Mortality rate and risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in elderly patients

Acute upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding management in older people taking or not taking anticoagulants: a literature review

Acute upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding may be a potentially life-threatening event that requires prompt recognition and an early effective management, being responsible for a considerable number of hospital admissions. Methods. We perform a clinical review to summarize the recent international guidelines, helping the physician in clinical practice. Older people are a vulnerable subgroup of patients more prone to developing GI bleeding because of several comorbidities and polypharmacy, especially related to an increased use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. In addition, older patients may have higher peri-procedural risk that should be evaluated. The recent introduction of reversal strategies may help the management of GI bleeding in this subgroup of patients. In this review, we aimed to (1) summarize the epidemiology and risk factors for upper and lower GI bleeding, (2) describe treatment options with a focus on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of different proton pump inhibitors, and (3) provide an overview of the clinical management with flowcharts for risk stratification and treatment. In conclusion, GI is common in older patients and an early effective management may be helpful in the reduction of several complications.

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width as a Risk Factor for 30/90-Day Mortality in Patients with Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Analysis of the MIMIC-IV Database

PURPOSE

The purpose of this research was to assess the relationship between red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and mortality in patients with gastrointestinal (GIB) bleeding in the intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS

The information of the participants was obtained from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database. The main outcome of this research was 30/90-day mortality, with ICU mortality and in-hospital mortality as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

This research included 2924 patients with gastrointestinal bleeding in total. Patients with higher RDW had considerably higher 30/90-day and in-hospital mortality rates, as well as longer hospital stays and ICU stays. According to the Kaplan-Meier analysis, the 30/90-day mortality rate was remarkably higher among participants in the higher RDW group (P < 0.0001). In the adjusted multivariate Cox regression analysis, for 30-day mortality, the HR (95% CI) was 1.75 (1.37, 2.24) in comparison to Q1 in the reference group (P < 0.001). Analyses of 90-day mortality and in-hospital mortality both showed the same results. In the subgroup analysis, gender, myocardial infarction, chronic pulmonary disease, cerebrovascular disease and renal disease had no significant effect on the correlation between RDW values and mortality (all P > 0.05). The area under the ROC curve for RDW was 0.599 (95% CI 0.581-0.617) and 0.606 (95% CI 0.588-0.624) in 30/90-day ICU mortality.

CONCLUSION

The current research showed that RDW could be utilized as an independent indicator of short-term mortality in critically ill GIB patients at 30 and 90 days of hospital admission.

Shock Index as a Predictor of Mortality and Hospital Admission in Prehospital Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the Shock Index (SI) as a predictive tool for triage of gastrointestinal bleeding (GI) in the prehospital setting, assessing its correlation with mortality, admission rates, and hospital length of stay.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed data from the ESO Data Collaborative encompassing EMS records from the year 2022, focusing on 1525 patients with a primary GI bleeding diagnosis. The primary measure was the SI, calculated at initial contact and highest recorded prior to ED arrival. Statistical analysis included t-tests, linear regression, and ROC curves, performed using SPSS v29.

RESULTS

A significantly higher mean SI was observed in patients who died (mean SI 0.997) compared to survivors (mean SI 0.795), p < 0.001. Admission rates also correlated with higher SI values, p < 0.001. However, SI was not predictive of the hospital length of stay. ROC analysis for mortality prediction yielded an AUC of 0.656 for the initial SI and 0.739 for the highest SI. The standard SI cutoff of 0.9 predicted mortality with a sensitivity of 74.14% and specificity of 55.35% for the highest SI.

CONCLUSION

The SI is a valuable predictive tool for mortality among prehospital patients with GI bleeding. Its application may improve the triage process, potentially influencing transport decisions and initial hospital care. Despite its predictive capability for mortality, the SI should be supplemented with other clinical assessments to make comprehensive prehospital care decisions. Further research into SI as part of a comprehensive assessment which includes end-title CO2, mentation, and heaviness of bleeding.

[Gastrointestinal bleeding in old age]

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a frequent symptom, with increasing age as a risk factor. Upper, middle and lower gastrointestinal bleeding are differentiated depending on the location, whereby only upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding are elucidated in this article. The symptomatology varies depending on the localization of the bleeding. German and international clinical guidelines currently exist for the preclinical and clinical management of gastrointestinal bleeding. The main focus of the article is on pre-endoscopic management of upper gastrointestinal nonvariceal and variceal bleeding, including the risk stratification, transfusion and coagulation management as well as the initial pharmacological treatment. In addition, current developments in endoscopic and interventional treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding are highlighted.

Potential benefits of restrictive transfusion in upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

The optimal red blood cell (RBC) transfusion strategy in acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is debated. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of restrictive compared to liberal transfusion strategies in the GIB population. We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, and Web of Science for randomised controlled trials on 15.01.2022 without restrictions. Studies comparing lower to higher RBC transfusion thresholds after GIB were eligible. We used the random effect model and calculated pooled mean differences (MD), risk ratios (RR) and proportions with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to calculate the overall effect size. The search yielded 3955 hits. All seven eligible studies reported on the upper GIB population. Restrictive transfusion did not increase the in-hospital- (RR: 0.94; CI 0.46, 1.94) and 30-day mortality (RR: 0.71; CI 0.35, 1.45). In-hospital- and 28 to 45-day rebleeding rate was also not higher with the restrictive modality (RR: 0.67; CI 0.30, 1.50; RR:0.75; CI 0.49, 1.16, respectively). Results of individual studies showed a lower rate of transfusion reactions and post-transfusion intervention if the transfusion was started at a lower threshold. A haemoglobin threshold > 80 g/L may result in a higher untoward outcome rate. In summary, restrictive transfusion does not appear to lead to a higher rate of significant clinical endpoints. The optimal restrictive transfusion threshold should be further investigated.

Derivation and validation of a risk prediction score for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-related serious gastrointestinal complications in the elderly

AIMS

Few studies have quantified the impact of risk factors on GI complications in elderly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) users. This study aimed to develop and validate a risk prediction score for severe GI complications to identify high-risk elderly patients using NSAID.

METHODS

We used the following two Korean claims datasets: customized data with an enrolment period 2016-2017 for model development, and the sample data in 2019 for external validation. We conducted a nested case-control study for model development and validation. NSAID users were identified as the elderly (≥65 years) who received NSAIDs for more than 30 days. Serious GI complications were defined as hospitalizations or emergency department visits, with a main diagnosis of GI bleeding or perforation. We applied the logistic least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model for variable selection and model fitting.

RESULTS

We identified 8176 cases and 81 760 controls with a 1:10 matched follow-up period in the derivation cohort. In the external validation cohort, we identified 372 cases from 254 551 patients. The risk predictors were high-dose NSAIDs, nonselective NSAID, complicated GI ulcer history, male sex, concomitant gastroprotective agents, relevant co-medications, severe renal disease and cirrhosis. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.79 (95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.81) in the external validation dataset.

CONCLUSIONS

The prediction model may be a useful tool for reducing the risk of serious GI complications by identifying high-risk elderly patients.

Rate and risk factors of in-hospital and early post-discharge mortality in patients admitted to an internal medicine ward

BACKGROUND

We sought to quantify in-hospital and early post-discharge mortality rates in hospitalised patients.

METHODS

Consecutive adult patients admitted to an internal medicine ward were prospectively enrolled. The rates of in-hospital and 4-month post-discharge mortality and their possible associated sociodemographic and clinical factors (eg Cumulative Illness Rating Scale [CIRS], body mass index [BMI], polypharmacy, Barthel Index) were assessed.

RESULTS

1,451 patients (median age 80 years, IQR 69-86; 53% female) were included. Of these, 93 (6.4%) died in hospital, while 4-month post-discharge mortality was 15.9% (191/1,200). Age and high dependency were associated (p<0.01) with a higher risk of in-hospital (OR 1.04 and 2.15) and 4-month (HR 1.04 and 1.65) mortality, while malnutrition and length of stay were associated (p<0.01) with a higher risk of 4-month mortality (HR 2.13 and 1.59).

CONCLUSIONS

Several negative prognostic factors for early mortality were found. Interventions addressing dependency and malnutrition could potentially decrease early post-discharge mortality.

Effect of Polypharmacy on Clinical Outcomes in Elderly Patients With Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation - A Sub-Analysis of the ANAFIE Registry

BACKGROUND

This All Nippon AF in the Elderly (ANAFIE) Registry sub-analysis evaluated the impact of polypharmacy on 2-year outcomes in a large, elderly (aged ≥75 years) Japanese population with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).Methods and Results: The ANAFIE Registry was a multicenter, prospective, observational study with a 24-month follow-up period. Of 32,275 enrolled NVAF patients, 31,419 were grouped by the number of prescribed concomitant medications (other than oral anticoagulants [OACs]): 0-4 [38.8%], 5-8 [43.3%], and ≥9 [17.9%]). Patients receiving more concomitant medications were older, had poor renal function, and suffered more comorbidities than those receiving fewer concomitant medications. Several patient background factors, including diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, and chronic kidney disease, were significantly correlated with an increased number of concomitant medications. With increasing medications, OAC prescription rates decreased, but the warfarin prescription rate increased, and the cumulative incidence rates of stroke/systemic embolic events (SEE), major bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, fracture/falls, cardiovascular events, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death significantly increased (each, P<0.05). In multivariate analysis, increasing medications was independently associated with increases in these events, except for stroke/SEE. There were no significant interactions between the number of medications and anticoagulant treatment with direct OAC or warfarin concerning the incidence of these events.

CONCLUSIONS

Polypharmacy was frequent among elderly patients with NVAF who were older with more comorbidities, and was independently associated with a higher incidence of extracranial events.

German guideline diverticular disease/diverticulitis: Part I: Methods, pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical characteristics (definitions), natural course, diagnosis and classification

Diverticulosis and diverticular disease are ranked among the most common gastroenterological diseases and conditions. While for many years diverticulitis was found to be mainly an event occurring in the elder population, more recent work in epidemiology demonstrates increasing frequency in younger subjects. In addition, there is a noticeable trend towards more complicated disease. This may explain the significant increase in hospitalisations observed in recent years. It is not a surprise that the number of scientific studies addressing the clinical and socioeconomic consequences in the field is increasing. As a result, diagnosis and conservative as well as surgical management have changed in recent years. Diverticulosis, diverticular disease and diverticulitis are a complex entity and apparently an interdisciplinary challenge. To meet theses considerations the German Societies for Gastroenterology and Visceral Surgery decided to create joint guidelines addressing all aspects in a truely interdisciplinary fashion. The aim of the guideline is to summarise and to evaluate the current state of knowledge on diverticulosis and diverticular disease and to develop statements as well as recommendations to all physicians involved in the management of patients with diverticular disease.

Out of sight for the endoscopist? Gastrointestinal bleeding after aortic repair

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Secondary Aortoenteric Fistulas (sAEF) are difficult to diagnose and usually result in fatal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding following aortic repair. Outcomes are largely dependent on a timely diagnosis, but AEFs remain challenging to identify endoscopically and are usually diagnosed on computed tomography (CT) scans. The aim of our study was optimize diagnosis of AEF by identifying patients developing GI bleeding after aortic repair, investigate their clinical course and identify factors specific to different bleeding sources.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center study capturing all patients developing upper or lower GI bleeding after aortic surgery between January 2009 and March 2020 was performed. Electronic health records were screened for diagnostic codes of the relevant procedures. Bleeding was classified into three groups: AEF with demonstrable fistula, ischemic - macroscopic ulceration plus histological confirmation or imaging and "other" due to other recognized conventional cause, such as peptic ulcer disease.

RESULTS

47 GI bleeding episodes in 39 patients were identified. Of these, 10 episodes (21%) were caused by AEF, 16 (34%) by ischemic ulceration and 21 (45%) due to other causes. Patients with AEF exhibited more frequent hemodynamic instability requiring vasopressors and had higher mortality, while ischemic ulcerations were associated with more recent operation or hypotensive episode.

CONCLUSIONS

GI bleeding complications are uncommon following aortic surgery. AEF and ischemic ulceration are however frequent bleeding causes in this cohort. In patients presenting with fulminant bleeding, primary CT-scanning should be considered.

Prognostic Analysis of Liver Cirrhosis Patients with Cerebral Infarction and/or Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

To explore the risk factors of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and/or cerebral infarction complications in liver cirrhosis and provide evidence for early prevention, clinical diagnosis, and treatment of liver cirrhosis.

Methods

200 liver cirrhosis patients were analyzed: liver cirrhosis (n = 78), liver cirrhosis complicated with cerebral infarction (n = 43), liver cirrhosis complicated with gastrointestinal hemorrhage (n = 57), and liver cirrhosis complicated with gastrointestinal hemorrhage and cerebral infarction (n = 22). The incidence of disease in each group of patients at different times was calculated. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of liver cirrhosis patients with gastrointestinal hemorrhage and cerebral infarction. After 12 months of follow-up, the mortality rate of each group was calculated.

Results

The incidences of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage combined with cerebral infarction in patients with liver cirrhosis were 21.5%, 28.5%, and 11%, respectively. The width of the portal vein, D-2 polymer, albumin (ALB), and hemoglobin (Hb) were predictors of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and cerebral infarction in patients with liver cirrhosis. Age, hypertension, bleeding history, infection, portal vein width, and D-2 polymer were confirmed as risk factors for gastrointestinal hemorrhage and cerebral infarction in patients with liver cirrhosis. ALB and Hb were independent protective factors. Patients with liver cirrhosis and gastrointestinal hemorrhage with cerebral infarction had the worst survival.

Conclusion

Age, hypertension, bleeding history, infection, portal vein width, and D-2 polymer are all independent risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding and cerebral infarction, while ALB and Hb are independent protective factors.

The “Diabetes Comorbidome”: A Different Way for Health Professionals to Approach the Comorbidity Burden of Diabetes

(1) Background: The disease burden related to diabetes is increasing greatly, particularly in older subjects. A more comprehensive approach towards the assessment and management of diabetes’ comorbidities is necessary. The aim of this study was to implement our previous data identifying and representing the prevalence of the comorbidities, their association with mortality, and the strength of their relationship in hospitalized elderly patients with diabetes, developing, at the same time, a new graphic representation model of the comorbidome called “Diabetes Comorbidome”. (2) Methods: Data were collected from the RePoSi register. Comorbidities, socio-demographic data, severity and comorbidity indexes (Cumulative Illness rating Scale CIRS-SI and CIRS-CI), and functional status (Barthel Index), were recorded. Mortality rates were assessed in hospital and 3 and 12 months after discharge. (3) Results: Of the 4714 hospitalized elderly patients, 1378 had diabetes. The comorbidities distribution showed that arterial hypertension (57.1%), ischemic heart disease (31.4%), chronic renal failure (28.8%), atrial fibrillation (25.6%), and COPD (22.7%), were the more frequent in subjects with diabetes. The graphic comorbidome showed that the strongest predictors of death at in hospital and at the 3-month follow-up were dementia and cancer. At the 1-year follow-up, cancer was the first comorbidity independently associated with mortality. (4) Conclusions: The “Diabetes Comorbidome” represents the perfect instrument for determining the prevalence of comorbidities and the strength of their relationship with risk of death, as well as the need for an effective treatment for improving clinical outcomes.

Risk factors for major gastrointestinal bleeding in the general population in Finland

BACKGROUND

Data on non-drug related risk-factors for gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in the general population are limited, especially for life-style factors, clinical measurements and laboratory parameters.

AIM

To identify and investigate non-drug risk factors for major GIB in the general population of Finland.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study using data from the FINRISK health examination surveys, which have been conducted every 5 years across Finland from 1987 to 2007. Participants were adults aged 25 years to 74 years, excluding those with a previous hospitalization for GIB. Follow-up from enrollment was performed through linkage to national electronic health registers and ended at an event of GIB that led to hospitalization/death, death due to any other cause, or after 10 years. Covariates included demographics, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, clinical measurements, laboratory parameters and comorbidities. Variable selection was undertaken using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and factors associated with GIB were identified using Cox regression.

RESULTS

Among 33,508 participants, 403 (1.2%) experienced GIB [256 men (63.5%); mean age, 56.0 years (standard deviation (SD) ± 12.1)] and 33105 who did not experience GIB [15768 men (47.6%); mean age, 46.8 (SD ± 13) years], within 10 years of follow-up. Factors associated with a significantly increased risk of GIB were baseline age [per 10-year increase; hazard ratio (HR) 1.62, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.42-1.86], unemployment (HR: 1.70, 95%CI: 1.11-2.59), body mass index (BMI) (HR: 1.15, 95%CI: 1.01-1.32), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (HR: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.02-1.09), precursors of GIB (HR: 1.90, 95%CI: 1.37-2.63), cancer (HR: 1.47, 95%CI: 1.10-1.97), psychiatric disorders (HR: 1.32, 95%CI: 1.01-1.71), heart failure (HR: 1.46, 95%CI: 1.04-2.05), and liver disorders (HR: 3.20, 95%CI: 2.06-4.97). Factors associated with a significantly decreased risk of GIB were systolic blood pressure (SBP) (HR: 0.78, 95%CI: 0.64-0.96), 6-10 cups of coffee a day (HR: 0.67, 95%CI: 0.46-0.99), or > 10 cups (HR: 0.43, 95%CI: 0.23-0.81).

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms established risk-factors for GIB and identifies potential risk-factors not previously reported such as unemployment, BMI, GGT, SBP and coffee consumption.

Heyde's syndrome: a systematic review of case reports

Objective

Heyde’s syndrome (HS), a rare condition characterised by a unique relationship between severe aortic stenosis and angiodysplasia, is often diagnosed late increasing the risk for a prolonged hospital course and mortality in the elderly. The leading hypothesis explaining the aetiology of HS is acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) but not all studies support this claim. While individual cases of HS have been reported, here we present the first systematic review of case reports and focus on the prevalence of AVWS.

Design

A systematic search was conducted through PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL-EBSCO, Web of Science and Google Scholar since inception. The resulting articles were screened by two independent reviewers based on inclusion criteria that the article must be a case report/series or a letter to the editor in English describing HS in an adult patient.

Results

Seventy-four articles encompassing 77 cases met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 74.3±9.3 years old with a slight female predominance. The small intestine, especially the jejunum, was the most common location for bleeding origin. Capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy were superior at identifying bleeding sources than colonoscopy (p=0.0027 and p=0.0095, respectively) and oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (p=0.0006 and p=0.0036, respectively). The mean duration from symptom onset to diagnosis/treatment of HS was 23.8±39 months. Only 27/77 cases provided evidence for AVWS. Surgical and transcutaneous aortic valve replacement (AVR) were superior at preventing rebleeding than non-AVR modalities (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Further research is warranted for a stronger understanding and increased awareness of HS, which may hasten diagnosis and optimal management.

Stop of proton-pump inhibitor treatment in patients with liver cirrhosis (STOPPIT): study protocol for a prospective, multicentre, controlled, randomized, double-blind trial

Background

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) are liberally prescribed in patients with liver cirrhosis. Observational studies link PPI therapy in cirrhotic patients with an increased risk for infectious complications, hepatic encephalopathy and an increased risk for hospitalization and mortality. However, patients with liver cirrhosis are also considered to be at risk for peptic ulcer bleeding. The STOPPIT trial evaluates if discontinuation of a pre-existing PPI treatment delays a composite endpoint of re-hospitalization and/or death in patients (recently) hospitalized with liver cirrhosis compared to patients on continued PPI medication.

Methods

The STOPPIT-trial is a prospective, multicentre, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial. In total, 476 patients with complicated liver cirrhosis who already receive long-term PPI therapy without evidence-based indication are 1:1 randomized to receive either esomeprazole 20 mg (control group) or placebo (intervention group) for 360 days. Patients with an indication for PPI therapy (such as a recent diagnosis of peptic ulcers, severe reflux esophagitis, severe hemorrhagic gastritis, recent endoscopic therapy for oesophageal varices) are excluded. The primary composite endpoint is the time-to re-hospitalization and/or death. Secondary endpoints include rates of re-hospitalization, mortality, occurrence of infections, hepatic decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure. The safety endpoint is defined as manifestation of an evidence-based indication for PPI re-therapy. The impact of PPI continuation or discontinuation on the intestinal microbiota will be studied. The recruitment will take place at 18 study sites throughout Germany. Recruitment has started in April 2021.

Discussion

The STOPPIT trial is the first clinical trial to study the effects of PPI withdrawal on relevant outcome variables in patients with complicated liver cirrhosis. If the hypothesis that PPI withdrawal improves clinical outcomes of cirrhosis patients is confirmed, this would argue for a strong restriction of the currently liberal prescription practice of PPIs in this population. If, on the other hand, the trial demonstrates an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding events in patients after PPI withdrawal, this could create a rationale for a more liberal, prophylactic PPI treatment in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Trial registration

EU clinical trials register EudraCT 2019-005008-16 (registered December 27, 2019). ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04448028 (registered June 25, 2020). German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00021290 (registered March 10, 2021).

Cardiovascular disease risk in liver transplant recipients transplanted due to chronic viral hepatitis

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation, mostly in patients transplanted for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, obesity and diabetes. Few data exist on cardiovascular diseases among patients transplanted for viral hepatitis.

Objective

Our aim is to clarify the cardiovascular risk and subclinical vascular damage among liver transplant recipients for chronic viral hepatitis (i.e. hepatits C virus, hepatis B virus and hepatitis D virus infection).

Methods

Adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) with orthotopic liver transplants (OLT) due to viral hepatitis who signed informed consent, and were admitted for a routine follow-up between June 2019 and September 2020 at the Infectious Disease outpatient clinic of the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy, were prospectively enrolled. An estimation of cardiovascular risk was assessed using three main risk charts, echocolor-Doppler of epiaortic vessels was performed to assess subclinical Intima-Media changes.

Results

A total of 161 patients were evaluated; of these 15 were excluded because not affected by viral hepatitis. 146 patients were considered. 83 patients (56.8%) were considered at high cardiovascular risk according to Framingham, 54 patients (36.9%) to American Heart Association Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) score and 19 (13.0%) to Heart Score. Only 8 patients (5.4%) showed a normal carotid ultrasound, while 52 patients (35.6%) had a carotid artery Intima-Media Thickness (IMT) and 86 (58.9%) an atherosclerotic plaque.

Conclusions

Liver transplant recipients for virus-related associated liver disease are, in light of the high percentage of carotid lesions, at high risk of CVD. Risk charts compared to subclinical carotid lesions which represent damage already established and a real localization of the disease, seem to underestimate the cardiovascular risk. A chronic inflammatory status, could play a key role. It’s important to raise the awareness of cardiovascular risk in liver transplant patients to prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve the timing of early diagnosis of premature vascular lesions.

Nursing Value Analysis and Risk Assessment of Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding Using Multiagent Reinforcement Learning Algorithm

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) indicates an issue in the digestive system. Blood can be found in feces or vomiting; however, it is not always visible, even if it makes the stool appear darkish or muddy. The bleeding can range in harshness from light to severe and can be dangerous. It is advised that nursing value analysis and risk assessment of patients with GIB is essential, but existing risk assessment techniques function inconsistently. Machine learning (ML) has the potential to increase risk evaluation. For evaluating risk in patients with GIB, scoring techniques are ineffective; a machine learning method would help. As a result, we present а unique machine learning-based nursing value analysis and risk assessment framework in this research to construct a model to evaluate the risk of hospital-based interventions or mortality in individuals with GIB and make a comparison to that of other rating systems. Initially, the dataset is collected, and preprocessing is done. Feature extraction is done using local binary patterns (LBP). Classification is performed using a fuzzy support vector machine (FSVM) classifier. For risk assessment and nursing value analysis, machine learning-based prediction using a multiagent reinforcement algorithm is employed. For improving the performance of the proposed system, we use spider monkey optimization (SMO) algorithm. The performance metrics like classification accuracy, area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC), area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and precision are analyzed and compared with the traditional approaches. In individuals with GIB, the suggested technique had a good-excellent prognostic efficacy, and it outperformed other traditional models.

Factors affecting long-term changes of liver stiffness in direct-acting anti-hepatitis C virus therapy: A multicentre prospective study

The long-term changes of liver stiffness (LS) in patients who achieve viral clearance after direct-acting anti-HCV therapy remain undefined. We conducted a multicentre prospective study to investigate this aspect. Patients with HCV infection treated with DAAs were enrolled from six Italian centres; they underwent clinical, biochemical, ultrasound and transient elastography evaluations before treatment (T0), 12 weeks (SVR12) and 24 months (T24) after the end of therapy. Among the 516 consecutive patients enrolled, 301 had cirrhosis. LS significantly decreased from T0 to SVR (14.3 vs 11.1 kPa, p = .002), with a progressive reduction until T24 (8.7 kPa, p < .001). However, only patients with steatosis and those who developed HCC did not experience a late improvement in LS. Multivariate analysis of baseline and follow-up variables identified steatosis as the only independent predictor of failure of LS improvement (OR 1.802, p = .013). ROC curve analysis of the association of LS with the risk of developing HCC showed that SVR12 ≥14.0 kPa had the highest accuracy (sensitivity 82%, specificity 99%; AUC: 0.774). Multivariate analysis revealed that LS was the only variable independently associated with an increased risk of developing HCC (OR 6.470, p = .035). Achieving an SVR was associated with a progressive, long-term decline of LS, suggesting a late improvement in liver fibrosis, besides the resolution of inflammation. Fatty liver and the development of HCC interfered with late reduction of LS. Patients with an LS ≥14 kPa at 12 weeks after the end of treatment were at higher risk for developing HCC.

Risk of Postoperative Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Its Associated Factors: A Nationwide Population-Based Study in Korea

Postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding (PGIB) is a serious complication with expensive medical costs and a high mortality rate. This study aims to analyze the incidence of PGIB and its associated factors, including its relationship with postoperative analgesic use. Patients aged ≥20 years who received various kinds of surgery from 2013 to 2017 were included (n = 1,319,807). PGIB was defined by admission with ICD-10 codes of gastrointestinal bleeding plus transfusion within 2 months after surgery. A total of 3505 (0.27%) subjects had PGIB, and the incidence was much higher for those who underwent major gastrointestinal and major cardiovascular surgery (1.9% for both), followed by major head and neck (0.7%), major genitourinary (0.5%), and orthopedic surgery (0.45%). On multivariate analysis, older age, male sex, lower income, comorbidities, peptic ulcer disease, and congestive heart failure were associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Among analgesics, steroid use was associated with increased postoperative bleeding risk (adjusted OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.25–1.48). Acetaminophen/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitors, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and opioids were not associated with increased risk. PGIB is considerable for major surgeries, and its risk should be considered, especially for patients with older age and comorbidities and use of steroids.

CVP and echo Measurements are Associated with Improved Outcomes in Patients with Gastrointestinal (GI) Hemorrhage: A Retrospective Analysis of the MIMIC- IV Database

Purpose: Mortality associated with acute Gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage in intensive care units (ICU) has remained high in patients suffering from hemodynamic instability. Prompt recognition and rapid assessment of bleeding severity are crucial to improve survival. Central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring is commonly used for early recognition of intravascular imbalances, but its effectiveness in predicting fluid responsiveness is often questioned. Echocardiography (echo) is a rapid, noninvasive method to repeatedly assess cardiac function and fluid responsiveness. This study investigated the impact of CVP and echo measurements on the outcomes of critically ill patients with GI hemorrhage. Methods: The study was based on the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC- IV) database. Patients were divided into four groups according to the usage of CVP and/or echo. The primary outcomes were 7-day, 14-day, 28-day, and overall mortalities after ICU admission. Cox Proportional-Hazards Models were used to elucidate the relationship between CVP/ Echo monitoring and mortality. The severity of illness of patients were adjusted by qSOFA score, SOFA score and base deficit level at admission. Results: Among 1705 eligible patients, 82 patients had both CVP and echo, 85 had CVP only, and 116 had Echo only. The results of survival analysis indicated that, comparing with those without either CVP or echo, the echo utilization was associated with improved mortalities at all time points during ICU stay for patients with moderate GI hemorrhage, and the combined use of CVP and echo was associated with lower 7-day,14-day and overall mortalities for patients with severe GI hemorrhage. Conclusion: Early usage of CVP and echo monitoring or echo alone are associated with lower mortality in the short and long-term when compared to patients without either measurement. Clinicians should consider goal-directed resuscitation guided by echo with/without CVP in patients with GI hemorrhage early after admission to ICU.

HCC and Molecular Targeting Therapies: Back to the Future

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of death from cancer in the world. Recently, the effectiveness of new antiviral therapies and the HBV vaccine have reduced HCC’s incidence, while non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis is an emerging risk factor. This review focuses on antiangiogenic molecules and immune checkpoint inhibitors approved for HCC treatment and possible future approaches. Sorafenib was the first drug approved for the treatment of advanced HCC (aHCC) and it has been shown to increase survival by a few months. Lenvatinib, a multikinase inhibitor, has shown non-inferiority in survival compared with sorafenib and an improvement in progression-free survival (PFS). The combination of atezolizumab (an anti-PDL1 antibody) and bevacizumab (an anti-VEGF antibody) was the first drug combination approved for HCC, demonstrating improved survival compared with sorafenib (19.2 vs. 13.4 months). As a second line of therapy, three regimens (regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab) have been approved for the treatment of aHCC after progression on sorafenib according to guidelines. Furthermore, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab plus ipilimumab have been approved by the FDA (2017, 2018, and 2020, respectively). Finally, immune target therapy, cancer vaccines, and epigenetic drugs represent three new possible weapons for the treatment of HCC.

Hyperglycemia at admission, comorbidities, and in-hospital mortality in elderly patients hospitalized in internal medicine wards: data from the RePoSI Registry

AIMS

The association between hyperglycemia at hospital admission and relevant short- and long-term outcomes in elderly population is known. We assessed the effects on mortality of hyperglycemia, disability, and multimorbidity at admission in internal medicine ward in patients aged ≥ 65 years.

METHODS

Data were collected from an active register of 102 internal medicine and geriatric wards in Italy (RePoSi project). Patients were recruited during four index weeks of a year. Socio-demographic data, reason for hospitalization, diagnoses, treatment, severity and comorbidity indexes (Cumulative Illness rating Scale CIRS-SI and CIRS-CI), renal function, functional (Barthel Index), and cognitive status (Short Blessed Test) and mood disorders (Geriatric Depression Scale) were recorded. Mortality rates were assessed in hospital 3 and 12 months after discharge.

RESULTS

Of the 4714 elderly patients hospitalized, 361 had a glycemia level ≥ 250 mg/dL at admission. Compared to subjects with lower glycemia level, patients with glycemia ≥ 250 mg/dL showed higher rates of male sex, smoke and class III obesity. These patients had a significantly lower Barthel Index (p = 0.0249), higher CIRS-SI and CIRS-CI scores (p = 0.0025 and p = 0.0013, respectively), and took more drugs. In-hospital mortality rate was 9.2% and 5.1% in subjects with glycemia ≥ 250 and < 250 mg/dL, respectively (p = 0.0010). Regression analysis showed a strong association between in-hospital death and glycemia ≥ 250 mg/dL (OR 2.07; [95% CI 1.34-3.19]), Barthel Index ≤ 40 (3.28[2.44-4.42]), CIRS-SI (1.87[1.27-2.77]), and male sex (1.54[1.16-2.03]).

CONCLUSIONS

The stronger predictors of in-hospital mortality for older patients admitted in general wards were glycemia level ≥ 250 mg/dL, Barthel Index ≤ 40, CIRS-SI, and male sex.

Impact of direct acting antivirals (DAAs) on cardiovascular events in HCV cohort with pre-diabetes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Beyond type 2 diabetes, even a condition of prediabetes is associated with an increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, and HCV infection coexistence represents an exacerbating factor. CV prognosis improvement in prediabetes represents a challenge, due to the increasing prevalence of this metabolic condition worldwide. Hence, we aimed to prospectively assess how direct acting antivirals (DAAs) could affect major cardiovascular events (MACE) in a prediabetic HCV positive cohort.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this prospective multicenter study, we enrolled HCV patients with overt prediabetes. We compared a subgroup of patients treated with DAAs with untreated prediabetic controls. We recorded all CV events occurred during an overall median follow-up of 24 months (IQR 19-34). 770 HCV positive prediabetic patients were enrolled, 398 untreated controls and 372 DAAs treated patients. Overall, the CV events annual incidence was much higher among prediabetic treated patients (1.77 vs. 0.62, p < 0.001), and HCV clearance demonstrated to significantly reduce CV events (RR: 0.411, 95%CI 0.148-1.143; p < 0.001), with an estimated NNT for one additional patient to benefit of 52.1. Moreover, an independent association between a lower rate of CV events and HCV clearance after DAAs was observed (OR 4.67; 95%CI 0.44-53.95; p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

HCV eradication by DAAs allows a significant reduction of MACEs in the prediabetic population, and therefore represents a primary objective, regardless of the severity of liver disease and CV risk factors.

Clinical history and gastrointestinal bleeding in patients taking oral anticoagulants

BACKGROUND

Common risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) are advanced age and the use of antiplatelet or anticoagulants drugs for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

In this prospective real-world observational study, oral anticoagulated patients were recruited and followed between June 2013 and December 2019. The primary end-point was to evaluate a possible relationship between bleeding events and patients' clinical history of gastrointestinal disease prior to the start of the therapy. The secondary end-points were time of GIB appearance and the percentage of idiopathic or provoked events, i.e., bleeding due to a gastrointestinal disease. In case of GIB event all the patients were studied by means of endoscopic procedures. Cox regression was used to calculate the relative hazard ratios (HRs) of GIB for each considered clinical variable.

RESULTS

734 patients on both VKAs or DOACs were studied. Overall, 46 hemorrhagic events were recorded: 6 were major bleeding (0.42/100 patient-years) while 43 were clinically relevant non major bleeding (2.8/100 patient-years). The Cox regression analysis did not show any relationships among GIB and the variables considered.

CONCLUSION

The patients' clinical history is neither a predictor for GIB bleeding nor a guide to the choice of the oral anticoagulant to be administered. Routinely applying bleeding risk screening, such as occult blood in the stool, should be added to the periodic laboratory checks for early recognition of patients at higher risk of GIB.

The Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: The Contributing Pathophysiological Mechanisms

Individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) disclose a higher incidence and a poorer prognosis of heart failure (HF) than non-diabetic people, even in the absence of other HF risk factors. The adverse impact of diabetes on HF likely reflects an underlying “diabetic cardiomyopathy” (DM–CMP), which may by exacerbated by left ventricular hypertrophy and coronary artery disease (CAD). The pathogenesis of DM-CMP has been a hot topic of research since its first description and is still under active investigation, as a complex interplay among multiple mechanisms may play a role at systemic, myocardial, and cellular/molecular levels. Among these, metabolic abnormalities such as lipotoxicity and glucotoxicity, mitochondrial damage and dysfunction, oxidative stress, abnormal calcium signaling, inflammation, epigenetic factors, and others. These disturbances predispose the diabetic heart to extracellular remodeling and hypertrophy, thus leading to left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction. This Review aims to outline the major pathophysiological changes and the underlying mechanisms leading to myocardial remodeling and cardiac functional derangement in DM-CMP.

Oncolytic Viruses in Combination Therapeutic Approaches with Epigenetic Modulators: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives

Simple Summary

Cancer rates have been accelerating significantly in recent years. Despite notable advances having been made in cancer therapy, and numerous studies being currently conducted in clinical trials, research is always looking for new treatment. Novel and promising anticancer therapies comprise combinations of oncolytic viruses and epigenetic modulators, including chromatin modifiers, such as DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylases, and microRNA. Combinatorial treatments have several advantages: they enhance viral entry, replication, and spread between proximal cells and, moreover, they strengthen the immune response. In this review we summarize the main combination of therapeutic approaches, giving an insight into past, present, and future perspectives.

Abstract

According to the World Cancer Report, cancer rates have been increased by 50% with 15 million new cases in the year 2020. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the only one of the most common tumors to cause a huge increase in mortality with a survival rate between 40% and 70% at 5 years, due to the high relapse and limitations associated with current therapies. Despite great progress in medicine, oncological research is always looking for new therapies: different technologies have been evaluated in clinical trials and others have been already used in clinics. Among them, oncolytic virotherapy represents a therapeutic option with a widespread possibility of approaches and applications. Oncolytic viruses are naturally occurring, or are engineered, viruses characterized by the unique features of preferentially infecting, replicating, and lysing malignant tumor cells, as well as activating the immune response. The combination of oncolytic virotherapy and chemical drugs are arousing great interest in the tumor treatment. In this scenario, novel and promising anticancer therapies comprise combinations of oncolytic viruses and epigenetic modulators or inhibitors of the signalling pathways. Combination treatments are required to improve the immune response and allow viral entry, replication, and diffusion between proximal cells. In this review, we summarize all combination therapies associated with virotherapy, including co-administered inhibitors of chromatin modifiers (combination strategies) and inserted target sites for miRNAs (recombination or arming strategies).

Impact of SGLT2 Inhibitors on Heart Failure: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Effects

Heart failure (HF) affects up to over 20% of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), even more in the elderly. Although, in T2DM, both hyperglycemia and the proinflammatory status induced by insulin resistance are crucial in cardiac function impairment, SGLT2i cardioprotective mechanisms against HF are several. In particular, these beneficial effects seem attributable to the significant reduction of intracellular sodium levels, well-known to exert a cardioprotective role in the prevention of oxidative stress and consequent cardiomyocyte death. From a molecular perspective, patients’ exposure to gliflozins’ treatment mimics nutrient and oxygen deprivation, with consequent autophagy stimulation. This allows to maintain the cellular homeostasis through different degradative pathways. Thus, since their introduction in the clinical practice, the hypotheses on SGLT2i mechanisms of action have changed: from simple glycosuric drugs, with consequent glucose lowering, erythropoiesis enhancing and ketogenesis stimulating, to intracellular sodium-lowering molecules. This provides their consequent cardioprotective effect, which justifies its significant reduction in CV events, especially in populations at higher risk. Finally, the updated clinical evidence of SGLT2i benefits on HF was summarized. Thus, this review aimed to analyze the cardioprotective mechanisms of sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in patients with HF, as well as their clinical impact on cardiovascular events.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding in COVID-19 inpatients: Incidence and management in a multicenter experience from Northern Italy

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 patients have an increased susceptibility to develop thrombotic complications, thus thromboprophylaxis is warranted which may increase risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Our aim was to evaluate incidence of UGIB and use of upper GI endoscopy in COVID-19 inpatients.

METHODS

The medical and endoscopic management of UGIB in non-ICU COVID-19 patients has been retrospectively evaluated. Glasgow Blatchford score was calculated at onset of signs of GI bleeding. Timing between onset of signs of GI bleeding and execution, if performed, of upper GI endoscopy was evaluated. Endoscopic characteristics and outcome of patients were evaluated overall or according to the execution or not of an upper GI endoscopy before and after 24h.

RESULTS

Out of 4871 COVID-19 positive patients, 23 presented signs of UGIB and were included in the study (incidence 0.47%). The majority (78%) were on anticoagulant therapy or thromboprophylaxis. In 11 patients (48%) upper GI endoscopy was performed within 24h, whereas it was not performed in 5. Peptic ulcer was the most common finding (8/18). Mortality rate was 21.7% for worsening of COVID-19 infection. Mortality and rebleeding were not different between patients having upper GI endoscopy before or after 24h/not performed. Glasgow Blatchford score was similar between the two groups (13;12-16 vs 12;9-15).

CONCLUSION

Upper GI bleeding complicated hospital stay in almost 0.5% of COVID-19 patients and peptic ulcer disease is the most common finding. Conservative management could be an option in patients that are at high risk of respiratory complications.

Risk Factors for Late Rebleeding of Colonic Diverticular Bleeding in Elderly Individuals

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the clinical characteristics of colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB) in elderly individuals.

Methods

This retrospective case-control study was conducted at a single tertiary center. A total of 519 patients (356 men and 163 women; mean age of 73.1 ± 12.5 years) with CDB and hospitalized between January 2004 and May 2019 were analyzed. The subjects were divided into two groups: the elderly (274 individuals aged ≥75 years; mean age, 82.1 ± 5.3 years) and non-elderly (245 individuals aged <75 years; mean age, 63.0 ± 10.3 years) groups. Primary outcomes were early and late rebleeding rates, and secondary outcomes were the risk factors for late rebleeding in elderly individuals. Rebleeding occurring within 30 days of hospitalization was defined as early rebleeding, whereas rebleeding occurring after 31 days was defined as late rebleeding.

Results

The early rebleeding rates were 30.6% and 33.1% (p = 0.557) in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively. The late rebleeding rates were 42.3% and 30.6% (p = 0.005) in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively. The 3-year recurrence-free survival was 63.6% in the elderly group and 75.6% in the non-elderly group (log-rank test: p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [odds ratio (OR), 3.55], chronic kidney disease (OR, 2.89), and presence of bilateral diverticula (OR, 1.83) as the independent risk factors for late rebleeding in elderly individuals.

Conclusions

Elderly individuals with CDB require careful follow-up even after discharge. Furthermore, it is important to consider discontinuing NSAIDs to prevent rebleeding.

Multidimensional Prognostic Index Predicts Clinical Outcome and Mortality in Hospitalised Older Patients with Diverticular Disease

INTRODUCTION

The Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) is a validated tool for assessing mortality risk in hospitalised patients. We aimed to evaluate whether the MPI predicted mortality and the risk of developing diverticular disease (DD) complications in older patients.

METHODS

This is a multicentre study conducted in January 2016-March 2018. All patients with DD aged 65 years and older were included. Patients were stratified into three groups according to MPI groups (1, low risk; 2, moderate risk; 3, high risk). Risk of developing DD complications and mortality rate were assessed. Bivariate models were fitted.

RESULTS

One hundred hospitalised patients with DD (mean age 77.9 ± 10.6 years, 53 female patients) were included. Patients with higher MPI groups were more likely to develop DD complications. In particular, 12 (46.2%), 21 (52.5%), and 28 (82.4%) patients with complicated DD were distributed to the MPI 1, MPI 2, and MPI 3 groups (p = 0.0063), respectively. Two patients died in the MPI 1, 4 in the MPI 2, and 29 in the MPI 3 group, with mortality rates of 4.0 per 100 person-year (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0-15.9), 5.6 (95% CI 2.1-15.0), and 89.2 (95% CI 62-130), respectively (log-rank test p < 0.001). In bivariate analysis, after adjustment for age >80 years, Charlson Comorbidity Index >4, DD complications, and the presence of thromboembolism, higher MPI group was independently associated with higher mortality. Those in the MPI 3 group experienced a greater risk of 1-year hospital readmission (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

MPI predicted mortality in patients with DD and also correlated with the risk of developing DD complications. Studies focussing on possible pathophysiological mechanisms between DD complications and MPI are needed.

Mechanisms of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in the Metabolic Syndrome. A Narrative Review

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic syndrome (MS) are two different entities sharing common clinical and physio-pathological features, with insulin resistance (IR) as the most relevant. Large evidence leads to consider it as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, regardless of age, sex, smoking habit, cholesterolemia, and other elements of MS. Therapeutic strategies remain still unclear, but lifestyle modifications (diet, physical exercise, and weight loss) determine an improvement in IR, MS, and both clinical and histologic liver picture. NAFLD and IR are bidirectionally correlated and, consequently, the development of pre-diabetes and diabetes is the most direct consequence at the extrahepatic level. In turn, type 2 diabetes is a well-known risk factor for multiorgan damage, including an involvement of cardiovascular system, kidney and peripheral nervous system. The increased MS incidence worldwide, above all due to changes in diet and lifestyle, is associated with an equally significant increase in NAFLD, with a subsequent rise in both morbidity and mortality due to both metabolic, hepatic and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the slowdown in the increase of the "bad company" constituted by MS and NAFLD, with all the consequent direct and indirect costs, represents one of the main challenges for the National Health Systems.

Risk factors of interventional radiology/surgery for colonic diverticular bleeding

Background and Aim

Colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB) stops spontaneously, but sometimes, excessive bleeding does not allow hemostasis and requires interventional radiology (IR)/surgery. We examined risk factors in patients who required IR/surgery for CDB and late recurrent bleeding rate after IR/surgery.

Methods

This retrospective case-control study was conducted at a tertiary center. We included 608 patients who required hospitalization for CDB. Patients were investigated for risk factors using logistic regression analysis. We also investigated early and late recurrent bleeding rates following IR/surgery.

Results

In 261 patients (42.9%), the bleeding source was identified, and endoscopic hemostasis was performed; 23 (3.8%) required IR/surgery. In multivariate analysis, shock state with a blood pressure of ≤90 mmHg (P < 0.001; odds ratio [OR], 20.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.08-79.5), positive extravasation on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (P < 0.001; OR 9.5, 95% CI 2.85-31.4), two or more early recurrent bleeding episodes (P = 0.002; OR 7.4, 95% CI 2.14-25.4), and right colon as the source of bleeding (P = 0.023; OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.25-14.0) were independent risk factors requiring IR/surgery. Early recurrent bleeding was observed in 0% and 28.0% patients (P < 0.001) in the IR/surgery and no IR/surgery groups, respectively, whereas late recurrent bleeding rate was observed in 43.4% and 30.7% patients (P = 0.203) in the IR/surgery and no IR/surgery groups, respectively. Four patients who required surgery experienced late recurrent bleeding at a site different from the initial CDB.

Conclusions

Although IR/surgery is an effective hemostatic treatment wherein endoscopic treatment is unsuccessful, late recurrent bleeding cannot be prevented.

Aspirin for prevention of colorectal cancer in the elderly: friend or foe?

Cancer is the leading cause of death among men and women aged 60-79 years. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in males and the second most common in females, with about 0.8 million deaths worldwide per year. Individuals older than 50 years account for 20-50% of colonic adenomas. Several measures have been proposed to decrease colorectal cancer risks, such as an increase in dietary fiber, use of aspirin, and physical activity. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been proposed as protective agents against the development of colorectal cancer and colorectal adenomas. Aspirin was the first pharmacological agent endorsed by the United States Preventive Services Task Force screening for colorectal cancer chemoprevention. Although studies have shown up to 40% colorectal cancer risk reduction in individuals at average risk, data regarding this benefit are inconsistent. Several recent studies show that prophylactic use of aspirin in elderly subjects may not be beneficial in preventing the occurrence of colorectal cancers. Given the risks associated with aspirin, such as non-fatal and fatal bleeding events, aspirin's role should be redefined, especially in individuals at risk of bleeding. This review provides a discussion of the recent studies on the role of aspirin use in elderly individuals at risk of colorectal cancer.

Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs, Anticoagulation, and Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Advanced age, history of peptic ulcer disease, Helicobacter pylori, coadministration of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, anticoagulation, and antiplatelets are risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in the elderly. Awareness of these risks and appropriate use of NSAIDs, particularly in those needing antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy, is critical to optimal management. Careful selection of elderly patients requiring antiplatelet, anticoagulation, or chronic NSAID therapy for cotherapy with proton pump inhibitors can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality from gastrointestinal bleeding.

Interplay of cardiovascular mediators, oxidative stress and inflammation in liver disease and its complications

The liver is a crucial metabolic organ that has a key role in maintaining immune and endocrine homeostasis. Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic liver disease might promote the development of various cardiac disorders (such as arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy) and circulatory complications (including systemic, splanchnic and pulmonary complications), which can eventually culminate in clinical conditions ranging from portal and pulmonary hypertension to pulmonary, cardiac and renal failure, ascites and encephalopathy. Liver diseases can affect cardiovascular function during the early stages of disease progression. The development of cardiovascular diseases in patients with chronic liver failure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and cardiovascular complications can in turn affect liver function and liver disease progression. Furthermore, numerous infectious, inflammatory, metabolic and genetic diseases, as well as alcohol abuse can also influence both hepatic and cardiovascular outcomes. In this Review, we highlight how chronic liver diseases and associated cardiovascular effects can influence different organ pathologies. Furthermore, we explore the potential roles of inflammation, oxidative stress, vasoactive mediator imbalance, dysregulated endocannabinoid and autonomic nervous systems and endothelial dysfunction in mediating the complex interplay between the liver and the systemic vasculature that results in the development of the extrahepatic complications of chronic liver disease. The roles of ageing, sex, the gut microbiome and organ transplantation in this complex interplay are also discussed.

Labile PT-INR in a Covid-19 Patient Under Long-term Vitamin K Antagonist Therapy: a Case Report

The COronaVIrus Disease-19 (COVID-19) has been associated with thromboembolic complications, but evidence on its impact on hemorrhagic risk are still scarce. We describe a case of COVID-19 with hemorrhagic complication in the post-acute phase of the disease. The patient was a 93-year-old woman admitted to a post-acute care unit for COVID-19 patients in northern Italy. The patient’s medical history included moderate cognitive impairment, atrial fibrillation under oral anticoagulation (warfarin 2.5 mg and 3.75 mg on alternate days, showing stable PT-INR values since October 2018), and arterial hypertension. The patient was affected by COVID-19, treated with supportive therapy. In the post-acute phase of the disease, the patient presented with melena and showed a marked elevation of PT-INR of 25.1. She was treated with venous infusion of three-factor prothrombin complex concentrate and vitamin K until PT-INR reduction. After 5 days, blood analyses revealed normal hemoglobin, PT-INR 2.15, and a slight alteration of liver function. This case supports a strong impact of the infection on the coagulative pattern not only pro-thrombotically but also by increasing hemorrhagic risk. Special attention should therefore be paid to COVID-19 patients under anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonist and a shift to heparin treatment until illness resolution may be a safe option in these individuals.

Diagnostic Model for In-Hospital Bleeding in Patients with Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Algorithm Development and Validation

Background

Bleeding complications in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have been associated with increased risk of subsequent adverse consequences.

Objective

The objective of our study was to develop and externally validate a diagnostic model of in-hospital bleeding.

Methods

We performed multivariate logistic regression of a cohort for hospitalized patients with acute STEMI in the emergency department of a university hospital. Participants: The model development data set was obtained from 4262 hospitalized patients with acute STEMI from January 2002 to December 2013. A set of 6015 hospitalized patients with acute STEMI from January 2014 to August 2019 were used for external validation. We used logistic regression analysis to analyze the risk factors of in-hospital bleeding in the development data set. We developed a diagnostic model of in-hospital bleeding and constructed a nomogram. We assessed the predictive performance of the diagnostic model in the validation data sets by examining measures of discrimination, calibration, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

In-hospital bleeding occurred in 112 of 4262 participants (2.6%) in the development data set. The strongest predictors of in-hospital bleeding were advanced age and high Killip classification. Logistic regression analysis showed differences between the groups with and without in-hospital bleeding in age (odds ratio [OR] 1.047, 95% CI 1.029-1.066; P<.001), Killip III (OR 3.265, 95% CI 2.008-5.31; P<.001), and Killip IV (OR 5.133, 95% CI 3.196-8.242; P<.001). We developed a diagnostic model of in-hospital bleeding. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.777 (SD 0.021, 95% CI 0.73576-0.81823). We constructed a nomogram based on age and Killip classification. In-hospital bleeding occurred in 117 of 6015 participants (1.9%) in the validation data set. The AUC was 0.7234 (SD 0.0252, 95% CI 0.67392-0.77289).

Conclusions

We developed and externally validated a diagnostic model of in-hospital bleeding in patients with acute STEMI. The discrimination, calibration, and DCA of the model were found to be satisfactory.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR.org ChiCTR1900027578; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=45926

Gastrointestinal bleeding in patients admitted to cardiology: risk factors and a new risk score

OBJECTIVE

Although the early use of a risk stratification score in gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is recommended, so far there has been no risk score for GIB in patients admitted to the cardiology department. To describe the risk factors of GIB and develop a new risk score model in patients admitted to the cardiology department.

METHODS

A total of 633 inpatients with GIB from January 2014 to December 2018 were recruited, 4,231 inpatients with non-GIB were recruited as the control group. Multivariate logistic regression was used to describe the risk factors of GIB. A new risk score model was developed in the derivation cohort. Accuracy to predict GIB was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve in the validation cohort.

RESULTS

Male, coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, systolic blood pressure, hematocrit, plasma albumin, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were associated with GIB. The model had a high predictive accuracy (AUROC 0.816 and 95% CI, 0.792-0.839), which was supported by the validation cohort (AUROC 0.841 and 95% CI, 0.807~0.874). Besides, the prediction of the model was better than HAS-BLED score (AUROC 0.557; 95% CI, 0.513~0.602) and CRUSADE score (AUROC 0.791; 95%CI, 0.757~0.825), respectively. Among the inpatients with a score of 0-3, 4-7, and ≥8 points, the incidence of GIB, the proportion of inpatients requiring suspended red blood cells transfusion, length of stay, and in-hospital mortality all increased gradually (P< 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Male, coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, systolic blood pressure, hematocrit, plasma albumin, and ALT are associated with GIB. The new risk score model is an accurate risk score that predicts GIB in patients admitted to the cardiology department.

Impact of Galectin-3 Circulating Levels on Frailty in Elderly Patients with Systolic Heart Failure

Background: Heart Failure (HF), a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, represents a relevant trigger for the development of frailty in the elderly. Inflammation has been reported to play an important role in HF and frailty pathophysiology. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), whose levels increase with aging, exerts a relevant activity in the processes of cardiac inflammation and fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of Galectin-3 to serve as a biomarker of frailty in HF patients. Methods: 128 consecutive patients aged 65 and older with the diagnosis of systolic HF underwent a frailty assessment and blood sample collection for serum Gal-3 detection. A multivariable regression analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to identify significant predictors of frailty. Results: Frailty was present in 42.2% of patients. Age: Odds Ratio (OR) = 3.29; 95% Confidence Interval CI (CI) = 1.03-10.55, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale Comorbidity Index (CIRS-CI): OR = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.03-3.32, C-Reactive phase Protein (CRP) OR = 3.73; 95% CI = 1.24-11.22, N-terminal-pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP): OR = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.21-4.72 and Gal-3: OR = 5.64; 95% CI = 1.97-16.22 resulted in being significantly and independently associated with frailty. The DCA demonstrated that the addition of Gal-3 in the prognostic model resulted in an improved clinical 'net' benefit. Conclusions: Circulating levels of Gal-3 are independently associated with frailty in elderly patients with systolic HF.

Comorbidity does not mean clinical complexity: evidence from the RePoSI register

In the last 2-3 decades internists have confronted dramatic changes in the pattern of patients acutely admitted to hospital wards. Internists observed a shift from younger subjects affected by a single organ disease to more complex patients, usually older, with multiple chronic conditions, attended by different specialists, with poor integration and treated with multiple drugs. In this regard, the concept of complex patients is addressed daily in clinical practice even if there is no agreed definition of patient complexity. To try to evaluate clinical complexity different instruments have been proposed. Among these, the number of comorbidities (NoC) was considered a marker of clinical complexity. However, this instrument would not give information about the clinical relevance of each condition. On the contrary, cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS) addresses the problem calculating both CIRS severity index (CIRS-SI) and CIRS comorbidity index (CIRS-CI). In light of this, 4714 patients from the RePoSI register were retrospectively analyzed to show if CIRS assessment of comorbidity burden is different from the simple count of comorbidities in predicting the length of hospital stay (LOS) and all-cause of mortality in hospitalized elderly patients and if NoC could be a valid tool to measure patient's complexity. CIRS-SI resulted the best predictor of all-cause in-hospital mortality [OR: 2.66 (1.88-3.77)] in comparison with NoC that did not result statistically significant (p = 0.551). CIRS-SI was also the best predictor of all-cause of post-discharge mortality corrected for age and sex [OR: 2.12 (1.53-2.95)]. CIRS-SI (coefficient ± standard error: 1.23 ± 0.59; p < 0.0381) and CIRS-CI (coefficient ± standard error: 0.27 ± 0.10; p < 0.011) were strong predictors of LOS in comparison with NoC that did not result statistically significant (coefficient ± standard error: 0.04 ± 0.06 p < 0.0561). In conclusion, CIRS assessment of comorbidity burden is a better clinical tool in comparison with the simple count of comorbidities especially considering the length of hospital stay and all-cause mortality in hospitalized elderly patients.

Clinico-pathological Features of Colon Cancer Patients Undergoing Emergency Surgery: A Comparison Between Elderly and Non-elderly Patients

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in patients older than 65 years. Emergency presentation represents about 30% of cases, with increased morbidity and mortality rates. The aim of this study is to compare the perioperative outcome between elderly and non-elderly patients undergoing emergency surgery.

Method

We retrospectively analysed CRC patients that underwent emergency surgery at the Departments of Surgery of the Sapienza University Sant'Andrea Hospital in Rome, and at San Donato Hospital in Arezzo, between June 2012 and June 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: non-elderly (< 65 years) and elderly (≥ 65 years). Variables analysed were sex, onset symptoms, associated disease, ASA score, tumor site and TNM stage, surgical procedures and approach, and morbidity and mortality.

Results

Of a total of 123 patients, 29 patients were non-elderly and 94 patients were elderly. No significant differences were observed in sex, onset symptoms and tumor site between the two groups. Comorbidities were significantly higher in elderly patients (73.4% vs 41.4%, p<0.001). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in surgical approach and the rate of one-stage procedures. Elderly patients were more frequently treated by Hartmann's procedure compared to non-elderly patients (20.2% vs 6.9%). Left colorectal resection with protective ileostomy was most frequent in the non-elderly group (27.6% vs 11.7%). No significant differences were found in the pT and pN categories of the TNM system between the two groups. However, a higher number of T3 in non-elderly patients was observed. A consistent number of non-oncologically adequate resections were observed in the elderly (21.3% vs 3.5%; p<0.03). The morbidity rate was significantly higher in the elderly group (31.9 % vs 3.4%, p<0.001). No significant difference was found in the mortality rate between the two groups, being 13.8% in the elderly and 6.9% in the non-elderly.

Conclusions

Emergency colorectal surgery for cancer still presents significant morbidity and mortality rates, especially in elderly patients. More aggressive tumors and advanced stages were more frequent in the non-elderly group and as a matter it should be taken into account when treating such patients in the emergency setting in order to perform a radical procedure as much as possible.

Cirrhotic patients and older people

The global population is aging, and so the number of older cirrhotic patients is increasing. Older patients are characterised by a risk of frailty and comorbidities, and age is a risk factor for mortality in cirrhotic patients. The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as an aetiology of cirrhosis is increasing, while that of chronic viral hepatitis is decreasing. Also, cirrhosis is frequently idiopathic. The management of portal hypertension in older cirrhotic patients is similar to that in younger patients, despite the greater risk of treatment-related adverse events of the former. The prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma increases with age, but its treatment is unaffected. Liver transplantation is generally recommended for patients < 70 years of age. Despite the increasing prevalence of cirrhosis in older people, little data are available and few recommendations have been proposed. This review suggests that comorbidities have a considerable impact on older cirrhotic patients.