Clinicopathological features of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug-induced small intestinal strictures

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug induced intestinal stricturing: diaphragm disease

Diaphragm disease (DD) is a rare small bowel enteropathy associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. Since the first description there have only been approximately 100 cases of DD reported in the literature. Stricturing webs or 'diaphragms' form in the bowel, causing non-specific abdominal symptoms that can ultimately lead to bleeding and obstruction. Diagnosis is notoriously challenging as there is no single gold standard investigation. We present two cases of DD both of which were ultimately diagnosed by surgical resection. We also propose a novel flow algorithm that can be utilized for working up patients with suspected DD.

Gut Microbiota in NSAID Enteropathy: New Insights From Inside

As a class of the commonly used drugs in clinical practice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause a series of adverse events including gastrointestinal injuries. Besides upper gastrointestinal injuries, NSAID enteropathy also attracts attention with the introduction of capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy. However, the pathogenesis of NSAID enteropathy remains to be entirely clarified. Growing evidence from basic and clinical studies presents that gut microbiota is a critical factor in NSAID enteropathy progress. We have reviewed the recent data about the interplay between gut microbiota dysbiosis and NSAID enteropathy. The chronic medication of NSAIDs could change the composition of the intestinal bacteria and aggravate bile acids cytotoxicity. Meanwhile, NSAIDs impair the intestinal barrier by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and destroying mitochondria. Subsequently, intestinal bacteria translocate into the mucosa, and then lipopolysaccharide released from gut microbiota combines to Toll-like receptor 4 and induce excessive production of nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Intestinal injuries present in the condition of intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress. In this paper, we also have reviewed the possible strategies of regulating gut microbiota for the management of NSAID enteropathy, including antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, mucosal protective agents, and fecal microbiota transplant, and we emphasized the adverse effects of proton pump inhibitors on NSAID enteropathy. Therefore, this review will provide new insights into a better understanding of gut microbiota in NSAID enteropathy.

Teprenone ameliorates diclofenac-induced small intestinal injury via inhibiting protease activated receptors 1 and 2 activity

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate specific protein expression of injured intestinal mucosa induced by diclofenac, and explore the protective effects of teprenone on it.

METHODS

Intestinal damage of Sprague Dawley male rats was gradually induced by the intragastric administration of diclofenac. After the last drug administration, the intestinal mucosa was taken off with an interval of 24 h, subsequently, its general histological injury and ultrastructure were observed and analysed by a transmission electron microscope. The expression levels of PAR1 and PAR2 protein were detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

The Reuter and Chiu scores of small intestinal damage were 5.63 ± 1.30 and 4.25 ± 0.70 respectively in the model group, which could be protected by teprenone (100 mg/kg⋅day) with the degree of 55.7% and 44%. Optical microscopy and transmission electron microscope showed that intestinal mucosa and ultrastructure were severely damaged. Distributed in the cytoplasm or aligned with the nucleus, the expression of PAR1 and PAR2 was significantly upregulated after the administration of diclofenac, while it was relieved after the treatment of teprenone.

CONCLUSION

Our study presents a new view that teprenone might protect NSAIDs-induced (diclofenac) intestinal injury via suppressing the expression of PAR1 and PAR2.

Benign Duodenal Stricture Treated with Surgical Correction and Dietary Therapy in a Golden Retriever

A benign duodenal stricture is a well-documented condition of humans that has not been characterized in dogs. In this case report, the clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, endoscopic, surgical, and histopathologic findings of a single benign duodenal stricture in a Golden Retriever are reported. Definitive diagnosis was made possible with the utilization of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Surgical correction of the stricture, paired with dietary therapy that utilized a highly digestible diet, resolved the clinical signs in the case reported. Several inciting causes were identified as possible drivers of stricture formation, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) administration, mucosal ulceration, traumatic injury, or inflammatory intestinal disease. A benign duodenal stricture should be considered an infrequent cause of intermittent, chronic gastrointestinal signs that may have a favorable outcome via surgical correction and dietary management.

Berberine ameliorates non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-induced intestinal injury by the repair of enteric nervous system

The study was to detect the role of GDNF, PGP9.5 (a neuronal marker), and GFAP (EGCs' marker) in the mechanism of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) related to intestinal injury and to clarify the protective effect of berberine in the treatment of NSAID-induced small intestinal disease. Forty male SD rats were divided randomly into five groups (A-E): Group A: control group; Group B: model group received diclofenac sodium 7.5 mg/(kg*day) for 5 days; Group C-E: berberine low, medium and high dose groups were treated by 7.5 mg/(kg*day) diclofenac sodium for 5 days then received berberine 25 mg/(kg*day), 50 mg/(kg*day), and 75 mg/(kg*day), respectively, between the sixth and eighth day. Intestinal mucosa was taken on the ninth day to observe the general, histological injuries, and to measure the intestinal epithelial thickness. Then, immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expression of PGP9.5 and GFAP, and Western blot was performed to detect GDNF expression. The histological score and the general score in the model group were, respectively, 5.75 ± 1.04 and 4.83 ± 0.92. Scores in berberine medium and high berberine group were lower compared with the model group (P < 0.05). The intestinal epithelial thickness in the model group was lower than in the control group and the berberine groups (P < 0.05). PGP9.5, GFAP, and GDNF content in the model group and the three berberine groups were significantly lower than in the control groups (P < 0.05). PGP9.5, GFAP, and GDNF content in the control group and the three berberine groups were higher compared with the model groups (P < 0.05). Berberine can protect the intestinal mucosa of NSAID users, and the mechanism is associated with the reparation of the enteric nervous system via upregulating the expression of PGP9.5, GFAP, and GDNF.

Clinical Use of Patency Capsule: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

The patency capsule is a radiopaque, dissolvable diagnostic tool, similar in shape and size to small bowel capsule endoscopes. It was developed to offer a simple, safe, efficient, and accurate evaluation of small bowel functional patency. Although unable to provide direct visual information regarding the presence and location of strictures, masses, or luminal narrowing of the small bowel, a successful patency test minimizes the risk of retention and allows the safe administration of a capsule endoscope. However, its use entails a low risk of potentially harmful adverse events, which in their majority are indolent and resolve spontaneously. Abdominal pain and symptomatic retention are accountable for the majority of reported adverse events, whereas a limited number of reports describe life-threatening complications, namely intestinal obstruction, perforation, and intestinal ischemia. Computed tomography is the modality of choice for the identification of the exact position of an impacted patency capsule, whilst the use of plain abdominal radiographs should be avoided for the evaluation of the patency capsule position, as they provide false information. Hereby, we present a comprehensive review of the available literature regarding the characteristics, indications, clinical use, effectiveness, and adverse events of the patency capsule.10.1093/ibd/izy152_video1izy152.video15777752348001.

What defines quality in small bowel capsule endoscopy

Small bowel capsule endoscopy is considered a first-line diagnostic tool for the investigation of small bowel diseases. Gastroenterological and endoscopic societies have proposed and established measures known as quality indicators, quality measures or performance measures for the majority of endoscopic procedures, in order to ensure competence, healthcare quality and define areas requiring improvement. However, there is a paucity of publications describing small bowel capsule endoscopy quality indicators. Hereby, we attempt to identify and describe a number of pre-procedure, intra-procedure and post-procedure quality indicators, regarding process measures in small bowel capsule endoscopy, after a comprehensive review of the literature.

Severe enteropathy with villous atrophy in prolonged mefenamic acid users - a currently under-recognized in previously well-recognized complication: Case report and review of literature

RATIONALE

Mefenamic acid-induced enteropathy may be an under-recognized condition because few reported cases and no review of literature to comprehensively describe all reported cases exist. From inception until February 2017, a systematic literature search identified twenty original reports of cases of mefenamic acid-induced enteropathy. Additional five cases were identified at our hospital. All cases were included in the analyses.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Most patients had been regularly taking therapeutic dosages of mefenamic acid for at least three months before symptoms developed. All patients presented with chronic diarrhea with significant weight loss. Approximately one-third of the cases had some degree of anemia and hypoalbuminemia.

DIAGNOSES

Endoscopic findings could range from very mild abnormalities, such as mild atrophic mucosa, to marked abnormalities, such as blunted villi with scalloping appearance in the small intestine and inflamed mucosa with a few superficial ulcers in the ileum and colon. Pathological findings included flattened small intestinal villi and mixed inflammatory infiltrates including eosinophils in lamina propria.

INTERVENTION

After identifying history of prolong mefenamic acid exposure, all patients were prescribed to stop this medication. Nutritional support and substitutional treatment for mefenamic acid were provided as well.

OUTCOMES

All symptoms responded dramatically to drug withdrawal. Some patients could change to use other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without symptoms reoccurring.

LESSONS

Unlike other traditional NSAIDs, mefenamic acid could induce intestinal villous atrophy. An adequate drug history is crucial to identifying the condition. Protracted diarrhea occurring during treatment should be the indication to cease the medicine promptly.

Review article: a practical approach to the clinical management of NSAID enteropathy

Co-prescription of acid suppressive therapy, together with advances in small bowel imaging techniques, have shifted the burden of NSAID-related toxicity from gastro-duodenal to more distal small bowel injury. Due to predominantly subclinical disease, NSAID enteropathy remains under-recognised, with an incidence of 53-80% amongst healthy short-term users, and a prevalence of 50-71% following long-term (>3 months) use. Despite their distinct pathogenesis, those at risk of NSAID-related gastro-duodenal and small bowel complications share several risk factors. Clinical complications of NSAID enteropathy such as protein-losing enteropathy, small bowel strictures and diaphragm disease, confer significant morbidity, and are often irreversible. Small bowel prophylaxis has proven of modest efficacy after short-term, high-dose NSAID use in asymptomatic patients. While selective COX-2 inhibitors are associated with fewer gastro-duodenal complications relative to non-selective NSAIDs, their comparative benefit in protecting against small bowel enteropathy remains unclear. Prophylaxis should be considered in those at high risk of small bowel complications, as treatment options for established disease remain limited; however, the optimal agent remains unclear. We propose a clinical algorithm that may help prevent, monitor, investigate, and manage the sequelae of NSAID-induced small bowel toxicity.

Human Intestinal Barrier Function in Health and Disease

The gastrointestinal tract consists of an enormous surface area that is optimized to efficiently absorb nutrients, water, and electrolytes from food. At the same time, it needs to provide a tight barrier against the ingress of harmful substances, and protect against a reaction to omnipresent harmless compounds. A dysfunctional intestinal barrier is associated with various diseases and disorders. In this review, the role of intestinal permeability in common disorders such as infections with intestinal pathogens, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and food allergies will be discussed. In addition, the effect of the frequently prescribed drugs proton pump inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on intestinal permeability, as well as commonly used methods to assess barrier function will be reviewed.

How to Diagnose and Treat IBD Mimics in the Refractory IBD Patient Who Does Not Have IBD

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract and includes both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Patients with IBD often present with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding but may also have a wide variety of other symptoms such as weight loss, fever, nausea, vomiting, and possibly obstruction. Given that the presentation of IBD is not specific, the differential diagnosis is broad and encompasses a wide spectrum of diseases, many of which can mimic and/or even coexist with IBD. It is important for physicians to differentiate symptoms due to refractory IBD from symptoms due to IBD mimics when a patient is not responding to standard IBD treatment. Many of the various IBD mimics include infectious etiologies (viral, bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, protozoal, and helminthic infections), vascular causes, other immune causes including autoimmune etiologies, drug-induced processes, radiation-induced, and other etiologies such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, diverticulitis, and bile acid malabsorption. Thoughtful consideration and evaluation of these potential etiologies through patient history and physical examination, as well as appropriate tests, endoscopic evaluation, and cross-sectional imaging is required to evaluate any patient presenting with symptoms consistent with IBD.

Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies of Gastrointestinal Diaphragm Disease Associated with Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Background. To demonstrate the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug- (NSAID-) induced diaphragm disease (DD). Methods. A literature search between January 1973 and August 2015 was undertaken. The clinical data of patients with NSAID-induced DD were recorded and analyzed. Results. 159 patients were included. The ratio of male to female was 1 : 2.3; the mean age was 65 ± 11 years. The most common clinical manifestations were gastrointestinal bleeding and obstruction. 121 (84%) patients took traditional NSAIDs. The durations of NSAIDs use ranged from 2 to 300 months. A majority (59.7%) of DD were seen in the small bowel, were seen secondly in the colon (30.2%), and were mainly located in the ileum (57.9%) and right colon (91.7%), respectively. 80% of patients had multiple diaphragms. 41.5% of small bowel DD were diagnosed preoperatively by capsule endoscopy and/or double-balloon enteroscopy, 52.1% at laparotomy. Nearly 75% of patients underwent surgery, endoscopic balloon dilation was performed in 22 patients, and NSAIDs were withdrawn in 53 patients. Conclusions. NSAID-induced DD is relatively rare. The small bowel is most commonly involved. Preoperative diagnosis of small bowel DD is relatively difficult. Discontinuation of the NSAIDs is recommended, surgical resection is the main treatment presently, and endoscopic balloon dilation should be considered as an alternative therapy.

Clinical Experience with the PillCam Patency Capsule prior to Video Capsule Endoscopy: A Real-World Experience

Background. In patients with known or suspected risk factors for gastrointestinal stenosis, the PillCam patency capsule (PC) is given before a video capsule endoscopy (VCE) in order to minimize the risk of capsule retention (CR). CR is considered unlikely upon excretion of the PC within 30 hours, excretion in an undamaged state after 30 hours, or radiological projection to the colon. Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis of 38 patients with risk factors for CR, who received a PC from 02/2013 to 04/2015 at Klinikum Augsburg. Results. Sixteen of our 38 patients observed a natural excretion after a mean time of 34 hours past ingestion. However, only 8 patients observed excretion within 30 hours, as recommended by the company. In 20 patients passage of the PC into the colon was shown via RFID-scan or radiological imaging (after 33 and 45 hours, resp.). Only 2 patients showed a pathologic PC result. In consequence, 32 patients received the VCE; no CR was observed. Conclusion. Our data indicates that a VCE could safely be performed even if the PC excretion time is longer than 30 hours and the excreted PC was not screened for damage.

Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Lynch Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Inheritance of a germline mutation in one of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 causes a high risk of colorectal and other cancers (Lynch Syndrome). Use of aspirin has been shown to be associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer for the general population as well as for MMR gene mutation carriers. The aim of this study was to determine whether use of aspirin and ibuprofen in a nontrial setting is associated with the risk of colorectal cancer risk for MMR gene mutation carriers.

METHODS

We included 1858 participants in the Colon Cancer Family Registry who had been found to have a pathogenic germline mutation in a MMR gene (carriers). We used weighted Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical tests were two-sided.

RESULTS

A total of 714 carriers (38%) were diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a mean age of 42.4 (standard deviation 10.6) years. A reduced risk of colorectal cancer was associated with aspirin use (for 1 month to 4.9 years: HR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.90, P = .02; for ≥5 years: HR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.62, P = .003) and ibuprofen use (for 1 month to 4.9 years: HR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.18 to 0.79, P = .009; for ≥5 years: HR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.69, P = .007), compared with less than one month of use.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide additional evidence that, for MMR gene mutation carriers, use of aspirin and ibuprofen might be effective in reducing their high risk of colorectal cancer.

Suppression of contractile activity in the small intestine by indomethacin and omeprazole

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to treat a number of conditions, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are often used to prevent NSAID-induced gastric mucosal damage; however, the effects of NSAIDs on intestinal motility are poorly understood. The purpose of the present study is to determine the effects of a prototypical NSAID, indomethacin, either alone or in conjunction with the PPI omeprazole, on intestinal motility. Rats were randomly divided into four groups treated with vehicle, omeprazole, indomethacin, or a combination of indomethacin and omeprazole. Intestinal motility and transit were measured along with inflammatory mediators in the intestinal smooth muscle, markers of mucosal damage, and bacterial counts in the intestinal wall. Indomethacin, but not omeprazole, caused mucosal injury indicated by lower gut bleeding; however, both omeprazole and indomethacin suppressed contractile activity and frequency in the distal part of the small intestine. Cotreatment with omeprazole did not reduce indomethacin-induced intestinal bleeding. Furthermore, although indomethacin caused increased inflammation as indicated by increased edema development and inflammatory mediators, cotreatment with omeprazole did not reduce inflammation in the intestinal smooth muscle or prevent the increased bacterial count in the intestinal wall induced by indomethacin. We conclude that both NSAID and PPI treatment suppressed contractile activity in the distal regions of the small intestine. The suppression of intestinal contractility was associated with increased inflammation in both cases; however, indomethacin and omeprazole appear to affect intestinal motility by different mechanisms.

Environmental and NSAID-enteropathy: dysbiosis as a common factor

At first sight, environmental enteropathy and NSAID enteropathy may appear to have little in common. One occurs almost exclusively in poor countries and the other primarily in rich countries. One is the consequence of unhygienic living conditions, while the other is a consequence of use of a drug for relief of pain and inflammation. However, there may be a common pathogenic link between these two conditions, namely a significant alteration in the microbiome (dysbiosis), and this raises the possibility of common approaches to treatment. Correction of the dysbiosis that is central to the intestinal tissue injury and dysfunction observed in environmental and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced enteropathies is a logical approach to bringing about restoration of intestinal function. For both conditions, removal of the trigger for dysbiosis is the simplest approach, but is not always feasible. Correcting the underlying dysbiosis through the use of probiotics or prebiotics may be a viable option.

Risk factors of symptomatic NSAID-induced small intestinal injury and diaphragm disease

BACKGROUND

The aetiology for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced small intestinal injuries has not been well characterised.

AIM

To determine the risk factors of symptomatic NSAID-induced small intestinal injuries, including diaphragm disease.

METHODS

Of the 1262 symptomatic patients who underwent videocapsule endoscopy and/or double-balloon enteroscopy, 156 consecutive patients were verified as having taken NSAIDs. Their CYP2C9*2, *3 and *13 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were determined by allelic discrimination with Taqman 5'-nuclease assays.

RESULTS

Of the 156 NSAIDs users, 31 patients (20%) were diagnosed with NSAID-induced small intestinal injury. Multivariate analysis indicated that the presence of comorbidities and the use of oxicams (meloxicam, ampiroxicam and lornoxicam) or diclofenac were associated with an increased risk of NSAID-induced small intestinal injury (adjusted OR: 2.97, 95% CI: 1.05-8.41, P = 0.041 and adjusted OR: 7.05, 95% CI: 2.04-24.40, P = 0.002, respectively). The combination of aspirin and non-aspirin NSAID was more damaging than aspirin alone. Age, sex, concomitant use of proton pump inhibitors, indications for NSAIDs use, duration of NSAIDs use and CYP2C9*2, *3 and *13SNPs were unrelated. The use of meloxicam and CYP2C9*3SNPs were significantly associated with an increased risk for diaphragm disease (adjusted OR: 183.75, 95% CI: 21.34-1582.38; P < 0.0001 and adjusted OR: 12.94, 95% CI: 1.55-108.36, P = 0.018, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The use of specific NSAIDs and the factors interfering with NSAIDs metabolism might associate with small intestinal injury, especially with diaphragm disease.

Irsogladine improves small-intestinal injuries in regular users of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

BACKGROUND

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause a high frequency of mucosal injuries in the small intestine. However, no reliable intervention, other than cessation of NSAIDs, has been established.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether irsogladine maleate reduces these injuries while continuing NSAID therapy.

DESIGN

Prospective, interventional, endoscopist-blinded, randomized, controlled trial (RCT).

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients regularly taking conventional NSAIDs for more than 4 weeks.

INTERVENTIONS

We initially examined small-intestinal mucosal injuries by capsule endoscopy (CE) and screened participants for the RCT. In the RCT, patients with any mucosal injury were randomly assigned to the irsogladine group (4 mg/day) or the control group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The primary endpoint was the rate of mucosal injury improvement after 4 weeks of treatment monitored with a second CE.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients were evaluated with the first CE. Small intestine mucosal injuries were found in 41 patients (67.2%) and erosive or ulcerative lesions in 21 patients (34.4%). The injury prevalence was not different with gastroprotective drug treatment. Of 41 patients enrolled, 39 (19 patients in the irsogladine group and 20 in the control group) completed the study. The improvement rate was significantly higher in the irsogladine group (16/19 patients; 84.2%) than in the control group (9/20 patients; 45.0%; P = .02).

LIMITATIONS

Asymptomatic lesions, single-institution data, and single-blind setting.

CONCLUSION

Irsogladine maleate was effective for reducing NSAID-induced small-intestinal mucosal injury. (University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry number UMIN000001507.).

Drug-induced injury in the gastrointestinal tract

Abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract due to drug-induced injuries are common and often have important clinical consequences. Medications may cause damage by direct corrosive effects on mucosae or by alter processes, mucosal immunity, and local environmental conditions. The aim of this review is to guide practicing pathologists in the identification of drug-related injuries in gastrointestinal mucosal biopsies and resection specimens. Common causes of injury and their gross, endoscopic, and microscopic features are presented.

Cryptogenic multifocal ulcerating stenosing enteritis associated with homozygous deletion mutations in cytosolic phospholipase A2-α

OBJECTIVE

Cryptogenic multifocal ulcerating stenosing enteritis (CMUSE) is an extremely rare, but devastating, disease of unknown aetiology. We investigated the genetic basis of this autosomal recessive condition in a pair of affected siblings who have 40-year histories of catastrophic gastrointestinal and extraintestinal disease.

DESIGN

Genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism homozygosity mapping in the two affected family members combined with whole-exome sequencing of one affected sibling. This was followed by confirmatory Sanger sequencing of the likely disease-causing sequence variant and functional studies in affected and unaffected family members.

RESULTS

Insertion/deletion variation analysis revealed the presence of a homozygous 4 bp deletion (g.155574_77delGTAA) in the PLA2G4A gene, located in the splice donor site directly after exon 17 (the penultimate exon) of the gene in both affected siblings. This introduces a frameshift of 10 amino acids before a premature stop codon (p.V707fsX10), which is predicted to result in the loss of 43 amino acids (residues 707-749) at the C-terminus of cytosolic phospholipase A2-α (cPLA(2)α). cPLA(2)α protein expression was undetectable in the gut of both siblings, with platelet aggregation and thromboxane A(2) production, as functional assays for cPLA(2)α activity, grossly impaired.

CONCLUSIONS

We have identified mutations in PLA2G4A as a cause of CMUSE in two affected siblings. Further studies are needed to determine if mutations in this gene are also responsible for disease of a similar phenotype in other cases.

Gastrointestinal safety of NSAIDs and over-the-counter analgesics

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used. It is well recognised that they may adversely cause damage throughout the gastrointestinal tract and aggravate pre-existing disease. Their side effects on the upper gastrointestinal tract can be assessed by various means; each study type has different clinical connotations. Short-term use (less than 14 days) demonstrates dose-dependent damage of prescribed NSAIDs; the damage is proportional to the acidity of the drugs and not seen with Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective inhibitors that have a pKa over 7.0. There have not been any serious outcomes, such as bleeding or perforation in these studies, and Helicobacter pylori (HP) plays no role in this damage. Long-term (3 months or more) endoscopy studies in patients show ulcer rates from 15%-35% with the various NSAIDs, but serious outcomes are exceedingly rare. Epidemiological studies show an association between NSAID intake and serious events. Ibuprofen is consistently at the lower end of toxicity rankings, whereas ketorolac and azapropazone are the worst. The risk of bleeding is increased with advancing age, presence of HP, previous history of bleeding, anticoagulant use, etc. The mega-trials show that COX-2 selective agents halve the bleeding episodes, but NSAID-induced gastric bleeding is very rare usually, less than 1 in 200 subjects taking them for a year. Seventy percent of patients develop NSAID-enteropathy, which is associated with intestinal blood and protein loss and rarely strictures. Over-the-counter (OTC) use of ibuprofen and diclofenac is associated with symptomatic gastrointestinal side effects comparable with placebo. Ibuprofen is shown to be remarkably well tolerated at OTC doses in a number of studies. There are recent studies to suggest that OTC NSAIDs should be taken on a fasting stomach, not with food as commonly advocated.

The impact of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the small intestinal epithelium

The small intestine has been called as a dark continent of digestive tract and it had been very difficult to diagnose or treat the disease of small intestine. However recent technological development including video capsule endoscopy or balloon-assisted endoscopy has made us to aware the various diseases of small intestine. By using capsule endoscopy, many researchers reported that more than 70% of patients treated continuously with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) exhibit the mucosal damage of small intestine. In some cases, NSAID not only causes mucosal damage but also results in life threatening bleeding from small intestine, which had not been prevented or cured by gastro-protective drug or anti-gastric acid secretion drug administration. Therefore to investigate and identify the effective drug that protects small intestine from mucosal damage is urgently expected. In spite of extensive investigation in clinical field, only a few drugs such as misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin E₁ analogue, has been reported as an effective one but is not satisfactory enough to fulfill the requirement of patients who suffer from NSAID-induced mucosal damage of small intestine. And now, extensive study is being performed using several gastro-mucoprotective drugs by many researchers. In this review, we introduce the current clinical situation in small intestinal injury of patients under NSAID treatment, and to summarize the molecular mechanism by which NSAID, including acetyl salicylic acid, cause small intestinal damage. In addition, we present results of clinical trials performed so far, and refer the possible preventive method or treatment in the near future.

Idiopathic small bowel diaphragm disease identified by laparoscopic-assisted double-balloon enteroscopy in a child: an integrated successful definitive therapeutic method

In adults, small bowel diaphragm disease is a rare complication of small bowel enteropathy secondary to the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. The main clinical manifestations are gastrointestinal bleeding and subacute obstruction, and management can be challenging. We present a case of a 5-year-old girl with small bowel diaphragm disease. To our knowledge, this is the first idiopathic case (no history of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug use) in the pediatric age group. This report describes an integrated successful definitive therapeutic method of double-balloon enteroscopy and minimal invasive bowel surgery for small bowel pathology.

Systematic review of small bowel diaphragm disease requiring surgery

AIM

To perform a systematic review of all cases of small bowel diaphragm disease requiring surgery. Small bowel diaphragm disease is a rare complication of small bowel enteropathy secondary to the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The objective was to determine the presenting symptoms, duration of NSAID use, mode of diagnosis and type of surgery associated with cases of small bowel diaphragm disease requiring surgery.

METHOD

A comprehensive search of the world literature between January 1980 and December 2010 was undertaken. The search terms 'diaphragm disease' and 'mucosal diaphragm disease' in combination with the terms 'surgery', 'intestine' or 'small bowel' were used. All cases of small bowel diaphragm disease requiring surgery in adult patients within the the last 30 years were included. Data including age, gender, mode of presentation, NSAID use, mode of diagnosis, form of surgery, affected area of small bowel and mortality were recorded and analysed.

RESULTS

There were 55 cases of small bowel diaphragm disease requiring surgery (31F:18M) with a median age of 69 years. NSAID use occurred in 44 cases and the mean duration of NSAID use was 7 years. The most common presentation was with anaemia in combination with obstructive symptoms. The diagnosis was established by a laparotomy in 51% of cases followed by capsule endoscopy in 25% of cases. Operations performed included small bowel resection (56), combined resection and strictureplasty (three), strictureplasty (one) and hemicolectomy (two). There was only one death.

CONCLUSION

Small bowel diaphragm disease presenting as a surgical emergency is likely to become more common due to the increased use of NSAIDs. A history of NSAID use in patients with iron deficiency anaemia or obstructive symptoms should lead to a high index of suspicion for this condition and should be preoperatively investigated.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced enteropathy

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world. NSAID-induced lower gastrointestinal (GI) complications are increasing while upper GI complications are decreasing. Lower GI events accounted for 40% of all serious GI events in patients on NSAIDs. Capsule endoscopy and device assisted enteroscopy are available for detection of small intestinal lesions. Capsule endoscopy studies have demonstrated that NSAIDs use in healthy volunteers raised the incidence (55% to 75%) of intestinal damage. It appears that selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors (coxibs) improved upper and lower GI safety based on results of clinical trials. Selective coxibs are still capable of triggering GI adverse events and cardiovascular toxicity issues were the main focus of concerns. Unfortunately, definite strategies are not available to prevent or heal NSAID-induced intestinal injuries. Thus, there is still a strong clinical need for effective drugs with improved safety profiles than the existing NSAIDs.

Diagnosis and management of mid-gastrointestinal bleeding by double-balloon endoscopy

The new methods of capsule endoscopy (CE) and double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) have revolutionized the diagnostic approach to middle (mid) gastrointestinal bleeding (MGIB) in recent years. DBE also has therapeutic options and enables us to treat the MGIB endoscopically. In this review, we discuss endoscopic diagnosis and management of three major categories of sources of MGIB - vascular lesions, ulcers/erosions and tumors/polyps.

Diaphragm disease compared with cryptogenic multifocal ulcerous stenosing enteritis

As the use of drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increases, so too do gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, perforation and obstruction. Diaphragm disease of the small intestine is formed by submucosal fibrosis and destruction of lamina muscularis due to chronic ulceration, which corresponds to the most severe stage of NSAID enteropathy. It may lead to stricture of the small intestine. If such ulcerations and strictures in the small intestine are multiple, differential diagnosis is between diaphragm disease and cryptogenic multifocal ulcerous stenosing enteritis (CMUSE), because the gross findings of diaphragm disease are similar to those of CMUSE. We report a rare case of diaphragm disease caused by NSAID. It has been finally confirmed by capsule endoscopy and the origin of chronic obscure gastrointestinal bleeding was found to be multiple ulcers and strictures in the small intestine. After operation, we diagnosed the patient with diaphragm disease rather than CMUSE.

Small bowel tissue concentration of rebamipide: study of two dosages in healthy subjects

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related small intestinal complications exist, since developed new diagnostic modalities, such as balloon and capsule endoscopies. Some experiments have shown rebamipide to protect from NSAID-induced small intestinal complications. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the effective concentrations of rebamipide (COR) are present in the small intestine after taking an ordinary clinical dose and double dose of this drug. Twelve healthy male subjects were enrolled. After taking 100 or 200 mg of rebamipide, balloon enteroscopy was performed at 1 and 3 h, and biopsy samples were obtained from the jejunum and the stomach. Venous blood samples were taken simultaneously. Samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The mean COR in the jejunum was higher than 100 µM at 1 h and higher than 10 µM at 3 h in both the 100 and 200 mg groups. Mean COR in the stomach was less than 100 µM at 1 h in the 100 mg group; however it was higher than 100 µM in the 200 mg group. In conclusion, the COR level in the jejunum was sufficient to protect for NSAID-induced gastrointestinal complications.

Adverse effects of drugs on small intestine and colon

The small and large intestine are one of the most common sites for the adverse action of drugs, accounting for 20-40% of all drug side effects. The most important factor in the diagnosis of drug-induced intestinal side effect is awareness. The mechanisms of damage are invariably complex, but may be due to topical effects, a known pharmacologic action of the drug on motility (for instance cholinergic/anti-cholinergic effect) and/or secretion, immune suppression and in the case of cytotoxic drug treatment a combination of many actions. The diagnosis of damage may be simple and widely recognised (NSAID-induced enteropathy resulting in bleeding, protein loss and rarely perforation and diaphragm disease), or at other times ignored (tricyclic antidepressants increasing constipation) or life threatening (docetaxene). Some associations require further research (statin and anti-retroviral associated irritable bowel symptoms). Diagnosis is traditionally made by symptom improvement on discontinuation of the drug. More lately capsule enteroscopy is used to aid diagnosis.

Assessment and prevention of gastrointestinal toxicity of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for analgesic, anti-inflammatory and, in the case of aspirin, for anti-thrombotic actions. The serious gastrointestinal side-effects associated with these drugs are of concern and pose a significant obstacle to their use. This review discusses the pathogenic mechanisms by which the conventional acidic NSAIDs induce gastrointestinal toxicity, with particular emphasis on non-prostaglandin effects. Methods of assessment of NSAID-induced enteropathy are reviewed, with particular emphasis on the use of functional measurement of NSAID-induced changes in the gastrointestinal tract. The advances in our knowledge of the pathogenesis of these effects have resulted in the development of a range of novel NSAIDs. Where functional assessment of the effects of NSAIDs has been employed, it appears to be more useful as an indicator of early-stage changes rather than a predictor of the effects of long-term NSAID exposure. Successful pharmaceutical strategies now offer considerable promise for reducing the severity of NSAID damage to the gastrointestinal tract. The utility of intestinal permeability measurements for selection and assessment of these strategies is discussed.

Present status and strategy of NSAIDs-induced small bowel injury

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are well known to cause gastroduodenal mucosal lesions as an adverse effect. Recently, the serious problem of NSAID-induced small intestinal damage has become a topic of great interest to gastroenterologists, since capsule endoscopy and balloon enteroscopy are available for the detection of small intestinal lesions. Such lesions have been of great concern in clinical settings, and their treatment and prevention must be devised as soon as possible. The prevalence of NSAIDs-induced small intestinal injury is higher than had been expected. Recent studies show that more than 50% of patients taking NSAIDs have some mucosal damage in the small intestine. The gross appearance of NSAID-induced enteropathy varies, appearing variously as diaphragm-like strictures, ulcers, erosions, and mucosal redness. To investigate NSAID-induced enteropathy, and to rule out other specific enteropathies, other useful methods (in addition to capsule endoscopy and balloon enteroscopy) include such modalities as radiological examination of the small intestine, the permeability test, scintigraphy or the fecal excretion test using (111)Indium-labeled white blood cells, and measurement of the fecal calprotectin concentration. Diaphragm-like strictures and bleeding from mucosal breaks may be treatable with interventional enteroscopy. Misoprostol, metronidazole, and sulfasalazine are frequently used to treat NSAID-induced enteropathy, but have undesirable effects in some cases. In the experimental model, we confirmed that several existing drugs for gastroduodenal ulcers prevented indomethacin-induced small intestinal injury. Such drugs may be useful for preventing the adverse effects of NSAIDs not only in the stomach but also in the small intestine. We hope to examine these drugs in future clinical studies.

Intestinal permeability in the pathogenesis of NSAID-induced enteropathy

BACKGROUND

The pathogenesis of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced small bowel disease suggests that increased intestinal permeability is the central mechanism that translates biochemical damage to tissue damage. The purpose of this review is to summarize studies on the effect of NSAIDs to increase intestinal permeability in humans and methods for limiting this effect.

METHODS

A Medline search was made for papers that described measurements of increased intestinal permeability in humans.

RESULTS

Virtually all studies agree that all conventional NSAIDs increase intestinal permeability in the human within 24 h of ingestion and that this is equally evident when they are taken long term. Various methods have been tried to limit the damage. The most promising agents are coadministration of synthetic prostaglandins, micronutrients, pre-NSAIDs, and COX-2 selective agents. However, their efficacy in preventing the development of NSAID enteropathy in the long term has not been studied in detail, and, in the case of COX-2 selective agents, small bowel damage is comparable to that which is seen with conventional NSAIDs.

CONCLUSIONS

NSAID enteropathy is associated with significant morbidity and occasionally mortality. There are no proven effective ways of preventing this damage. Because increased intestinal permeability appears to be a central mechanism in the pathogenesis of NSAID enteropathy, it becomes a potential therapeutic target for prevention. At present there are a number of ways to limit the increased permeability, but additional studies are required to assess if this approach reduces the prevalence and severity of NSAID enteropathy.

Capsule endoscopic diagnosis of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug-induced enteropathy

BACKGROUND

Case reports have linked nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to a variety of lesions in the small and large bowel including bleeding, protein loss, strictures, increased intestinal permeability, and NSAID enteropathy. We here review the use of wireless capsule endoscopy to quantitate and assess the nature of the small bowel damage caused by NSAIDs when taken short term and in patients on long-term NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors.

METHODS

Forty healthy volunteers underwent a baseline capsule endoscopy. After taking diclofenac slow-release 75 mg twice a day for a total of 14 days, both investigations were repeated. A further 120 patients on long-term NSAIDs (more than 3 months) and 40 on COX-2 inhibitors underwent a capsule endoscopy study. Sixty healthy patients acted as controls. Small bowel damage was categorized and quantitated.

RESULTS

Short-term diclofenac: Capsule endoscopy demonstrated new pathology in 27 (68%) of subjects. The most common lesions were mucosal breaks, seen in 16 (40%), which were seen to be bleeding in 2 (5%). Long-term NSAIDs: The main pathology was related to mucosal breaks (29%); 3% had free luminal blood and 2% had strictures. The damage seen in 50% of patients on selective COX-2 inhibitors did not differ significantly (P<0.5) from that seen with NSAIDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Capsule endoscopy demonstrates evidence of macroscopic injury to the small intestine, in up to 68% of volunteers, resulting from 2 weeks ingestion of slow-release diclofenac. Long-term use of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors causes comparable small bowel damage (50%-68%).

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced small-bowel lesions identified by double-balloon endoscopy: endoscopic features of the lesions and endoscopic treatments for diaphragm disease

BACKGROUND

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) occasionally induce small-bowel injury. However, the clinical features have only been partially clarified. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical features of the disease and evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic balloon dilation therapy for diaphragm disease, using double-balloon endoscopy (DBE).

METHODS

This is a retrospective case study using our DBE database. Our inclusion criteria required patients to meet all the following criteria: (1) history of NSAID use; (2) endoscopic findings of erosion and/or ulcer and/or typical diaphragm-like strictures; (3) improvement in clinical findings (signs and symptoms) and/or endoscopic findings by cessation of NSAIDs, except for diaphragm disease; and (4) exclusion of other causes (e.g., malignant tumor, inflammatory bowel disease, and infectious disease). The clinical records of patients were investigated.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were included. Sixteen patients showed ulcerative lesions, and the remaining 2 patients showed diaphragm diseases. For localized lesions, 12 patients evidenced lesions in the ileum, 5 patients had lesions in the duodenum and/or jejunum, and 1 had lesions in both intestines. The ulcerative lesions were multiple with various morphologies that were located unrelated to mesenteric or antimesenteric sides. The endoscopic balloon dilations were performed safely, and all patients improved with regard to their symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Symptomatic NSAID-induced small-bowel injuries exhibit a variety of patterns of ulcerative lesions as observed in the ileum in many cases. The endoscopic balloon dilation appears to be a safe and effective treatment for diaphragm disease.

Small-bowel obstruction: diagnostic comparison between double-balloon endoscopy and fluoroscopic enteroclysis, and the outcome of enteroscopic treatment

BACKGROUND

Small-bowel obstruction (SBO) sometimes remains undiagnosed and untreatable without surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic yields of SBO between double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) and fluoroscopic enteroclysis (FE), and the outcome of enteroscopic treatment.

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective, and prospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary-referral hospital.

PATIENTS

Between June 2003 and July 2007, 66 consecutive patients with SBO were enrolled, investigated, and treated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

A comparison of diagnostic yields between DBE and FE, and the prognosis after enteroscopic balloon dilation.

RESULTS

The diagnostic yield of DBE for SBO (95%) was higher than that of FE (71%) in 59 patients who underwent both examinations (P= .004). The first treatment included 27 surgical, 25 enteroscopic, and 14 conservative therapies. Of 47 enteroscopic balloon dilation procedures in 22 patients, 45 (96%) were successful. Of 16 patients with Crohn's disease, 11 (69%) remained asymptomatic over the postdilation follow-up period but 5 relapsed: 2 recovered by repeated dilations, but 3 required surgery. Of 6 patients who had diseases other than Crohn's disease, 4 (67%) remained asymptomatic but 2 relapsed: one with remission of metastasis recovered by repeated dilations, and one with ischemic enteritis required surgery. Anastomotic stricture was an independent marker of the symptom-free outcome (hazard ratio 0.037-0.084, P= .037). Two acute pancreatitis, one perforation, and one exacerbation of SBO complications occurred.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample size and participation bias.

CONCLUSIONS

DBE was useful for the diagnosis of SBO. Balloon dilation is considered an alternative to surgery in patients with fibrotic strictures both related and unrelated to Crohn's disease.

Prevalence of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced enteropathy determined by double-balloon endoscopy: a Japanese multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Capsule endoscopy has shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can damage the small intestine. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of NSAIDs enteropathy in subjects indicated for double-balloon endoscopy (DBE).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The Japanese Study Group for Double-Balloon Endoscopy (JSG-DBE) established a database for the practical use of DBE in the Japanese population during a 2-year period from 2004 to 2005. Using this database, we identified subjects who had been taking NSAIDs within a month prior to DBE (NSAIDs group) and those free from NSAIDs use (control group). The clinical background and DBE findings were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Among 1035 patients registered in the JSG-DBE database, 61 subjects were classified as the NSAIDs group and 600 served as the control group. Patients in the NSAIDs group were older (62+/-18 versus 51+/-19 years, p<0.0001) and gastrointestinal bleeding was a more frequent indication for DBE (79% versus 44%, p<0.001) compared with in the control group. Non-specific mucosal breaks were detected by DBE in 31 patients in the NSAIDs group (51%) and 29 patients in the control group (5%, p <0.0001). Aspirin was less frequently prescribed and cardiovascular disease was a less frequent indication for NSAIDs use in patients with mucosal breaks than in those without breaks.

CONCLUSIONS

In the cases indicated for enteroscopy, NSAIDs enteropathy occurred in half of the patients taking NSAIDs. Aspirin seems to be less harmful to the small intestine than other NSAIDs.

Long-term effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and cyclooxygenase-2 selective agents on the small bowel: a cross-sectional capsule enteroscopy study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) gastropathy is sufficiently important as to warrant co-administration of misoprostol or proton pump inhibitors or a switch to selective cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors. However, the serious ulcer outcome studies suggested that 40% of the clinically significant gastrointestinal bleeding originated more distally, presumably from NSAID enteropathy. We used capsule enteroscopy to study small-bowel damage in patients on long-term NSAIDs and COX-2-selective agents.

METHODS

Sixty healthy volunteers acted as controls. One hundred twenty and 40 patients on long-term NSAIDs and COX-2 selective agents, respectively, underwent a capsule enteroscopy study. Small-bowel damage was categorized and quantitated.

RESULTS

Sixty-two percent of patients on conventional NSAIDs were abnormal, which differed significantly (P < .001) from controls. The main pathology related to reddened folds (13%), denuded areas (39%), and mucosal breaks (29%). Two percent had diaphragm-like strictures and 3% had bleeding without an identifiable lesion. The damage, seen in 50% of patients on selective COX-2 inhibitors (reddened folds, 8%; denuded areas, 18%; and mucosal breaks, 22%), did not differ significantly (P > .5) from that seen with NSAIDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term NSAIDs and COX-2-selective agents cause comparable small-bowel damage. This suggests an important role for COX-2 in the maintenance of small-bowel integrity. The results have implications for strategies that aim to minimize the gastrointestinal damage in patients requiring anti-inflammatory analgesics.

Diaphragm-like stricture in the duodenum in a patient with systemic sclerosis: unrelated to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use

A 59-year-old Japanese woman was diagnosed in 1998 with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The patient presented with a one-month history of postprandial vomiting prior to hospitalization. The patient underwent esophago-gastroduodenoscopy which revealed a diaphragm-like stricture in the second part of the duodenum in January 2004. Unexpectedly, the patient had not used NSAIDs for any long period of time. Retrospective endoscopic findings from 2000 showed the presence of duodenal circular erosions at the same site. This is the first report of a patient diagnosed with SSc who also presented with endoscopic evidence of a stricture of the duodenum, unrelated to NSAIDs.

Treatment of small-bowel diaphragm disease by using double-balloon enteroscopy

BACKGROUND

Double-balloon enteroscopy is a new technique that allows endoscopic therapy throughout the entire length of the small bowel. Diaphragm disease, characterized by thin septa that narrow the small-bowel lumen, is traditionally treated surgically by segmental resection.

OBJECTIVE

To report successful endoscopic treatment of diaphragm disease by double-balloon enteroscopy.

PATIENTS

Three patients.

DESIGN

Case report.

INTERVENTIONS

Double-balloon enteroscopy and stricture balloon dilation.

RESULTS

We report, for the first time, 3 cases in which diaphragm strictures were successfully treated during double-balloon enteroscopy. In 2 cases, a retained capsule endoscope was removed by the retrograde approach after stricture dilation.

LIMITATIONS

Small number of patients and brief length of patient follow up.

CONCLUSION

Double-balloon enteroscopy may be used to treat patients with diaphragm disease, thus avoiding potentially complicated surgery.

Exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: fact or fiction?

The existence of a possible link between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been repeatedly suggested. Recently, a few studies have addressed the issue of a possible, similar effect by selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors (COXIBs). The present article reviews the available scientific evidence for this controversial subject.

[NSAID-colonopathy]

The pain-relief properties of NSAID/ASA preparations have been known for a long time. In particular, the gastrointestinal tract shows side effects such as: erosion, ulceration, and even perforation. In the upper gastrointestinal tract, our group has shown that a correct histological diagnosis of NSAID/ASA induced lesions can be made in a high percentage of cases on the basis of recognition of ischemic necrosis. NSAID/ASA induced lesions are less commonly found in the lower gastrointestinal tract. We could also demonstrate a correct histological diagnosis of NSAID-colonopathy on the basis of finding ischemic necrosis. Besides the known complications, another typical complication is diaphragm-like stenosis, which must not be mistaken for tumor stenosis. The differential diagnosis of NSAID-colonopathy includes ischemic colitis, which cannot be distinguished histologically if the exact endoscopic description is not available. Sometimes NSAID/ASA induced lesions are misdiagnosed as Crohn's disease due to the focal character of the lesions. Since all of our analyses are retrospective, the criteria developed by our group should be checked prospectively.

Strictures, diaphragms, erosions or ulcerations of ischemic type in the colon should always prompt consideration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced lesions

AIM: To investigate whether NSAIDs/ASA lesions in the colon can histologically be diagnosed on the basis of ischemic necrosis similar to biopsy-based diagnosis of NSAIDs/ASA-induced erosions and ulcers of the stomach.

METHODS: In the period between 1997 and 2002, we investigated biopsy materials obtained from 611 patients (415 women, 196 men, average age 60.5 years) with endoscopic focal erosions, ulcerations, strictures or diaphr-agms in the colon. In the biopsies obtained from these lesions, we always established the suspected diagnosis of NSAID-induced lesions whenever necroses of the ischemic type were found. Together with the histological report, we enclosed a questionnaire to investigate the use of medication. The data provided by the questionnaire were then correlated with the endoscopic findings, the location, number and nature of the lesions, and the histological findings.

RESULTS: At the time of their colonoscopy, 86.1% of the patients had indeed been taking NSAID/ASA medication for years (43.9%) or months (29.5%). The most common indication for the use of these drugs was pain (64.3%), and the most common indication for colonoscopy was bleeding (55.5%). Endoscopic inspection revealed multiple erosions and/or ulcers in 60.6%, strictures in 15.8%, and diaphragms in 3.0% of the patients. The lesions were located mainly in the right colon including the transverse colon (79.9%). A separate analysis of age and sex distribution, endoscopic and histological findings for NSAIDs alone, ASA alone, combined NSAID/ASA, and for patients denying the use of such drugs, revealed no significant differences among the groups.

CONCLUSION: This uncontrolled retrospective study based on the histological finding of an ischemic necrosis shows that the histologically suspected diagnosis of NSAID-induced lesions in the colon is often correct. The true diagnostic validity of this finding and the differentiation from ischemic colitis should, however, be investigated in a prospective controlled study.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced small bowel injuries identified by double-balloon endoscopy

AIM: To clarify clinical features of the NSAID-induced small bowel lesions using a new method of endoscopy.

METHODS: This is a retrospective study and we analyzed seven patients with small bowel lesions while taking NSAIDs among 61 patients who had undergone double-balloon endoscopy because of gastro-intestinal bleeding or anemia between September 2000 and March 2004, at Jichi Medical School Hospital in Japan. Neither conventional EGD nor colonoscopy revealed any lesions of potential bleeding sources including ulcerations. Double-balloon endoscopy was carried out from oral approach in three patients, from anal approach in three patients, and from both approaches in one patient.

RESULTS: Ulcers or erosions were observed in the ileum in six patients and in the jejunum in one patient, respectively. The ulcers were multiple in all the patients with different features from tiny punched out ulcers to deep ulcerations with oozing hemorrhage or scar. All the patients recovered uneventfully and had full resolution of symptoms after suspension of the drug.

CONCLUSION: NSAIDs can induce injuries in the small bowel even in patients without any lesions in both the stomach and colon.

Diaphragm disease: complete small bowel obstruction after long-term nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use

Diaphragm-like stricture of the small bowel is an infrequent complication of the treatment of patients with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is part of the spectrum of diseases associated with NSAIDs injury. We report a patient with this condition who had used various forms of NSAIDs for over 20 years. Patient presented with abdominal pain and indigestion. Plain abdominal film revealed small bowel obstruction. Surgical resection of jejunum and proximal part of ileum identified dilated thickened hyperemic mucosa alternating with areas of small bowel fibrotic constriction. The mucosal surface showed multiple pink-tan mucosal folds (circumferential ridges) with focal hemorrhage and edema. Our findings support the local stimulation and damage and reparative process seen with NSAIDs use. A high degree of suspicion and awareness of diaphragm disease is necessary in those patients.

[Small bowel diaphragm disease associated with NSAIDs with histology of neuromuscular and vascular hamartoma. Case report and literature review]

Diaphragm disease (DD) induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and neuromuscular and vascular hamartoma (NMVH) are rare entities that can be difficult to recognize clinically, radiologically and pathologically. Both may cause small bowel obstruction and both reveal annular constrictions macroscopically. However, the 2 entities differ in that the constrictions are purely fibrous in DD whereas they have a hamartomatous histopathology in NMVH. We describe the case of a 76-year-old woman with a history of prolonged NSAID use who developed clinical features and gross pathology consistent with DD and histopathology of NMVH.

A quantitative analysis of NSAID-induced small bowel pathology by capsule enteroscopy

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Conventional acidic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs frequently cause small bowel inflammation. Diagnosis is largely based on assay of surrogate markers of inflammation in stool, such as fecal calprotectin. However, stool markers are not widely available and the precise nature of this inflammation is uncertain. We used wireless capsule enteroscopy to quantitate and assess the nature of the small bowel damage caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs when taken on a short-term basis.

METHODS

Forty healthy volunteers underwent a baseline capsule enteroscopy and fecal calprotectin test. After taking diclofenac slow-release 75 mg twice a day (with omeprazole 20 mg twice a day for gastroprotection) for a total of 14 days, both investigations were repeated.

RESULTS

After drug treatment, 30 subjects (75%) had increased repeat fecal calprotectin concentrations above the upper limit of normal. Capsule enteroscopy showed new pathology in 27 subjects (68%). The commonest lesions were mucosal breaks, seen in 16 (40%), which were seen to be bleeding in 2 (5%); reddened folds in 14 (35%); petechiae or red spots in 13 (33%); denuded mucosa in 8 (20%); and blood in the lumen without a visualized source in 3 (8%). Fifteen of the 27 subjects had more than one lesion concurrently.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides both biochemical and direct evidence of macroscopic injury to the small intestine in 68%-75% of volunteers resulting from 2 weeks' ingestion of slow-release diclofenac.

Capsule endoscopy: current indications and future prospects

Capsule endoscopy represents a significant advance in the investigation of small bowel diseases and the beginning of wireless endoscopic imaging. Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a video capsule endoscope, which is painless and relatively safe. Its use has been established for suspected small bowel bleeding, and the role of capsule endoscopy in the investigation of inflammatory bowel disease, iatrogenic disease, polyposis syndromes and coeliac disease is evolving. It is likely that in many instances it will become the next test after standard endoscopic evaluation. Early data suggest that capsule endoscopy improves outcome in patients with suspected small bowel bleeding, but more data are required on outcomes for the other indications.

Short stricture of the rectum regressing on discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy: endoscopic appearance, multiple biopsies and clinical improvement insufficient for diagnosis

A short, benign-looking stricture of the rectum presented itself clinically as subileus in a middle-aged woman after 5 years on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and 8 years after curative surgery for cancer of the ovaries. Radiological work-up and multiple, repeated biopsies supported the endoscopically appearing benign nature of the lesion, and the stricture subsided after discontinuation of HRT. Re-introduction of HRT again caused subileus. At surgery, there was no suspicion of malignant disease. Histological examination of the resection specimen did, however, show metastasis from the ovarian cancer.