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Frontiers in Endocrinology 2024Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a complex disorder caused by genetic and environmental factors that frequently results from loss-of-function variants in the gene encoding...
INTRODUCTION
Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a complex disorder caused by genetic and environmental factors that frequently results from loss-of-function variants in the gene encoding lipoprotein lipase (LPL). Heterozygous patients have a range of symptoms, while homozygous LPL deficiency presents with severe symptoms including acute pancreatitis, xanthomas, and lipemia retinalis.
METHODS
We described the clinical characteristics of three Slovenian patients (an 8-year-old female, an 18-year-old man, and a 57-year-old female) and one Pakistani patient (a 59-year-old male) with LPL deficiency. We performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) targeting all coding exons and intron-exon boundaries of the gene, and Sanger sequencing for variant confirmation. In addition, we performed a systematic literature review of all cases with three identified variants and described their clinical characteristics.
RESULTS
Two Slovenian patients with a heterozygous pathogenic variant NM_000237.3:c.984G>T (p.Met328Ile) were diagnosed within the first three years of life and had triglyceride (TG) values of 16 and 20 mmol/L. An asymptomatic Pakistani patient with TG values of 36.8 mmol/L until the age of 44 years, was identified as heterozygous for a pathogenic variant NM_000237.3:c.724G>A (p.Asp242Asn). His TG levels dropped to 12.7 mmol/L on dietary modifications and by using fibrates. A Slovenian patient who first suffered from pancreatitis at the age of 18 years with a TG value of 34 mmol/L was found to be homozygous for NM_000237.3:c.337T>C (p.Trp113Arg).
CONCLUSIONS
Patients with LPL deficiency had high TG levels at diagnosis. Homozygous patients had worse outcomes. Good diet and medication compliance can reduce severity.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Slovenia; Adolescent; Middle Aged; Lipoprotein Lipase; Child; Pakistan; Hyperlipoproteinemia Type I; Mutation
PubMed: 38911039
DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1387419 -
BMC Gastroenterology Jun 2024The primary objective of this study is to comparatively assess the safety of nasogastric (NG) feeding versus nasojejunal (NJ) feeding in patients with acute pancreatitis... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Comparative Study
Comparative safety assessment of nasogastric versus nasojejunal feeding initiated within 48 hours post-admission versus unrestricted timing in moderate or severe acute pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
The primary objective of this study is to comparatively assess the safety of nasogastric (NG) feeding versus nasojejunal (NJ) feeding in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP), with a special focus on the initiation of these feeding methods within the first 48 h of hospital admission.
METHODS
Studies were identified through a systematic search in PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. Four studies involving 217 patients were included. This systematic review assesses the safety and efficacy of nasogastric versus nasojejunal feeding initiated within 48 h post-admission in moderate/severe acute pancreatitis, with a specific focus on the timing of initiation and patient age as influential factors.
RESULTS
The results showed that the mortality rates were similar between NG and NJ feeding groups (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.77, P = 0.68). Significant differences were observed in the incidence of diarrhea (RR 2.75, 95% CI 1.21 to 6.25, P = 0.02) and pain (RR 2.91, 95% CI 1.50 to 5.64, P = 0.002) in the NG group. The NG group also showed a higher probability of infection (6.67% vs. 3.33%, P = 0.027) and a higher frequency of multiple organ failures. Subgroup analysis for early intervention (within 48 h) showed a higher risk of diarrhea in the NG group (RR 2.80, P = 0.02). No significant differences were found in the need for surgical intervention, parenteral nutrition, or success rates of feeding procedures.
CONCLUSION
This meta-analysis highlights the importance of considering the method and timing of nutritional support in acute pancreatitis. While NG feeding within 48 h of admission increases the risk of certain complications such as diarrhea and infection, it does not significantly impact mortality or the need for surgical intervention.
Topics: Humans; Intubation, Gastrointestinal; Enteral Nutrition; Pancreatitis; Time Factors; Acute Disease; Diarrhea; Hospitalization; Jejunum
PubMed: 38902639
DOI: 10.1186/s12876-024-03290-z -
Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology 2024Acute pancreatitis (AP) has a high incidence, and patients can develop recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) after AP.
BACKGROUND
Acute pancreatitis (AP) has a high incidence, and patients can develop recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) after AP.
OBJECTIVES
We aimed to estimate the pooled incidence rates (IRs), cumulative incidences, and proportions of RAP and CP after AP.
DESIGN
A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting the proportion of RAP and CP after AP.
DATA SOURCES AND METHODS
The systematic search was conducted in three (PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL) databases on 19 December 2023. Articles reporting the proportion of RAP or CP in patients after the first and multiple episodes of AP were eligible. The random effects model was used to calculate the pooled IR with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The value assessed heterogeneity. The risk of bias assessment was conducted with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool.
RESULTS
We included 119 articles in the quantitative synthesis and 29 in the IRs calculations. Our results showed that the IR of RAP in adult patients after AP was 5.26 per 100 person-years (CI: 3.99-6.94; = 93%), while in children, it was 4.64 per 100 person-years (CI: 2.73-7.87; = 88%). We also found that the IR of CP after AP was 1.4 per 100 person-years (CI: 0.9-2; = 75%), while after RAP, it increased to 4.3 per 100 person-years (CI: 3.1-6.0; = 76%). The risk of bias was moderate in the majority of the included studies.
CONCLUSION
Our results showed that RAP affects many patients with AP. Compared to patients with the first AP episode, RAP leads to a threefold higher IR for developing CP.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
Our protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021283252).
PubMed: 38883160
DOI: 10.1177/17562848241255303 -
Current Health Sciences Journal 2024Acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) poses significant challenges in determining the optimal timing and approach for cholecystectomy, particularly in mild, moderately...
Acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) poses significant challenges in determining the optimal timing and approach for cholecystectomy, particularly in mild, moderately severe, and severe forms. This article reviews the existing literature on cholecystectomy timing and its impact on outcomes in ABP. A systematic literature search yielded 41 relevant articles from PubMed and Scopus databases. In mild ABP, early cholecystectomy within 72 hours of onset is increasingly favoured due to reduced technical difficulty and lower risk of recurrent pancreatitis. Conversely, delayed cholecystectomy, although traditionally practiced, may lead to higher recurrence rates and prolonged hospital stays. For moderate severe ABP, evidence remains limited, but early cholecystectomy appears to decrease hospital stay without increasing perioperative complications. In severe ABP, consensus suggests delaying cholecystectomy until peripancreatic collections resolve, typically 6 to 10 weeks post-onset, to minimize surgical morbidity. The role of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) alongside cholecystectomy remains contentious, with guidelines recommending its use in specific scenarios such as cholangitis or biliary obstruction. However, routine ERCP in mild ABP lacks robust evidence and may increase complications. Challenges persist regarding the management of residual choledocholithiasis post-ABP, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic criteria and management protocols. Overall, this review underscores the evolving landscape of cholecystectomy timing in ABP and provides insights into current best practices and areas for future research.
PubMed: 38846481
DOI: 10.12865/CHSJ.50.01.16 -
Clinical Hematology International 2023Asparaginase-associated pancreatitis complicates 2-10% of patients treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, causing morbidity and discontinuation of asparaginase...
Asparaginase-associated Pancreatitis Complicated by Pancreatic Fluid Collection Treated with Endoscopic Cistogastrostomy in Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature.
Asparaginase-associated pancreatitis complicates 2-10% of patients treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, causing morbidity and discontinuation of asparaginase administration. Among acute complications, pancreatic fluid collections can be managed conservatively, but intervention is indicated when associated with persistent insulin therapy need and recurrent abdominal pain. Endoscopic treatment has become the standard approach in adult patients, with increasing favorable evidence in children. This work compares the characteristics of a pediatric oncology patient treated at our institution with reported literature experiences, showing feasibility, safety and effectiveness of endoscopic approach.
PubMed: 38817959
DOI: 10.46989/001c.90958 -
Cureus Apr 2024Choledocholithiasis presents variably, with some patients remaining asymptomatic, complicating decisions regarding the timing and necessity of endoscopic retrograde... (Review)
Review
The Influence of Symptomatic Status on Post-endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Complications in Choledocholithiasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Choledocholithiasis presents variably, with some patients remaining asymptomatic, complicating decisions regarding the timing and necessity of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This study represents the first meta-analysis assessing the impact of symptomatic status on post-ERCP complications and provides critical data to optimize treatment strategies. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar through February 2024, focusing on comparing ERCP outcomes between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with choledocholithiasis. Seven studies were included from an initial pool of 1,200 articles screened. The analysis revealed that asymptomatic patients exhibited a significantly higher overall complication rate (17.4% vs. 6.6%), including a threefold increase in the risk of developing complications overall (OR: 3.02; 95% CI: 2.26-4.03) and specifically post-ERCP pancreatitis (OR: 3.62; 95% CI: 2.63-4.99). Perforation and procedural durations were also notably higher among asymptomatic individuals. Subgroup analyses highlighted prolonged cannulation times and the use of precut sphincterotomy as potential influential factors. These findings challenge the current practice that does not differentiate based on symptomatic status and suggest a need for more tailored approaches in managing asymptomatic individuals to minimize risks associated with ERCP.
PubMed: 38817520
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59322 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Apr 2024: The pancreas, ensconced within the abdominal cavity, requires a plethora of sophisticated imaging modalities for its comprehensive evaluation, with ultrasonography... (Review)
Review
: The pancreas, ensconced within the abdominal cavity, requires a plethora of sophisticated imaging modalities for its comprehensive evaluation, with ultrasonography serving as a primary investigative technique. A myriad of pancreatic pathologies, encompassing pancreatic neoplasia and a spectrum of inflammatory diseases, are detectable through these imaging strategies. Nevertheless, the intricate anatomical confluence and the pancreas's deep-seated topography render the visualization and accurate diagnosis of its pathologies a formidable endeavor. The objective of our paper is to review the best diagnostic imagistic tools for the pancreas. : we have gathered several articles using Prisma guidelines to determine the best imagistic methods. The imperative of pancreatic scanning transcends its diagnostic utility, proving to be a pivotal element in a multitude of clinical specialties, notably surgical oncology. Within this domain, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) of the pancreas holds the distinction of being the paramount imaging modality, endorsed for its unrivaled capacity to delineate the staging and progression of pancreatic carcinoma. In synergy with MDCT, there has been a notable advent of avant-garde imaging techniques in recent years. These advanced methodologies, including ultrasonography, endoscopic ultrasonography, contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conjoined with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), have broadened the horizon of tumor characterization, offering unparalleled depth and precision in oncological assessment. Other emerging diagnostic techniques, such as elastography, also hold a lot of potential and promise for the future of pancreatic imaging. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a quick, minimally invasive procedure to evaluate lumps using a thin needle to extract tissue for analysis. It is less invasive than surgical biopsies and usually performed as an outpatient with quick recovery. Its accuracy depends on sample quality, and the risks include minimal bleeding or discomfort. Results, guiding further treatment, are typically available within a week. Elastography is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that maps the elastic properties and stiffness of soft tissue. This method, often used in conjunction with ultrasound or MRI, helps differentiate between hard and soft areas in tissue, providing valuable diagnostic information. It is particularly useful for assessing liver fibrosis, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, and musculoskeletal conditions. The technique is painless and involves applying gentle pressure to the area being examined. The resulting images show tissue stiffness, indicating potential abnormalities. Elastography is advantageous for its ability to detect diseases in early stages and monitor treatment effectiveness. The procedure is quick, safe, and requires no special preparation, with results typically available immediately. : The assembled and gathered data shows the efficacy of various techniques in discerning the nature and extent of neoplastic lesions within the pancreas. : The most common imaging modalities currently used in diagnosing pancreatic neoplasms are multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), alongside new technologies, such as elastography.
Topics: Humans; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Ultrasonography; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Multidetector Computed Tomography; Pancreas
PubMed: 38792878
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050695 -
Frontline Gastroenterology Mar 2024Most studies have assessed the impact of elevated serum amylase levels in clinical practice, but only a few have investigated the significance of low serum amylase. We...
OBJECTIVE
Most studies have assessed the impact of elevated serum amylase levels in clinical practice, but only a few have investigated the significance of low serum amylase. We therefore, aimed to review the literature to understand the conditions associated with low serum amylase and its clinical relevance.
METHOD
This systematic review was performed in accordance with the criteria established in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search was conducted on Medline and Embase databases until November 2022. After identifying relevant titles, abstracts were read and data of eligible articles retrieved. The conditions associated with low serum amylase were evaluated. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Score.
RESULTS
Our search strategy identified 19 studies including a total of 15 097 patients for systematic review. All the studies were observational including two studies which used secretin-induced test. The main conditions associated with low serum amylase were diabetes mellitus (n=9), metabolic syndrome (n=3), chronic pancreatitis (CP) (n=3), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (n=2) and obesity (n=1). Low serum amylase showed a high specificity (94%) with low sensitivity (38.7%-59%) in diagnosing chronic pancreatitis.
CONCLUSION
This systematic review revealed a unique insight into the relevance of low serum amylase in clinical practice. Low serum amylase can be a useful adjunct test in the assessment of patients with CP, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome.
PubMed: 38779473
DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2023-102405 -
Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira... 2024The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 and the severity of acute pancreatitis and its diagnostic... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 and the severity of acute pancreatitis and its diagnostic utility.
METHODS
This study was carried out by searching Chinese and English literature from the establishment of the database to July 9, 2023, systematically, and assessing the quality and heterogeneity of the articles included.
RESULTS
Thirteen studies with a total of 986 patients were included. Patients with severe acute pancreatitis showed higher levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 compared with mild acute pancreatitis [weighted mean difference=76.64 pg/mL, 95% confidence interval (95%CI 50.39-102.89, p<0.001)]. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 predicted pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve were 79%, 74%, and 0.85 for severe acute pancreatitis, with some heterogeneity (I2>50% or p<0.05). In the subgroup analysis, cutoff >150 pg/mL was found to be a heterogeneous factor.
CONCLUSION
Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 is a reliable tool for identifying acute pancreatitis severity, but only as a screening tool.
Topics: Humans; Pancreatitis; Severity of Illness Index; Acute Disease; Biomarkers; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1; Sensitivity and Specificity; Predictive Value of Tests
PubMed: 38775515
DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20231694 -
Frontiers in Medicine 2024This study aimed to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of the double-guidewire technique along with other methods (persistent standard cannulation...
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of the double-guidewire technique along with other methods (persistent standard cannulation techniques, transpancreatic sphincterotomy, and pancreatic stent-assisted technique) for difficult biliary cannulation.
METHODS
Two researchers searched for literature on the efficacy and safety of the double-guidewire technique and other techniques in difficult biliary cannulation in databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The success rate of cannulation, duration of cannulation, post-ERCP pancreatitis, and overall postoperative complications were also analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software.
RESULTS
In total, 20 randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies involving 2008 participants were identified. The success rate of cannulation in the double-guidewire technique was much higher than that in persistent standard cannulation techniques [RR = 1.37, 95%CI (1.05, 1.79), = 0.02]. However, it was lower than the success rate observed with transpancreatic sphincterotomy [RR = 0.89, 95%CI (0.81, 0.97), = 0.01]. There was no significance in post-ERCP pancreatitis [RR = 1.09, 95% CI (0.85, 1.40), = 0.49], overall postoperative complications [RR = 0.90, 95% CI (0.56, 1.45), = 0.66], and duration of cannulation [SMD = -0.14, 95%C I (-1.43, 1.15), = 0.83] between the double-guidewire technique and other techniques.
CONCLUSION
This study demonstrated that the success rate of cannulation ranged from transpancreatic sphincterotomy to the double-guidewire technique and then to persistent standard cannulation techniques.
PubMed: 38716417
DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1344644