitis was seen (6.5%) as complications. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is essential in the management of postoperative biliary leaks. Endoscopic sphincterotomy alone can be the initial procedure in the treatment of LGL from the CDS due to cholecystectomy.

Role of endoscopic interventions and electroincision in benign anastomotic strictures following colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The anastomotic strictures are one of the most common colorectal surgery complications, and various endoscopic techniques have been defined. Balloon dilation is the most well-known and the simplest procedure. In this article, we aimed to present our series of endoscopic interventions and electroincision management for anastomotic strictures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The files of 59 patients, who underwent colorectal surgery between January 2010 and September 2017 in our hospital and were diagnosed during the follow-up with anastomotic stricture, were analyzed. The outcomes of endoscopic interventions such as balloon dilation and electroincision were compared and reported. RESULTS: The mean age of the 59 patients included in the study was 59.5±16.26 years. The primary operative indications were colorectal cancer in 46, inflammatory bowel disease in 7, diverticulum in 5, and penetrating trauma in one patient. Single- or multiple-balloon dilations were successful in 48 patients. Electroincision was performed in 11 patients because of the balloon dilation failure. None of the patients needed a secondary surgery. During the mean 33.75 months of the follow-up, the stricture recurred in seven patients who had undergone balloon dilation. Repeated balloon dilation was successful in these patients without any need for an additional surgical intervention. CONCLUSION: Balloon dilation can be performed safely as the primary treatment option, because of its easy access and noninvasive application. Electroincision is also a safe and effective endoscopic technique that can be preferred especially when the balloon dilation fails.

Evaluation of hepatitis A, B, and C serology in patients with cirrhosis and intensive alcohol consumption.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the serology of hepatitis A, B, and C in patients with cirrhosis and intensive alcohol consumption. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the viral serology results of 817 patients with cirrhosis and intensive alcohol consumption who presented to the Gastroenterology Clinic of Atatürk Training and Research Hospital of Izmir Katip Çelebi University between April 2008 and December 2017. The diagnosis of cirrhosis was based on clinical and biochemical evaluations and imaging results. Patients consuming absolute alcohol 40 g/day for >10 years were included and those who quit drinking ≥15 years ago were excluded. RESULTS: Of all the patients, 806 (98.7%) were positive for anti-HAV IgG, 159 (19.5%) for HBsAg, and 32 (3.9%) for anti-HCV. Genotyping was performed in 13 patients. Genotype 1 was detected in 10 patients (1a, one patient; 1b, nine patients) and genotype 3 in three patients. Of the patients with HBV, 10.0% had HBeAg and 7.6% had anti-delta. One-hundred and two (12.5%) patients had HCC, and of these, six (5.9%) were HCV-positive and 53 (52.0%) were HBsAg-positive. CONCLUSION: Patients with cirrhosis and intensive alcohol consumption have an increased hepatitis B and C prevalence. Patients with chronic viral hepatitis with alcohol habit are at a higher risk for HCC. Therefore, patients with cirrhosis and intensive alcohol consumption should be screened for hepatitis B and C.

Fecal Elastase Levels Predict Honeycombing in Pancreas Detected with Endoscopic Ultrasound.

Background and Study Aims: We aimed to demonstrate the association between fecal elastase levels and Rosemont categories in patients with chronic changes in pancreas detected with endoscopic ultrasound. Patients and Methods: Patients were selected consecutively from endosonography examinations performed for upper gastrointestinal subepithelial lesions and for pancreas evaluation. Pancreas imaging findings were categorized according to the Rosemont criteria using echoendoscope. Patients who were indeterminate of, suggestive of, and consistent with chronic pancreatitis were included in the study. Fecal elastase measurements were performed after the patients were qualified to participate in the study according to endosonography findings. Results: Seventy patients were included in the study. 54 of them were male. Mean age of the patients was 51.7 ± 10.2 year. There were 36 patients in the indetermine group for chronic pancreatitis. Mean fecal elastase level was 507.1 ± 14.6 µg/g in the indeterminate group. There were 24 patients in the suggestive group of chronic pancreatitis. Mean fecal elastase level was 400.4 ± 121.4 µg/g in the suggestive group of chronic pancreatitis. There were 10 patients, in the consistent group with chronic pancreatitis. Mean fecal elastase level was 134.8 ± 86.1. The difference between the three groups of fecal elastase values was statistically significant compared with Kruskal Wallis test. Ordinal logistic regression analysis showed that there was a significant relation between endosonografic categories and fecal elastase values with Nagelkerke value of 0.704. Conclusions: Fecal elastase levels of each of the endosonographic categories were significantly different from each other. Also, fecal elastase values can predict chronic changes in pancreas detected with endoscopic ultrasound.

Evaluation of Laboratory Findings and Mortality in Elderly Patients with Acute Biliary Pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVES: Gallstones are the most common cause of acute biliary pancreatitis. Laboratory and imaging findings as well as age are important predictors for mortality. Hospitalization rate is also higher in elderly patients. In this study, we investigated clinical parameters and total mortality in patients with acute pancreatitis aged >65 years. METHODS: In this study, 852 patients who entered the Gastroenterology Clinic for acute biliary pancreatitis between April 2006 and October 2013 were included. Data were retrospectively collected from the electronic record system. The patients with elevated aspartate aminotransferase levels (i.e. three times higher than normal value), cholelithiasis, cholecystectomy history, or choledocholithiasis were accepted as the patients with acute biliary pancreatitis. Patients were divided into two groups based on their age, i.e., >65 and <65 years. RESULTS: In the group with patients aged <65 years, serum alanine aminotransferase, albumin, hematocrit, and amylase, and in the group with patients aged >65 years, urea, leukocyte, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly different. Median hospital stay was similar in both the groups. The rate of detection of choledocholithiasis was significantly higher in elderly patients (p<0.001). Mortality rate was significantly higher in elderly patients for 28 day (0.21% and 2.95%, p<0.001) and 90 day (1.25% and 5.63%, p<0.001). In logistic regression multivariate analysis, age (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.54-1.36; p=0.006), elevated urea levels (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.05-1.19; p=0.001), elevated hematocrit levels (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.13-1.77; p=0.002), and decreased albumin levels (OR 0.05, 95% CI 0.004-0.652; p=0.022) were found predictors for 90-day mortality. CONCLUSION: Laboratory findings in elderly patients with acute pancreatitis may differ from those in younger patients. Although radiological findings are similar in both the groups, mortality is higher in the group with patients aged >65 years.

Improving the standard sequential treatment of Helicobacter pylori with either extended treatment or by adding bismuth.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Standard sequential treatment for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication has less success because of increasing clarithromycin resistance. Extended treatment and bismuth containing regimens were, therefore, investigated. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Consecutive H. pylori-positive patients with dyspepsia were randomly allocated to one of the three sequential regimens: The first group was given lansoprazole 30mg b.i.d. plus amoxicillin 1g b.i.d. for the first 5days, followed by lansoprazole 30mg b.i.d., clarithromycin 500mg b.i.d., and metronidazole 500mg t.i.d. for the second 5days (standard sequential, SS). The second group was given the same regimen but for 7+7days instead of 5+5days (extended sequential, ES). In the third group, colloidal bismuth 600mg b.i.d. was added to the second regimen for 14days (extended sequential+bismuth subcitrate, ES+B). Urea breath test or histology was performed before enrolment and 6weeks after the end of treatment to detect H. pylori. RESULTS: A total of 280 patients were included in the study. Per-protocol eradication rates were 62% (56/90), 72% (56/78), and 75% (54/72) in patients who received SS, ES, and ES+B regimens, respectively. Moreover, intention-to-treat eradication rates were 53% (56/104), 62% (56/90) and 62% (54/86), respectively. The differences in eradication rates between the groups were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Although prolonging of the sequential treatment to 14days may be considered, addition of bismuth to the regimen is of no avail.