Knowledge of the etiological and pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of any disease is essential for its treatment.Because the cause of primary biliary cholangitis(PBC),a chronic,slowly progressive cholestatic ...Knowledge of the etiological and pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of any disease is essential for its treatment.Because the cause of primary biliary cholangitis(PBC),a chronic,slowly progressive cholestatic liver disease,is still unknown,treatment remains symptomatic.Knowledge of the physicochemical properties of various bile acids and the adaptive responses of cholangiocytes and hepatocytes to them has provided an important basis for the development of relatively effective drugs based on hydrophilic bile acids that can potentially slow the progression of the disease.Advances in the use of hydrophilic bile acids for the treatment of PBC are also associated with the discovery of pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of cholangiocyte damage and the appearance of the first signs of this disease.For 35 years,ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)has been the unique drug of choice for the treatment of patients with PBC.In recent years,the list of hydrophilic bile acids used to treat cholestatic liver diseases,including PBC,has expanded.In addition to UDCA,the use of obeticholic acid,tauroursodeoxycholic acid and norursodeoxycholic acid as drugs is discussed.The pathogenetic rationale for treatment of PBC with various bile acid drugs is discussed in this review.Emphasis is made on the mechanisms explaining the beneficial therapeutic effects and potential of each of the bile acid as a drug,based on the understanding of the pathogenesis of the initial stages of PBC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)is the first-line therapeutic agent for primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).However,a subset of patients exhibit a suboptimal response to UDCA,and reliable predictive biomarkers remai...BACKGROUND Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)is the first-line therapeutic agent for primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).However,a subset of patients exhibit a suboptimal response to UDCA,and reliable predictive biomarkers remain elusive.Studies have implicated plasma microRNAs(miRNAs)in the pathophysiological pro-gression of PBC,with certain miRNAs demonstrating potential as diagnostic and disease progression biomarkers.However,biomarkers capable of predicting the therapeutic efficacy of UDCA have not yet been identified.AIM To investigate differentially expressed miRNAs in PBC patients with divergent UDCA treatment responses and to explore potential biomarkers that predict treatment response in PBC.METHODS Plasma samples from treatment-naive PBC patients receiving≥1 year of standard UDCA treatment were collected.Efficacy was evaluated using the Paris I criteria.Patient samples were divided into discovery group(n=10)and validation group(n=30),with further stratification of patients into drug-resistant and drug-sensitive(DS)cohorts.Next-generation sequencing and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to screen,functionally analyze,and validate the pre-treatment miRNA profiles of the treatment groups.RESULTS Forty-nine miRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups before UDCA treatment(N=40).MiR-22-5p and miR-126-3p were highly expressed in the DS group before treatment(P<0.001),whereas miR-7706 exhibited a low expression(P=0.017).Post-treatment,miR-126-3p maintained low expression in the drug-resistant group(P=0.003),but showed elevated levels in the DS group(P<0.001).Logistic regression analysis identified miR-126-3p expression(odds ratio=34.32,95%confidence interval:1.95-605.40,P=0.016)as a significant factor influencing UDCA treatment response,while miR-22-5p(P=0.990)and miR-7706(P=0.157)showed no significant association.MiR-126-3p levels were negatively correlated with total bilirubin(r=-0.356,P=0.005)and immuno-globulin G levels(r=-0.311,P=0.015).The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.891(P=0.0003,95%confidence interval:0.772-1.000)with a sensitivity of 82.4%and a specificity of 84.6%.CONCLUSION Plasma miRNA expression profiles are heterogenous in patients with PBC with differential responses to UDCA therapy.MiR-126-3p demonstrates predictive potential for a suboptimal response to UDCA in patients with PBC.展开更多
BACKGROUND The optimal duration of antimicrobial treatment for acute cholangitis complicated by gram-positive coccus(GPC)bacteremia remains unclear.The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 recommended 14 days of antimicrobial treatm...BACKGROUND The optimal duration of antimicrobial treatment for acute cholangitis complicated by gram-positive coccus(GPC)bacteremia remains unclear.The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 recommended 14 days of antimicrobial treatment following adequate source control measures;however,evidence supporting this recommendation is limited,and deviations from real-world practice are often observed.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of shorter antimicrobial treatments for acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia.METHODS Adult patients with acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography between July 2003 and December 2023 were included.Patients were categorized into two groups based on the duration of effective antimicrobial treatment:(1)Short-course treatment(SCT)(<14 days);and(2)Long-course treatment(LCT)(≥14 days).The outcomes assessed included mortality,recurrence,reinfection with the same organism related to the cholangitis,and length of hospital stay.RESULTS A total of 44 patients were included in the study:(1)19 patients in the SCT group;and(2)25 patients in the LCT group.The median duration of antimicrobial treatment was 9 days[interquartile range(IQR):2.5-11.0 days]and 16 days(IQR:15.0-19.0 days)in the SCT and LCT groups,respectively,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).No significant differences were observed in 30-day mortality,cholangitis recurrence,or reinfection with the same organisms within 3 months.However,the length of hospital stay was shorter in the SCT group(median:12.0 days vs 14.0 days,P=0.092).CONCLUSION For acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia,shorter antimicrobial treatment may be a viable option following appropriate biliary drainage.Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.展开更多
This article relates to the discussion of a recent study published by Wohl et al.Primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC)is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that affects the intra-and extrahepatic bile ducts and is str...This article relates to the discussion of a recent study published by Wohl et al.Primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC)is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that affects the intra-and extrahepatic bile ducts and is strongly associated with ulcerative colitis(UC).Endoscopic evaluation of UC is feasible and reliable in routine clinical practice,and the Mayo endoscopic subscore(MES)is one of the most commonly used endoscopic evaluation measures for UC.Patients with PSCUC are at higher risk of developing cancer and biliary tract cancer.Endoscopic scoring alone appears unreliable,and histopathological evaluation is essential to accurately assess and make effective therapeutic decisions for PSC-UC.Therefore,we aimed to discuss the accuracy of MES in patients with UC and PSC-UC and to explore the consistency between MES and the Nancy histological index.展开更多
BACKGROUND Situs inversus viscerum(SIV)is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized a complete mirror-image organ reversal in the thoracic and abdo-minal cavities.Its low incidence presents considerabl...BACKGROUND Situs inversus viscerum(SIV)is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized a complete mirror-image organ reversal in the thoracic and abdo-minal cavities.Its low incidence presents considerable challenges in clinical dia-gnosis and treatment,especially concerning gastrointestinal endoscopic proce-dures.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we report a case of an 80-year-old male with choledocholithiasis and acute obstructive empyematous cholangitis.Imaging revealed total visceral inversion in the patient.Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)was successfully performed to remove the stones,resulting to substantial relief of clinical symptoms and gradual improvement of the patient’s condition,leading to successful recovery and discharge.CONCLUSION Therapeutic ERCP is a safe and effective surgical option for patients with SIV.The main focus for successful ERCP in patients with SIV includes positioning adju-stments during the surgical process and using the dual-guidewire technique for biliary cannulation.展开更多
Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic autoimmune liver disease that progressively damages the bile ducts,leading to cholestasis and,in advanced stages,cirrhosis.While it primarily affects middle-aged wo...Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic autoimmune liver disease that progressively damages the bile ducts,leading to cholestasis and,in advanced stages,cirrhosis.While it primarily affects middle-aged women,recent data indicate a rising incidence in men.The interplay between genetic susceptibility,environmental exposures,and gut microbiome alterations is thought to drive disease onset.Diagnosis relies on persistent cholestatic enzyme elevation,diseasespecific autoantibodies,and,in select cases,liver biopsy.Ursodeoxycholic acid remains the cornerstone of treatment,but many patients show an incomplete response.The recent withdrawal of obeticholic acid from the market,due to insufficient evidence of long-term benefit,has highlighted the urgent need for effective second-line therapies.Agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors,such as elafibranor and seladelpar,have demonstrated promising biochemical improvements and may reshape the therapeutic landscape.Future research is focused on refining risk assessment,optimizing treatment combinations,and addressing symptoms such as fatigue and pruritus to enhance patient well-being.A shift toward early intervention and personalized treatment strategies may further improve long-term outcomes in primary biliary cholangitis.展开更多
Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic autoimmune cholestatic liver disease characterized by progressive bile duct destruction,leading to fibrosis,cirrhosis,and eventual liver failure.Over the past two decades,s...Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic autoimmune cholestatic liver disease characterized by progressive bile duct destruction,leading to fibrosis,cirrhosis,and eventual liver failure.Over the past two decades,significant advancements have paved the way for novel therapeutic strategies.Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)has been the cornerstone of PBC management,improving survival and delaying disease progression in most patients.However,up to 40%of patients demonstrate an inadequate response to UDCA,necessitating additional treatment options.Obeticholic acid(OCA),a farnesoid X receptor agonist,has emerged as a second-line therapy,showing efficacy in reducing alkaline phosphatase levels and improving liver biochemistry.Beyond UDCA and OCA,a new wave of therapeutic agents are reshaping the PBC landscape.These include fibrates,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists and novel immunomodulatory drugs aimed at reducing autoimmune-mediated liver injury.Bile acid transport inhibitors,anti-fibrotic agents,and gut microbiome-targeted therapies are also under investigation,offering hope for personalized treatment approaches.This review highlights the evolution of PBC therapy,emphasizing the unmet needs of patients with refractory disease and the potential of emerging therapies to improve outcomes.As the therapeutic landscape continues to expand,optimizing treatment strategies through precision medicine holds the promise of transforming the management of PBC.展开更多
BACKGROUND T helper 17(Th17)cell infiltration and interleukin(IL)-17 secretion in intrahepatic small bile ducts is a critical driver of immune-mediated injury in primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).IL-6 is an essential u...BACKGROUND T helper 17(Th17)cell infiltration and interleukin(IL)-17 secretion in intrahepatic small bile ducts is a critical driver of immune-mediated injury in primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).IL-6 is an essential upstream activator of Th17 cells.Basophilderived IL-6 promotes the differentiation of CD4+T cells and Th1 cells into Th17 cells,thereby regulating their immunological functions.AIM To investigate the activation status and cytokine expression of basophils in PBC,elucidating potential mechanisms through which basophils contribute to its pathogenesis.METHODS This single-center retrospective case-control study conducted at Guangdong Medical University Affiliated Hospital(China)between September 2019 and August 2024 enrolled 65 consecutive treatment-naïve patients with PBC(PBC group),65 age-and sex-matched patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB group),and 65 healthy controls(Normal group).Fourteen participants per group(subgroup)were randomly selected for flow cytometry analysis of basophil proportion,activation markers(CD203c and CD62 L mean fluorescence intensity),IL-6-positive basophils(IL-6+basophils as a percentage of total basophils),and IL-17-positive T lymphocytes(CD3+CD4+IL-17+cells)proportion among T cells.Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and χ^(2) tests as appropriate.RESULTS Routine blood tests revealed significantly higher basophil counts and proportions in the PBC group compared to the CHB and Normal groups(P<0.001 for both comparisons),with no significant differences between the CHB and Normal groups(P=0.201).Flow cytometry revealed a higher basophil proportion in the PBC subgroup compared to the CHB(P=0.011)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).The mean fluorescence intensity of CD203c on basophil surfaces was elevated in the PBC subgroup compared to the CHB(P=0.032)and Normal subgroups(P=0.039).The proportion of IL-6+basophils was significantly higher in the PBC subgroup than in the CHB(P<0.01)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).Similarly,the Th17 cell proportion was markedly elevated in the PBC compared to the CHB(P<0.001)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).CONCLUSION Patients with PBC have increased peripheral basophil counts with enhanced activation.Activated basophils have increased IL-6 expression,which may indirectly induce Th17 cell proliferation and contribute to PBC pathogenesis.展开更多
BACKGROUND There is insufficient evidence on the evaluation of liver fibrosis in Asian indivi-duals with primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)using vibration-controlled transient elastography(VCTE).AIM To assess advanced f...BACKGROUND There is insufficient evidence on the evaluation of liver fibrosis in Asian indivi-duals with primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)using vibration-controlled transient elastography(VCTE).AIM To assess advanced fibrosis(AF)using liver stiffness measurement(LSM)in Chinese patients with PBC.METHODS In total,277 Chinese patients diagnosed with PBC who underwent liver biopsy and VCTE were retrospectively included and categorized into the derivation and validation cohorts.The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves(AUROCs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs)were used to estimate the dia-gnostic accuracy of LSM for AF(Ludwig stage≥III).Multivariable analysis was performed using logistic regression.RESULTS In the derivation cohort,VCTE accurately detected patients with AF,achieving an AUROC of 0.93(95%CI:0.88-0.96).AF was independently predicted by LSM according to multivariable analysis.AF can be excluded and confirmed using LSM cutoffs of≤10.0 and>14.5 kPa,respectively,with a sensitivity of 0.91,negative predictive value of 0.93,specificity of 0.96,positive predictive value of 0.92,and an error rate of 7.5%.The accuracy of these values was validated in an independent cohort,achieving an AUROC of 0.97(95%CI:0.90-0.99)for AF with a sensitivity of 0.89,negative predictive value of 0.88,specificity of 0.95,positive predictive value of 0.94,and error rate of 9.0%.Compared with serum fibrosis markers,the AUROC of LSM was significantly higher in both the derivation and validation cohorts.CONCLUSION VCTE has a high accuracy for assessing AF in Chinese patients with PBC in a real-world setting.展开更多
BACKGROUND Patients with concurrent acute biliary pancreatitis(ABP)and acute cholangitis(AC)may experience exacerbated clinical consequences due to bile duct stones.However,studies exploring this topic remain limited....BACKGROUND Patients with concurrent acute biliary pancreatitis(ABP)and acute cholangitis(AC)may experience exacerbated clinical consequences due to bile duct stones.However,studies exploring this topic remain limited.AIM To compare the clinical presentation and outcomes of patients experiencing AC with and without ABP.METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study included 358 patients with AC who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)between January 2016 and December 2017.Patients were divided into two groups:AC with ABP(n=90)and AC without ABP(n=268).Clinical characteristics,laboratory data,ERCP results,primary study outcome[intensive care unit(ICU)admission],and secondary outcomes including 30-day mortality,length of hospital stay,and 30-day readmission rate were analyzed and compared.RESULTS All patients in the AC with ABP group had interstitial pancreatitis.The AC with ABP group had significantly higher white cell count(WBC)counts(13.1×10^(3)/μL vs 10.4×10^(3)/μL,P=0.007)and more abnormal WBC results(61.1%vs 42.3%,P=0.015).Liver biochemical tests,AC severity,ERCP success,adverse events,ICU admissions,30-day mortality,hospital stay,and readmission rates did not differ significantly between the two groups.Univariate analysis showed no significant link between concurrent ABP and ICU admission,although significance was marginal in moderate/severe ABP cases(P=0.051).In the multivariate analysis,age(P=0.035)and cardiovascular dysfunction(P<0.001)were independently associated with length of ICU stay.CONCLUSION Concurrent interstitial ABP and AC did not significantly affect outcomes.Age and cardiovascular dysfunction were stronger predictors of ICU admission and should guide clinical monitoring and management.展开更多
Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by damage and loss of the epithelial lining of small intrahepatic bile ducts,leading to ductopenia and cholestasis.In advanced stage...Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by damage and loss of the epithelial lining of small intrahepatic bile ducts,leading to ductopenia and cholestasis.In advanced stages,this process results in cirrhosis and liver failure.The disease belongs to cholangiopathies.The review addressed historical questions concerning:The history of the first mention of this disease;how its nomenclature was formed;when specific serological tests were discovered and their importance in the diagnosis of PBC;the history of ursodeoxycholic and other bile acids for the treatment of PBC;and the significance of modern data on impaired bicarbonate production by cholangiocytes in the pathogenesis of PBC.展开更多
AIM To investigate the efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in elderly patients with acute cholangitis. METHODS From June 2008 to May 2016, emergency ERCPs were perform...AIM To investigate the efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in elderly patients with acute cholangitis. METHODS From June 2008 to May 2016, emergency ERCPs were performed in 207 cases of acute cholangitis at our institution. Patients were classified as elderly if they were aged 80 years and older(n = 102); controls were under the age of 80 years(n = 105). The patients' medical records were retrospectively reviewed for comorbidities, laboratory data, etiology of cholangitis(presence of biliary stones, biliary stricture and malignancy), details of the ERCP(therapeutic approaches, technical success rates, procedure duration), ERCP-related complications and mortality. RESULTS The frequency of comorbidities was higher in the elderly group than the control group(91.2% vs 67.6%). Periampullary diverticulum was observed in the elderly group at a higher frequency than the control group(24.5% vs 13.3%). Between the groups, there was no significant difference in the technical success rates(95.1% vs 95.2%) or endoscopicprocedure durations. With regard to the frequency of ERCP-related complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups(6.9% vs 6.7%), except for a lower rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the elderly group than in the control group(1.0% vs 3.8%). Neither angiographic nor surgical intervention was required in any of the cases with ERCP-related complications. There was no mortality during the observational periods. CONCLUSION Emergency ERCP for acute cholangitis can be performed safely even in elderly patients aged 80 years and older.展开更多
AIM To assess the effect of early vs late endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) on mortality and readmissions in acute cholangitis, using a nationally representative sample.METHODS We used the 2014 Nati...AIM To assess the effect of early vs late endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) on mortality and readmissions in acute cholangitis, using a nationally representative sample.METHODS We used the 2014 National Readmissions Database to identify adult patients hospitalized with acute cholangitis who underwent therapeutic ERCP within one week of admission. Early ERCP was defined as ERCP performed on the same day of admission or the next day(days 0 or 1, < 48 h), and late ERCP was performed on days 2 to 7 of admission. Patients with severe cholangitis had any of the following additional diagnoses: Severe sepsis, septic shock, acute renal failure,acute respiratory failure, or thrombocytopenia. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds of association of ERCP timing with inhospital mortality, 30-d mortality, and 30-d readmissions, controlling for age, sex,severe disease and comorbidities.RESULTS Four thousand five hundred and seventy patients satisfied the inclusion criteria;with a mean age of 64.1 years. Of these, 66.6% had early ERCP, while 33.4% had late ERCP. Early ERCP was associated with lower in-hospital mortality [1.2% vs2.4%, adjusted odds ratio(aOR) = 0.50, 95%CI: 0.76-0.83, P = 0.001] and lower 30-d mortality(1.5% vs 3.3%, aOR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.33-0.69, P < 0.0001) compared to the late ERCP group. Similarly, early ERCP was associated with lower 30-d readmissions(9.7% vs 15.1%, aOR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.49-0.7, P < 0.0001). When stratified by severity of cholangitis, there was a similar benefit of early ERCP on all outcomes in those with and without severe cholangitis. The mean length of stay was higher in the late ERCP group compared to the early ERCP group(6.9 d vs 4.5 d, P < 0.0001). The mean hospitalization cost was higher in the late ERCP group($21459 vs $16939, P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION Early ERCP is associated with lower in-hospital and 30-d mortality in those with or without severe cholangitis. Regardless of severity, we suggest performing early ERCP.展开更多
BACKGROUND: The use of prophylactic antibiotics before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is recommended by all major international gastroenterological societies, especially in the presence of an obs...BACKGROUND: The use of prophylactic antibiotics before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is recommended by all major international gastroenterological societies, especially in the presence of an obstructed biliary system. This study compared the occurrence rate of post-procedural complications, including cholangitis and septicemia between prophylactic intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone in patients with bile duct obstruction scheduled for therapeutic ERCP.METHODS: From November 2013 to July 2015, 86 consecutive patients with biliary obstruction with one or more factors predicting benefits of antibiotic prophylaxis prior to ERCP were included in the current randomized open-label non-inferiority trial(Clinical Trial.gov identifier NCT02098486). Intravenous moxifloxacin(400 mg/day) or ceftriaxone(2 g/day)were given 90 minutes before ERCP, and were administered for more than 3 days if the patient developed symptoms and signs of cholangitis or septicemia. Recalcitrant cholangitis was defined as persistence of cholangitis for more than 5 days after ERCP or recurrence of cholangitis within 30 days after ERCP.RESULTS: Recalcitrant cholangitis occurred in 1(2.3%) and 2(4.8%) patients receiving intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=0.612). Septicemia was noted in1(2.3%) and 1(2.4%) patient in intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=1.0). The mean hospital stay was also not significantly different between the moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone groups(8.8±7.2 vs 9.1±9.4 days, P=0.867). Antibiotic resistance of the isolated pathogens by in vitro activity assay was noted in 1(2.3%) and 2(4.8%) patients in the moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=0.612). CONCLUSION: Intravenous moxifloxacin is not inferior to intravenous ceftriaxone for the prophylactic treatment of post-ERCP cholangitis and cholangitis-associated morbidity.展开更多
AIM: To identify the risk factors for organ failure(OF) in cholangitis with bacteriobilia.METHODS: This study included 182 patients with acute cholangitis who underwent percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage betwe...AIM: To identify the risk factors for organ failure(OF) in cholangitis with bacteriobilia.METHODS: This study included 182 patients with acute cholangitis who underwent percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage between January 2005 and April 2013. We conducted a retrospective analysis of comprehensive clinical and laboratory data.RESULTS: There were 24 cases(13.2%) of OF and five deaths(2.7%). Bile culture was positive for microbial growth in 130 out of 138(94.2%) patients. In multivariate analysis of 130 patients with positivebile cultures, significant predictive factors for OF were the presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase(ESBL) organisms in blood cultures, pre-existing renal dysfunction, and choledocholithiasis as an etiology, with odds ratios of 15.376, 6.319, and 3.573, respectively. We developed a scoring system with a regression coefficient of each significant variable. The OF score was calculated using the following equation:(2.7 × ESBL organisms in blood cultures) +(1.8 × pre-existing renal dysfunction) +(1.3 × choledocholithiasis). This scoring system for predicting OF was highly specific(99.1%) and had a positive predictive value of 86.2%.CONCLUSION: ESBL organisms in blood cultures, preexisting renal dysfunction, and choledocholithiasis are risk factors for OF in cholangitis with bacteriobilia. The OF scoring system may aid clinicians to identify a poor prognosis group.展开更多
AIM To investigate the performance of transient elastography(TE) for diagnosis of fibrosis in patients with autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cholangitis(AIHPBC) overlap syndrome.METHODS A total of 70 patients with...AIM To investigate the performance of transient elastography(TE) for diagnosis of fibrosis in patients with autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cholangitis(AIHPBC) overlap syndrome.METHODS A total of 70 patients with biopsy-proven AIH-PBC overlap syndrome were included. Spearman correlation test was used to analyze the correlation of liver stiffness measurement(LSM) and fibrosis stage. Independent samples Student's t-test or one-way analysis of variance was used to compare quantitative variables. Receiver operating characteristics(ROC) curve was used to calculate the optimal cut-off values of LSM for predicting individual fibrosis stages. A comparison on the diagnostic accuracy for severe fibrosis was made between LSM and other serological scores.RESULTS Patients with AIH-PBC overlap syndrome had higher median LSM than healthy controls(11.3 ± 6.4 k Pa vs 4.3 ± 1.4 k Pa, P < 0.01). LSM was significantly correlated with fibrosis stage(r = 0.756, P < 0.01). LSM values increased gradually with an increased fibrosis stage. The areas under the ROC curves of LSM for stages F ≥ 2, F ≥ 3, and F4 were 0.837(95%CI: 0.729-0.914), 0.910(0.817-0.965), and 0.966(0.893-0.995), respectively. The optimal cut-off values of LSM for fibrosis stages F ≥ 2, F ≥ 3, and F4 were 6.55, 10.50, and 14.45 k Pa, respectively. LSM was significantly superior to fibrosis-4, glutaglumyl-transferase/platelet ratio, and aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index scores in detecting severe fibrosis(F ≥ 3)(0.910 vs 0.715, P < 0.01; 0.910 vs 0.649, P < 0.01; 0.910 vs 0.616, P < 0.01, respectively).CONCLUSION TE can accurately detect hepatic fibrosis as a noninvasive method in patients with AIH-PBC overlap syndrome.展开更多
AIM To investigate the diagnostic value of abnormal serum carbohydrate antigen 199(CA199) level in acute cholangitis secondary to choledocholithiasis.METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, the clinical data of 72...AIM To investigate the diagnostic value of abnormal serum carbohydrate antigen 199(CA199) level in acute cholangitis secondary to choledocholithiasis.METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, the clinical data of 727 patients with choledocholithiasis admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College from June 2011 to June 2017 were collected. Among these patients, 258 patients had secondary acute cholangitis and served as observation group, and the remaining 569 choledocholithiasis patients served as the control group. Serum liver function indexes and tumor markers were detected in both groups, and the receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curves were constructed for markers showing statistical significances. The cutoff value, sensitivity, and specificity of each marker were calculated according to the ROC curves. RESULTS The results of liver function tests showed no significant differences between the two groups(P > 0.05). Tumor markers including serum CA125, CA153, carcinoembryonic antigen, and alpha fetoprotein levels were also not significantly different(P > 0.05); however, the serum CA199 level was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.885(95%CI: 0.841-0.929) for CA199, and the cutoff value of 52.5 kU/L had the highest diagnostic accuracy, with a sensitivity of 86.8% and a specificity of 81.6%.CONCLUSION Abnormally elevated serum CA199 level has an important value in the diagnosis of acute cholangitis secondary to choledocholithiasis. It may be a specific inflammatory marker for acute cholangitis.展开更多
AIM: To examine the safety of immediate endoscopic sphincterotomy(EST) in patients with acute suppurative cholangitis(ASC) caused by choledocholithiasis, as compared with elective EST.METHODS: Patients with ASC due to...AIM: To examine the safety of immediate endoscopic sphincterotomy(EST) in patients with acute suppurative cholangitis(ASC) caused by choledocholithiasis, as compared with elective EST.METHODS: Patients with ASC due to choledocholithiasis were allocated to two groups: Those who underwent EST immediately and those who underwent EBD followed by EST 1 wk later because they were under anticoagulant therapy, had a coagulopathy(international normalized ratio > 1.3, partial thromboplastin time greater than twice that of control), or had a platelet count < 50000 × 103/μL. One of four trainees [200-400 cases of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)] supervised by a specialist(> 10000 cases of ERCP) performed the procedures. The success and complication rates associated with EST in each group were examined.RESULTS: Of the 87 patients with ASC, 59 were in the immediate EST group and 28 in the elective EST group. EST was successful in all patients in both groups. There were no complications associated with EST in either group of patients, although white blood cell count, C-reactiveprotein, total bilirubin, and serum concentrations of liver enzymes just before EST were significantly higher in the immediate EST group than in the elective EST group.CONCLUSION: Immediate EST can be as safe as elective EST for patients with ASC associated with choledocholithiasis provided they are not under anticoagulant therapy, or do not have a coagulopathy or a platelet count < 50000 × 103/μL. Moreover, the procedure was safely performed by a trainee under the supervision of an experienced specialist.展开更多
To examine and evaluate recent evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis and management of colorectal cancer(CRC) development in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)-primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC) patients. Us...To examine and evaluate recent evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis and management of colorectal cancer(CRC) development in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)-primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC) patients. Using the PubMed database, a literature search was conducted for relevant articles in English from the past 10 years. Relevant studies investigating PSC as a risk factor for CRC in IBD in the context of incidence and prevalence, pathogenesis, prevention and prognosis were included in this review. Recent evidence increasingly points to PSC as a significant risk factor in the development of CRC in patients with concomitant IBD. PSC may be an important risk factor for CRC in different populations worldwide. The mechanism for this increase in risk is still unclear. The efficacy of UDCA as a chemopreventive agent remains controversial. Liver transplantation does not halt the development of CRC, although there is not enough evidence to suggest that it is associated with increased incidence of CRC. While routine colonoscopic surveillance should be performed in patients with concurrent PSC and IBD, more high-level evidence is required to support the benefits of the procedure. While many new developments have taken place in the last decade, the pathogenesis and optimal management of CRC development in IBD-PSC patients remain unclear.展开更多
AIM: To identify potential factors that can predict adverse short-term outcomes in patients with acute cholangitis undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of co...AIM: To identify potential factors that can predict adverse short-term outcomes in patients with acute cholangitis undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients admitted to our center for acute cholangitis and underwent ERCP from 2001 to 2012. Involvement of two or more organ systems was termed as organ failure(OF). Cardiovascular failure was defined based on a systolic blood pressure of < 90 mmHg despite fluid replacement and/or requiring vasopressor treatment; respiratory failure if the Pa02 /Fi02 ratio was < 300 mmHg and/or required mechanical ventilation; coagulopathy if the platelet count was < 80; and renal insufficiency if serum creatinine was > 1.9 mg/dL. Variables associated with short term adverse clinical outcomes defined as persistent OF and/or 30-d mortality was determined. RESULTS: A total of 172 patients(median age 62 years, 56.4% female) were included. The median door to ERCP time was 17 h. Bile duct stones were the most common etiology(n = 67, 39.2%). In multivariate analysis, factors that were independently associated with persistent OF and/or 30-d mortality included American Society of Anesthesiology(ASA) physical classification score > 3(OR = 7.70; 95%CI: 2.73-24.40), presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome(OR = 3.67; 95%CI: 1.34-10.3) and door to ERCP time greater than 72 h(OR = 3.36; 95%CI: 1.12-10.20). Door to ERCP time greater than 72 h was also associated with 70% increase in the mean length of stay(P < 0.001). Every one point increase in the ASA physical classification and every 1 mg/dL increase in the preERCP bilirubin level was associated with a 34% and 2% increase in the mean length of hospital stay, respectively. Transfer status did not impact clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: Higher ASA physical classification and delays in ERCP are associated with adverse clinical outcomes and prolonged length of hospital stay in patients with acute cholangitis undergoing ERCP.展开更多
文摘Knowledge of the etiological and pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of any disease is essential for its treatment.Because the cause of primary biliary cholangitis(PBC),a chronic,slowly progressive cholestatic liver disease,is still unknown,treatment remains symptomatic.Knowledge of the physicochemical properties of various bile acids and the adaptive responses of cholangiocytes and hepatocytes to them has provided an important basis for the development of relatively effective drugs based on hydrophilic bile acids that can potentially slow the progression of the disease.Advances in the use of hydrophilic bile acids for the treatment of PBC are also associated with the discovery of pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of cholangiocyte damage and the appearance of the first signs of this disease.For 35 years,ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)has been the unique drug of choice for the treatment of patients with PBC.In recent years,the list of hydrophilic bile acids used to treat cholestatic liver diseases,including PBC,has expanded.In addition to UDCA,the use of obeticholic acid,tauroursodeoxycholic acid and norursodeoxycholic acid as drugs is discussed.The pathogenetic rationale for treatment of PBC with various bile acid drugs is discussed in this review.Emphasis is made on the mechanisms explaining the beneficial therapeutic effects and potential of each of the bile acid as a drug,based on the understanding of the pathogenesis of the initial stages of PBC.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2019YFC0840704Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Program,No.Z201100005520047.
文摘BACKGROUND Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)is the first-line therapeutic agent for primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).However,a subset of patients exhibit a suboptimal response to UDCA,and reliable predictive biomarkers remain elusive.Studies have implicated plasma microRNAs(miRNAs)in the pathophysiological pro-gression of PBC,with certain miRNAs demonstrating potential as diagnostic and disease progression biomarkers.However,biomarkers capable of predicting the therapeutic efficacy of UDCA have not yet been identified.AIM To investigate differentially expressed miRNAs in PBC patients with divergent UDCA treatment responses and to explore potential biomarkers that predict treatment response in PBC.METHODS Plasma samples from treatment-naive PBC patients receiving≥1 year of standard UDCA treatment were collected.Efficacy was evaluated using the Paris I criteria.Patient samples were divided into discovery group(n=10)and validation group(n=30),with further stratification of patients into drug-resistant and drug-sensitive(DS)cohorts.Next-generation sequencing and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to screen,functionally analyze,and validate the pre-treatment miRNA profiles of the treatment groups.RESULTS Forty-nine miRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups before UDCA treatment(N=40).MiR-22-5p and miR-126-3p were highly expressed in the DS group before treatment(P<0.001),whereas miR-7706 exhibited a low expression(P=0.017).Post-treatment,miR-126-3p maintained low expression in the drug-resistant group(P=0.003),but showed elevated levels in the DS group(P<0.001).Logistic regression analysis identified miR-126-3p expression(odds ratio=34.32,95%confidence interval:1.95-605.40,P=0.016)as a significant factor influencing UDCA treatment response,while miR-22-5p(P=0.990)and miR-7706(P=0.157)showed no significant association.MiR-126-3p levels were negatively correlated with total bilirubin(r=-0.356,P=0.005)and immuno-globulin G levels(r=-0.311,P=0.015).The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.891(P=0.0003,95%confidence interval:0.772-1.000)with a sensitivity of 82.4%and a specificity of 84.6%.CONCLUSION Plasma miRNA expression profiles are heterogenous in patients with PBC with differential responses to UDCA therapy.MiR-126-3p demonstrates predictive potential for a suboptimal response to UDCA in patients with PBC.
文摘BACKGROUND The optimal duration of antimicrobial treatment for acute cholangitis complicated by gram-positive coccus(GPC)bacteremia remains unclear.The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 recommended 14 days of antimicrobial treatment following adequate source control measures;however,evidence supporting this recommendation is limited,and deviations from real-world practice are often observed.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of shorter antimicrobial treatments for acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia.METHODS Adult patients with acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography between July 2003 and December 2023 were included.Patients were categorized into two groups based on the duration of effective antimicrobial treatment:(1)Short-course treatment(SCT)(<14 days);and(2)Long-course treatment(LCT)(≥14 days).The outcomes assessed included mortality,recurrence,reinfection with the same organism related to the cholangitis,and length of hospital stay.RESULTS A total of 44 patients were included in the study:(1)19 patients in the SCT group;and(2)25 patients in the LCT group.The median duration of antimicrobial treatment was 9 days[interquartile range(IQR):2.5-11.0 days]and 16 days(IQR:15.0-19.0 days)in the SCT and LCT groups,respectively,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).No significant differences were observed in 30-day mortality,cholangitis recurrence,or reinfection with the same organisms within 3 months.However,the length of hospital stay was shorter in the SCT group(median:12.0 days vs 14.0 days,P=0.092).CONCLUSION For acute cholangitis complicated by GPC bacteremia,shorter antimicrobial treatment may be a viable option following appropriate biliary drainage.Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.
文摘This article relates to the discussion of a recent study published by Wohl et al.Primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC)is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that affects the intra-and extrahepatic bile ducts and is strongly associated with ulcerative colitis(UC).Endoscopic evaluation of UC is feasible and reliable in routine clinical practice,and the Mayo endoscopic subscore(MES)is one of the most commonly used endoscopic evaluation measures for UC.Patients with PSCUC are at higher risk of developing cancer and biliary tract cancer.Endoscopic scoring alone appears unreliable,and histopathological evaluation is essential to accurately assess and make effective therapeutic decisions for PSC-UC.Therefore,we aimed to discuss the accuracy of MES in patients with UC and PSC-UC and to explore the consistency between MES and the Nancy histological index.
文摘BACKGROUND Situs inversus viscerum(SIV)is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized a complete mirror-image organ reversal in the thoracic and abdo-minal cavities.Its low incidence presents considerable challenges in clinical dia-gnosis and treatment,especially concerning gastrointestinal endoscopic proce-dures.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we report a case of an 80-year-old male with choledocholithiasis and acute obstructive empyematous cholangitis.Imaging revealed total visceral inversion in the patient.Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)was successfully performed to remove the stones,resulting to substantial relief of clinical symptoms and gradual improvement of the patient’s condition,leading to successful recovery and discharge.CONCLUSION Therapeutic ERCP is a safe and effective surgical option for patients with SIV.The main focus for successful ERCP in patients with SIV includes positioning adju-stments during the surgical process and using the dual-guidewire technique for biliary cannulation.
文摘Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic autoimmune liver disease that progressively damages the bile ducts,leading to cholestasis and,in advanced stages,cirrhosis.While it primarily affects middle-aged women,recent data indicate a rising incidence in men.The interplay between genetic susceptibility,environmental exposures,and gut microbiome alterations is thought to drive disease onset.Diagnosis relies on persistent cholestatic enzyme elevation,diseasespecific autoantibodies,and,in select cases,liver biopsy.Ursodeoxycholic acid remains the cornerstone of treatment,but many patients show an incomplete response.The recent withdrawal of obeticholic acid from the market,due to insufficient evidence of long-term benefit,has highlighted the urgent need for effective second-line therapies.Agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors,such as elafibranor and seladelpar,have demonstrated promising biochemical improvements and may reshape the therapeutic landscape.Future research is focused on refining risk assessment,optimizing treatment combinations,and addressing symptoms such as fatigue and pruritus to enhance patient well-being.A shift toward early intervention and personalized treatment strategies may further improve long-term outcomes in primary biliary cholangitis.
文摘Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic autoimmune cholestatic liver disease characterized by progressive bile duct destruction,leading to fibrosis,cirrhosis,and eventual liver failure.Over the past two decades,significant advancements have paved the way for novel therapeutic strategies.Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA)has been the cornerstone of PBC management,improving survival and delaying disease progression in most patients.However,up to 40%of patients demonstrate an inadequate response to UDCA,necessitating additional treatment options.Obeticholic acid(OCA),a farnesoid X receptor agonist,has emerged as a second-line therapy,showing efficacy in reducing alkaline phosphatase levels and improving liver biochemistry.Beyond UDCA and OCA,a new wave of therapeutic agents are reshaping the PBC landscape.These include fibrates,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists and novel immunomodulatory drugs aimed at reducing autoimmune-mediated liver injury.Bile acid transport inhibitors,anti-fibrotic agents,and gut microbiome-targeted therapies are also under investigation,offering hope for personalized treatment approaches.This review highlights the evolution of PBC therapy,emphasizing the unmet needs of patients with refractory disease and the potential of emerging therapies to improve outcomes.As the therapeutic landscape continues to expand,optimizing treatment strategies through precision medicine holds the promise of transforming the management of PBC.
基金Supported by Guangdong Provincial Basic and Applied Basic Research Fund,No.2021A1515011589Guangdong Medical University Clinical+Basic Science and Technology Innovation Special Program,No.GDMULCJC2024004.
文摘BACKGROUND T helper 17(Th17)cell infiltration and interleukin(IL)-17 secretion in intrahepatic small bile ducts is a critical driver of immune-mediated injury in primary biliary cholangitis(PBC).IL-6 is an essential upstream activator of Th17 cells.Basophilderived IL-6 promotes the differentiation of CD4+T cells and Th1 cells into Th17 cells,thereby regulating their immunological functions.AIM To investigate the activation status and cytokine expression of basophils in PBC,elucidating potential mechanisms through which basophils contribute to its pathogenesis.METHODS This single-center retrospective case-control study conducted at Guangdong Medical University Affiliated Hospital(China)between September 2019 and August 2024 enrolled 65 consecutive treatment-naïve patients with PBC(PBC group),65 age-and sex-matched patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB group),and 65 healthy controls(Normal group).Fourteen participants per group(subgroup)were randomly selected for flow cytometry analysis of basophil proportion,activation markers(CD203c and CD62 L mean fluorescence intensity),IL-6-positive basophils(IL-6+basophils as a percentage of total basophils),and IL-17-positive T lymphocytes(CD3+CD4+IL-17+cells)proportion among T cells.Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and χ^(2) tests as appropriate.RESULTS Routine blood tests revealed significantly higher basophil counts and proportions in the PBC group compared to the CHB and Normal groups(P<0.001 for both comparisons),with no significant differences between the CHB and Normal groups(P=0.201).Flow cytometry revealed a higher basophil proportion in the PBC subgroup compared to the CHB(P=0.011)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).The mean fluorescence intensity of CD203c on basophil surfaces was elevated in the PBC subgroup compared to the CHB(P=0.032)and Normal subgroups(P=0.039).The proportion of IL-6+basophils was significantly higher in the PBC subgroup than in the CHB(P<0.01)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).Similarly,the Th17 cell proportion was markedly elevated in the PBC compared to the CHB(P<0.001)and Normal subgroups(P<0.001).CONCLUSION Patients with PBC have increased peripheral basophil counts with enhanced activation.Activated basophils have increased IL-6 expression,which may indirectly induce Th17 cell proliferation and contribute to PBC pathogenesis.
基金Supported by the Capital’s Funds for Health Improvement and Research,No.CFH2024-1-2173State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine High-Level Key Disciplines Construction Project,No.zyyzdxk-2023005the Scientific Research Fund Project of Beijing Ditan Hospital,No.DTDR202403.
文摘BACKGROUND There is insufficient evidence on the evaluation of liver fibrosis in Asian indivi-duals with primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)using vibration-controlled transient elastography(VCTE).AIM To assess advanced fibrosis(AF)using liver stiffness measurement(LSM)in Chinese patients with PBC.METHODS In total,277 Chinese patients diagnosed with PBC who underwent liver biopsy and VCTE were retrospectively included and categorized into the derivation and validation cohorts.The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves(AUROCs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs)were used to estimate the dia-gnostic accuracy of LSM for AF(Ludwig stage≥III).Multivariable analysis was performed using logistic regression.RESULTS In the derivation cohort,VCTE accurately detected patients with AF,achieving an AUROC of 0.93(95%CI:0.88-0.96).AF was independently predicted by LSM according to multivariable analysis.AF can be excluded and confirmed using LSM cutoffs of≤10.0 and>14.5 kPa,respectively,with a sensitivity of 0.91,negative predictive value of 0.93,specificity of 0.96,positive predictive value of 0.92,and an error rate of 7.5%.The accuracy of these values was validated in an independent cohort,achieving an AUROC of 0.97(95%CI:0.90-0.99)for AF with a sensitivity of 0.89,negative predictive value of 0.88,specificity of 0.95,positive predictive value of 0.94,and error rate of 9.0%.Compared with serum fibrosis markers,the AUROC of LSM was significantly higher in both the derivation and validation cohorts.CONCLUSION VCTE has a high accuracy for assessing AF in Chinese patients with PBC in a real-world setting.
文摘BACKGROUND Patients with concurrent acute biliary pancreatitis(ABP)and acute cholangitis(AC)may experience exacerbated clinical consequences due to bile duct stones.However,studies exploring this topic remain limited.AIM To compare the clinical presentation and outcomes of patients experiencing AC with and without ABP.METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study included 358 patients with AC who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)between January 2016 and December 2017.Patients were divided into two groups:AC with ABP(n=90)and AC without ABP(n=268).Clinical characteristics,laboratory data,ERCP results,primary study outcome[intensive care unit(ICU)admission],and secondary outcomes including 30-day mortality,length of hospital stay,and 30-day readmission rate were analyzed and compared.RESULTS All patients in the AC with ABP group had interstitial pancreatitis.The AC with ABP group had significantly higher white cell count(WBC)counts(13.1×10^(3)/μL vs 10.4×10^(3)/μL,P=0.007)and more abnormal WBC results(61.1%vs 42.3%,P=0.015).Liver biochemical tests,AC severity,ERCP success,adverse events,ICU admissions,30-day mortality,hospital stay,and readmission rates did not differ significantly between the two groups.Univariate analysis showed no significant link between concurrent ABP and ICU admission,although significance was marginal in moderate/severe ABP cases(P=0.051).In the multivariate analysis,age(P=0.035)and cardiovascular dysfunction(P<0.001)were independently associated with length of ICU stay.CONCLUSION Concurrent interstitial ABP and AC did not significantly affect outcomes.Age and cardiovascular dysfunction were stronger predictors of ICU admission and should guide clinical monitoring and management.
文摘Primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by damage and loss of the epithelial lining of small intrahepatic bile ducts,leading to ductopenia and cholestasis.In advanced stages,this process results in cirrhosis and liver failure.The disease belongs to cholangiopathies.The review addressed historical questions concerning:The history of the first mention of this disease;how its nomenclature was formed;when specific serological tests were discovered and their importance in the diagnosis of PBC;the history of ursodeoxycholic and other bile acids for the treatment of PBC;and the significance of modern data on impaired bicarbonate production by cholangiocytes in the pathogenesis of PBC.
文摘AIM To investigate the efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in elderly patients with acute cholangitis. METHODS From June 2008 to May 2016, emergency ERCPs were performed in 207 cases of acute cholangitis at our institution. Patients were classified as elderly if they were aged 80 years and older(n = 102); controls were under the age of 80 years(n = 105). The patients' medical records were retrospectively reviewed for comorbidities, laboratory data, etiology of cholangitis(presence of biliary stones, biliary stricture and malignancy), details of the ERCP(therapeutic approaches, technical success rates, procedure duration), ERCP-related complications and mortality. RESULTS The frequency of comorbidities was higher in the elderly group than the control group(91.2% vs 67.6%). Periampullary diverticulum was observed in the elderly group at a higher frequency than the control group(24.5% vs 13.3%). Between the groups, there was no significant difference in the technical success rates(95.1% vs 95.2%) or endoscopicprocedure durations. With regard to the frequency of ERCP-related complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups(6.9% vs 6.7%), except for a lower rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the elderly group than in the control group(1.0% vs 3.8%). Neither angiographic nor surgical intervention was required in any of the cases with ERCP-related complications. There was no mortality during the observational periods. CONCLUSION Emergency ERCP for acute cholangitis can be performed safely even in elderly patients aged 80 years and older.
文摘AIM To assess the effect of early vs late endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) on mortality and readmissions in acute cholangitis, using a nationally representative sample.METHODS We used the 2014 National Readmissions Database to identify adult patients hospitalized with acute cholangitis who underwent therapeutic ERCP within one week of admission. Early ERCP was defined as ERCP performed on the same day of admission or the next day(days 0 or 1, < 48 h), and late ERCP was performed on days 2 to 7 of admission. Patients with severe cholangitis had any of the following additional diagnoses: Severe sepsis, septic shock, acute renal failure,acute respiratory failure, or thrombocytopenia. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds of association of ERCP timing with inhospital mortality, 30-d mortality, and 30-d readmissions, controlling for age, sex,severe disease and comorbidities.RESULTS Four thousand five hundred and seventy patients satisfied the inclusion criteria;with a mean age of 64.1 years. Of these, 66.6% had early ERCP, while 33.4% had late ERCP. Early ERCP was associated with lower in-hospital mortality [1.2% vs2.4%, adjusted odds ratio(aOR) = 0.50, 95%CI: 0.76-0.83, P = 0.001] and lower 30-d mortality(1.5% vs 3.3%, aOR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.33-0.69, P < 0.0001) compared to the late ERCP group. Similarly, early ERCP was associated with lower 30-d readmissions(9.7% vs 15.1%, aOR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.49-0.7, P < 0.0001). When stratified by severity of cholangitis, there was a similar benefit of early ERCP on all outcomes in those with and without severe cholangitis. The mean length of stay was higher in the late ERCP group compared to the early ERCP group(6.9 d vs 4.5 d, P < 0.0001). The mean hospitalization cost was higher in the late ERCP group($21459 vs $16939, P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION Early ERCP is associated with lower in-hospital and 30-d mortality in those with or without severe cholangitis. Regardless of severity, we suggest performing early ERCP.
基金financially supported by Chongkundang Pharmaceutical(Seoul,Korea)
文摘BACKGROUND: The use of prophylactic antibiotics before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is recommended by all major international gastroenterological societies, especially in the presence of an obstructed biliary system. This study compared the occurrence rate of post-procedural complications, including cholangitis and septicemia between prophylactic intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone in patients with bile duct obstruction scheduled for therapeutic ERCP.METHODS: From November 2013 to July 2015, 86 consecutive patients with biliary obstruction with one or more factors predicting benefits of antibiotic prophylaxis prior to ERCP were included in the current randomized open-label non-inferiority trial(Clinical Trial.gov identifier NCT02098486). Intravenous moxifloxacin(400 mg/day) or ceftriaxone(2 g/day)were given 90 minutes before ERCP, and were administered for more than 3 days if the patient developed symptoms and signs of cholangitis or septicemia. Recalcitrant cholangitis was defined as persistence of cholangitis for more than 5 days after ERCP or recurrence of cholangitis within 30 days after ERCP.RESULTS: Recalcitrant cholangitis occurred in 1(2.3%) and 2(4.8%) patients receiving intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=0.612). Septicemia was noted in1(2.3%) and 1(2.4%) patient in intravenous moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=1.0). The mean hospital stay was also not significantly different between the moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone groups(8.8±7.2 vs 9.1±9.4 days, P=0.867). Antibiotic resistance of the isolated pathogens by in vitro activity assay was noted in 1(2.3%) and 2(4.8%) patients in the moxifloxacin and ceftriaxone group, respectively(P=0.612). CONCLUSION: Intravenous moxifloxacin is not inferior to intravenous ceftriaxone for the prophylactic treatment of post-ERCP cholangitis and cholangitis-associated morbidity.
文摘AIM: To identify the risk factors for organ failure(OF) in cholangitis with bacteriobilia.METHODS: This study included 182 patients with acute cholangitis who underwent percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage between January 2005 and April 2013. We conducted a retrospective analysis of comprehensive clinical and laboratory data.RESULTS: There were 24 cases(13.2%) of OF and five deaths(2.7%). Bile culture was positive for microbial growth in 130 out of 138(94.2%) patients. In multivariate analysis of 130 patients with positivebile cultures, significant predictive factors for OF were the presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase(ESBL) organisms in blood cultures, pre-existing renal dysfunction, and choledocholithiasis as an etiology, with odds ratios of 15.376, 6.319, and 3.573, respectively. We developed a scoring system with a regression coefficient of each significant variable. The OF score was calculated using the following equation:(2.7 × ESBL organisms in blood cultures) +(1.8 × pre-existing renal dysfunction) +(1.3 × choledocholithiasis). This scoring system for predicting OF was highly specific(99.1%) and had a positive predictive value of 86.2%.CONCLUSION: ESBL organisms in blood cultures, preexisting renal dysfunction, and choledocholithiasis are risk factors for OF in cholangitis with bacteriobilia. The OF scoring system may aid clinicians to identify a poor prognosis group.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81470842 and No.81770572 to Hua J
文摘AIM To investigate the performance of transient elastography(TE) for diagnosis of fibrosis in patients with autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cholangitis(AIHPBC) overlap syndrome.METHODS A total of 70 patients with biopsy-proven AIH-PBC overlap syndrome were included. Spearman correlation test was used to analyze the correlation of liver stiffness measurement(LSM) and fibrosis stage. Independent samples Student's t-test or one-way analysis of variance was used to compare quantitative variables. Receiver operating characteristics(ROC) curve was used to calculate the optimal cut-off values of LSM for predicting individual fibrosis stages. A comparison on the diagnostic accuracy for severe fibrosis was made between LSM and other serological scores.RESULTS Patients with AIH-PBC overlap syndrome had higher median LSM than healthy controls(11.3 ± 6.4 k Pa vs 4.3 ± 1.4 k Pa, P < 0.01). LSM was significantly correlated with fibrosis stage(r = 0.756, P < 0.01). LSM values increased gradually with an increased fibrosis stage. The areas under the ROC curves of LSM for stages F ≥ 2, F ≥ 3, and F4 were 0.837(95%CI: 0.729-0.914), 0.910(0.817-0.965), and 0.966(0.893-0.995), respectively. The optimal cut-off values of LSM for fibrosis stages F ≥ 2, F ≥ 3, and F4 were 6.55, 10.50, and 14.45 k Pa, respectively. LSM was significantly superior to fibrosis-4, glutaglumyl-transferase/platelet ratio, and aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index scores in detecting severe fibrosis(F ≥ 3)(0.910 vs 0.715, P < 0.01; 0.910 vs 0.649, P < 0.01; 0.910 vs 0.616, P < 0.01, respectively).CONCLUSION TE can accurately detect hepatic fibrosis as a noninvasive method in patients with AIH-PBC overlap syndrome.
基金Supported by the Fund from the Guizhou Provincial Department of Health Science and Technology,No.GZWJKJ2014-2-151the Science and Technology Fund of Guizhou Province,No.QKHLH[2016]7421Zunyi Science and Technology Research and Development Fund,No.ZSKHS[2016]06
文摘AIM To investigate the diagnostic value of abnormal serum carbohydrate antigen 199(CA199) level in acute cholangitis secondary to choledocholithiasis.METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, the clinical data of 727 patients with choledocholithiasis admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College from June 2011 to June 2017 were collected. Among these patients, 258 patients had secondary acute cholangitis and served as observation group, and the remaining 569 choledocholithiasis patients served as the control group. Serum liver function indexes and tumor markers were detected in both groups, and the receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curves were constructed for markers showing statistical significances. The cutoff value, sensitivity, and specificity of each marker were calculated according to the ROC curves. RESULTS The results of liver function tests showed no significant differences between the two groups(P > 0.05). Tumor markers including serum CA125, CA153, carcinoembryonic antigen, and alpha fetoprotein levels were also not significantly different(P > 0.05); however, the serum CA199 level was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.885(95%CI: 0.841-0.929) for CA199, and the cutoff value of 52.5 kU/L had the highest diagnostic accuracy, with a sensitivity of 86.8% and a specificity of 81.6%.CONCLUSION Abnormally elevated serum CA199 level has an important value in the diagnosis of acute cholangitis secondary to choledocholithiasis. It may be a specific inflammatory marker for acute cholangitis.
文摘AIM: To examine the safety of immediate endoscopic sphincterotomy(EST) in patients with acute suppurative cholangitis(ASC) caused by choledocholithiasis, as compared with elective EST.METHODS: Patients with ASC due to choledocholithiasis were allocated to two groups: Those who underwent EST immediately and those who underwent EBD followed by EST 1 wk later because they were under anticoagulant therapy, had a coagulopathy(international normalized ratio > 1.3, partial thromboplastin time greater than twice that of control), or had a platelet count < 50000 × 103/μL. One of four trainees [200-400 cases of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)] supervised by a specialist(> 10000 cases of ERCP) performed the procedures. The success and complication rates associated with EST in each group were examined.RESULTS: Of the 87 patients with ASC, 59 were in the immediate EST group and 28 in the elective EST group. EST was successful in all patients in both groups. There were no complications associated with EST in either group of patients, although white blood cell count, C-reactiveprotein, total bilirubin, and serum concentrations of liver enzymes just before EST were significantly higher in the immediate EST group than in the elective EST group.CONCLUSION: Immediate EST can be as safe as elective EST for patients with ASC associated with choledocholithiasis provided they are not under anticoagulant therapy, or do not have a coagulopathy or a platelet count < 50000 × 103/μL. Moreover, the procedure was safely performed by a trainee under the supervision of an experienced specialist.
基金Supported by Career Development Fellowship of the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia,to Leong R
文摘To examine and evaluate recent evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis and management of colorectal cancer(CRC) development in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)-primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC) patients. Using the PubMed database, a literature search was conducted for relevant articles in English from the past 10 years. Relevant studies investigating PSC as a risk factor for CRC in IBD in the context of incidence and prevalence, pathogenesis, prevention and prognosis were included in this review. Recent evidence increasingly points to PSC as a significant risk factor in the development of CRC in patients with concomitant IBD. PSC may be an important risk factor for CRC in different populations worldwide. The mechanism for this increase in risk is still unclear. The efficacy of UDCA as a chemopreventive agent remains controversial. Liver transplantation does not halt the development of CRC, although there is not enough evidence to suggest that it is associated with increased incidence of CRC. While routine colonoscopic surveillance should be performed in patients with concurrent PSC and IBD, more high-level evidence is required to support the benefits of the procedure. While many new developments have taken place in the last decade, the pathogenesis and optimal management of CRC development in IBD-PSC patients remain unclear.
基金Supported by The American College of Gastroenterology Grant to Navaneethan U
文摘AIM: To identify potential factors that can predict adverse short-term outcomes in patients with acute cholangitis undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients admitted to our center for acute cholangitis and underwent ERCP from 2001 to 2012. Involvement of two or more organ systems was termed as organ failure(OF). Cardiovascular failure was defined based on a systolic blood pressure of < 90 mmHg despite fluid replacement and/or requiring vasopressor treatment; respiratory failure if the Pa02 /Fi02 ratio was < 300 mmHg and/or required mechanical ventilation; coagulopathy if the platelet count was < 80; and renal insufficiency if serum creatinine was > 1.9 mg/dL. Variables associated with short term adverse clinical outcomes defined as persistent OF and/or 30-d mortality was determined. RESULTS: A total of 172 patients(median age 62 years, 56.4% female) were included. The median door to ERCP time was 17 h. Bile duct stones were the most common etiology(n = 67, 39.2%). In multivariate analysis, factors that were independently associated with persistent OF and/or 30-d mortality included American Society of Anesthesiology(ASA) physical classification score > 3(OR = 7.70; 95%CI: 2.73-24.40), presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome(OR = 3.67; 95%CI: 1.34-10.3) and door to ERCP time greater than 72 h(OR = 3.36; 95%CI: 1.12-10.20). Door to ERCP time greater than 72 h was also associated with 70% increase in the mean length of stay(P < 0.001). Every one point increase in the ASA physical classification and every 1 mg/dL increase in the preERCP bilirubin level was associated with a 34% and 2% increase in the mean length of hospital stay, respectively. Transfer status did not impact clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: Higher ASA physical classification and delays in ERCP are associated with adverse clinical outcomes and prolonged length of hospital stay in patients with acute cholangitis undergoing ERCP.
