A case report entitled“Primary gastroduodenal tuberculosis presenting as gastric outlet obstruction”recently published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases presented a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction and ...A case report entitled“Primary gastroduodenal tuberculosis presenting as gastric outlet obstruction”recently published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases presented a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction and highlighted the atypical manner in which gastrointestinal tuberculosis(TB)can present.The literature with regards to this rare pathology is limited to case reports and case series with the largest being published using data from between 2003 and 2013.However,since then the diagnostic tools available have significantly changed with more modern and increasingly accurate tests now available.This editorial reviews the current state of the art with regards to diagnosis in gastrointestinal TB.展开更多
Background One potential modifiable factor to improve the mental health of healthcare professionals(HCPs)during the pandemic is lifestyle.Aims This study aimed to assess whether an improved lifestyle during the pandem...Background One potential modifiable factor to improve the mental health of healthcare professionals(HCPs)during the pandemic is lifestyle.Aims This study aimed to assess whether an improved lifestyle during the pandemic is associated with improved mental health symptoms and mental well-being in HCPs over time.Methods This was a cohort study involving an online survey distributed at two separate time points during the pandemic(baseline(July–September 2020)and follow-up(December 2020–March 2021))to HCPs working in primary or secondary care in the UK.Both surveys assessed for major depressive disorder(MDD)(Patient Health Questionnaire-9(PHQ-9)),generalised anxiety disorder(GAD)(Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7(GAD-7)),mental well-being(Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Score(SWEMWBS))and self-reported lifestyle change(compared with the start of the pandemic)on multiple domains.Cumulative scores were calculated to estimate overall lifestyle change compared with that before the pandemic(at both baseline and follow-up).At each time point,separate logistic regression models were constructed to relate the lifestyle change score with the presence of MDD,GAD and low mental well-being.Linear regression models were also developed relating the change in lifestyle scores from baseline to follow-up to changes in PHQ-9,GAD-7 and SWEMWBS scores.Results 613 HCPs completed both baseline assessment and follow-up assessment.Consistent significant cross-sectional associations between increased lifestyle change scores and a reduced risk of MDD,GAD and low mental well-being were observed at both baseline and follow-up.Over the study period,a whole unit increase in the change in novel scores(ie,improved overall lifestyle)over 4 months was inversely associated with changes in PHQ-9(adjusted coefficient:−0.51,95%confidence interval(CI):−0.73 to−0.30,p<0.001)and GAD-7 scores(adjusted coefficient:−0.32,95%CI:−0.53 to−0.10,p=0.004)and positively associated with the change in SWEMWBS scores(adjusted coefficient:0.37,95%CI:0.18 to 0.55,p<0.001).Conclusions Improved lifestyle over time is associated with improved mental health and mental well-being in HCPs during the pandemic.Improving lifestyle could be a recommended intervention for HCPs to help mitigate the mental health impact during the current and future pandemics.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ureteral injury is a known complication of hysterectomies.Recent studies have attempted to correlate surgeon volume and experience with incidence of urinary tract injuries during hysterectomies.Some studies...BACKGROUND Ureteral injury is a known complication of hysterectomies.Recent studies have attempted to correlate surgeon volume and experience with incidence of urinary tract injuries during hysterectomies.Some studies have reported that as surgeon volume increases,urinary tract injury rates decrease.To our knowledge,no studies have assessed the relationship between surgeon subspecialty and the rate of urinary tract injury rates during minimally invasive hysterectomy.AIM To determine the incidence of urinary tract injury between urogynecologists,gynecologic oncologists,and general gynecologists.METHODS The study took place from January 1,2016 to December 1,2021 at a large comm-unity hospital in Detroit,Michigan.We conducted a retrospective chart review of adult patients who underwent minimally invasive hysterectomy.After we identified eligible patients,the surgeon subspecialty was identified and the surgeon’s volume per year was calculated.Patient demographics,medical history,physician-dictated operative reports,and all hospital visits postoperatively were reviewed.RESULTS Urologic injury occurred in four patients(2%)in the general gynecologist group,in one patient(1%)in the gynecologic oncologist group,and in one patient(1%)in the urogynecologist group.When comparing high and low-volume surgeons,there was no statistically significant difference in urinary tract injury(1%vs 2%)or bowel injury(1%vs 0%).There were more complications in the low-volume group vs the high-volume group excluding urinary tract,bowel,or major vessel injury.High-volume surgeons had four(1%)patients with a complication and low-volume surgeons had 12(4%)patients with a complication(P=0.04).CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated that there was no difference in the urinary tract injury rate in general gynecologists vs subspecialists,however our study was underpowered.展开更多
BACKGROUND ST-elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI)is the result of transmural ischemia of the myocardium and is associated with a high mortality rate.Primary percutaneous coronary intervention(PPCI)is the recommende...BACKGROUND ST-elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI)is the result of transmural ischemia of the myocardium and is associated with a high mortality rate.Primary percutaneous coronary intervention(PPCI)is the recommended first-line treatment strategy for patients with STEMI.The timely delivery of PPCI became extremely challenging for STEMI patients during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,leading to a projected steep rise in mortality.These delays were overcome by the shift from first-line therapy and the development of modern fibrinolytic-based reperfusion.It is unclear whether fibrinolytic-based reperfusion therapy is effective in improving STEMI endpoints.AIM To determine the incidence of fibrinolytic therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on STEMI clinical outcomes.METHODS PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,Web of Science,and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were queried from January 2020 up to February 2022 to identify studies investigating the effect of fibrinolytic therapy on the prognostic outcome of STEMI patients during the pandemic.Primary outcomes were the incidence of fibrinolysis and the risk of all-cause mortality.Data were meta-analyzed using the random effects model to derive odds ratios(OR)and 95%confidence intervals.Quality assessment was carried out using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.RESULTS Fourteen studies including 50136 STEMI patients(n=15142 in the pandemic arm;n=34994 in the pre-pandemic arm)were included.The mean age was 61 years;79%were male,27%had type 2 diabetes,and 47%were smokers.Compared with the pre-pandemic period,there was a significantly increased overall incidence of fibrinolysis during the pandemic period[OR:1.80(1.18 to 2.75);I2=78%;P=0.00;GRADE:Very low].The incidence of fibrinolysis was not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality in any setting.The countries with a low-and middle-income status reported a higher incidence of fibrinolysis[OR:5.16(2.18 to 12.22);I2=81%;P=0.00;GRADE:Very low]and an increased risk of all-cause mortality in STEMI patients[OR:1.16(1.03 to 1.30);I2=0%;P=0.01;GRADE:Very low].Meta-regression analysis showed a positive correlation of hyperlipidemia(P=0.001)and hypertension(P<0.001)with all-cause mortality.CONCLUSION There is an increased incidence of fibrinolysis during the pandemic period,but it has no effect on the risk of all-cause mortality.The low-and middle-income status has a significant impact on the all-cause mortality rate and the incidence of fibrinolysis.展开更多
Evidence-based practice(EBP)has been the gold standard in healthcare for nearly three centuries and aims to assist physicians in providing the safest and most effective healthcare for their patients.The well-establish...Evidence-based practice(EBP)has been the gold standard in healthcare for nearly three centuries and aims to assist physicians in providing the safest and most effective healthcare for their patients.The well-established hierarchy of evidence lists systematic reviews and meta-analyses at the top however these methodologies are not always appropriate or possible and in these instances case-control studies,case series and case reports are utilised to support EBP.Case-control studies allow simultaneous study of multiple risk factors and can be performed rapidly and relatively cheaply.A recent example was during the Coronavirus pandemic where case-control studies were used to assess the efficacy of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.Case series and case reports also play a role in EBP and are particularly useful to study rare diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease in transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.They are also vital in generating and disseminating early signals and encouraging further research.Whilst these methodologies have weaknesses,particularly with regards to bias and loss of patient confidentiality for rare pathologies,they have an important part to play in EBP and when appropriately utilised can significantly impact upon clinical practice.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals have a duty to maintain basic life support(BLS) skills. This study aims to evaluate medical students' factual knowledge of BLS and the training they receive.METHODS: A cross-se...BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals have a duty to maintain basic life support(BLS) skills. This study aims to evaluate medical students' factual knowledge of BLS and the training they receive.METHODS: A cross-sectional, closed-response questionnaire was distributed to the fi rst-and fourth-year students studying at institutions in the United Kingdom. The paper questionnaire sought to quantify respondent's previous BLS training, factual knowledge of the BLS algorithm using five multiple choice questions(MCQs), and valuate their desire for further BLS training. Students received 1 point for each correctly identifi ed answer to the 5 MCQ's.RESULTS: A total of 3,732 complete responses were received from 21 medical schools. Eighty percent(n=2,999) of students completed a BLS course as part of their undergraduate medical studies. There was a signifi cant difference(P<0.001) in the percentage of the fourth-year students selecting the correct answer in all the MCQ's compared to the fi rst-year students except in identifyingthe correct depth of compressions required during CPR(P=0.095). Overall 10.3%(95% CI 9.9% to 10.7%) of respondents correctly identified the answer to 5 MCQ's on BLS: 9% of the first-year students(n=194) and 12% of the fourth-year students(n=190). On an institutional level the proportion of students answering all MCQ's correctly ranged from 2% to 54% at different universities. Eighty-one percent of students(n=3,031) wished for more BLS training in their curriculum.CONCLUSION: Factual knowledge of BLS is poor among medical students in the UK. There is a disparity in standards of knowledge across institutions and respondents indicating that they would like more training.展开更多
Objective:Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective method of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea(OSA)with long-term benefits,however,the mechanisms of action and the optimum operative procedure remains un...Objective:Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective method of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea(OSA)with long-term benefits,however,the mechanisms of action and the optimum operative procedure remains unclear.The aim of this systemic review was to compare the efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy(LSG)and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass(RYGB)in resolving OSA.Methods:A comprehensive search of MEDLINE,Pubmed,Embase,and OVID was performed.Studies that reported OSA resolution in obese patients with BMI>30 kg/m2 were included in the study.RCTs,comparative prospective and matched cohort studies comparing RYGB with LSG were considered for this study.Results:Five studies(309 participants)were included:4 cohort studies and 1 RCT;all with low risk of bias.At 12 months follow-up,there was a trend towards improved resolution of OSA with LSG(OR 0.47,95%CI[0.20 to 1.06];p=0.07)when compared to RYGB.In contrast,there was a trend to poorer weight loss in the LSG group(SMD 3.83,95%CI[-1.82 to 9.48];p=0.18).Similarly,at 36 months follow-up,there was a trend towards better resolution of OSA with LSG(OR 0.52,95%CI[0.16 to 1.71];p=0.28)and a significantly poorer weight loss in LSG when compared to RYGB(SMD 8.25,95%CI[2.91 to 13.58];p=0.002).Conclusion:Despite poorer weight loss following LSG,there is a trend towards increased resolution of sleep apnea post-LSG.These findings suggest the possibility of weight loss independent factors causing OSA resolution,which should be further investigated.Registration:PROSPERO:CRD42018090367.展开更多
Colonoscopy is currently the gold standard for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC).This has the obvious drawback of being invasive as well as carrying a small risk.The most widely us...Colonoscopy is currently the gold standard for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC).This has the obvious drawback of being invasive as well as carrying a small risk.The most widely used non-invasive approaches include the use of faecal calprotectin in the case of IBD and fecal immunochemical test in the case of CRC.However,the necessity of stool collection limits their acceptability for some patients.Over the recent years,there has been emerging data looking at the role of non-invasively obtained colorectal mucus as a screening and diagnostic tool in IBD and CRC.It has been shown that the mucus rich material obtained by self-sampling of anal surface following defecation,can be used to measure various biomarkers that can aid in diagnosis of these conditions.展开更多
BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)is said to be associated with numerous conditions both within and outside the gastrointestinal(GI)system.The majority of research has been concerned with conditions tha...BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)is said to be associated with numerous conditions both within and outside the gastrointestinal(GI)system.The majority of research has been concerned with conditions that reduce the volume of functioning pancreatic tissue or prevent adequate drainage to the small bowel,such as chronic pancreatitis,cystic fibrosis,pancreatic cancer and pancreatic resection.However,the evidence base supporting an association with extrapancreatic conditions,such as coeliac disease,diabetes mellitus and congestive cardiac failure,is heterogeneous.AIM To strengthen the evidence base by studying all previously reported associations with PEI in a large cohort of outpatients.METHODS A single-centre retrospective study was performed.General gastroenterology outpatients tested for PEI with faecal elastase-1(FE1)were identified and information retrieved from the electronic patient record.PEI was defined as FE1<200μg/g.Patients already taking pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy were excluded.Multiple imputation was used to handle missing data.Univariable logistic regression was used to study which presenting symptoms predicted PEI.Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between all previously reported associations and PEI.RESULTS Of 1027 patients were included.182 patients(17.7%)were diagnosed with PEI.Steatorrhoea[odds ratios(OR):2.51,95%confidence intervals(CI):1.58-3.98]and weight loss(OR:1.49,95%CI:1.08-2.06)were the only presenting symptoms that predicted PEI.Chronic pancreatitis(OR:7.98,95%CI:3.95-16.15),pancreatic cancer(OR:6.58,95%CI:1.67-25.98),upper GI surgery(OR:2.62,95%CI:1.32-5.19),type 2 diabetes(OR:1.84,95%CI:1.18-2.87),proton pump inhibitor therapy(OR:1.87,95%CI:1.25-2.80)and Asian ethnicity(OR:2.11,95%CI:1.30-3.42)were significantly associated with PEI in the multivariable analysis.None of the other historically reported associations with PEI were significant after adjustment for the other variables included in our multivariable analysis.CONCLUSION PEI is common in patients with chronic pancreatitis,pancreatic cancer,upper GI surgery and type 2 diabetes.Proton pump inhibitor therapy may also be associated with PEI or a false positive FE1.展开更多
Objective:Interprofessional care,an aim of institutional healthcare settings globally,promotes safe,cost-effective,quality care.How professionals act to enable interprofessional care has not been described.The nurse p...Objective:Interprofessional care,an aim of institutional healthcare settings globally,promotes safe,cost-effective,quality care.How professionals act to enable interprofessional care has not been described.The nurse practitioner role,with its expertise in both medicine and nursing,is known to enhance collaboration and promote interprofessional care delivery.The objective of this study was to identify,from the healthcare professionals'perspective,nurse practitioner strategies used to enhance interprofessional care.Method:A hermeneutic phenomenology design was employed.Healthcare professionals from acute care hospitals and associated long-term care residences(n=6)in one Canadian province were invited to participate.Individual interviews were held with healthcare professionals(n=52)who regularly work with a nurse practitioner.The participants were asked to share experiences that held significance or value in promoting interprofessional care.Results:Four valued role attributes were identified;consistent role presence,time to focus on the patient,effective communication,and respectful centrality.Identified strategies extending from the attributes included knowledge sharing,respectful negotiation,identifying patient issues,being open and transparent,listening to opinions,bridging professions,and working as the hub of the group.Multiple types of interprofessional relationships were perceived,with the hierarchical type as the most common.Conclusions:Nurse practitioners in acute care hospital and long-term care settings have valued attributes that can promote interprofessional care.Effective strategies to promote interprofessional care emerge from these role attributes.However,the interprofessional relationship type perceived could enhance or impede the contribution of the strategies to interprofessional care promotion.展开更多
AIM:To characterize the gastric myoelectric activity(GMA) and intra-abdominal pressure changes induced by emetic stimuli(apomorphine and cisplatin) in the ferret.METHODS:GMA and intra-abdominal pressure were recorded ...AIM:To characterize the gastric myoelectric activity(GMA) and intra-abdominal pressure changes induced by emetic stimuli(apomorphine and cisplatin) in the ferret.METHODS:GMA and intra-abdominal pressure were recorded in conscious,unrestrained ferrets surgically implanted with radiotelemetry transmitters.Animals were challenged with apomorphine(0.25 mg/kg sc) and cisplatin(10 mg/kg ip),and the emetic response was quantif ied via direct observation and intra-abdominal pressure recording for 1 and 4 h,respectively.The GMA was analyzed by spectral analysis;the parameters used to characterize the GMA were the dominant frequency(DF) and the repartition of spectral power in the bradygastric,normogastric and tachygastric frequency ranges.RESULTS:Retches were identified on the intraabdominal pressure trace as peaks 0.30±1.01 s in duration and 59.57±2.74 mmHg in amplitude,vomit peaks were longer(0.82±0.06 s,P<0.01) and reached a higher pressure(87.73±8.12 mmHg,P<0.001).The number of retches and vomits quantified via direct observation [apomorphine:65.5 ± 11.8 retches + vomits(R+V),cisplatin:202.6±64.1 R+V] and intra-abdominal pressure(apomorphine:68.3±13.7 R+V,n=8;cisplatin:219.0±69.2 R+V,n=8) were correlated(r=0.97,P<0.0001) and the timing of emesis was consistent between the 2 methods.Apomorphine induced a decrease in normogastria from 45.48%±4.35% to 36.70±4.34%(n=8,P<0.05) but the DF of the slow waves was not changed [8.95±0.25 counts/min(cpm) vs 8.68±0.35 cpm,n=8,P> 0.05].Cisplatin induced a decrease in normogastria from 55.83%±4.30% to 29.22%±5.16% and an increase in bradygastria from 14.28%±2.32% to 31.19%±8.33%(n=8,P<0.001) but the DF(9.14±0.13 cpm) remained unchanged(P>0.05).The GMA changes induced by cisplatin preceded the emetic response as normogastria was reduced for 1 h before the onset of emesis(57.61%±5.66% to 39.91%±5.74%,n=6,P<0.05).Peri-emesis analysis revealed that the GMA was signif icantly disturbed during and immediately after,but not immediately before,the emetic episodes.CONCLUSION:The induction of emesis is reliably associated with a disrupted GMA,but changes may also occur prior to and following the emetic response.展开更多
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)has left a significant impact on the world's health,economic and political systems;as of November 20,2020,more than 57 million people have been infected worldwide,with ...BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)has left a significant impact on the world's health,economic and political systems;as of November 20,2020,more than 57 million people have been infected worldwide,with over 1.3 million deaths.While the global spotlight is currently focused on combating this pandemic through means ranging from finding a treatment among existing therapeutic agents to inventing a vaccine that can aid in halting the further loss of life.AIM To collect all systematic reviews and meta-analyses published related to COVID-19 to better identify available evidence,highlight gaps in knowledge,and elucidate further meta-analyses and umbrella reviews that are yet to be performed.METHODS We explored studies based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses with the keyterms,including severe acute respiratory syndrome(SARS),SARS virus,coronavirus disease,COVID-19,and SARS coronavirus-2.The included studies were extracted from Embase,Medline,and Cochrane databases.The publication timeframe of included studies ranged between January 01,2020,to October 30,2020.Studies that were published in languages other than English were not considered for this systematic review.The finalized full-text articles are freely accessible in the public domain.RESULTS Searching Embase,Medline,and Cochrane databases resulted in 1906,669,and 19 results,respectively,that comprised 2594 studies.515 duplicates were subsequently removed,leaving 2079 studies.The inclusion criteria were systematic reviews or meta-analyses.860 results were excluded for being a review article,scope review,rapid review,panel review,or guideline that produced a total of 1219 studies.After screening articles were categorized,the included articles were put into main groups of clinical presentation,epi-demiology,screening and diagnosis,severity assessment,special populations,and treatment.Subsequently,there was a second subclassification into the following groups:gastrointestinal,cardiovascular,neurological,stroke,thrombosis,anosmia and dysgeusia,ocular manifestations,nephrology,cutaneous manifestations,D-dimer,lymphocyte,anticoagulation,antivirals,convalescent plasma,immunosuppressants,corticosteroids,hydroxychloroquine,renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system,technology,diabetes mellitus,obesity,pregnancy,children,mental health,smoking,cancer,and transplant.CONCLUSION Among the included articles,it is clear that further research is needed regarding treatment options and vaccines.With more studies,data will be less heterogeneous,and statistical analysis can be better applied to provide more robust clinical evidence.This study was not designed to give recommendations regarding the management of COVID-19.展开更多
Colonoscopy screening for the detection and removal of colonic adenomas is central to efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality of colorectal cancer.However,up to a third of adenomas may be missed at colonoscopy,a...Colonoscopy screening for the detection and removal of colonic adenomas is central to efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality of colorectal cancer.However,up to a third of adenomas may be missed at colonoscopy,and the majority of post-colonoscopy colorectal cancers are thought to arise from these.Adenomas have three-dimensional surface topographic features that differentiate them from adjacent normal mucosa.However,these topographic features are not enhanced by white light colonoscopy,and the endoscopist must infer these from two-dimensional cues.This may contribute to the number of missed lesions.A variety of optical imaging technologies have been developed commercially to enhance surface topography.However,existing techniques enhance surface topography indirectly,and in two dimensions,and the evidence does not wholly support their use in routine clinical practice.In this narrative review,co-authored by gastroenterologists and engineers,we summarise the evidence for the impact of established optical imaging technologies on adenoma detection rate,and review the development of photometric stereo(PS)for colonoscopy.PS is a machine vision technique able to capture a dense array of surface normals to render three-dimensional reconstructions of surface topography.This imaging technique has several potential clinical applications in colonoscopy,including adenoma detection,polyp classification,and facilitating polypectomy,an inherently three-dimensional task.However,the development of PS for colonoscopy is at an early stage.We consider the progress that has been made with PS to date and identify the obstacles that need to be overcome prior to clinical application.展开更多
BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can prese...BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can present as a diagnostic and treatment challenge.AHUO in the adult population is unusual and poorly documented.It has an incidence between 11%and 75%.Currently,no treatment guidelines exist.With no identified cause,treatment is often blind,and the wrong treatment plan may have unintended consequences.CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 58-year-old woman who presented to the emergency room for elevated liver function tests(LFTs).Her symptoms started 10 d prior to admission and included nausea,vomiting,jaundice,decreased appetite,weight loss of 10 lbs,and dark urine.She denied drinking alcohol or taking any hepatotoxic agents,including acetaminophen,statins,vitamins,or supplements.She was admitted to the hospital,and an etiologic work-up was carried out.Her initial bloodwork revealed elevated liver enzymes(alanine aminotransferase 2500 U/L,aspartate aminotransferase 3159 U/L,and alkaline phosphatase 714 U/L)and elevated total bilirubin of 6.4 mg/dL.She tested negative for common infectious etiologies such as hepatotropic viruses A,B,C,and E.Further infective work-up revealed negative serology for cytomegalovirus,Epstein-Barr virus,herpes simplex virus 1&2,and human immunodeficiency virus.Her autoanti-body test results were negative,including anti-smooth muscle antibody,anti-mitochondrial antibody,and anti-liver kidney microsome 1 antibody.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography ruled out biliary causes of elevated LFTs,and her core liver biopsy proved inconclusive.Over the course of her hospital stay,the patient's LFTs improved with supportive care and without steroids.CONCLUSION Idiopathic hepatitis makes treatment challenging.It can leave patients feeling confused and unfulfilled.Thus,educating the patient thoroughly for shared decision-making and management becomes essential.展开更多
Background Hypospadias is one of the most common genital birth defects.There are around 300 various techniques available for the repair of hypospadias.This study aims to compare the reported outcomes of Tubularized in...Background Hypospadias is one of the most common genital birth defects.There are around 300 various techniques available for the repair of hypospadias.This study aims to compare the reported outcomes of Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty(TIP)and Grafted TIP(GTIP)repair in children undergoing primary hypospadiasrepair.Methods This meta-analysisadhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,and we framed our research question using the population,intervention,control and outcomes format.We conducted comprehensive electronic searches across various databases,employing a Boolean search strategy with predefined search terms.Only randomized controlled trials(RCTs)were included for quantitative analysis.Results Totally,10 RCTs met our inclusion criteria for quantitative analysis.The results indicated that urethrocutaneous fistula,glans dehiscence,and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups.The incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the GTIP group with a relative risk(RR)of 0.32(95%confidence interval(Cl)0.15 to 0.67).Conclusion The coucomes UCF,glans dehiscence,and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups.Notably,the incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the grafted TIP group.In terms of operative time,our quantitative synthesis demonstrated that the TIP group had a shorter operative time than the GTIP group with significant heterogeneity.展开更多
Many studies have looked at connections between diet,etiology,signs and symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Although these connections are apparent to clinicians,they are difficult to prove qualit...Many studies have looked at connections between diet,etiology,signs and symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Although these connections are apparent to clinicians,they are difficult to prove qualitatively or quantitatively.Enteral feeding and polymeric diets are equally effective at bringing about remission in Crohn's disease(CD).Parenteral feeding is also effective,although none of these methods is as effective as corticosteroid therapy.However,enteral feeding is preferred in the pediatric population because linear growth is more adequately maintained via this route.Exclusion diets in patients brought into remission using an elemental diet have been shown to maintain remission for longer periods.Studies that aim to isolate culpable food groups have shown that individuals react differently on exposure to or exclusion of various foods.The commonly identifi ed food sensitivities are cereals,milk,eggs,vegetables and citrus fruits.Studies that have looked at gut mucosal antigen behavior have shown higher rectal blood flow,in response to specifi c food antigens,in those with CD over healthy subjects.Exclusion of sugar shows little evidence of amelioration in CD.Omega 3 fatty acids show promise in the treatment of IBD but await larger randomized controlled trials.Patients frequently notice that specifi c foods cause aggravation of their symptoms.Whilst it has been diffi cult to pinpoint specifi c foods,with advances in the laboratory tests and food supplements available,the aim is to prolong remission in these patients using dietary measures,and reduce the need for pharmacotherapy and surgical intervention.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis(UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the large bowel and is associated with a significant risk of both requirement for surgeryand the need for hospitalisation. Thiopurines, and more rec...Ulcerative colitis(UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the large bowel and is associated with a significant risk of both requirement for surgeryand the need for hospitalisation. Thiopurines, and more recently, anti-tumour necrosis factor(a TNF) therapy have been used successfully to induce clinical remission. However, there is less data available on whether these agents prevent long-term colectomy rates or the need for hospitalisation. The focus of this article is to review the recent and pertinent literature on the long-term impact of thiopurines and a TNF on long-term surgical and hospitalisation rates in UC. Data from population based longitudinal research indicates that thiopurine therapy probably has a protective role against colectomy, if used in appropriate patients for a sufficient duration. a TNF agents appear to have a short term protective effect against colectomy, but data is limited for longer periods. Whereas there is insufficient evidence that thiopurines affect hospitalisation, evidence favours that a TNF therapy probably reduces the risk of hospitalisation within the first year of use, but it is less clear on whether this effect continues beyond this period. More structured research needs to be conducted to answer these clinically important questions.展开更多
文摘A case report entitled“Primary gastroduodenal tuberculosis presenting as gastric outlet obstruction”recently published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases presented a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction and highlighted the atypical manner in which gastrointestinal tuberculosis(TB)can present.The literature with regards to this rare pathology is limited to case reports and case series with the largest being published using data from between 2003 and 2013.However,since then the diagnostic tools available have significantly changed with more modern and increasingly accurate tests now available.This editorial reviews the current state of the art with regards to diagnosis in gastrointestinal TB.
基金This work was supported by a Barts Charity project grant(MGU0586).
文摘Background One potential modifiable factor to improve the mental health of healthcare professionals(HCPs)during the pandemic is lifestyle.Aims This study aimed to assess whether an improved lifestyle during the pandemic is associated with improved mental health symptoms and mental well-being in HCPs over time.Methods This was a cohort study involving an online survey distributed at two separate time points during the pandemic(baseline(July–September 2020)and follow-up(December 2020–March 2021))to HCPs working in primary or secondary care in the UK.Both surveys assessed for major depressive disorder(MDD)(Patient Health Questionnaire-9(PHQ-9)),generalised anxiety disorder(GAD)(Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7(GAD-7)),mental well-being(Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Score(SWEMWBS))and self-reported lifestyle change(compared with the start of the pandemic)on multiple domains.Cumulative scores were calculated to estimate overall lifestyle change compared with that before the pandemic(at both baseline and follow-up).At each time point,separate logistic regression models were constructed to relate the lifestyle change score with the presence of MDD,GAD and low mental well-being.Linear regression models were also developed relating the change in lifestyle scores from baseline to follow-up to changes in PHQ-9,GAD-7 and SWEMWBS scores.Results 613 HCPs completed both baseline assessment and follow-up assessment.Consistent significant cross-sectional associations between increased lifestyle change scores and a reduced risk of MDD,GAD and low mental well-being were observed at both baseline and follow-up.Over the study period,a whole unit increase in the change in novel scores(ie,improved overall lifestyle)over 4 months was inversely associated with changes in PHQ-9(adjusted coefficient:−0.51,95%confidence interval(CI):−0.73 to−0.30,p<0.001)and GAD-7 scores(adjusted coefficient:−0.32,95%CI:−0.53 to−0.10,p=0.004)and positively associated with the change in SWEMWBS scores(adjusted coefficient:0.37,95%CI:0.18 to 0.55,p<0.001).Conclusions Improved lifestyle over time is associated with improved mental health and mental well-being in HCPs during the pandemic.Improving lifestyle could be a recommended intervention for HCPs to help mitigate the mental health impact during the current and future pandemics.
文摘BACKGROUND Ureteral injury is a known complication of hysterectomies.Recent studies have attempted to correlate surgeon volume and experience with incidence of urinary tract injuries during hysterectomies.Some studies have reported that as surgeon volume increases,urinary tract injury rates decrease.To our knowledge,no studies have assessed the relationship between surgeon subspecialty and the rate of urinary tract injury rates during minimally invasive hysterectomy.AIM To determine the incidence of urinary tract injury between urogynecologists,gynecologic oncologists,and general gynecologists.METHODS The study took place from January 1,2016 to December 1,2021 at a large comm-unity hospital in Detroit,Michigan.We conducted a retrospective chart review of adult patients who underwent minimally invasive hysterectomy.After we identified eligible patients,the surgeon subspecialty was identified and the surgeon’s volume per year was calculated.Patient demographics,medical history,physician-dictated operative reports,and all hospital visits postoperatively were reviewed.RESULTS Urologic injury occurred in four patients(2%)in the general gynecologist group,in one patient(1%)in the gynecologic oncologist group,and in one patient(1%)in the urogynecologist group.When comparing high and low-volume surgeons,there was no statistically significant difference in urinary tract injury(1%vs 2%)or bowel injury(1%vs 0%).There were more complications in the low-volume group vs the high-volume group excluding urinary tract,bowel,or major vessel injury.High-volume surgeons had four(1%)patients with a complication and low-volume surgeons had 12(4%)patients with a complication(P=0.04).CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated that there was no difference in the urinary tract injury rate in general gynecologists vs subspecialists,however our study was underpowered.
文摘BACKGROUND ST-elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI)is the result of transmural ischemia of the myocardium and is associated with a high mortality rate.Primary percutaneous coronary intervention(PPCI)is the recommended first-line treatment strategy for patients with STEMI.The timely delivery of PPCI became extremely challenging for STEMI patients during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,leading to a projected steep rise in mortality.These delays were overcome by the shift from first-line therapy and the development of modern fibrinolytic-based reperfusion.It is unclear whether fibrinolytic-based reperfusion therapy is effective in improving STEMI endpoints.AIM To determine the incidence of fibrinolytic therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on STEMI clinical outcomes.METHODS PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,Web of Science,and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were queried from January 2020 up to February 2022 to identify studies investigating the effect of fibrinolytic therapy on the prognostic outcome of STEMI patients during the pandemic.Primary outcomes were the incidence of fibrinolysis and the risk of all-cause mortality.Data were meta-analyzed using the random effects model to derive odds ratios(OR)and 95%confidence intervals.Quality assessment was carried out using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.RESULTS Fourteen studies including 50136 STEMI patients(n=15142 in the pandemic arm;n=34994 in the pre-pandemic arm)were included.The mean age was 61 years;79%were male,27%had type 2 diabetes,and 47%were smokers.Compared with the pre-pandemic period,there was a significantly increased overall incidence of fibrinolysis during the pandemic period[OR:1.80(1.18 to 2.75);I2=78%;P=0.00;GRADE:Very low].The incidence of fibrinolysis was not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality in any setting.The countries with a low-and middle-income status reported a higher incidence of fibrinolysis[OR:5.16(2.18 to 12.22);I2=81%;P=0.00;GRADE:Very low]and an increased risk of all-cause mortality in STEMI patients[OR:1.16(1.03 to 1.30);I2=0%;P=0.01;GRADE:Very low].Meta-regression analysis showed a positive correlation of hyperlipidemia(P=0.001)and hypertension(P<0.001)with all-cause mortality.CONCLUSION There is an increased incidence of fibrinolysis during the pandemic period,but it has no effect on the risk of all-cause mortality.The low-and middle-income status has a significant impact on the all-cause mortality rate and the incidence of fibrinolysis.
文摘Evidence-based practice(EBP)has been the gold standard in healthcare for nearly three centuries and aims to assist physicians in providing the safest and most effective healthcare for their patients.The well-established hierarchy of evidence lists systematic reviews and meta-analyses at the top however these methodologies are not always appropriate or possible and in these instances case-control studies,case series and case reports are utilised to support EBP.Case-control studies allow simultaneous study of multiple risk factors and can be performed rapidly and relatively cheaply.A recent example was during the Coronavirus pandemic where case-control studies were used to assess the efficacy of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.Case series and case reports also play a role in EBP and are particularly useful to study rare diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease in transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.They are also vital in generating and disseminating early signals and encouraging further research.Whilst these methodologies have weaknesses,particularly with regards to bias and loss of patient confidentiality for rare pathologies,they have an important part to play in EBP and when appropriately utilised can significantly impact upon clinical practice.
文摘BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals have a duty to maintain basic life support(BLS) skills. This study aims to evaluate medical students' factual knowledge of BLS and the training they receive.METHODS: A cross-sectional, closed-response questionnaire was distributed to the fi rst-and fourth-year students studying at institutions in the United Kingdom. The paper questionnaire sought to quantify respondent's previous BLS training, factual knowledge of the BLS algorithm using five multiple choice questions(MCQs), and valuate their desire for further BLS training. Students received 1 point for each correctly identifi ed answer to the 5 MCQ's.RESULTS: A total of 3,732 complete responses were received from 21 medical schools. Eighty percent(n=2,999) of students completed a BLS course as part of their undergraduate medical studies. There was a signifi cant difference(P<0.001) in the percentage of the fourth-year students selecting the correct answer in all the MCQ's compared to the fi rst-year students except in identifyingthe correct depth of compressions required during CPR(P=0.095). Overall 10.3%(95% CI 9.9% to 10.7%) of respondents correctly identified the answer to 5 MCQ's on BLS: 9% of the first-year students(n=194) and 12% of the fourth-year students(n=190). On an institutional level the proportion of students answering all MCQ's correctly ranged from 2% to 54% at different universities. Eighty-one percent of students(n=3,031) wished for more BLS training in their curriculum.CONCLUSION: Factual knowledge of BLS is poor among medical students in the UK. There is a disparity in standards of knowledge across institutions and respondents indicating that they would like more training.
基金The study was pre-registered with the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews,PROSPERO identification code:CRD42018090367.
文摘Objective:Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective method of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea(OSA)with long-term benefits,however,the mechanisms of action and the optimum operative procedure remains unclear.The aim of this systemic review was to compare the efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy(LSG)and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass(RYGB)in resolving OSA.Methods:A comprehensive search of MEDLINE,Pubmed,Embase,and OVID was performed.Studies that reported OSA resolution in obese patients with BMI>30 kg/m2 were included in the study.RCTs,comparative prospective and matched cohort studies comparing RYGB with LSG were considered for this study.Results:Five studies(309 participants)were included:4 cohort studies and 1 RCT;all with low risk of bias.At 12 months follow-up,there was a trend towards improved resolution of OSA with LSG(OR 0.47,95%CI[0.20 to 1.06];p=0.07)when compared to RYGB.In contrast,there was a trend to poorer weight loss in the LSG group(SMD 3.83,95%CI[-1.82 to 9.48];p=0.18).Similarly,at 36 months follow-up,there was a trend towards better resolution of OSA with LSG(OR 0.52,95%CI[0.16 to 1.71];p=0.28)and a significantly poorer weight loss in LSG when compared to RYGB(SMD 8.25,95%CI[2.91 to 13.58];p=0.002).Conclusion:Despite poorer weight loss following LSG,there is a trend towards increased resolution of sleep apnea post-LSG.These findings suggest the possibility of weight loss independent factors causing OSA resolution,which should be further investigated.Registration:PROSPERO:CRD42018090367.
文摘Colonoscopy is currently the gold standard for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC).This has the obvious drawback of being invasive as well as carrying a small risk.The most widely used non-invasive approaches include the use of faecal calprotectin in the case of IBD and fecal immunochemical test in the case of CRC.However,the necessity of stool collection limits their acceptability for some patients.Over the recent years,there has been emerging data looking at the role of non-invasively obtained colorectal mucus as a screening and diagnostic tool in IBD and CRC.It has been shown that the mucus rich material obtained by self-sampling of anal surface following defecation,can be used to measure various biomarkers that can aid in diagnosis of these conditions.
文摘BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)is said to be associated with numerous conditions both within and outside the gastrointestinal(GI)system.The majority of research has been concerned with conditions that reduce the volume of functioning pancreatic tissue or prevent adequate drainage to the small bowel,such as chronic pancreatitis,cystic fibrosis,pancreatic cancer and pancreatic resection.However,the evidence base supporting an association with extrapancreatic conditions,such as coeliac disease,diabetes mellitus and congestive cardiac failure,is heterogeneous.AIM To strengthen the evidence base by studying all previously reported associations with PEI in a large cohort of outpatients.METHODS A single-centre retrospective study was performed.General gastroenterology outpatients tested for PEI with faecal elastase-1(FE1)were identified and information retrieved from the electronic patient record.PEI was defined as FE1<200μg/g.Patients already taking pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy were excluded.Multiple imputation was used to handle missing data.Univariable logistic regression was used to study which presenting symptoms predicted PEI.Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between all previously reported associations and PEI.RESULTS Of 1027 patients were included.182 patients(17.7%)were diagnosed with PEI.Steatorrhoea[odds ratios(OR):2.51,95%confidence intervals(CI):1.58-3.98]and weight loss(OR:1.49,95%CI:1.08-2.06)were the only presenting symptoms that predicted PEI.Chronic pancreatitis(OR:7.98,95%CI:3.95-16.15),pancreatic cancer(OR:6.58,95%CI:1.67-25.98),upper GI surgery(OR:2.62,95%CI:1.32-5.19),type 2 diabetes(OR:1.84,95%CI:1.18-2.87),proton pump inhibitor therapy(OR:1.87,95%CI:1.25-2.80)and Asian ethnicity(OR:2.11,95%CI:1.30-3.42)were significantly associated with PEI in the multivariable analysis.None of the other historically reported associations with PEI were significant after adjustment for the other variables included in our multivariable analysis.CONCLUSION PEI is common in patients with chronic pancreatitis,pancreatic cancer,upper GI surgery and type 2 diabetes.Proton pump inhibitor therapy may also be associated with PEI or a false positive FE1.
基金Funding for this study was received from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care Grant#06658.
文摘Objective:Interprofessional care,an aim of institutional healthcare settings globally,promotes safe,cost-effective,quality care.How professionals act to enable interprofessional care has not been described.The nurse practitioner role,with its expertise in both medicine and nursing,is known to enhance collaboration and promote interprofessional care delivery.The objective of this study was to identify,from the healthcare professionals'perspective,nurse practitioner strategies used to enhance interprofessional care.Method:A hermeneutic phenomenology design was employed.Healthcare professionals from acute care hospitals and associated long-term care residences(n=6)in one Canadian province were invited to participate.Individual interviews were held with healthcare professionals(n=52)who regularly work with a nurse practitioner.The participants were asked to share experiences that held significance or value in promoting interprofessional care.Results:Four valued role attributes were identified;consistent role presence,time to focus on the patient,effective communication,and respectful centrality.Identified strategies extending from the attributes included knowledge sharing,respectful negotiation,identifying patient issues,being open and transparent,listening to opinions,bridging professions,and working as the hub of the group.Multiple types of interprofessional relationships were perceived,with the hierarchical type as the most common.Conclusions:Nurse practitioners in acute care hospital and long-term care settings have valued attributes that can promote interprofessional care.Effective strategies to promote interprofessional care emerge from these role attributes.However,the interprofessional relationship type perceived could enhance or impede the contribution of the strategies to interprofessional care promotion.
基金Supported by A PhD studentship from Merck Research Laboratories (to Percie du Sert N)
文摘AIM:To characterize the gastric myoelectric activity(GMA) and intra-abdominal pressure changes induced by emetic stimuli(apomorphine and cisplatin) in the ferret.METHODS:GMA and intra-abdominal pressure were recorded in conscious,unrestrained ferrets surgically implanted with radiotelemetry transmitters.Animals were challenged with apomorphine(0.25 mg/kg sc) and cisplatin(10 mg/kg ip),and the emetic response was quantif ied via direct observation and intra-abdominal pressure recording for 1 and 4 h,respectively.The GMA was analyzed by spectral analysis;the parameters used to characterize the GMA were the dominant frequency(DF) and the repartition of spectral power in the bradygastric,normogastric and tachygastric frequency ranges.RESULTS:Retches were identified on the intraabdominal pressure trace as peaks 0.30±1.01 s in duration and 59.57±2.74 mmHg in amplitude,vomit peaks were longer(0.82±0.06 s,P<0.01) and reached a higher pressure(87.73±8.12 mmHg,P<0.001).The number of retches and vomits quantified via direct observation [apomorphine:65.5 ± 11.8 retches + vomits(R+V),cisplatin:202.6±64.1 R+V] and intra-abdominal pressure(apomorphine:68.3±13.7 R+V,n=8;cisplatin:219.0±69.2 R+V,n=8) were correlated(r=0.97,P<0.0001) and the timing of emesis was consistent between the 2 methods.Apomorphine induced a decrease in normogastria from 45.48%±4.35% to 36.70±4.34%(n=8,P<0.05) but the DF of the slow waves was not changed [8.95±0.25 counts/min(cpm) vs 8.68±0.35 cpm,n=8,P> 0.05].Cisplatin induced a decrease in normogastria from 55.83%±4.30% to 29.22%±5.16% and an increase in bradygastria from 14.28%±2.32% to 31.19%±8.33%(n=8,P<0.001) but the DF(9.14±0.13 cpm) remained unchanged(P>0.05).The GMA changes induced by cisplatin preceded the emetic response as normogastria was reduced for 1 h before the onset of emesis(57.61%±5.66% to 39.91%±5.74%,n=6,P<0.05).Peri-emesis analysis revealed that the GMA was signif icantly disturbed during and immediately after,but not immediately before,the emetic episodes.CONCLUSION:The induction of emesis is reliably associated with a disrupted GMA,but changes may also occur prior to and following the emetic response.
文摘BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)has left a significant impact on the world's health,economic and political systems;as of November 20,2020,more than 57 million people have been infected worldwide,with over 1.3 million deaths.While the global spotlight is currently focused on combating this pandemic through means ranging from finding a treatment among existing therapeutic agents to inventing a vaccine that can aid in halting the further loss of life.AIM To collect all systematic reviews and meta-analyses published related to COVID-19 to better identify available evidence,highlight gaps in knowledge,and elucidate further meta-analyses and umbrella reviews that are yet to be performed.METHODS We explored studies based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses with the keyterms,including severe acute respiratory syndrome(SARS),SARS virus,coronavirus disease,COVID-19,and SARS coronavirus-2.The included studies were extracted from Embase,Medline,and Cochrane databases.The publication timeframe of included studies ranged between January 01,2020,to October 30,2020.Studies that were published in languages other than English were not considered for this systematic review.The finalized full-text articles are freely accessible in the public domain.RESULTS Searching Embase,Medline,and Cochrane databases resulted in 1906,669,and 19 results,respectively,that comprised 2594 studies.515 duplicates were subsequently removed,leaving 2079 studies.The inclusion criteria were systematic reviews or meta-analyses.860 results were excluded for being a review article,scope review,rapid review,panel review,or guideline that produced a total of 1219 studies.After screening articles were categorized,the included articles were put into main groups of clinical presentation,epi-demiology,screening and diagnosis,severity assessment,special populations,and treatment.Subsequently,there was a second subclassification into the following groups:gastrointestinal,cardiovascular,neurological,stroke,thrombosis,anosmia and dysgeusia,ocular manifestations,nephrology,cutaneous manifestations,D-dimer,lymphocyte,anticoagulation,antivirals,convalescent plasma,immunosuppressants,corticosteroids,hydroxychloroquine,renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system,technology,diabetes mellitus,obesity,pregnancy,children,mental health,smoking,cancer,and transplant.CONCLUSION Among the included articles,it is clear that further research is needed regarding treatment options and vaccines.With more studies,data will be less heterogeneous,and statistical analysis can be better applied to provide more robust clinical evidence.This study was not designed to give recommendations regarding the management of COVID-19.
文摘Colonoscopy screening for the detection and removal of colonic adenomas is central to efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality of colorectal cancer.However,up to a third of adenomas may be missed at colonoscopy,and the majority of post-colonoscopy colorectal cancers are thought to arise from these.Adenomas have three-dimensional surface topographic features that differentiate them from adjacent normal mucosa.However,these topographic features are not enhanced by white light colonoscopy,and the endoscopist must infer these from two-dimensional cues.This may contribute to the number of missed lesions.A variety of optical imaging technologies have been developed commercially to enhance surface topography.However,existing techniques enhance surface topography indirectly,and in two dimensions,and the evidence does not wholly support their use in routine clinical practice.In this narrative review,co-authored by gastroenterologists and engineers,we summarise the evidence for the impact of established optical imaging technologies on adenoma detection rate,and review the development of photometric stereo(PS)for colonoscopy.PS is a machine vision technique able to capture a dense array of surface normals to render three-dimensional reconstructions of surface topography.This imaging technique has several potential clinical applications in colonoscopy,including adenoma detection,polyp classification,and facilitating polypectomy,an inherently three-dimensional task.However,the development of PS for colonoscopy is at an early stage.We consider the progress that has been made with PS to date and identify the obstacles that need to be overcome prior to clinical application.
文摘BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can present as a diagnostic and treatment challenge.AHUO in the adult population is unusual and poorly documented.It has an incidence between 11%and 75%.Currently,no treatment guidelines exist.With no identified cause,treatment is often blind,and the wrong treatment plan may have unintended consequences.CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 58-year-old woman who presented to the emergency room for elevated liver function tests(LFTs).Her symptoms started 10 d prior to admission and included nausea,vomiting,jaundice,decreased appetite,weight loss of 10 lbs,and dark urine.She denied drinking alcohol or taking any hepatotoxic agents,including acetaminophen,statins,vitamins,or supplements.She was admitted to the hospital,and an etiologic work-up was carried out.Her initial bloodwork revealed elevated liver enzymes(alanine aminotransferase 2500 U/L,aspartate aminotransferase 3159 U/L,and alkaline phosphatase 714 U/L)and elevated total bilirubin of 6.4 mg/dL.She tested negative for common infectious etiologies such as hepatotropic viruses A,B,C,and E.Further infective work-up revealed negative serology for cytomegalovirus,Epstein-Barr virus,herpes simplex virus 1&2,and human immunodeficiency virus.Her autoanti-body test results were negative,including anti-smooth muscle antibody,anti-mitochondrial antibody,and anti-liver kidney microsome 1 antibody.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography ruled out biliary causes of elevated LFTs,and her core liver biopsy proved inconclusive.Over the course of her hospital stay,the patient's LFTs improved with supportive care and without steroids.CONCLUSION Idiopathic hepatitis makes treatment challenging.It can leave patients feeling confused and unfulfilled.Thus,educating the patient thoroughly for shared decision-making and management becomes essential.
文摘Background Hypospadias is one of the most common genital birth defects.There are around 300 various techniques available for the repair of hypospadias.This study aims to compare the reported outcomes of Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty(TIP)and Grafted TIP(GTIP)repair in children undergoing primary hypospadiasrepair.Methods This meta-analysisadhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,and we framed our research question using the population,intervention,control and outcomes format.We conducted comprehensive electronic searches across various databases,employing a Boolean search strategy with predefined search terms.Only randomized controlled trials(RCTs)were included for quantitative analysis.Results Totally,10 RCTs met our inclusion criteria for quantitative analysis.The results indicated that urethrocutaneous fistula,glans dehiscence,and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups.The incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the GTIP group with a relative risk(RR)of 0.32(95%confidence interval(Cl)0.15 to 0.67).Conclusion The coucomes UCF,glans dehiscence,and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups.Notably,the incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the grafted TIP group.In terms of operative time,our quantitative synthesis demonstrated that the TIP group had a shorter operative time than the GTIP group with significant heterogeneity.
文摘Many studies have looked at connections between diet,etiology,signs and symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Although these connections are apparent to clinicians,they are difficult to prove qualitatively or quantitatively.Enteral feeding and polymeric diets are equally effective at bringing about remission in Crohn's disease(CD).Parenteral feeding is also effective,although none of these methods is as effective as corticosteroid therapy.However,enteral feeding is preferred in the pediatric population because linear growth is more adequately maintained via this route.Exclusion diets in patients brought into remission using an elemental diet have been shown to maintain remission for longer periods.Studies that aim to isolate culpable food groups have shown that individuals react differently on exposure to or exclusion of various foods.The commonly identifi ed food sensitivities are cereals,milk,eggs,vegetables and citrus fruits.Studies that have looked at gut mucosal antigen behavior have shown higher rectal blood flow,in response to specifi c food antigens,in those with CD over healthy subjects.Exclusion of sugar shows little evidence of amelioration in CD.Omega 3 fatty acids show promise in the treatment of IBD but await larger randomized controlled trials.Patients frequently notice that specifi c foods cause aggravation of their symptoms.Whilst it has been diffi cult to pinpoint specifi c foods,with advances in the laboratory tests and food supplements available,the aim is to prolong remission in these patients using dietary measures,and reduce the need for pharmacotherapy and surgical intervention.
文摘Ulcerative colitis(UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the large bowel and is associated with a significant risk of both requirement for surgeryand the need for hospitalisation. Thiopurines, and more recently, anti-tumour necrosis factor(a TNF) therapy have been used successfully to induce clinical remission. However, there is less data available on whether these agents prevent long-term colectomy rates or the need for hospitalisation. The focus of this article is to review the recent and pertinent literature on the long-term impact of thiopurines and a TNF on long-term surgical and hospitalisation rates in UC. Data from population based longitudinal research indicates that thiopurine therapy probably has a protective role against colectomy, if used in appropriate patients for a sufficient duration. a TNF agents appear to have a short term protective effect against colectomy, but data is limited for longer periods. Whereas there is insufficient evidence that thiopurines affect hospitalisation, evidence favours that a TNF therapy probably reduces the risk of hospitalisation within the first year of use, but it is less clear on whether this effect continues beyond this period. More structured research needs to be conducted to answer these clinically important questions.