Time for individualized colonoscopy bowel-prep regimens? A randomized controlled trial comparing sodium picosulphate and magnesium citrate versus 4-liter split-dose polyethylene glycol

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Good bowel cleansing is essential to achieving optimal endoscopic evaluation of the colon. There are many different regimens available, but none have shown consistently superior results in achieving a clean colon. We compared the efficiency of two regimens with regard to bowel cleansing and patient satisfaction. The study also aimed to identify patient-related factors that influenced the quality of the bowel cleansing.

METHODS

We conducted a single-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial comparing sodium picosulphate and magnesium citrate versus 4-liter split-dose polyethylene glycol (PEG). Consecutive patients presenting for colonoscopy at two tertiary referral centers were invited to participate. The main outcomes were colon cleanliness and patient satisfaction with the preparation regimen. The quality of bowel cleansing was assessed by the endoscopist with the use of a 4-grade scale. Patients completed questionnaires evaluating their experience during the preparation process. Multivariate analysis was conducted in order to compare the two regimens and identify patient-related factors that influenced the main outcomes.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-one patients were randomized and 165 completed the trial (91.1%). PEG was slightly superior to sodium picosulphate with regard to bowel cleansing (p=0.01), while patient satisfaction was higher with sodium picosulphate (p=0.008). Patients with higher education and patients reporting high adherence to instructions achieved better colon cleansing using PEG.

CONCLUSIONS

There seems to be no clear advantage for one bowel preparation solution over the other. However, by taking into account individual patient characteristics, opting for a particular regimen could increase the likelihood of achieving a cleaner colon.

A validated bowel-preparation tolerability questionnaire and assessment of three commonly used bowel-cleansing agents

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Bowel-cleansing studies are frequently underpowered, poorly designed, and with subjective assessments. Consensus on tolerability of the bowel-cleansing agents is thus lacking. This study developed and validated a bowel-preparation tolerability questionnaire and used it to assess the tolerability of three bowel-cleansing agents, sodium phosphate (NaP), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and sodium picosulphate (Pico), in a prospective randomized single-blinded trial of ambulatory patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The bowel-preparation tolerability questionnaire was validated in 125 consecutive patients and then bowel-preparation agent tolerability was assessed in 634 patients in a prospective randomized single-blinded trial.

RESULTS

The questionnaire's internal consistency was satisfactory with good to excellent "test-retest" reliability for aggregate tolerability and visual analogue scores. Validity assessment confirmed it as reliable and accurate. Of 634 patients, 97.8 % took >75 % of the allocated preparation and 98.9 % completed the questionnaire. Overall, Pico was better tolerated than PEG (p < 0.001) and NaP (p < 0.001). NaP was better tolerated than PEG (p < 0.001). Regardless of the bowel-preparation agent used, males tolerated them better than females (p = 0.009) as did patients having their procedure in the AM. Older patients, however, tolerated all preparations better than younger patients (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

This study used the first validated bowel-preparation tolerability questionnaire and identified that age, sex, and procedure time all impacted tolerability. Overall, Pico was best tolerated, but PEG's tolerability in patients ≥60 years was equal to that of Pico and NaP, suggesting that PEG can be recommended for older patients to avoid the electrolyte disturbances associated with the osmotic preparations.

Can mosapride citrate reduce the volume of lavage solution for colonoscopy preparation?

AIM: To evaluate the possibility of reducing the volume of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-electrolyte solution using adjunctive mosapride citrate for colonoscopy preparation.

METHODS: This was a single-center, prospective, randomized, investigator-blinded, non-inferiority study involving 252 patients of both sexes, aged from 20 to 80 years, scheduled for screening or diagnostic colonoscopy in our department. A total of 126 patients was randomized to receive 1.5 L PEG-electrolyte solution plus 15 mg of mosapride (1.5 L group), and 126 received 2 L PEG-electrolyte solution plus 15 mg of mosapride (2 L group). Patients completed a questionnaire on the acceptability and tolerability of the bowel preparation process. The efficacy of bowel preparation was assessed using a 5-point scale based on the Aronchick scale. The primary end point was adequate bowel preparation rates (score of excellent/good/fair) vs (poor/inadequate). Acceptability and tolerability, as well as disease detection, were secondary end points.

RESULTS: A total of 244 patients was included in the analysis. There were no significant differences between the 2 L and 1.5 L groups in age, sex, body mass index, number of previous colonoscopies, and the preparation method used previously. The adequate bowel preparation rates were 88.5% in the 2 L group and 82.8% in the 1.5 L group [95% lower confidence limit (LCL) for the difference = -14.5%, non-inferiority P = 0.019] in the right colon. In the left colon, the adequate bowel preparation rates were 89.3% in the 2 L group and 81.1% in the 1.5 L group (95% LCL = -17.0%, non-inferiority P = 0.066). Compliance, defined as complete (100%) intake of the PEG solution, was significantly higher in the 1.5 L group than in the 2 L group (96.8% vs 85.7%, P = 0.002). The proportion of abdominal distension (none/mild/moderate/severe) was significantly lower in the 1.5 L group than in the 2 L group (36/65/22/3 vs 58/48/18/2, P = 0.040). Within the subgroup who had undergone colonoscopy previously, a significantly higher number of patients in the 1.5 L group than in the 2 L group felt that the current preparation was easier than the previous one (54.1% vs 28.0%, P = 0.001). The disease detection rate was not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION: Although the 1.5 L group had better acceptability and tolerability, 15 mg of mosapride may be insufficient to compensate for a 0.5-L reduction of PEG solution.

Pilot study on efficacy of reduced cathartic bowel preparation with polyethylene glycol and bisacodyl

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of reduced cathartic bowel preparation with 2 L polyethylene glycol (PEG)-4000 electrolyte solution and 10 mg bisacodyl enteric-coated tablets for computed tomographic colonography (CTC).

METHODS: Sixty subjects who gave informed consent were randomly assigned to study group A, study group B or the control group. On the day prior to CTC, subjects in study group A were given 20 mL 40% wt/vol barium sulfate suspension before 3 mealtimes, 60 mL 60% diatrizoate meglumine diluted in 250 mL water after supper, and 10 mg bisacodyl enteric-coated tablets 1 h before oral administration of 2 L PEG-4000 electrolyte solution. Subjects in study group B were treated identically to those in study group A, with the exception of bisacodyl which was given 1 h after oral PEG-4000. Subjects in the control group were managed using the same strategy as the subjects in study group A, but without administration of bisacodyl. Residual stool and fluid scores, the attenuation value of residual fluid, and discomfort during bowel preparation in the three groups were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS: The mean scores for residual stool and fluid in study group A were lower than those in study group B, but the differences were not statistically significant. Subjects in study group A showed greater stool and fluid cleansing ability than the subjects in study group B. The mean scores for residual stool and fluid in study groups A and B were lower than those in the control group, and were significantly different. There was no significant difference in the mean attenuation value of residual fluid between study group A, study group B and the control group. The total discomfort index during bowel preparation was 46, 45 and 45 in the three groups, respectively, with no significant difference.

CONCLUSION: Administration of 10 mg bisacodyl enteric-coated tablets prior to or after oral administration of 2 L PEG-4000 electrolyte solution enhances stool and fluid cleansing ability, and has no impact on the attenuation value of residual fluid or the discomfort index. The former is an excellent alternative for CTC colorectum cleansing

A pilot study using reduced-volume oral sulfate solution as a preparation for colonoscopy among a Japanese population

BACKGROUND

This pilot study sought to investigate the performance and safety of a reduced-volume oral sulfate solution for use as a bowel-cleansing regimen prior to colonoscopy in a Japanese population.

METHODS

Subjects followed a prescribed split-dose regimen in which the first portion was taken on the evening before colonoscopy and the second portion on the morning of the procedure. To determine the performance of this regimen, the quality of colon cleansing was assessed in each case using a validated four-point scale, and elapsed time to complete the preparation was recorded. Side effects and adverse events were investigated by blood sampling and questionnaire.

RESULTS

The successful preparation rate based on the colon-cleansing score was 97 % (30/31). Mean elapsed time to complete the preparation on the day of colonoscopy was 71 min. Serum levels of indirect bilirubin were significantly increased to abnormal levels following the preparation, although these changes were only transient. Preparation-related symptoms of nausea and vomiting were presented in only one case.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study showed the oral sulfate solution-based bowel preparation to be safe, easy, and quick to use for Japanese patients. A larger study is necessary to statistically verify these results.

[Calcified]

A 73-year-old woman was referred due to an acute and progressive worsening of a previously mildly impaired kidney function of unknown origin. The kidney biopsy showed a phosphate nephropathy. We identified Colophos®, a phosphate-containing purgative as the causing agent, which the patient had received for bowel cleansing for a colonoscopy one day before the detection of the acute kidney failure. During the following months the kidney function initially declined further and then improved. Most cases of phosphate nephropathy are associated with the ingestion of phosphate-containing purgatives. Persons at risk are women, elderly persons, patients with impaired kidney function, hypertension, and dehydration. The consequence is sometimes an irreversible tubulointerstitial injury that can lead to end-stage renal disease in a minority of the cases.

[Clinical analysis of drug-induced Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome: a report of five cases]

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the clinical characteristics and outcomes of Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome and explore its pathogenesis.

METHODS

The clinical data of 5 cases of Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome at our ward from May 2008 to December 2010 was analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

All patients were female. Long-term regimen of purgative or diuretics was prescribed. The clinical features included normotension, hypokalemic alkalosis and activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone. The pathological results of 3 cases of kidney biopsy showed the hyperplasia of juxtaglomerular apparatus, thickness of arteriole, infiltration of lymphocytes and monocytes and degeneration of renal tubule. Upon a definitive diagnosis, purgative or diuretics was discontinued and supplement therapy of potassium chloride initiated. The results of laboratory tests reverted to normal ranges within 4 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Purgative or diuretics should be prescribed appropriately to avoid the occurrence of Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome.

[Acute phosphate nephropathy as a complication to bowel cleansing with oral sodium phosphate]

Acute phosphate nephropathy (APhN) has recently been identified as a reason for acute and subsequently chronic renal failure, following exposure to the oral sodium phosphate bowel purgatives. Renal biopsies show acute and chronic tubular injury with calcium phosphate deposits. A case of biopsy-proven APhN is described. The choice of bowel purgatives should be individualised with respect to the risk factors for development of APhN.

[Phosphate nephropathy: how to avoid it?]

Colonoscopy is a commonly used procedure for colon cancer screening. The ideal bowel preparation for a good visualization of the colonic mucosa would be effective and well tolerated. Sodium phosphate (NaP) and polyethylen glycol (PEG) are the two most frequently used solutions in this indication. However, although NaP has been described as more effective and better tolerated, it can cause severe acute electrolytes disturbances and, in rare cases, lead to irreversible renal failure, called phosphate nephropathy. NaP should therefore be prescribed with caution and be formally banned for patients with risk factors.

Efficacy and tolerability of split-dose PEG compared with split-dose aqueous sodium phosphate for outpatient colonoscopy: a randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Adequate bowel cleansing is essential for a high-quality, effective, and safe colonoscopy. The aims of this study were to compare the efficacy and tolerability of split-dose polyethylene glycol with aqueous sodium phosphate for outpatients who underwent scheduled colonoscopy.

METHODS

In this prospective trial, 207 outpatients (aged between 18 and 65 years, with normal renal function, at low risk for renal damage) were randomized to receive split-dose preparation of PEG (2 L/2 L) (N = 103) or NaP (45 mL/45 mL, 12 h apart) (N = 104) without strict diet restriction the day before colonoscopy. The bowel cleansing efficacy of preparations was rated according to the Ottawa scale and the patient tolerability was assessed using a patient questionnaire.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the two groups for the mean total score using the Ottawa bowel preparation scale (P = 0.181). Significantly greater residual colonic fluid was observed in the split-dose PEG group (1.24 ± 0.49) than in the NaP group (1.04 ± 0.53) (P = 0.007). Patient compliance, preference, and acceptance of a two preparation regimen were similar with no significant differences (P = 0.095, P = 0.280 and P = 0.408, respectively). The overall incidence of adverse events was not significantly different between the two groups; however, the split-dose PEG group tended to have fewer adverse events (52/103 [50.5%], 66/104 [63.5%], P = 0.059) and had significantly less nausea and vomiting (P = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

Split-dose PEG, compared with split-dose NaP, is associated with more residual colonic fluid, but produces equivalent colon cleansing efficacy and results in less nausea and vomiting, which might improve patient tolerability (clinical trial registration number NCT01229800).

Clinical observation on the effect of dexamethasone and Chinese herbal decoction for purgation in severe acute pancreatitis patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of dexamethasone (Dx) combined with modified Dachengqi Decoction (DCQD), a Chinese herbal decoction for purgation, on patients with severe acute on patients with severe acute, a Chinese herbal decoction for purgation, on patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) accompanied with systematic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).

METHODS

A total of 81 patients diagnosed as SAP were randomly assigned to a control group or treatment group according to a random number table generated from an SPSS software. The patients in the control group (38 cases) received standard treatment and Chinese herbal decoction for purgation; those in the treatment group (43 cases) received additional 1 mg/(kg·d) dexamethasone (Dx) treatment for three days based on the above treatment. The mortality rate, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), renal failure, hemorrhage, sepsis, pancreatic pseudocyst, pancreatic abscess, operability, and days of hospitalization were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Three patients in the control group and eight patients in the treatment group dropped out from the study with a drop-out rate of 7.8% and 18.6%, respectively, and no statistics difference was shown between the two groups (P>0.05). Dx treatment significantly reduced ARDS rate and shortened the length of hospitalization compared to those in the control group (7/35, 20.0% versus 15/35, 42.9%, P=0.0394; 32.5±13.2 days versus 40.2±17.5 days, P=0.0344). Other parameters including the mortality rate were not significant different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Dx combined with DCQD could decrease the risk of developing ARDS in SAP patients with SIRS and shorten their length of hospitalization.

Acute kidney injury after use of oral Fleet Phospho Soda as bowel preparation for colonoscopy

We present a case of a 64-year old woman who developed acute kidney injury (AKI) finally resulting in stage 4 chronic kidney disease after ingestion of a high phosphate containing solution (oral Fleet Phospho Soda) as bowel cleansing for colonoscopy.

Effectiveness and tolerability of amidotrizoate for the treatment of constipation resistant to laxatives in advanced cancer patients

CONTEXT

Constipation is a common problem for advanced cancer patients, and is generally inadequately treated.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of amidotrizoate (AM) in patients unresponsive to current laxatives.

METHODS

A consecutive sample of advanced cancer patients was surveyed. Inclusion criteria were no bowel movements for three days despite receiving regular doses of senna or lactulose. AM 50 mL was administered orally; the dose could be repeated the day after, based on clinical judgment and/or patients' preference. Age, sex, primary tumor, previous abdominal surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy performed in the previous month, and the use of opioids were recorded. Nausea, the presence of early satiety, and fluid and food intake also were measured. Time to first bowel movement was recorded, and adverse effects attributable to AM.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients were surveyed (36 women/63 men). The mean age was 65.7 years (SD±12.2) and the mean Karnofsky score was 46.8 (SD±9.4). Patients had no bowel movement for a mean of four days (SD±1.8, range 3-15 days). A total of 80.8% of patients were receiving opioids in doses of mean daily oral morphine equivalents of 164 mg (SD±235). After AM administration (mean 9.9±6.5 hours), 44.4% of patients had a bowel movement within 24 hours. This effect was associated with significant improvement of other symptoms and was independent of age (P=0.513), gender (P=0.090), Karnofsky status (P=0.979), days of constipation (P=0.198), concomitant chemotherapy (P=0.098) or radiotherapy (P=0.414), the use of opioids (P=0.361), opioid doses (P=0.420), and primary tumor (P=0.231). The treatment was more effective in patients who had previous abdominal surgery (HR=3.33).

CONCLUSION

AM was found to be an easy and inexpensive breakthrough medication to induce a bowel movement in about 45% of advanced cancer patients not responsive to common laxatives, with limited and acceptable adverse effects.

Laxatives or methylnaltrexone for the management of constipation in palliative care patients

BACKGROUND

Constipation is common in palliative care; it can generate considerable suffering due to the unpleasant physical symptoms. In the first Cochrane Review on effectiveness of laxatives for the management of constipation in palliative care patients, published in 2006, no conclusions could be drawn because of the limited number of evaluations. This article describes the first update of this review.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of laxatives or methylnaltrexone for the management of constipation in palliative care patients.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched databases including MEDLINE and CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library) in 2005 and in the update to August 2010.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating laxatives for constipation in palliative care patients. In the update we also included RCTs on subcutaneous methylnaltrexone; an opioid-receptor antagonist that is now licensed for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation in palliative care when response to usual laxative therapy is insufficient.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors assessed trial quality and extracted data. The appropriateness of combining data from the studies depended upon clinical and outcome measure homogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

We included seven studies involving 616 participants; all under-reported methodological features. In four studies the laxatives lactulose, senna, co-danthramer, misrakasneham, and magnesium hydroxide with liquid paraffin were evaluated. In three methylnaltrexone.In studies comparing the different laxatives evidence was inconclusive. Evidence on subcutaneous methylnaltrexone was clearer; in combined analysis (287 participants) methylnaltrexone, in comparison with a placebo, significantly induced laxation at 4 hours (odds ratio 6.95; 95% confidence interval 3.83 to 12.61). In combined analyses there was no difference in the proportion experiencing side effects, although participants on methylnaltrexone suffered more flatulence and dizziness. No evidence of opioid withdrawal was found. In one study severe adverse events, commonly abdominal pain, were reported that were possibly related to methylnaltrexone. A serious adverse event considered to be related to the methylnaltrexone also occurred; this involved a participant having severe diarrhoea, subsequent dehydration and cardiovascular collapse.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The 2010 update found evidence on laxatives for management of constipation remains limited due to insufficient RCTs. However, the conclusions of this update have changed since the original review publication in that it now includes evidence on methylnaltrexone. Here it found that subcutaneous methylnaltrexone is effective in inducing laxation in palliative care patients with opioid-induced constipation and where conventional laxatives have failed. However, the safety of this product is not fully evaluated. Large, rigorous, independent trials are needed.

A bulking agent may lead to adrenal insufficiency crisis: a case report

Adrenal insufficiency is a life-threatening disorder which must be treated with glucocorticoid replacement and needs permanent dose adjustment during patient's different somatic situations. Insufficient glucocorticoid doses result in adrenal crisis and must be treated with intravenous hydrocortisone. The patient was known with Adrenal insufficiency and was treated optimally with fludrocortisone and prednisolone since seven years with no history of adrenal crisis. The patient was admitted with abdominal pain, weakness, fatigue and nausea developed 3-4 days after taking psyllium, a bulking agent, prescribed by a surgeon to diagnose anal fissure. Detailed medical history, physical examinations, laboratory and imaging examinations did not approve any other cause of adrenal crisis. Psyllium may interfere with gastrointestinal absorption of prednisolone and/or fludrocortisone and trigger acute adrenal crisis in patients with adrenal insufficiency.

Incidence and outcome of acute phosphate nephropathy in Iceland

BACKGROUND

Oral sodium phosphate solutions (OSPS) are widely used for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy and other procedures. Cases of renal failure due to acute phosphate nephropathy following OSPS ingestion have been documented in recent years, questioning the safety of OSPS. However, the magnitude of the problem remains unknown.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We conducted a population based, retrospective analysis of medical records and biopsies of all cases of acute phosphate nephropathy that were diagnosed in our country in the period from January 2005 to October 2008. Utilizing the complete official sales figures of OSPS, we calculated the incidence of acute phosphate nephropathy in our country. Fifteen cases of acute phosphate nephropathy were diagnosed per 17,651 sold doses of OSPS (0.085%). Nine (60%) were women and mean age 69 years (range 56-75 years). Thirteen patients had a history of hypertension (87%) all of whom were treated with either ACE-I or ARB and/or diuretics. One patient had underlying DM type I and an active colitis and one patient had no risk factor for the development of acute phosphate nephropathy. Average baseline creatinine was 81.7 µmol/L and 180.1 at the discovery of acute renal failure, mean 4.2 months after OSPS ingestion. No patient had a full recovery of renal function, and at the end of follow-up, 26.6 months after the OSPS ingestion, the average creatinine was 184.2 µmol/L. The average eGFR declined from 73.5 ml/min/1.73 m(2) at baseline to 37.3 ml/min/1.73 m(2) at the end of follow-up. One patient reached end-stage renal disease and one patient died with progressive renal failure.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE

Acute phosphate nephropathy developed in almost one out of thousand sold doses of OSPS. The consequences for kidney function were detrimental. This information can be used in other populations to estimate the impact of OSPS. Our data suggest that acute phosphate nephropathy may be greatly underreported worldwide.

[Modest risk of phosphate nephropathy by bowel cleansing]

Acute phosphate nephropathy is a rare, but serious adverse event associated with the use of sodium phosphate for bowel cleansing. It may lead to permanent renal impairment and a need for dialysis. The aetiology is hyperphosphataemia caused by intestinal absorption of the cleanser. Risk factors include: advanced age, existing kidney disease, decreased intravascular volume, and medications affecting renal perfusion or function such as diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and possibly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Damned if you do, damned if you don't: potassium binding resins in hyperkalemia

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) potassium binding resins increase colonic potassium excretion and are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of hyperkalemia. In 2009, the FDA recommended that sorbitol, a cathartic often given with SPS to prevent obstipation, not be added to SPS powder because of associated colonic necrosis. A premixed oral suspension of SPS in 33% sorbitol was not included in this warning. SPS resins increase stool potassium excretion in normokalemic subjects, but proportionately more potassium is excreted due to cathartics when the two are combined. In hyperkalemic patients, oral SPS mixed in water significantly decreases serum potassium within 24 hours. SPS/sorbitol-associated colonic necrosis is most commonly seen in patients who have received enemas in the setting of recent abdominal surgery, bowel injury, or intestinal dysfunction. It is a rare event, on the order of 0.2 to 0.3%, almost exclusively present in patients at risk. The agent most likely associated with colonic necrosis is 70% sorbitol, and animal data support that etiology. There is very little data to suggest that oral SPS given with 33% sorbitol (in the premixed form) or SPS powder in water orally or as an enema causes colonic necrosis. SPS ion-exchange resins are the only agents, other than dialysis and diuretics, available to increase potassium excretion in hyperkalemia, and when used appropriately, they appear to be clinically effective and reasonably safe.

[New drugs for the treatment of constipation]

This review introduces new therapeutic options in the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Therefore, prucalopride and lubiprostone are discussed including their mechanisms and side effects. In addition, other substances that are currently under evaluation such as renzapride and linaclotide are described, since recent results showed a significant effect in patients with constipation. Thus, after the withdrawal of tegaserod due to cardiac side effects, new potent drugs are now available for the treatment of constipation.

Sudden hypotensive syncope and significant iatrogenic maxillofacial trauma following administration of oral sodium phosphate purgative solution

Oral sodium phosphate (NaP) solution is used globally as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy, surgery and medical-imaging (Balaban 2008). We present a case of a patient who suffered sudden hypotensive syncope and iatrogenic mandibular fractures within an hour of ingesting a NaP solution. We discuss the uses of these medicines and highlight the need to warn patients of possible adverse side effects to avoid patient harm and subsequent litigation.

[Is the preparation with sodium phosphate purgative for bowel cleansing safe in low-risk patients?]

The development of colonoscopy has increased the oral sodium phosphate (OSP) laxative use. OSP complications like hyperphosphatemia with acute and chronic kidney impairment with nephrocalcinosis have been reported.

OBJECTIVE

To describe and analyze acute and one year after OSP complications in low risk well hydrated patients.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study in 100 consecutive patients undergoing colonic cleansing with OSP for colonoscopy aged 35-74 year, ASA I-II. Exclusion criteria were congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, liver cirrhosis, intestinal obstruction, decreased bowel motility, increased bowel permeability, hyperparathyroidism. Arterial pressure, hematocrit, serum osmolality, serum phosphate, ionic calcium, electrolytes (Na+, Cl-, K+), creatinine and urea were measured before and after OSP. The day before colonoscopy all the participants entered a 24 hr-period diet consisting in 4 litres of clear fluids and standard OSP dose (30 g at 17:00 and 30 gr at 22:00). Phosphatemia levels post OSP according to patient's weight (> or =, < or = 70 kg) and one year later kidney function were compared.

RESULTS

Mean age was 58.9 +/- 8.4 years, 66% of patients were women and mean weight was 71 +/- 13 kg. Kidney function showed no significant difference between pre and post OSP, and after one year values. Hyperphosphatemia appeared in 87%. Hyperphosphatemia was higher in patients with low weight (5.8 mg/dl vs 5.3 mg/dl, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

OSP complications were reduced through an adequate patient selection in order to avoid risk factors and an effective hydration. Phosphate overload was tolerated without symptoms. Considering high hyperphosphatemia incidence and its relation with weight, to adjust dose related to weight should be evaluated. There was no acute or a year later renal damage.

Hyperphosphatemia after sodium phosphate laxatives in low risk patients: prospective study

AIM

To establish the frequency of hyperphosphatemia following the administration of sodium phosphate laxatives in low-risk patients.

METHODS

One hundred consecutive ASA I-II individuals aged 35-74 years, who were undergoing colonic cleansing with oral sodium phosphate (OSP) before colonoscopy were recruited for this prospective study.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, liver cirrhosis, intestinal obstruction, decreased bowel motility, increased bowel permeability, and hyperparathyroidism. The day before colonoscopy, all the participants entered a 24-h period of diet that consisted of 4 L of clear fluids with sugar or honey and 90 mL (60 g) of OSP in two 45-mL doses, 5 h apart. Serum phosphate was measured before and after the administration of the laxative.

RESULTS

The main demographic data (mean +/- SD) were: age, 58.9 +/- 8.4 years; height, 163.8 +/- 8.6 cm; weight, 71 +/- 13 kg; body mass index, 26 +/- 4; women, 66%. Serum phosphate increased from 3.74 +/- 0.56 to 5.58 +/- 1.1 mg/dL, which surpassed the normal value (2.5-4.5 mg/dL) in 87% of the patients. The highest serum phosphate was 9.6 mg/dL. Urea and creatinine remained within normal limits. Post-treatment OSP serum phosphate concentration correlated inversely with glomerular filtration rate (P < 0.007, R(2) = 0.0755), total body water (P < 0.001, R(2) = 0.156) and weight (P < 0.013, R(2) = 0.0635).

CONCLUSION

In low-risk, well-hydrated patients, the standard dose of OSP-laxative-induced hyperphosphatemia is related to body weight.

[Toxic hepatitis following consumption of the herbal medicinal product Cascara Sagrada]

Herbal medicinal products can cause toxic hepatitis. This case report presents a patient who developed severe toxic hepatitis with beginning liver failure following four weeks of consumption of the herbal medicinal product Cascara Sagrada. A similar case was reported from the United States. Cascara Sagrada is found in 30-40 herbal medicinal products in Denmark. We recommend that herbal medicinal products containing Cascara Sagrada be withdrawn from the market.

Different Effect of Psyllium and Guar Dietary Supplementation on Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Overweight Patients: A Six-Month, Randomized Clinical Trial

In the setting of a six-month, open-label clinical trial, 141 consecutively enrolled, hypertensive, overweight patients were randomized to the oral ingestion of psyllium powder or guar gum 3.5 gr t.i.d., to be taken 20 min before the main two meals, or to standard diet. Both fibers improved significantly BMI, FPG, FPI, HOMA Index, HbA1c, LDL-C, and ApoB. Psyllium supplementation only exerted a significant improvement in plasma TG concentration, in SBP and DBP. In our study, six-month supplementation with psyllium fiber, but not with guar fiber nor standard diet, appears to significantly reduce both SBP and DBP in hypertensive overweight subjects.

Update on pancreatic polypeptide as a specific marker for endocrine tumours of the pancreas and gut

Serum levels of pancreatic polypeptide (PP) were determined in 31 patients with endocrine tumours, localized in the pancreas (n = 16), small intestine (n = 13) and respiratory tract (n = 2). Two further patients with laxative abuse were investigated. Elevated serum levels in the peripheral circulation were noted in 56% of the patients with pancreatic tumours, in 60% of those with gut or bronchial tumours and in both patients with laxative abuse. Our study suggests that the elevated PP concentrations found in connection with endocrine gastrointestinal tumours originate from non-tumour pancreatic PP cells and only occasionally from the tumour. PP is a valuable tumour marker for endocrine gastrointestinal tumours, although it is not specific for pancreatic tumours. Certain inflammatory diseases, renal function and consumption of laxatives must be considered when evaluating elevated PP levels. Serum PP seems to be of limited value for evaluating the response to cytotoxic therapy.

[Acute hyperphosphatemia in a dialysis patient after administration of sodium phosphate]

We describe a case of severe hyperphosphatemia due to phosphate-based enema for the preparation of coloscopy. A 39-year-old man with end-stage renal failure was admitted with bloody diarrhoea. After administration of a phosphate-based enema, he was seized with general convulsions due to severe hyperphosphatemia and subsequent hypocalcaemia. The patient recovered after daily dialysis and administration of intravenous calcium. The case demonstrates the need to avoid using phosphate-based laxatives in patients with impaired renal function.

The top 10 things nephrologists wish every primary care physician knew

Renal disease is commonly encountered by primary care physicians during their day-to-day visits with patients. Common renal disorders include hypertension, proteinuria, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease. Despite their prevalence, many physicians may be unfamiliar with the diagnosis and initial treatment of these common renal disorders. Early recognition and intervention are important in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease and preventing its complications. The evidence-based pearls in this article will help primary care physicians avoid common pitfalls in the recognition and treatment of such disorders and guide their decision to refer their patients to a specialist.

The top 10 things nephrologists wish every primary care physician knew

Renal disease is commonly encountered by primary care physicians during their day-to-day visits with patients. Common renal disorders include hypertension, proteinuria, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease. Despite their prevalence, many physicians may be unfamiliar with the diagnosis and initial treatment of these common renal disorders. Early recognition and intervention are important in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease and preventing its complications. The evidence-based pearls in this article will help primary care physicians avoid common pitfalls in the recognition and treatment of such disorders and guide their decision to refer their patients to a specialist.

Prospective, randomized comparison of castor oil and sodium phosphate preparation for barium enema

OBJECTIVE

To compare castor oil and sodium phosphate preparation (Swiff) in patients' satisfaction, efficacy for colon cleanness, side effects, and prices.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

One hundred patients referred for barium enema were randomized to receive castor oil (n = 50) and sodium phosphate preparation (n = 50). They graded their satisfaction using a 5-point scale (easy, acceptable, slightly difficult, extremely difficult, and unacceptable). The efficacy for colon cleanness was graded by two radiologists using a 5-point scale (excellent, easy for evaluation, acceptable, difficult for evaluation, and unacceptable). Side effects were evaluated by patients' vital signs, total number of bowel frequency, and 10 associated symptoms.

RESULTS

Both preparations revealed no difference in patients' satisfaction (p = 0.882) and efficacy of colon cleanness (p = 0.130). Sodium phosphate preparation was more expensive (79 vs. 10 Baht) and caused higher number of bowel frequency (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

With a cheaper price, castor oil was comparable with sodium phosphate preparation in patients' satisfaction and efficacy of colon cleanness.

Renal failure due to acute phosphate nephropathy

Case report of a 62-year-old woman who developed acute renal failure due to nephrocalcinosis, also called acute phosphate nephropathy, after large bowel cleansing in preparation for colonoscopy using oral sodium phosphate solution (Phosphoral, de Witt, Cheshire, UK). Subsequently her renal insufficiency resolved only partially resulting in stage 4 chronic kidney disease. In retrospect multiple risk factors for this condition (hypertension, diuretics, AT-II receptor blocker, female gender, advanced age and volume depleting due to vomiting and nausea) were identified. If these factors had been taken into consideration prior to prescribing this drug, acute and chronic renal failure would have been prevented. Future investigation of potential risk factors and the exact mechanism of this complication is necessary to identify those patients prone to develop this complication. In the meantime prescribing physicians should be made aware of this complication. On the basis of the current state of knowledge the evidence seems to be quite compelling not to prescribe these drugs in patients with one or more associated risk factors. It could even be argued that these drugs should not be prescribed at all.

Esophageal obstruction from a hygroscopic pharmacobezoar containing glucomannan

Glucomannan is a dietary fiber that is the main polysaccharide obtained from the tubers of the Amorphophallus konjac plant. It has been used as a dietary fiber for more than 1,000 years in eastern cultures, and has gained popularity in many western countries over the last 20 years. This soluble fiber has very substantial water-holding properties, and forms highly viscous solutions when dissolved in water. It also has considerable hygroscopic properties, expanding rapidly to many times the size of the original material. These properties have made glucomannan an ideal diet agent as the material swells in the GI tract after ingestion, producing a feeling of satiety and fullness. It has also been reported to have hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, hypoinsulinemic and anti-constipatory effects. The negative effects reported include flatulence, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal obstruction, and possible modification of the bioavailability of other medications. This report describes a 37-year-old female who developed delayed esophageal obstruction after ingesting an over-the-counter diet aid containing glucomannan. The patient ultimately cleared the obstruction through forceful emesis, just prior to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The patient was noted to have an esophageal web during outpatient endoscopy. This case illustrates the potential dangers of glucomannan and other hygroscopic medications in patients with a history of upper gastrointestinal pathology.