Pathogenesis Based Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis

Understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis is changing our diagnosis and treatment. Endometriosis lesions are clones of specific cells, with variable characteristics as aromatase activity and progesterone resistance. Therefore the GE theory postulates GE incidents to start endometriosis, which thus is different from implanted endometrium. The subsequent growth in the specific environment of the peritoneal cavity is associated with angiogenesis, inflammation, immunologic changes and bleeding in the lesions causing fibrosis. Fibrosis will stop the growth and lesions look burnt out. The pain caused by endometriosis lesions is variable: some lesions are not painful while other lesions cause neuroinflammation at distance up to 28 mm. Diagnosis of endometriosis is made by laparoscopy, following an experience guided clinical decision, based on history, symptoms, clinical exam and imaging. Biochemical markers are not useful. For deep endometriosis, imaging is important before surgery, notwithstanding rather poor predictive values when confidence limits, the prevalence of the disease and the absence of stratification of lesions by size, localization and depth of infiltration, are considered. Surgery of endometriosis is based on recognition and excision. Since the surrounding fibrosis belongs to the body with limited infiltration by endometriosis, a rim of fibrosis can be left without safety margins. For deep endometriosis, this results in a conservative excision eventually with discoid excision or short bowel resections. For cystic ovarian endometriosis superficial destruction, if complete, should be sufficient. Understanding pathophysiology is important for the discussion of early intervention during adolescence. Considering neuroinflammation at distance, the indication to explore large somatic nerves should be reconsidered. Also, medical therapy of endometriosis has to be reconsidered since the variability of lesions results in a variable response, some lesions not requiring estrogens for growth and some being progesterone resistant. If the onset of endometriosis is driven by oxidative stress from retrograde menstruation and the peritoneal microbiome, medical therapy could prevent new lesions and becomes indicated after surgery.

Efficacy of Different Progestins in Women With Advanced Endometriosis Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation for in vitro Fertilization-A Single-Center Non-inferiority Randomized Controlled Trial

Object: Is it possible to use different progestins cotreatment with human menopausal gonadotrophin (hMG) in women with advanced endometriosis but normal ovulation during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) in vitro fertilization (IVF)? Whether different progestins treatments can be an alternative choice for women with severe endometriosis in considering IVF/ICSI treatment remains unknown? Design: Non-inferiority randomized clinical trial. Setting: Tertiary-care academic medical center. Population: Four hundred and fifty infertile patients with severe endometriosis undergoing IVF/ICSI between May 2016 and March 2017. Methods: Four hundred and fifty infertile patients with severe endometriosis undergoing IVF/ICSI were randomized to: medroxyprogesterone acetate +hMG; dydrogesterone +hMG; and progesterone +hMG. Ovulation was induced with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Viable embryos were cryopreserved for later transfer. Main Outcome Measures: The primary endpoint outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. Secondary indicators included the incidence of a premature surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), the number of viable embryos, and clinical pregnancy outcomes. Results: The number of oocytes retrieved was higher in the medroxyprogesterone acetate +hMG group than the two other groups (9.3 ± 5.7 vs. 8.0 ± 4.5 vs. 7.8 ± 5.2, P = 0.021). LH levels were suppressed after a 6-day progestin treatment in the medroxyprogesterone acetate +hMG and dydrogesterone +hMG groups, but there was a rebound of LH values in the progesterone +hMG group. No premature LH surge and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred. No significant differences among the three groups were observed in fertilization and pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion: It is mandatory to point out that our conclusions are valid for patients with ovarian advanced endometriosis but normal ovarian functions. These results suggest three different progestins protocols are equivalent in terms of pregnancy outcomes for women with advanced endometriosis. PPOS protocol can be an alternative choice for women with severe endometriosis and normal ovarian reserve in IVF/ICSI treatment. These methods could be tested with other populations of women with endometriosis. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier:ChiCTR-OIN-16008529. Trial registration date: 2014-05-25. Date of first patient enrollment: May 2016.

Spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma - our experience with surgical approach

Spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma is a serious complication of anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy. Its incidence has increased in recent years due to an increasing number of patients on this treatment. A number of case series have been described in the literature. In the vast majority of cases, the hemodynamically stable patients were treated either conservatively or by selective radiological embolization of the bleeding source. A surgical approach is reported as a last choice in the cases where the conservative therapy fails, radiological intervention is unavailable, in patients with continuous bleeding or in patients who develop abdominal compartment syndrome. In our case report, we present a patient on anticoagulation therapy for deep venous thrombosis complicated by massive retroperitoneal bleeding: surgery was used as the method of first choice and the treatment was successful. Key words: retroperitoneal hematoma bleeding anticoagulation treatment surgery.

[Skręt sieci większej jako przyczyna dolegliwości bólowych miednicy mniejszej u pacjentki po cięciu cesarskim - trudności diagnostyczne]

Spontaneous torsion of the greater omentum is a rare cause of the acute abdomen or pain complaints of the pelvis minor. It can imitate an severe inflammatory conditions rolling in the peritoneal cavity like e.g. appendicitis. At the work a case of omental torsion at the patient after the caesarean section with pain problems in the right iliac fossa was presented. Problems of the preoperative diagnostic testing and a possible differential diagnosis were discussed.

Mesenteric inflammatory pseudotumor: a case report and comprehensive literature review

PURPOSE

This study aims to provide an overview of the literature on mesenteric/omental inflammatory pseudotumors (IPTs).

METHODOLOGY

We present a new case of mesenteric IPT. We also conducted a systematic search of the English-language medical literature using PubMed, Medline, Google, and Google Scholar related to mesenteric or omental IPTs. The following search terms were used in various combinations: inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, IPT, mesentery, and omentum. The search included articles published in the English language between January, 1978 and April, 2014. Studies were excluded if the full text was unavailable or missing information prohibited comparisons.

RESULTS

A total of 30 reports concerning 36 patients with inflammatory pseudotumors meeting the aforementioned criteria were included. The patients were aged from 10 months to 68 years (mean, 19.98 ± 20.5 years); 12 were female (16.75 ± 16.97 years; range, 10 months to 68 years) and 24 were male (21.6 ± 21.9 years; range, 18 months to 63 years). Detailed clinical and pathologic characteristics of 36 patients with IPTs are provided in Table 1.

CONCLUSION

IPTs may be definitively diagnosed only by histopathological examination and are most effectively treated by resection with negative surgical borders. No consensus has yet been reached regarding when nonsurgical treatment options are most appropriate in management of these lesions. IPTs often recur locally, while distant metastases are very rare. Postoperative close surveillance is essential to detect recurrences early.

[A case of appendceal cancer with abdominal, intraabdominal, and retroperitoneal abscesses]

A 65-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital owing to difficulty walking and an abdominal tumor in the right lower abdomen. An irregular mass with calcification was detected in her cecum, and abdominal, intraabdominal, and retroperitoneal abscess was detected by computed tomography(CT). An irregular mass was diagnosed as Group 5 adenocarcinoma by biopsy. After the inflammation improved by abscess drainage, we conducted ileocecal resection and fenestrated the abscess. Pathological analysis showed well-differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma: dimensions 20 × 20 mm, pSS, stroma: med, INF a, ly1, v0, pPM0 (70 mm), pDM0 (70 mm), pRM0 (8mm), LN(-): #201: (0/9), fStageII. Thepatie nts can now walk, and she remains in good health and has been recurrence-free 8 months after surgery. To our knowledge, colon cancer with an abdominal abscess is comparatively rare, and we discuss this in light of the literature.

[Effect of mesenteric lymph drainage on intestinal barrier function in rats with severe intraperitoneal infection]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of mesenteric lymph drainage on intestinal barrier function in severe intraperitoneal infection (SII).

METHODS

Thirty healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups(model group, drainage group and control group). SII model rats were prepared by injecting E.coli intraperitoneally. Rats in drainage group rats underwent mesentery lymphatic duct ligation and drainage 2 hours after model induction, and those in control group received equal amount of 10% BaSO4 nutrient broth injection intraperitonerally. Six hours after model induction, rats were sacrificed. The intestinal samples were collected for pathology analysis and content of DAO and concentration of TNF-α, IL-6. Content of D-lactate in blood plasma was detected.

RESULTS

Under light microscopy, ileum mucosa tissue structure of model group was disordered. Under transmission electron microscopy, intestinal mucosal epithelial cells of model group swelled obviously, close connection was destructed, and early apoptosis cells occurred. After mesentery lymph drainage, intestinal mucosa tissue structure was improved obviously, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of epithelium swelled mildly. The contents of intestinal tissue DAO in drainage group, model group and control group were (5.9±0.4) U/L, (3.0±0.1) U/L and (18.3±2.1) U/L respectively. There was significant difference among groups (P<0.05). Compared with control group [(45.4±37.9) μg/L], the plasma content of D-lactate in model group [(256.0±177.2) μg/L] increased significantly (P<0.05). The plasma content of D-lactate in drainage group [(136.9±21.5) μg/L] was not significantly different compared with model group (P>0.05), but was significantly higher compared to control group (P<0.05). Compared with control group, model group had significantly higher levels of TNF-α [(3431.3±23.9) ng/L vs. (2730.0±408.7) ng/L] and IL-6 [(86.3±1.6) ng/L vs. (30.2±0.9) ng/L] (P<0.05), while the TNF-α was (2653.2±324.1) ng/L, and the IL-6 was (50.9±0.7) ng/L in drainage group, which were significantly lower compared with model group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Mesenteric lymph drainage can obviously improve intestinal barrier function in severe intraperitoneal infection and may play a protective role in intestinal mucosa.

Common presentation uncommon diagnosis primary omental torsion

Primary omental torsion is a rare cause of acute abdomen and mimics common acute abdominal condition like appendicitis. Torsion of the greater omentum may be primary or secondary. Here we present 2 cases admitted through emergency with the pain in right iliac fossa with this unusual diagnosis.

[Prophylactics and treatment of peritoneal commissures]

The means for using prophylactic measures for prevention of the development of the adhesion process in the abdominal cavity are divided by the authors into two groups: for primary and secondary prophylactics. The mechanism of action of means for primary prophylactics is directed to restoration of the peritoneum mesothelium and its function; secondary prophylactics--to prevention of adhesions of scarry regenerated leaves of the parietal and visceral peritoneum. The findings are analyzed. The authors give recommendations for using means against adhesions. The necessity to choose the means for prophylactics depending on the state of the abdominal cavity is grounded (first operation or reoperation, planned or emergency operation). On the basis of the personal experience the authors recommend measures of the primary and secondary prophylactics of the adhesion process.

[Diagnosis and treatment of abdominal hydatid cysts in children. A multicentric study]

Echinococcosis is one of the most frequent parasitosis and is endemic in Romania.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The data on 111 children with abdominal localization of hydatidosis who underwent exploration and treatment in 3 pediatric surgical clinics were reviewed. The study evaluated 59 patients who were treated at "Sf. Maria" pediatric hospital Iasi during 2004 and 2009, 47 at "Marie Curie" pediatric hospital from Bucharest during 2000 - 2009 and 5 children at Bacău General Hospital 2004-2009. The medical records were reviewed for: demographics, age, gender, location of the cyst, operative procedure, medical treatment, outcome, length of hospital stay and postoperative follow up.

RESULTS

Age ranged between 2 and 17 years and male/female ratio was 1,1/1.67% of patients lived in rural areas. The liver was the most common organ involved: in 69 cases it was the only organ involved and there were 2 kidney cyst cases, 8 spleens involved, 2 cases in broad ligament, 13 peritoneal cases and 26 cases of cyst located in great omentum. The preferred surgical procedure was Lagrot partial pericystectomy. For medical antihelminthic treatment it was used Albendazole. As complications there were: biliary fistulas, postoperative cholangitis, infection of the residual cavity, anaphylactic reactions. The mortality rate was 0%.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the patients were from rural area. The liver was the major organ involved. The treatment includes both surgical and medical means. There is a relatively high rate of postoperative complications (although some of them being minor) in 31 patients.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis--medical and surgical treatment

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a rare but devastating complication. The patients at high risk for EPS include those on peritoneal dialysis (PD) for more than 8 - 10 years and patients with high peritoneal transport and frequent peritonitis. Effective medical treatment with tamoxifen and immunosuppressives (a steroid with or without azathioprine or mycophenolate) has been reported. Surgical enterolysis is needed when irreversible intestinal obstruction occurs. In experienced hands, mortality can be reduced to a few percentage points, but the recurrence rate is very high. Noble plication has been reported to reduce the recurrence rate. Accelerated EPS development may possibly occur after conversion from PD to HD.

Sterile intra-abdominal fluid collection associated with seprafilm use

Postoperative abdominal adhesions are a significant cause of morbidity and expenditure of healthcare resources. As a result, numerous substances have been studied in an effort to reduce the incidence of adhesive disease. Seprafilm, a hyaluronate-based bioresorbable membrane, has been the subject of considerable research and has been found to be both safe and effective in reducing postoperative adhesions. We report three cases of the development of sterile abdominal fluid collection after the use of Seprafilm in colorectal surgery.

[The therapeutic effect of normobaric oxygen in experimental peritonitis and the efficiency of rectal fever, WBC, CRP and procalcitonin in monitoring response of the therapy]

BACKGROUND

It was investigated the effect of using normobaric oxygen (NO) in addition to antibiotherapy in experimental peritonitis and the changes of rectal fever (RF), WBC, CRP and procalcitonin levels were evaluated.

METHODS

After the preliminary research of the normal values, rats were infected by E. coli intraperitoneally. Four groups were assigned into "no therapy", "given NO", "given antibiotic", "given antibiotic + NO" groups.

RESULTS

The decline of RF and WBC levels on 3rd and 5th days was recorded in antibiotic + NO group versus the other groups. It was observed that group 4 was superior to the others. The positivity of periton cultures and the inflammation in the muscle were found to be less in antibiotic + NO group. No correlation was found between pathological and microbiological recovery and blood CRP level in all groups. But a significant decrease in blood procalcitonin level was determined in group 4 compared to the other groups. On day 3, procalcitonin and CRP levels increased with increasing WBC levels. On day 5, procalcitonin levels also decreased in groups with decreased WBC levels, but no significant correlation was found between CRP and WBC levels.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that using of NO in addition to antibiotherapy could increase the success rate of experimental intraabdominal sepsis therapy and blood procalcitonin and WBC levels could be more beneficial than CRP levels in monitoring of the severity of the sepsis.

Smad7 transgene attenuates peritoneal fibrosis in uremic rats treated with peritoneal dialysis

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of the peritoneal fibrosis that complicates long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). We studied the TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway in peritoneal fibrosis induced in uremic rats treated with PD and explored the therapeutic potential of Smad7 to prevent fibrogenesis. After subtotal nephrectomy, uremic rats were treated with peritoneal dialysis using 4.25% dextrose-containing fluid. The peritoneum of uremic rats treated with PD demonstrated fibrosis, increased TGF-beta expression, increased Smad2/3 activation, decreased Smad7 expression, and increased expression of fibrogenic and angiogenic factors. In addition, peritoneal function was impaired and its structure was altered, including a thickened submesothelial layer. In rats transfected with a Smad7 transgene using an ultrasound-microbubble-mediated system, peritoneal fibrosis was attenuated, peritoneal function was improved, and Smad2/3 activation was inhibited. We suggest that administration of Smad7 inhibits peritoneal fibrogenesis in uremic rats treated with PD by correcting the imbalance between downregulated Smad7 and activated Smad2/3. Blockade of the TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway may represent a novel therapeutic approach to prevent peritoneal fibrosis in patients treated with PD.

[Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis]

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a rare complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) characterized by extensive peritoneal fibrosis and bowel obstruction. Opinions on its etiopathogenesis diverge. It appears that the performance of peritoneal dialysis itself and the exposition of the peritoneum to non-physiological influences (the incidence increases in proportion to the length of peritoneal dialysis treatment) is an important factor. Yet there is also patients' individual sensitiveness, which apparently depends on individual immunological response. EPS causes severe changes in peritoneal anatomy and functions, resulting both in the loss of the transport function of the peritoneum, and in bowel malfunction and serious malnutrition. Imaging methods (ultrasound, computer tomography) are very important in diagnosing EPS; the diagnosis is confirmed histologically. No laboratory markers have been discovered yet to allow for timely indication of EPS development. There are different treatment strategies, including different surgical interventions (liberation of bowel loops, peritoneum resection) and the effort to influence the immune process. Corticosteroids remain the medication of choice; also promising is Tamoxifen. In spite of that, EPS mortality is still very high, ranging between 56 and 93%. The disease often progresses even after peritoneal dialysis has finished. The article summarises the existing knowledge about encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis, its diagnosis and therapy.

Hyaluronan-based antiadhesive agents in abdominal surgery: applications, results, and mechanisms of action

Postsurgical intra-abdominal adhesions cause significant morbidity and mortality, with small bowel obstruction being the most common complication. The urge to prevent adhesion formation has resulted in multiple experimental and clinical trials and the development of numerous antiadhesive agents. Through the years, hyaluronan-based antiadhesives have proved to be successful in the reduction of adhesion formation. Despite the obvious effectiveness of hyaluronan, there is still much debate on its clinical use and mechanisms of action. Various hyaluronan-containing products have been introduced and withdrawn from the market. The application of hyaluronan in combination with meshes for hernia repair appears to be a promising concept. Not all different applications of hyaluronan are well known and its use in patients with a malignancy or abdominal infection remains controversial. Here an overview is given on the effects of hyaluronan-based antiadhesive agents in abdominal surgery, its use in infectious conditions, and its oncologic repercussions. The most important mechanism of action appears to be the mechanical separation of damaged peritoneal surfaces. However, the biological effects of hyaluronan, such as modulation of cell proliferation and peritoneal biology, might also be of influence.

Percutaneous embolization of persistent urinary fistula after partial nephrectomy using N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate

Percutaneous closure of a calyceal fistula following partial nephrectomy for kidney cancer was achieved with fistula embolization with n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate. Previous attempts at closure by conservative and endoscopic means were unsuccessful. Tissue adhesives are useful in the management of persistent urinary leakage after partial nephrectomy.

Alpha-particle radioimmunotherapy of disseminated peritoneal disease using a (212)Pb-labeled radioimmunoconjugate targeting HER2

These studies demonstrate the feasibility of targeted therapy for the treatment of disseminated peritoneal disease using (212)Pb-labeled Herceptin as an in vivo generator of (212)Bi. In vitro studies compare the potential of the bismuth radioisotopes, (213)Bi and (212)Bi, to that of (212)Pb. Overall, (212)Pb results in a higher therapeutic index than either bismuth radioisotope, requiring lower radioactivity (microCi) for effective cytotoxic response. A pilot radioimmunotherapy (RIT) experiment treating mice bearing 5 d LS-174T intraperitoneally (i.p.) xenografts determined a maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of 20-40 microCi with i.p. administration. A specific dose response was observed and 10 microCi was selected as the effective operating dose for future experiments. Median survival of tumor-bearing mice receiving 10 microCi increased from 19 to 56 days (p = 0.008). The efficacy of (212)Pb-Herceptin was also assessed in a human pancreatic carcinoma xenograft (Shaw; i.p.) animal model previously reported as unresponsive to 213Bi-Herceptin (p = 0.002). Multiple dosing of (212)Pb-Herceptin was evaluated in both animal models. The median survival of mice bearing 3 d LS-174T i.p. xenografts increased to 110 days, with up to 3 doses of (212)Pb-Herceptin given at approximately monthly intervals; however, there was no evidence of a correlation with the second and third doses (p = 0.98). No improvement in median survival was noted with a similar regimen in the Shaw xenograft model.

A rare presentation of hydatid cyst

Hydatid disease, although known to occur in most body areas, is extremely rare in the female reproductive system. There are different modes of presentation for the disease; however, we report and discuss a case presented with cystic vesicles passing through the vagina, which is considered as a rare presentation for secondary involvement of the uterus and both ovaries. We confirmed diagnosis with radiological examinations and serological tests. We operated on the patient, and studied the excised cysts microscopically. The gynecologist should be aware of hydatid cyst when vaginally passing a grape like vesicle is presented by the patient.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis

Since the first peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients with encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) were reported in 1980, EPS has been considered primarily a fatal complication. The incidence of EPS in PD patients has been reported to be from 0.7% to 7.3%, and the rate appears to be higher in patients receiving long-term treatment. Most data from Japan has shown an overall incidence of 2.5% with an evident negative effect of increasing duration of PD, which also augments mortality. Since EPS occurred after withdrawal from PD in more than half of the patients, strict monitoring is necessary when a long-term PD patient is withdrawn from PD. Maintaining patients on standard PD for more than 8 years using conventional solutions is associated with a substantial risk for development of EPS. Appropriate treatment according to the disease stage is most important in EPS treatment. Therefore, when examining a PD patient complaining of gastrointestinal symptoms, the possibility of EPS has to be kept in mind. Basic therapeutic tactics for EPS include appropriate use of steroids. If the state of bowel obstruction persists, laparotomy and enterolysis should be performed to obtain a complete cure. It is now recognized that EPS is not a fatal complication of PD.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis in paediatric peritoneal dialysis patients

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a serious complication of chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD). In contrast to the adult population, there are few studies regarding EPS in paediatric CPD patients, and the majority of reported patients are from Japan. The aim of the present report is to define the incidence of EPS in our paediatric CPD patients and to describe the clinical and laboratory characteristics. A total of 104 paediatric patients were followed from November 1989 to November 2003 and two were diagnosed as EPS (1.9%). The dialysis periods of these patients were 45 and 53 months with 6 and 8 peritonitis episodes, respectively. Clinical signs of EPS developed 7 and 14 days after the removal of the dialysis catheter, and CPD was replaced by haemodialysis because of persistent peritonitis. One patient was well after surgical management but died 6 months later. The second patient who was treated with prednisolone remained well at 16 months. In conclusion, EPS is a rare but important complication of CPD. We recommend that all patients on CPD who develop ultrafiltration failure be evaluated radiologically for the occurrence of EPS. Management should be tailored to the individual patient.

Sonographically guided aspiration of cerebrospinal fluid pseudocysts in children and adolescents

OBJECTIVE

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pseudocyst formation is an uncommon cause of ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction in children. Traditional staged treatment consists of shunt externalization, antibiotics, and later shunt revision and internalization. We sought to evaluate whether sonographically guided pseudocyst aspiration to alleviate acute symptoms and to exclude CSF infection could obviate shunt externalization and expedite the care of these patients.

CONCLUSION

Sonographically guided CSF pseudocyst aspiration is an effective technique, allowing exclusion or confirmation of infection and providing relief of abdominal symptoms. In patients with sterile collections, staged surgical revision with shunt externalization can be avoided, speeding and simplifying treatment.

[Hepatic hydatid cyst ruptured in the peritoneum]

Romania is an endemic region for hydatid cyst and has a high incidence of hepatic hydatid cysts. If the intrabiliary rupture is the most frequent complication encountered, rupture in the peritoneum is rare, with exact data not available. Between 1993-2002 160 patients with hepatic hydatid cysts were operated. Six of them had an intraperitoneal ruptured cyst. Ultrasound raised the suspicion of hepatic hydatid cyst ruptured in the peritoneum in 4 cases, in one case the intact cyst migrated in the lower abdomen were it was mistaken for an ovarian cyst. After a thorough lavage with hypertonic serum, the parasite was evacuated, the pericyst partially removed and the cavity collapsed with non-absorbable sutures. The postoperative course was uneventful. Prophylaxis with benzimidazolic drugs started days 2-3 PO. At a follow-up between 1-4 years no peritoneal hydatidosis was detected. In the intraperitoneal ruptured hydatid cyst the hypertonic serum and benzimidazolic drugs can be useful in preventing peritoneal seedings.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis in Japan: a prospective, controlled, multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is recognized as a rare but serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, clinical features, and mortality rate of EPS.

METHODS

The authors requested the registration of all PD patients in facilities across Japan where more than 10 patients were treated with PD in this prospective multicenter study. During the 4-year study, the incidence of EPS was observed in the enrolled patients.

RESULTS

A total of 1,958 patients who were treated with PD in 57 facilities were followed up from April 1999 through March 2003. EPS occurred in 48 patients, corresponding to an overall incidence of 2.5%. In 33 of the 48 (68.8%) patients, EPS was found after discontinuation of PD. The incidence (and mortality rate) of EPS was 0%, 0.7% (0%), 2.1% (8.3%), 5.9% (28.6%), 5.8% (61.5%), and 17.2% (100%) in patients who had undergone PD for 3, 5, 8, 10, 15, and more than 15 years, respectively. The recovery ratio with total parenteral nutrition, corticosteroids and surgical treatment were 0%, 38.5%, and 58.3%, respectively. Eighteen patients (37.5%) died, 22 (45.8%) recovered, and the status of the other 8 (16.7%) remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

The results of this prospective multicenter study showed that the incidence of EPS was 2.5% within a 4-year observation period and that two thirds of the cases were diagnosed after discontinuation of PD. Because of the current progress in diagnostic technology and therapeutic methodology, it appears that PD can be continued successfully with an acceptable, low risk for EPS for at least 8 years, whereas stricter caution is required for patients receiving PD for longer periods.

Accurate diagnosis of infarction of omentum and appendices epiploicae by computed tomography

Segmental infarction of the omentum and epiploic appendages presents with acute abdominal findings that may be confused with a surgical illness. Computed tomography, however, demonstrates a consistent and well-recognized pattern that allows safe, nonoperative treatment. Infarction of omental or mesenteric fat may present clinically as localized peritonitis, mimicking appendicitis, diverticulitis, or cholecystitis. Spontaneous recovery without operation is to be expected if an accurate diagnosis is established. We describe the diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of 15 patients who had infarction of the greater omentum (eight) and epiploic appendage (seven) and presented with localized abdominal pain and tenderness, with six demonstrating regional peritonitis and fever. All underwent CT imaging during their initial evaluation, and 12 of the 15 patients were diagnosed with focal omental or mesenteric fat infarction radiographically and managed nonoperatively. Three patients who had characteristic CT findings nevertheless underwent operation. All patients had complete resolution of their abdominal pain regardless of treatment. The clinical presentation of infarction of the omental or epiploic appendages may be difficult to differentiate from surgical causes of acute abdominal pain. The characteristic findings on computed tomography are diagnostic and allow safe, conservative management in the majority of patients.

A complex caliceal-cutaneous and caliceal-peritoneal fistula in a renal transplant patient: a case for conservative management

Caliceal fistula is a rare complication after renal transplant and may lead to graft failure. We present a case of complex caliceal-cutaneous and caliceal-peritoneal fistula in a renal transplant patient who was successfully managed conservatively.

[Thoracoscopic repair of diaphragmatic thinning for pleuroperitoneal communication; report of a case]

A 53-year-old man presented with massive right hydrothorax just after introduction of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Because the glucose concentration of pleural fluid was markedly high compared with that of serum, we diagnosed pleuroperitoneal communication. Thoracoscopic surgery was performed and thinning of the diaphragm was found. We sutured the diaphragm to repair the thin portion and performed pleurodesis with 50% glucose solution. He restarted CAPD 1 month post-operatively and continued at home without pleural effusion. Eight months post-operatively, he experienced dyspnea again and chest X-ray showed right hydrothorax. Although the cause of recurrent hydrothorax is unknown, it may be that not only surgical repair but also more intense pleurodesis is needed.

Endometriosis is not only a gynecologic disease

The efficacy of medical and surgical treatment of endometriosis and pelvic pain is a source of questions and controversies. Complete resolution of endometriosis is not yet possible but therapy has essentially three main objectives: 1) to reduce pain; 2) to increase the possibility of pregnancy; 3) to delay recurrence for as long as possible. In case of moderate and severe endometriosis, operative laparoscopy must be considered as first line treatment. The mean pregnancy rate of 50% reported in the literature following surgery provides scientific proof that operative treatment should first be undertaken to give our patients the best chance of conceiving naturally. In case of rectovaginal adenomyotic nodules, surgery must also be considered as first line therapy, medical therapy being relatively inefficacious. Careful preoperative examination is mandatory (transrectal sonography, magnetic resonance imaging, bowel barium enema or intravenous pyelography) to evaluate potentially severe complications of the disease.

Are pelvic adhesions preventable?

Pelvic adhesions occur following the vast majority of surgical procedures. Surgical technique is the most important consideration to reducing adhesions. Anti-adhesion adjuvants can further improve adhesion reduction achieved by good surgical technique.

Deep Endometriosis: Definition, Pathogenesis, and Clinical Management

"Deep endometriosis" includes rectovaginal lesions as well as infiltrative forms that involve vital structures such as bowel, ureters, and bladder. The available evidence suggests the same pathogenesis for deep infiltrating vesical and rectovaginal endometriosis (i.e., intraperitoneal seeding of regurgitated endometrial cells, which collect and implant in the most dependent portions of the peritoneal cavity and the anterior and posterior cul-de-sac, and trigger an inflammatory process leading to adhesion of contiguous organs with creation of false peritoneal bottoms). According to anatomic, surgical, and pathologic findings, deep endometriotic lesions seem to originate intraperitoneally rather than extraperitoneally. Also the lateral asymmetry in the occurrence of ureteral endometriosis is compatible with the menstrual reflux theory and with the anatomic differences of the left and right hemipelvis. Peritoneal, ovarian, and deep endometriosis may be diverse manifestations of a disease with a single origin (i.e., regurgitated endometrium). Based on different pathogenetic hypotheses, several schemes have been proposed to classify deep endometriosis, but further data are needed to demonstrate their validity and reliability. Drugs induce temporary quiescence of active deep lesions and may be useful in selected circumstances. Progestins should be considered as first-line medical treatment for temporary pain relief. However, in most cases of severely infiltrating disease, surgery is the final solution. Great importance must be given to complete and balanced counseling, as awareness of the real possibilities of different treatments will enhance the patient's collaboration.

Basic mechanisms and clinical implications of peritoneal fibrosis

We have stressed the role of certain growth factors and cytokines in peritoneal fibrosis, including TGFbeta, TIMP-1, and inflammatory cytokines, especially IL-1beta. Recent research highlights the myofibroblast-like transformation of mesothelial cells as a central initiating event in peritoneal fibrosis. The induction, survival, and apoptosis of the myofibroblast cell population likely dictate the nature of the fibrogenic response. The accumulation of collagen occurs in a nondegradative environment, and collagenases and their inhibitors have a role in the maintenance of fibrosis. Fibrosis appears to be a ubiquitous response of peritoneal tissues to the damaging effects of uremia, bioincompatible dialysate, recurrent infection, and inflammation. Recent research has focused on the induction of angiogenesis, as this appears to correlate with increased solute transport and peritoneal membrane ultrafiltration failure. Fibrosis may play an integral part in peritoneal membrane dysfunction in several aspects. Angiogenesis may be induced as part of the fibrotic response, as many key fibrogenic cytokines are also strongly angiogenic. Fibrotic tissue may support and preserve angiogenesis. Changes in the interstitium may have a direct effect on the hydrodynamic properties of the peritoneum and may directly influence fluid movement. In its most extreme form, fibrosis manifests as the rare but devastating EPS. Peritoneal biopsy studies have identified a high prevalence of peritoneal fibrosis in PD patients. Research into peritoneal fibrosis will be enhanced by new animal models where the role of various cytokines and growth factors, cellular processes, and matrix interactions can be studied. With these models, the role of fibrosis in alteration of peritoneal membrane function can be better assessed. Clinical trials to assess the role of prevention of peritoneal injury using biocompatible solutions and treatments targeted directly at peritoneal fibrosis will be important, but challenging to design and carry out.

A case of hepatic artery embolization and partial arterialization of the portal vein for intraperitoneal, hemorrhage after a pancreaticoduodenectomy

We report a case of hepatic artery embolization and partial portal vein arterialization for the treatment of a delayed massive hemorrhage after a pancreaticoduodenectomy. A 70-year-old male underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy for the treatment of lower bile duct cancer. A slight discharge of pancreatic juice was recognized early during the postoperative period. A delayed massive hemorrhage occurred on postoperative day 34, resulting in hypotensive shock. Angiography and computed tomography examinations revealed bleeding from a pseudoaneurysm at the stump of the gastroduodenal artery and portal vein compression by the hematoma. Embolization of the stump of the gastroduodenal artery resulted in the total occlusion of the hepatic artery. We performed a partial portal vein arterialization via side-to-side anastomosis of a branch of the ileal artery and vein. The partial portal oxygen pressure increased from 70 mmHg to 90 mmHg. A liver abscess was recognized two weeks after the arterialization, but was successfully treated by percutaneous transhepatic drainage. The patient was discharged from hospital in good condition on postoperative day 69. Whether the partial portal vein arterialization was effective is unclear, but partial portal vein arterialization should be considered as an option in cases of total hepatic artery occlusion with impairment of portal blood flow.

Risk factors for abdominal wall complications in peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) have increased intra-abdominal pressure and a high prevalence of abdominal wall complications.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of hernias and peritoneal leaks in our PD patients and to investigate their potential risk factors.

PATIENTS

We studied 142 unselected patients treated with PD during the past 5 years, including those that were already on PD and those that started PD during this period. Mean age was 54 years and mean follow-up on PD was 39 months. 72 patients had been treated with only continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD), 8 with automated PD (APD), and 62 with both modalities.

RESULTS

53 patients (37%) developed hernia and/or leak. A total of 39 hernias and 63 leaks were registered. The overall rates were 0.08 hernias/patient/year and 0.13 leaks/patient/year. 17 patients had both abdominal complications. Hernia was most frequently located in the umbilical region, and the most frequent site of leakage was the pericatheter area. Both complications appeared more frequently during the CAPD period (87% of hernias, 81% of leaks). The rate of hernias was higher in patients treated only with CAPD than in those that used only cyclers [0.08 vs 0.01 hernias/patient/year, not significant (NS)]. No patient treated only with APD had peritoneal leak; 25% (18/72) of patients treated with CAPD developed this complication (p = 0.18, NS). Dialysate exchange volumes ranged from 2000 to 2800 mL. 25 (66%) patients required surgical repair of the hernia, with recurrence in 7 patients (28%). 27 (84%) patients with leaks were initially treated with transitory temporary transfer to hemodialysis, low volume APD, or intermittent PD for 4 weeks. The leak recurred in half of the cases and surgical repair was necessary in 12 cases. The development of hernia and/or leak did not correlate with gender, diabetes, duration of follow-up, type of PD, history of abdominal surgery, or with the largest peritoneal exchange volume used. Polycystic kidney disease was the only factor associated with higher rate of hernias (p = 0.005), whereas increased age (p = 0.04) and higher body mass index (p = 0.03) were significantly associated with the appearance of leaks.

CONCLUSION

Abdominal hernias and peritoneal leaks are very frequent in the PD population. Advanced age, polycystic kidney disease, and high body mass index are independent risk factors for their development. Automated PD with low daytime fill volume should be considered in all patients at risk for hernias and/or leaks.

Acute stent thrombosis after early withdrawal of platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists: potential rebound prothrombotic effect?

We report on two cases of acute coronary stent thrombosis after early withdrawal of different competitive inhibitors of the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor, eptifibatide and tirofiban. Differences in pharmacokinetics between different types of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor blockers and a potential rebound prothrombotic effect with the use of these antiplatelet drugs are reviewed.

Non-surgical treatment for afferent loop syndrome in recurrent gastric cancer complicated by peritoneal carcinomatosis: percutaneous transhepatic duodenal drainage followed by 24-hour infusion of high-dose fluorouracil and leucovorin

Afferent loop syndrome (ALS) is a debilitating complication of recurrent gastric cancer. Surgical intervention is usually not feasible in the face of poor general performance, presence of advanced peritoneal carcinomatosis and limited survival of the patients. Non-surgical approaches include internal drainage by stenting at the stenotic or anastomotic site and external drainage via the percutaneous routes. Percutaneous transhepatic duodenal drainage (PTDD) has been shown to provide effective palliation for ALS, but long-term catheterization is usually inevitable. We hereby present two cases of recurrent gastric cancer whose ALS was successfully treated with PTDD followed by weekly 24-h infusion of high-dose 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin (HDFL). PTDD rapidly ameliorated the incapacitating symptoms of ALS, and the effective, low-toxicity chemotherapy subsequently led to tumor regression, restoration of bowel patency and removal of the drainage tube. At present, both patients have remained ALS-free and drainage-free for 16 and 17 months, respectively. Our results indicate that this non-surgical approach with PTDD followed by weekly HDFL could serve as a safe and effective treatment for ALS in recurrent gastric cancer complicated by peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Peritoneal molecular environment, adhesion formation and clinical implication

Whether induced by infection, inflammation, ischemia, and/or surgical injury, peritoneal adhesions are the leading cause of pelvic pain, bowel obstruction and infertility. It is clear that while postsurgical peritoneal wounds heal without adhesions in some patients, others develop severe scarring from seemingly equal procedures; in addition, in the same patient, adhesions can develop at one surgical site and not in another. The mechanisms underlying the predisposition to form adhesions as well as their site specificity are completely unknown. However, a large number of intraperitoneal surgical procedures are performed each day in the USA, and thus many patients are at risk of developing postoperative adhesions. Therefore, understanding of adhesion formation at the molecular level is essential and in the absence of such information, attempts to prevent patients from developing adhesions will remain an empirical process. The unprecedented advancement in molecular biology during the past decade has led to the identification of many biologically active molecules with the potential of regulating inflammatory and immune responses, angiogenesis and tissue remodeling, events that are central to normal peritoneal wound healing and adhesion formation. Although, the insight into their importance in the development of tissue fibrosis has substantially increased, their major roles in peritoneal biological functions and adhesion formation remain at best speculative. This article reviews the clinical implications of adhesions and attempts to highlight some of the key molecules i.e. growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, proteases and extracellular matrix, that are recognized to regulate inflammation, fibrinolysis, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling, events that are central to peritoneal wound repair and adhesion formation. Finally, the article discusses the potential application and site specific delivery of several active compounds that are developed to alter the local inflammatory and immune response i.e., cytokine/chemokine network, targeted gene delivery and development of a new generation of biomaterials to prevent adhesion formation. Such understanding of peritoneal biology not only assist us to better manage patients with adhesion, but also those with endometriosis and malignant diseases that affect the peritoneal cavity.

[Endometriosis and infertility]

INTRODUCTION

Endometriosis is frequent in infertile women, but the relation between these two conditions has still remained unclear. Our intention was to present the pathogenesis of endometriosis, mechanism of the associated infertility and a rational approach to treatment of this frequent medical problem.

PATHOGENESIS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS

The peritoneal form is most probably generated by implantation of the endometrium by menstrual reflux. Endometriomas are most probably formed by invagination and metaplasia of the ovarian mesothelium or by metaplasia of the epithelium of inclusion cysts. Adenomyosis of the rectovaginal septum develops from embryonic remnants of the Mullerian ducts.

DIAGNOSIS

Laparoscopy is a method of choice which provides safe diagnosis, estimation of the disease and is an optimal method of treatment.

PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPY OF INFERTILITY

The relation between mild forms of disease (Stage I and II) and infertility has remained unclear. Surgical removal of ectopic foci does not affect female fertility. The expectant treatment during one to four years has been followed by pregnancy in 50% of patients. In patients with III and IV stage disease, there is a frequent mechanical cause of infertility. Expectant treatment was followed by 25% incidence of pregnancy in patients with stage III disease and 0% in patients with stage IV endometriosis. Surgical reconstruction of normal anatomical relations resulted in pregnancy in 40-60% of patients. Administration of any drug therapy, either single or combined with surgical treatment does not increase the fertility rate. Methods of assisted reproduction are alternative approaches to treatment and they have to be administered after unsuccessful surgical treatment. Pretreatment with GnRH agonists increases the efficacy of in vitro fertilization.

Peritoneal dialysis in the 21st century: the potential of gene therapy

One of the greatest biotechnologic advances of the last 25 yr is genetic engineering--the ability to identify and isolate individual genes and transfer genetic elements between cells. Genetic engineering forms the basis of a unique biotechnology platform called gene therapy: an approach to treating disease through genetic manipulation. It is becoming clear that during peritoneal dialysis, the peritoneal membrane undergoes various structural and functional changes that compromise the dialyzing efficiency of the membrane and eventually lead to membrane failure. A gene therapy strategy based on genetic modification of the peritoneal membrane could improve the practice of peritoneal dialysis through the production of proteins that would be of therapeutic value in preventing membrane damage and preserving its dialyzing capacity. The peritoneal membrane can be genetically modified by either ex vivo or in vivo gene transfer strategies with a variety of potentially therapeutic genes, including those for anti-inflammatory cytokines, fibrinolytic factors, and antifibrotic molecules. These genes could be administered either on an acute basis, such as in response to peritonitis, or on an intermittent basis to maintain physiologic homeostasis and perhaps to prevent the adverse changes in the membrane that occur over time. The anticipated effect of a gene therapy strategy could be measured in maintenance of desired transport characteristics and in patients being able to remain on the therapy for longer periods of time without the negative outcomes. In summary, the use of a gene therapy strategy to enhance peritoneal dialysis is an innovative and exciting concept with the potential to provide new treatment platforms for patients with end-stage renal disease.

Clinical aspects of peritoneal sclerosis

Peritoneal sclerosis (PS) occurs in various clinical situations in Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) patients. Some degree of PS is often present in long-term PD patients, generally without clinical or functional consequences. At the other end of the spectrum of PS there is Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP). Though infrequent, it is very severe. SEP is not a complication exclusive to PD; it is a syndrome related to many diseases of abdominal organs, some drugs and abdominal surgery. Remarkably, in many cases, the first symptoms of SEP appear months or years after the change from PD to HD has occurred. Today there is no full agreement about the microscopical findings of SEP or about the name of this syndrome: SEP or Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis (EPS). The main etiopathogenetic factor for PS is the poor biocompatibility of PD solutions. In the etiopathogenesis of SEP, other factors in addition to the PD fluids have been suggested as possible causes (peritonitis, drugs, disinfectants, etc.). This paper reviews all the clinical aspects of PS and SEP: pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and therapy.