Assessment of anti-GAD65-associated cerebellar ataxia with 18F-FDG cerebellar uptake: ROC analysis

OBJECTIVE

Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (anti-GAD65)-associated neurological disorders include two major phenotypes, namely Stiff person syndrome (SPS) and cerebellar ataxia (CA). Considering the potential for better outcomes with prompt immunotherapy, early detection of CA is crucial. Hence, a non-invasive imaging biomarker to detect CA with high specificity is desired. Herein, we evaluated brain 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) PET in detecting CA based on cerebellar uptake using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and five-fold cross-validation.

METHODS

This study was based on STARD 2015 guidelines: thirty patients with anti-GAD65-associated neurological disorders, 11 of whom with CA were studied. Five test sets were created after patients were randomly sorted and divided into 5 equal folds. Each iteration included 24 patients for ROC analysis and 6 patients reserved for testing. The Z scores of left cerebellum, vermis, right cerebellum, and the average of the three regions were used in ROC analysis to determine areas with significant area under the curve (AUC). The cut-off values with high specificity were determined among the 24 patients in each iteration and tested against the reserved 6 patients.

RESULTS

Left cerebellum and average of the three regions showed significant AUC above 0.5 in all iterations with left cerebellum being the highest AUC in 4 iterations. Testing the cut-off values of the left cerebellum against the reserved 6 patients in each iteration showed 100% specificity with sensitivities ranging from 0 to 75%.

CONCLUSIONS

Cerebellar 18F-FDG PET uptake can differentiate CA phenotypes from patients with SPS with high specificity.

Comparison of quantitative FDG-PET and MRI in anti-LGI1 autoimmune encephalitis

OBJECTIVES

Anti-leucine glioma-inactivated protein 1 (anti-LGI1) autoimmune encephalitis (AE) presents as subacute memory loss, behavioral changes, and seizures. Diagnosis and treatment delays can result in long term sequelae, including cognitive impairment. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT may be more sensitive than MRI in patients with AE. Our objective was to determine if anti-LGI1 is associated with a distinct pattern of FDG uptake and whether this pattern persists following treatment.

METHODS

Nineteen¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT brain scans (13 pre-treatment, 6 convalescent phase) for 13 patients with anti-LGI1 were studied using NeuroQ™ and CortexID™. The sensitivity of the PET images was compared to MRI. The Z scores of 47 brain regions between the pre-treatment and next available follow-up images during convalescence were compared.

RESULTS

All ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT scans demonstrated abnormal FDG uptake, while only 6 (42.9%) pre-treatment brain MRIs were abnormal. The pre-treatment scans demonstrated hypermetabolism in the bilateral medial temporal cortices, basal ganglia, brain stem, and cerebellum and hypometabolism in bilateral medial and mid frontal, cingulate, and parietotemporal cortices. Overall, the brain uptake during convalescence showed improvement of the Z scores towards 0 or normalization of previous hypometabolic activity in medial frontal cortex, inferior frontal cortex, Broca's region, parietotemporal cortex, and posterior cingulate cortex and previous hypermetabolic activity in medial temporal cortices, caudate, midbrain, pons and cerebellum.

CONCLUSIONS

Brain FDG uptake was more commonly abnormal than MRI in the pre-treatment phase of anti-LGI1, and patterns of dysmetabolism differed in the pre-treatment and convalescent phases. These findings may expedite the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of anti-LGI1 patients.

Low-dose ketamine infusion for the treatment of multiple sclerosis fatigue (INKLING-MS): Study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, active placebo-controlled phase II trial

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). However, currently-used medications for the treatment of fatigue probably do not work better than a placebo. In a pilot trial, we showed that one infusion of low-dose ketamine significantly improved fatigue severity measured four weeks after the infusion.

METHODS

The proposed study is a single-center, phase II, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, active-placebo-controlled trial of intravenous low-dose ketamine in patients with MS fatigue. Participants will be randomized 1:1:1 into three groups: receiving either one or two infusions of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg over 40 min) or zero to one infusion of the active placebo (midazolam, 0.05 mg/kg over 40 min). Eligibility criteria include adult patients diagnosed with MS based on the latest criteria, complaining of fatigue as one of the main symptoms, and having a screening MFIS score higher than a pre-specified threshold.

RESULTS

One hundred and ten participants will be randomized over 30 months at Johns Hopkins MS Center. Complete enrollment is expected by mid-2025. The study's primary outcome will be the MFIS score at the end of week 4, comparing two-thirds of the participants who received ketamine with one-third who received midazolam. The secondary and exploratory outcomes (measured four weeks after the second infusion) will show how long the effects of a single infusion last and if two infusions of ketamine are better than one in improving MS fatigue.

CONCLUSION

This study can show whether intervening in the glutamatergic pathways would improves MS fatigue.

Whole-Exome Sequencing identified Olfactory Receptor genes as a key contributor to extreme obesity with progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in Mexican patients: Olfactory receptor genes in obese NASH patients

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Obesity is a global health problem that triggers fat liver accumulation. The prevalence of obesity and the risk of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) among young obese Mexican is high. Furthermore, genetic predisposition is a key factor in weight gain and disrupts metabolism. Herein, we used Whole-Exome Sequencing to identify potential causal variants and the biological processes that lead to obesity with progression to NASH among Mexican patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole-Exome Sequencing was performed in nine obese patients with NASH diagnosis with a BMI ≥30 kg/m² and one control (BMI=24.2 kg/m²) by using the Ion S5^TM platform. Genetic variants were determined by Ion Reporter software. Enriched GO biological set genes were identified by the WebGestalt tool. Genetic variants within ≥2 obese NASH patients and having scores of SIFT 0.0-0.05 and Polyphen 0.85-1.0 were categorized as pathogenic.

RESULTS

A total of 1359 variants with a probable pathogenic effect were determined in obese patients with NASH diagnosis. After several filtering steps, the most frequent pathogenic variants found were rs25640-HSD17B4, rs8105737-OR1I1, rs998544-OR5R1, and rs4916685, rs10037067, and rs2366926 in ADGRV1. Notably, the primary biological processes affected by these pathogenic variants were the sensory perception and detection of chemical stimulus pathways in which the olfactory receptor gene family was the most enriched.

CONCLUSIONS

Variants in the olfactory receptor genes were highly enriched in Mexican obese patients that progress to NASH and could be potential targets of association studies.

Passive elastography of the esophagus: from model to preliminaryin-vivoexperiments using diameter measurements

Numerous diseases alter the esophagus elasticity, such as eosinophilic esophagitis and esophageal motility disorders like achalasia. The possibility to measure these modifications using minimally invasive techniques is a key issue for the diagnosis of such pathologies. The commercially available Endoflip^TM(endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe) can be used to measure the luminal cross-sectional diameter of the esophagus at different points and over time, and is used in clinical routine to assess esophageal distensibility. We used this probe to track the propagation of shear waves similar to those that are produced naturally by natural waves, to compute wavelength of the esophagus using passive elastography algorithms. To assess the feasibility of such measurements, we compared the wavelengths obtained with the probe in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel tubes to those obtained for the same tubes with optical tracking of their edges using a camera. We first compared the wavelength obtained with homogeneous gel tubes with both techniques, and then used paired gel tubes of different elasticities to investigate the possibility to measure different wavelengths. Although, the wavelength computed using the probe and the camera showed some small differences, qualitative differentiation of the tubes was achieved when using paired tubes with different elasticities. Using the camera, a wavelength of 61 mm was measured for the hard tube, and 35 mm for the soft tube. Using the probe, wavelengths of 61 mm and 38 mm were measured, respectively. Therefore, we demonstrate here the feasibility of using this probe to track wave propagation and to determine the wavelengths in gel tubes of different stiffnesses. This analysis was also taken to a preliminaryin-vivostudy that allowed tracking of natural waves in the esophagus using the luminal probe, which indicates that this technique can also be usedin vivoto measure the stiffness of the esophagus.

Flexible silicone artificial iris in cases of aniridia and iris deficiencies

PURPOSE

To evaluate a customized silicone flexible artificial iris in cases of aniridia or iris deficiencies.

SETTING

Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital des Quinze-Vingts, Paris, France.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series investigating cosmetic result, photophobia, endothelial cell density and intraocular pressure.

METHODS

Patients with iris deficiencies requiring cataract surgery or correction of aphakia, or pseudophakic patients, complaining of photophobia or cosmetic disturbances were implanted with the new flexible artificial iris.

RESULTS

Fifteen eyes of 14 patients were evaluated. Mean age was: 49.5 (±18.5). A total of 50% were aphakic, 22.4% pseudophakic and 28.6% phakic. Etiology was trauma (57.1%), previous surgical trauma (28.6%) and congenital aniridia (14.3%). Three months postoperatively, the mean subjective photophobia score improved by 5.2 points (P=.002) and the mean cosmesis score by 4.7 points (P=.001) on a 0 to 10 scale. Mean endothelial cell loss was 16% (P=.001). There was no further statistically significant endothelial cell loss between the 3-month follow-up and the 1-year follow-up visit (P=.320). Elevated intraocular pressure was the main complication (35.7%). Two patients with pre-existing glaucoma required cyclodestructive procedures. The artificial iris was removed in one eye because of chronic pain, elevated intraocular pressure and inflammation that resolved rapidly after removal.

CONCLUSION

Implantation of the customized artificial iris is a very good option because of its outstanding cosmetic result. However, patients with pre-existing glaucoma are not good candidates. Patients should also be warned of possible chronic inflammation necessitating explantation.

European guidelines on achalasia: United European Gastroenterology and European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility recommendations

INTRODUCTION

Achalasia is a primary motor disorder of the oesophagus characterised by absence of peristalsis and insufficient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation. With new advances and developments in achalasia management, there is an increasing demand for comprehensive evidence-based guidelines to assist clinicians in achalasia patient care.

METHODS

Guidelines were established by a working group of representatives from United European Gastroenterology, European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology and the European Association of Endoscopic Surgery in accordance with the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument. A systematic review of the literature was performed, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology. Recommendations were voted upon using a nominal group technique.

RESULTS

These guidelines focus on the definition of achalasia, treatment aims, diagnostic tests, medical, endoscopic and surgical therapy, management of treatment failure, follow-up and oesophageal cancer risk.

CONCLUSION

These multidisciplinary guidelines provide a comprehensive evidence-based framework with recommendations on the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of adult achalasia patients.

Excimer laser programming of refractive astigmatism vs. anterior corneal astigmatism in the case of ocular residual astigmatism (ORA)

PURPOSE

To determine whether manifest refractive astigmatism (RA) or anterior corneal astigmatism (CA) is the best value for excimer laser programming in cases of ocular residual astigmatism (ORA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who had undergone LASIK surgery with a disagreement between manifest refractive and corneal cylinder (ocular residual astigmatism ORA)>0.75 D were included retrospectively in this study. We calculated target induced astigmatism vector (TIA), surgically induced astigmatism vector (SIA), difference vector between the astigmatism correction programmed in the excimer laser and refractive astigmatism (DVRA), difference vector between the astigmatism correction programmed in the excimer laser and corneal astigmatism (DVCA) and difference vector between TIA and SIA (DV), by the Alpins method. Vectorial differences between DV and DVRA, and between DV and DVCA, were then calculated to determine whether RA or CA was closest to the ideal cylinder for laser programming.

RESULTS

Of a total of 104 eyes undergoing LASIK, 22 eyes of 12 patients (21.1%) had an ORA>0.75 D and were included. Mean ORA was 0.9±0.2 D and mean postoperative subjective cylinder was 0.45 D. The DV-DVRA difference vector was 0.57±0.2 D, and the DV-DVCA difference vector was 0.86±0.4 D (P=0.02). RA was closer than CA to the ideal astigmatism correction.

CONCLUSION

In cases of discrepancy between manifest astigmatism and corneal astigmatism, correction of manifest refractive astigmatism seems to give a better refractive result.

Telemedicine in Audiology. Best practice recommendations from the French Society of Audiology (SFA) and the French Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (SFORL)

Objectives

Access to diagnosis and treatments for auditory disorders and related pathologies has regressed in France during the COVID-19 pandemic, posing a risk to the patient's chance of recovery. This best practice recommendations guide aims to list the existing technological solutions for the remote examination of a patient with hearing complaint, and to outline their benefits and, where applicable, their limitations.

Methods

The recommendations were developed both from the clinical experience of the medical experts who drafted the guide, and from an extensive review of the literature dealing with clinical practice recommendations for tele-audiology. Tele-audiometry solutions were identified on the basis of a search engine query carried out in April 2020, prior to verification of their availability on the European market.

Results

Video otoscopy solutions allow for the teletransmission of images compatible with a high-quality diagnosis, either by connecting via internet to a tele-health platform or using a smartphone or a tablet with an iOS or Android operating system. Using the same telecommunication methods, it is possible to remotely conduct a pure-tone audiometry test in accordance with standard practice, a speech-in-quiet or a speech-in-noise audiometry test, as well as objective measures of hearing. Clinical and paraclinical examinations can be accessed by the physician to be interpreted on a deferred basis (asynchronous tele-audiology). Examinations can also be conducted in real time in a patient, at any age of life, as long as a caregiver can be present during the installation of the transducers or the acoumetry. Tele-audiology solutions also find application in the remote training of future healthcare professionals involved in the management of deafness and hearing impairment.

Conclusion

Under French law, tele-otoscopy is a medical procedure that is either a tele-expertise (asynchronous adive) or a teleconsultation act (synchronous advice). Subjective and objective evaluation of the patient's hearing functions can be done remotely provided that the listed precautions are respected.

The French Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): General indicators

Cochlear and brainstem implants have been included on the list of reimbursable products (LPPR) in France since March of 2009. The implants were initially inscribed for 5 years, after which an application for renewal with the French National Commission for the Evaluation of Medical Devices and Health Technologies (Commission Nationale d'évaluation des dispositifs médicaux et des technologies de santé - CNEDiMTS) was required [Haute Autorité de santé, 2009]. Upon registration to the list of reimbursable products, the companies and the reference centers for cochlear and brainstem implants were asked to set up a post-registration registry called EPIIC. This article reports the evolution in the EPIIC registry of the general indicators for 5051 patients over the five years from 2012-2016.

The French Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Cochlear implantation complications

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate peri- and post-operative complications related to cochlear implantations. We searched for risk factors predicting these complications and analyzed the complications in the youngest and most elderly.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of cochlear implant patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent cochlear implantation in France between January 2012 and December 2016 were anonymized and registered in the EPIIC database. This population included 3483 adults and 2245 children. Their demographic and surgical data and their incidence of peri- or post-operative complications, including their severity, whether major or minor, were all indicated.

RESULTS

The global complication rate was 6.84%. The risk of complication was higher in initial implantation versus reimplantation (P<0.0001). The risk was also higher for bilateral implantation versus unilateral (P<0.0001). Complications were more frequent for patients with cochlear malformation (P=0.002). There was no difference in complication rates across age groups; babies under 1 year old, and the elderly over 80 and even over 90, did not have more complications than the rest of the population. Patients treated in the daily care unit had no more complications than those who were hospitalized for one night or more (P=0.64).

CONCLUSION

Cochlear implantation is a safe technique with a low incidence of complications. The absence of increased risk in patients at the extremes of the age spectrum justifies offering this solution to all, without age limitation.

The French Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Perception and language results in infants with cochlear implantation under the age of 24 months

OBJECTIVE

Multi-centre study of the National French Registry (EPIIC) of patients with cochlear implants, focusing on infants who were operated-on under the age of 24 months between 2012 and 2016.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 615 profoundly deaf infants, who received cochlear implants (CIs) before their second birthday, were included in the registry by different CI centers. Epidemiological, surgical, speech therapy and school, follow-up data were included in the registry, 12, 24, 36 and 48 months thereafter. The following parameters were studied: type of implantation (uni- or bilateral), complications, cause of deafness, category of auditory perception (CAP), Open-set word recognition score (OSW), speech intelligibility rating, lexical comprehension with EVIP (Peabody), communication mode and type of schooling. Bilateral simultaneous CI (BiCI) and unilateral CI (UniCI) groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were 744 implantations. The explantation-reimplantation rate, within the four-year follow-up, was just 3.6%. Mean implantation age was 16.0 months, and similar in the two groups (BiCI/UniCI). A total of 51% of children had their first implant between 12 and 18 months, and 15% before 12 months. Implantation was unilateral in 52% of cases. Fifty-six percent of the bilateral procedures were sequential, with a mean delay of 16.8 months for the second implantation. The cause of deafness was unknown in 52% of cases. Of the 48% (297/615) of attributed cases, 32% had clear genetic causes. The remaining deafness was due to cytomegalovirus (CMV, 8%), inner-ear malformation (5%) and meningitis (3%). The main complications were from infections (47%) and internal device failure (25%). Four years post-operation, 84% of the UniCI and 75% of BiCl groups had a CAP≥5, and 83% of UniCl and 100% BiCI had OSW≥80%. Furthermore 74% of UniCI and 77% of BiCI communicated orally and 85% of UniCI and 90% of BiCI integrated into mainstream schooling.

CONCLUSION

The French Registry of cochlear implants (EPIIC) is the only such national registry in the world. Our analysis illustrates the immediate benefits of, either single or double, cochlear implantation for language, perception skills and schooling.

The French National Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Cochlear explantation and reimplantation

This study aims to determine the frequency and causes of cochlear explants with re-implantation (ERI) after 5 years' follow up of the patients included in the French national EPIIC (étude post-inscription des implants cochléaires) registry tracking patients with cochlear implantation. This multicenter, descriptive prospective study was conducted on 5051 patients enrolled in the EPIIC database between January 2012 and December 2016. Ninety-five patients (1.9%) received a primary implant and an ERI during the study. Of these, four benefitted from two ERIs. The number of ERIs was significantly higher in the pediatric population than among adults. The explantation and reimplantation were performed simultaneously in 86% of cases. The reasons for explantation were: in 46.4% of cases linked to a malfunction of the implant, and in 39.3% of cases for medical or surgical reasons. The number of electrodes inserted was significantly higher after the ERI than after the first implantation. There was just one post-ERI infection for these 95 explanted and re-implanted patients. As well as explantation with reimplantation rarely being necessary, it generally presents no major surgical difficulty and in most cases it allows a better integration than in the first implantation.

The French National Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Results, quality of life, questionnaires, academic and professional life

This study concerns the results of cochlear implantation in children and adults from French cochlear implantation centers, monitored at one, two and three years by the Cochlear Implant French Registry EPIIC. This multicenter study enrolled 2603 subjects (1667 adults and 936 children) implanted in one ear. The following parameters were studied: hearing overall performances, monosyllabic or dissyllabic word perception, speech intelligibility, self-assessment questionnaire of Cochlear Implant (CI) benefits (Abbreviated profile of Hearing aid Benefit); professional activity and schooling. This study confirms the ceiling effect in adults' performances after the 1^st year and the progressive growth in children's performances. It also shows that the contralateral hearing aid enhances performances compared to the CI alone condition, in all follow-up sessions. The French register of CIs is the only worldwide register of systematic follow-up on a period of three years and more of all adults and children implanted in a country.

The French National Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Cochlear implantation in adults over 65years old

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the performance of cochlear implants in French patients aged 65 and over, implanted between 2012 and 2016, using data from the French national registry for cochlear implants (EPIIC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The French national registry incorporates patient data from before implantation and for three years after implantation, stratified in different age groups (18-39, 40-64years, 65-74years and>75years). Here, we assessed the latter two categories. Hearing was assessed using mono- and disyllabic words in a silent background. The Category of Auditory Performance (CAP) scale was also implemented and subjects took the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (Aphab) questionnaire.

RESULTS

The population aged over 65 accounted for 38% (n=1193) of the 3178 adult implanted patients. The performance for mono- and disyllabic words in silence, the CAP scores and the APHAB questionnaire answers for ease of communication, background noise and reverberation were dramatically improved at one year post-implantation (P<0.0001 for each score) and remained stable between one and three years thereafter. The percentage improvement was similar across all age groups. The scores for loud-noise intolerance did not change after cochlear implantation in any age group.

CONCLUSION

Cochlear implants improve hearing and communication in subjects aged 65 and over, with comparable efficiency to that achieved in younger subjects. Cochlear implantation should thus be proposed whenever hearing aids provide only limited benefit. However, between 2012 and 2016, cochlear implantation was given to less than 1% of the French population aged 65 and over with profound deafness.

The treatment of achalasia patients with esophageal varices: an international study

Background

Treatment options for achalasia include endoscopic and surgical techniques that carry the risk of esophageal bleeding and perforation. The rare coexistence of esophageal varices has only been anecdotally described and treatment is presumed to carry additional risk.

Methods

Experience from physicians/surgeons treating this rare combination of disorders was sought through the International Manometry Working Group.

Results

Fourteen patients with achalasia and varices from seven international centers were collected (mean age 61 ± 9 years). Five patients were treated with botulinum toxin injections (BTI), four had dilation, three received peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), one had POEM then dilation, and one patient underwent BTI followed by Heller's myotomy. Variceal eradication preceded achalasia treatment in three patients. All patients experienced a significant symptomatic improvement (median Eckardt score 7 vs 1; p < 0.0001) at 6 months follow-up, with treatment outcomes resembling those of 20 non-cirrhotic achalasia patients who underwent similar therapy. No patients had recorded complications of bleeding or perforation.

Conclusion

This study shows an excellent short-term symptomatic response in patients with esophageal achalasia and varices and demonstrates that the therapeutic outcomes and complications, other than transient encephalopathy in both patients who had a portosystemic shunt, did not differ to disease-matched patients without varices.

Curriculum for neurogastroenterology and motility training: A report from the joint ANMS-ESNM task force

Although neurogastroenterology and motility (NGM) disorders are some of the most frequent disorders encountered by practicing gastroenterologists, a structured competency-based training curriculum developed by NGM experts is lacking. The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society (ANMS) and the European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) jointly evaluated the components of NGM training in North America and Europe. Eleven training domains were identified within NGM, consisting of functional gastrointestinal disorders, visceral hypersensitivity and pain pathways, motor disorders within anatomic areas (esophagus, stomach, small bowel and colon, anorectum), mucosal disorders (gastro-esophageal reflux disease, other mucosal disorders), consequences of systemic disease, consequences of therapy (surgery, endoscopic intervention, medications, other therapy), and transition of pediatric patients into adult practice. A 3-tiered training curriculum covering these domains is proposed here and endorsed by all NGM societies. Tier 1 NGM knowledge and training is expected of all gastroenterology trainees and practicing gastroenterologists. Tier 2 knowledge and training is appropriate for trainees who anticipate NGM disorder management and NGM function test interpretation being an important part of their careers, which may require competency assessment and credentialing of test interpretation skills. Tier 3 knowledge and training is undertaken by trainees interested in a dedicated NGM career and may be restricted to specific domains within the broad NGM field. The joint ANMS and ESNM task force anticipates that the NGM curriculum will streamline NGM training in North America and Europe and will lead to better identification of centers of excellence where Tier 2 and Tier 3 training can be accomplished.

Trajectory assessment is useful when day-to-day esophageal acid exposure varies in prolonged wireless pH monitoring

Acid exposure time commonly varies from day-to-day in prolonged wireless pH monitoring. Thus, diagnosis based on the number of days with abnormal acid burden may be misleading or inconclusive. We hypothesize that assessing longitudinal patterns of acid exposure may be diagnostically useful. Therefore, this study aims to describe acid exposure trajectories and evaluate agreement between identified trajectory patterns and conventional grouping. In this retrospective cohort study, we assessed patients with nonresponse to proton pump inhibitor therapy who underwent wireless pH monitoring (≥72 h) off therapy between August 2010 and September 2016. The primary outcome was esophageal acid exposure time. Subjects were grouped as 0, 1, 2, and 3+ days positive based on number of days with an acid exposure time >5.0%. Latent class group-based mixture model identified distinct longitudinal acid exposure trajectory groups. Of 212 subjects included 44%, 18%, 14%, and 24% had 0, 1, 2, 3+ days positive, respectively. Group-based modeling identified three significantly stable acid exposure trajectories: low (64%), middle (28%), and high (8%). Trajectory grouping and days positive grouping agreed substantially (weighted K 0.69; 95% CI: 0.63-0.76). Trajectory grouping identified 62% of subjects with conventionally inconclusive studies (one or two days positive) into the low trajectory. Agreement between trajectory groups when using three versus four days of monitoring was substantial (K 0.70; CI: 0.61-0.78). In summary, we found that patients with nonresponse to proton pump inhibitors follow three acid exposure trajectories over prolonged pH-monitoring periods: low, middle, and high. Compared to conventional day positive grouping, the trajectory modeling identified the majority of inconclusive days positive into the low trajectory group. Analyzing prolonged wireless pH data according to trajectories may be a complimentary method to conventional grouping, and may increase precision and accuracy in identifying acid burden.

Rapid drink challenge test during esophageal high resolution manometry in patients with esophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction

BACKGROUND

Esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction is of unclear significance. Rapid drink challenge (RDC) test is easy to perform during esophageal high resolution manometry. We aimed to assess the yield of RDC test in patients with EGJ outflow obstruction.

METHODS

Manometry studies of patients with EGJ outflow obstruction according to the Chicago Classification v3.0 were retrospectively reviewed. Pan-esophageal pressurization (PEP), esophageal shortening, and pressure gradient across the EGJ were analyzed during RDC test (200-mL free drinking in sitting position) and compared according to the causes of EGJ outflow obstruction determined by charts review.

KEY RESULTS

Seventy-five patients (29 males, mean age 62 years) were included. Causes of EGJ outflow obstruction were previous esophago-gastric surgery (40%), incomplete form of achalasia (7%), mediastinal neoplasia (7%), other associated conditions (21%), and undetermined (25%). Rapid drink challenge test was successfully performed in 70 patients and associated with PEP and shortening in 41% and 13%, respectively. The causes of EGJ outflow obstruction were similarly distributed in patients with and without PEP during RDC test. Esophageal shortening tended to be more likely in patients with definitive findings of obstruction (achalasia, previous surgery, neoplasia) than in the others. Dysphagia was more severe in patients with PEP and/or shortening during RDC test compared to those without.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Pan-esophageal pressurization and esophageal shortening were associated with symptoms severity but did not predict the cause of this disorder. Further prospective studies are necessary to determine if RDC test could help to select patients who might benefit from treatment.

Esophageal provocation tests: Are they useful to improve diagnostic yield of high resolution manometry?

High resolution manometry (HRM) is the gold standard to diagnose esophageal motility disorders but has some limitations. The inclusion of provocative tests might enhance the diagnostic yield of HRM. These tests are easy to perform and to add to the regular manometry protocol. Multiple rapid swallows (MRS; 5 2-mL swallows) is useful to assess the contractile reserve and deglutitive inhibition. The optimal number of MRS to perform might be 3 as suggested by Mauro et al. in this issue of Neurogastroenterology & Motility. The absence of contractile reserve might be associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease and with an increased risk of post fundoplication dysphagia. Single viscous and solid swallows might enhance the detection of esophageal motility disorders but are not significantly associated with symptom occurrence. Test meal has the advantage to represent a real-life scenario and is promising to depict significant motility findings responsible for esophageal symptoms. Post-prandial recording might also be of interest to diagnose rumination and belching disorders. The best indication of rapid drink challenge test (free drinking of 200 mL) is currently the diagnosis of esophago-gastric junction obstruction. Finally, abdominal compression might be an option to evaluate response of esophageal peristalsis in a context of outflow resistance as proposed by Brink et al. in this issue. These provocative maneuvers appear to provide a complementary role in the evaluation of esophageal motility but require prospective studies to determine the validity of the findings and whether they will lead to changes in clinical practice.

Classification of esophageal motor findings in gastro-esophageal reflux disease: Conclusions from an international consensus group

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) has resulted in new revelations regarding the pathophysiology of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). The impact of new HRM motor paradigms on reflux burden needs further definition, leading to a modern approach to motor testing in GERD.

METHODS

Focused literature searches were conducted, evaluating pathophysiology of GERD with emphasis on HRM. The results were discussed with an international group of experts to develop a consensus on the role of HRM in GERD. A proposed classification system for esophageal motor abnormalities associated with GERD was generated.

KEY RESULTS

Physiologic gastro-esophageal reflux is inherent in all humans, resulting from transient lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxations that allow venting of gastric air in the form of a belch. In pathological gastro-esophageal reflux, transient LES relaxations are accompanied by reflux of gastric contents. Structural disruption of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) barrier, and incomplete clearance of the refluxate can contribute to abnormally high esophageal reflux burden that defines GERD. Esophageal HRM localizes the LES for pH and pH-impedance probe placement, and assesses esophageal body peristaltic performance prior to invasive antireflux therapies and antireflux surgery. Furthermore, HRM can assess EGJ and esophageal body mechanisms contributing to reflux, and exclude conditions that mimic GERD.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Structural and motor EGJ and esophageal processes contribute to the pathophysiology of GERD. A classification scheme is proposed incorporating EGJ and esophageal motor findings, and contraction reserve on provocative tests during HRM.

Ambulatory reflux monitoring for diagnosis of gastro-esophageal reflux disease: Update of the Porto consensus and recommendations from an international consensus group

BACKGROUND

An international group of experts evaluated and revised recommendations for ambulatory reflux monitoring for the diagnosis of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

METHODS

Literature search was focused on indications and technical recommendations for GERD testing and phenotypes definitions. Statements were proposed and discussed during several structured meetings.

KEY RESULTS

Reflux testing should be performed after cessation of acid suppressive medication in patients with a low likelihood of GERD. In this setting, testing can be either catheter-based or wireless pH-monitoring or pH-impedance monitoring. In patients with a high probability of GERD (esophagitis grade C and D, histology proven Barrett's mucosa >1 cm, peptic stricture, previous positive pH monitoring) and persistent symptoms, pH-impedance monitoring should be performed on treatment. Recommendations are provided for data acquisition and analysis. Esophageal acid exposure is considered as pathological if acid exposure time (AET) is greater than 6% on pH testing. Number of reflux episodes and baseline impedance are exploratory metrics that may complement AET. Positive symptom reflux association is defined as symptom index (SI) >50% or symptom association probability (SAP) >95%. A positive symptom-reflux association in the absence of pathological AET defines hypersensitivity to reflux.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

The consensus group determined that grade C or D esophagitis, peptic stricture, histology proven Barrett's mucosa >1 cm, and esophageal acid exposure greater >6% are sufficient to define pathological GERD. Further testing should be considered when none of these criteria are fulfilled.

3D High-definition anorectal manometry: Values obtained in asymptomatic volunteers, fecal incontinence and chronic constipation. Results of a prospective multicenter study (NOMAD)

BACKGROUND

3D-high definition anorectal manometry (3DARM) may aid the diagnosis of functional anorectal disorders, but data comparing asymptomatic and symptomatic subjects are scarce. We aimed to describe 3DARM values in asymptomatic volunteers and those with fecal incontinence (FI) or chronic constipation (CC), and identify which variables differentiate best these groups.

METHODS

Asymptomatic subjects were stratified by sex, age, and parity. Those with FI or CC were included according to anorectal symptom questionnaires. Endoanal ultrasound examination and 3DARM were performed the same day. Anal pressures were analyzed at rest, during voluntary squeeze, and during push maneuver, and compared between the 3 groups. Anal pressure defects were defined and compared to ultrasound defects.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 126 subjects (113 female, mean age 52 years, range 18-83) were included; 36 asymptomatic, 38 FI, 42 CC. Anal resting and squeeze pressures, and rectal sensitivity values were lower in FI women than in the other groups. Typical anal sphincter asymmetry during squeezing was less frequently observed in FI women. A dyssynergic pattern during push maneuver was found in 70% of asymptomatic subjects, and with a similar frequency in the 2 symptomatic groups. There was slight concordance between 3D-pressure defects and ultrasound defects.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

3D anal pressures in asymptomatic women were significantly lower than in men, and in FI compared to asymptomatic women. The classical dyssynergic pattern during push maneuver was found as frequently in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. Further studies should try to identify 3DARM variables that could reliably identify dyssynergic defecation.

Validation of criteria for the definition of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations using high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

Criteria for transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) are well-defined for Dentsleeve manometry. As high-resolution manometry (HRM) is now the gold standard to assess esophageal motility, our aim was to propose a consensus definition of TLESRs using HRM.

METHODS

Postprandial esophageal HRM combined with impedance was performed in 10 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations identification was performed by 17 experts using a Delphi process. Four investigators then characterized TLESR candidates that achieved 100% agreement (TLESR events) and those that achieved less than 25% agreement (non-events) after the third round. Logistic regression and decision tree analysis were used to define optimal diagnostic criteria.

KEY RESULTS

All diagnostic criteria were more frequently encountered in the 57 TLESR events than in the 52 non-events. Crural diaphragm (CD) inhibition and LES relaxation duration >10 seconds had the highest predictive value to identify TLESR. Based on decision tree analysis, reflux on impedance, esophageal shortening, common cavity, upper esophageal sphincter relaxation without swallow and secondary peristalsis were alternate diagnostic criteria.

CONCLUSION & INFERENCES

Using HRM, TLESR might be defined as LES relaxation occurring in absence of swallowing, lasting more than 10 seconds and associated with CD inhibition.

Prevalence of fecal incontinence in a cohort of systemic sclerosis patients within a regional referral network

Background

The prevalence of gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis is higher than 75%. The estimated prevalence of fecal incontinence varies from 22% to 77%, but suffers from recruitment bias and patient reluctance. Our goal was to evaluate the prevalence of fecal incontinence in systemic sclerosis, and to identify associated risk factors.

Methods

Patients were recruited in the referral systemic sclerosis network of the Lyon University Hospitals, using self-administered questionnaires including constipation, fecal incontinence and Bristol Stool scales, quality of life, anxiety and depression. The cohort was compared with the historical ORALIA cohort that established the prevalence of fecal incontinence in the general population of the Rhône-Alpes region (France).

Results

Seventy-seven patients were included (mean age: 60 years, range: 32-84), and 86% were female. These were compared to 153 ORALIA individuals matched for age and sex. Fecal incontinence was present in 38% of patients and 6% of the general population. A longer duration of systemic sclerosis was the only characteristic associated with fecal incontinence. Abnormal stool consistency was more frequent in patients with fecal incontinence.

Conclusion

Fecal incontinence and abnormal stool consistency are common in systemic sclerosis and should be systematically addressed.

A study with pharyngeal and esophageal 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring in patients with laryngopharyngeal symptoms refractory to proton pump inhibitors

BACKGROUND

The role of gastroesophageal reflux in chronic laryngeal symptoms is difficult to establish. The aim of this study was to characterize pharyngeal and esophageal pH-impedance reflux patterns in a group of patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux and to determine predictive factors of response to proton pump inhibitors.

METHODS

Patients with chronic pharyngolaryngeal symptoms were evaluated with a symptom score questionnaire, laryngoscopy, and 24-hour pharyngeal and esophageal pH-impedance monitoring at baseline and after 8-week treatment with esomeprazole 40 mg b.i.d. Response to treatment was defined by a diminution of more than 50% of the score for the primary symptom. Reflux patterns and baseline impedance values were compared to those obtained in 46 healthy subjects.

KEY RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included (17 women, median age 54 years), all previously refractory to antisecretory therapy. Symptom scores were 46 (32-62) and 40 (27-76) off and on therapy, respectively (P=.1). There was no significant difference between patients and controls for pH-impedance reflux parameters and baseline values off and on therapy in distal and proximal esophagus and in the pharynx. Median numbers of pharyngeal reflux were 0 and 0 off and on therapy, respectively. Only two patients were responders to treatment, both with excessive distal reflux but no pharyngeal reflux. Only one patient had abnormal pharyngeal reflux but did not respond to proton pump inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux refractory to therapy do not exhibit abnormal pharyngeal or esophageal pH-impedance reflux. In these patients, laryngopharyngeal reflux is unlikely.

Randomized clinical trial of sacral nerve stimulation for refractory constipation

Background

Open studies have reported favourable results for sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of refractory constipation. Here, its efficacy was assessed in a double-blind crossover RCT.

Methods

Patients with at least two of the following criteria were included: fewer than three bowel movements per week; straining to evacuate on more than 25 per cent of attempts; or sensation of incomplete evacuation on more than 25 per cent of occasions. Response to therapy was defined as at least three bowel movements per week and/or more than 50 per cent improvement in symptoms. Responders to an initial 3-week peripheral nerve evaluation were offered permanent implantation of a pulse generator and were assigned randomly in a crossover design to two 8-week intervals of active or sham stimulation. At the end of the two trial periods, the patients received active stimulation until the final evaluation at 1 year.

Results

Thirty-six patients (34 women; mean(s.d.) age 45(14) years) underwent peripheral nerve evaluation. Twenty responded and received a permanent stimulator. A positive response was observed in 12 of 20 and 11 of 20 patients after active and sham stimulation periods respectively (P = 0·746). Pain related to the device occurred in five patients and wound infection or haematoma in three, leading to definitive removal of the pulse generator in two patients. At 1 year, 11 of the 20 patients with an implanted device continued to respond. Stimulation had no significant effect on colonic transit time.

Conclusion

These results do not support the recommendation of permanent implantation of a pulse generator in patients with refractory constipation who initially responded to temporary nerve stimulation. Registration number: NCT01629303 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Factors associated with nonresponse to proton pump inhibitors therapy in patients referred for esophageal pH-impedance monitoring

Nonresponse to proton pump inhibitors (PPI) concerns up to 40% of patients treated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Identifying predictive factors of nonresponse might help to optimize patients' treatment. The aim of this study was to determine clinical factors associated with nonresponse to PPI therapy in patients referred for pH-impedance monitoring. One hundred and sixty-eight consecutive patients (105 females, mean age 52 years, range 17-83) were included between October 2011 and May 2013. Before the realization of high-resolution manometry and 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring they completed a questionnaire including Rome III criteria for functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Comparisons between patients with and without PPI response were performed using chi-square or analysis of variance tests. One hundred and twenty-six patients (83%) were considered as PPI nonresponders and 26 (17%) as responders. No significant difference was observed for age and body mass index. No manometric and pH-impedance profiles were identified as associated with PPI response. The percentage of patients with functional dyspepsia and IBS was higher in PPI nonresponders patients than in responders (65.6% and 27.2%, respectively, vs. 38.5% and 7.7%, P = 0.01 and P = 0.03). This study confirms that functional digestive disorders are more frequent in patients with persistent GERD symptoms on PPI and they might be indicative of nonresponse to PPI therapy.

Vigor of peristalsis during multiple rapid swallows is inversely correlated with acid exposure time in patients with NERD

BACKGROUND

Multiple rapid swallowing (MRS) during high-resolution manometry (HRM) is increasingly utilized as provocative test to assess esophageal peristaltic reserve. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between MRS response and impedance and pH (MII-pH) parameters in endoscopy negative heartburn (ENH) patients.

METHODS

We enrolled consecutive ENH patients, who underwent HRM and MII-pH study, with a selected MII-pH profile: abnormal MII-pH (pH+/MII+); normal MII-pH (pH-/MII-). HRM was performed with 10 wet swallows (WS) and one MRS. Mean distal contractile integral (DCI) during WS and MRS were calculated. MII-pH parameters including acid exposure time (AET), reflux events, baseline impedance levels (BI) and the efficacy of chemical clearance evaluated with the postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index were measured.

KEY RESULTS

We analyzed 103 patients: 49 MII+/pH+ (27 male), and 54 MII-/pH- (19 male). Mean age was similar between the two groups. As expected, mean AET and number of refluxes were higher in pH+/MII+ (p < 0.05). HRM was normal in all selected patients. Mean DCI-WS was similar between two groups (p = n.s.). Mean DCI-MRS- was higher in MII-/pH- vs MII+/pH+ (p < 0.05). The increase in DCI-MRS was inversely correlated with AET (-0.699; p < 0.001) and directly correlated with BI values (0.631; p < 0.001) and PSPW index (0.626; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Following MRS, patients with abnormal impedance-pH test showed suboptimal contraction response as compared with those with normal impedance-pH test. Moreover, MRS response was inversely correlated with AET and directly correlated with BI values and PSPW index.

Esophagogastric junction contractility for clinical assessment in patients with GERD: a real added value?

BACKGROUND

The role of esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI) as assessed by high-resolution manometry (HRM) is unclear. We aimed to correlate the EGJ-CI with impedance-pH findings in gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with GERD symptoms were enrolled. All patients underwent upper endoscopy, HRM, and impedance-pH testing. The EGJ-CI was calculated using the distal contractile integral tool box during three consecutive respiratory cycles. The value was then divided by the duration of these cycles. A value below 13 was considered as a defective EGJ-CI. We also assessed EGJ morphology, esophageal acid exposure time (AET), number of reflux episodes (NRE), and symptom association analysis (SAA). A positive impedance-pH monitoring was considered in case of abnormal AET and/or NRE and/or positive SAA.

KEY RESULTS

Among 130 patients we enrolled, 91 had GERD (abnormal AET and/or elevated NRE and/or positive SAA) and 39 had functional heartburn (FH) (negative endoscopy, normal AET, normal NRE, and negative SAA). The GERD patients had a lower median value of EGJ-CI (11 [3.1-20.7] vs 22 [9.9-41], p < 0.02) compared to FH patients. Patients with a defective EGJ-CI had, more frequently, a positive impedance-pH monitoring or esophageal mucosal lesions at endoscopy (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively) than patients with a normal EGJ-CI. An EGJ-CI cut-off value of 5 mmHg cm yielded the optimal performance in identifying GERD at impedance-pH (sensitivity 89%-specificity 63%).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

A defective EGJ-CI at HRM is clearly associated with evidence of GERD at impedance-pH monitoring. Evaluating EGJ-CI may be useful to predict an abnormal impedance-pH testing.

Esophagogastric junction morphology is associated with a positive impedance-pH monitoring in patients with GERD

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) provides information on esophagogastric junction (EGJ) morphology, distinguishing three different subtypes. Data on the correlation between EGJ subtypes and impedance-pH detected reflux patterns are lacking. We aimed to correlate the EGJ subtypes with impedance-pH findings in patients with reflux symptoms.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were enrolled. All patients underwent HRM and impedance-pH testing off-therapy. EGJ was classified as: Type I, no separation between the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and crural diaphragm (CD); Type II, minimal separation (>1 and <2 cm); Type III, ≥ 2 cm separation. We measured esophageal acid exposure time (AET), number of total reflux episodes and symptom association analysis.

KEY RESULTS

We enrolled 130 consecutive patients and identified 46.2% Type I EGJ, 38.5% Type II, and 15.4% Type III patients. Type III subjects had a higher number of reflux episodes (61 vs 45, p < 0.03, vs 25, p < 0.001), a greater mean AET (12.4 vs 4.2, p < 0.02, vs 1.5, p < 0.001) and a greater positive symptom association (75% vs 72%, p = 0.732 vs 43.3%, p < 0.02) compared with Type II and I patients, respectively. Furthermore, Type II subjects showed statistically significant (overall p < 0.01) increased reflux when compared with Type I patients. Type III and II EGJ morphologies had a more frequent probability to show a positive multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring than Type I (95% vs 84% vs 50%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Increasing separation between LES and CD can cause a gradual and significant increase in reflux. EGJ morphology may be useful to estimate an abnormal impedance-pH testing in GERD patients.

Normal values of esophageal motility after antireflux surgery; a study using high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

Fundoplication is an effective therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but can be complicated by postoperative dysphagia. High-resolution manometry (HRM) can assess esophageal function, but normal values after fundoplication are lacking. Our aim was to obtain normal values for HRM after successful Toupet and Nissen fundoplication.

METHODS

Esophageal HRM was performed 3 months after Toupet or Nissen fundoplication in 40 GERD patients without postoperative dysphagia and with a normal barium esophagogram. Normal values for all measures of the Chicago classification were calculated as 5th and 95th percentile ranges.

KEY RESULTS

The normal values (5th-95th percentiles) for integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) were higher after Nissen (5.1-24.4 mmHg) than after Toupet fundoplication (3.1-15.0 mmHg), and upper limit of normal was significantly higher after Nissen fundoplication than observed in the asymptomatic subjects that were described in the Chicago Classification. Distal contractile integral was significantly higher after Nissen (357-4947 mmHg*s*cm) than after Toupet (68-2177 mmHg*s*cm), and transition zone length was significantly shorter after Nissen (0-4.8 cm) than after Toupet fundoplication (0-12.8 cm).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

HRM metrics for subjects after a Toupet fundoplication are similar to the normal values derived from healthy subjects used for the Chicago classification. However, after Nissen fundoplication a higher esophagogastric junction resting pressure and higher IRP are observed in asymptomatic subjects and this can be considered normal in the postoperative state. In addition, more vigorous contractions and less and smaller peristaltic breaks are normal after Nissen fundoplication.

The Pathogenesis and Management of Achalasia: Current Status and Future Directions

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder that is commonly misdiagnosed initially as gastroesophageal reflux disease. Patients with achalasia often complain of dysphagia with solids and liquids but may focus on regurgitation as the primary symptom, leading to initial misdiagnosis. Diagnostic tests for achalasia include esophageal motility testing, esophagogastroduodenoscopy and barium swallow. These tests play a complimentary role in establishing the diagnosis of suspected achalasia. High-resolution manometry has now identified three subtypes of achalasia, with therapeutic implications. Pneumatic dilation and surgical myotomy are the only definitive treatment options for patients with achalasia who can undergo surgery. Botulinum toxin injection into the lower esophageal sphincter should be reserved for those who cannot undergo definitive therapy. Close follow-up is paramount because many patients will have a recurrence of symptoms and require repeat treatment.

Normative values in esophageal high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) has rapidly gained much popularity worldwide. The Chicago Classification for esophageal motility disorders is based on a set of normative values for key metrics that was obtained using one of the commercially available HRM systems. Thus, it is of great importance to evaluate whether these normative values can be used for other HRM systems as well.

PURPOSE

In this review, we describe the presently available HRM systems, the currently known normative thresholds and the factors that influence them, and assess the use of these thresholds. Numerous factors including the type of HRM system, demographic factors, catheter diameter, body position during testing, consistency of bolus swallows, and esophageal length have an influence on the normative data. It would thus be ideal to have different sets of normal values for each of these factors, yet at the moment the amount of normative data is limited. We suggest broadening the normal range for parameters, as this would allow abnormal values to be of more significance. In addition, we suggest conducting studies to assess the physiological relevance of abnormal values and stress that for each system different normative thresholds may apply.

The Chicago Classification of esophageal motility disorders, v3.0

BACKGROUND

The Chicago Classification (CC) of esophageal motility disorders, utilizing an algorithmic scheme to analyze clinical high-resolution manometry (HRM) studies, has gained acceptance worldwide.

METHODS

This 2014 update, CC v3.0, developed by the International HRM Working Group, incorporated the extensive clinical experience and interval publications since the prior (2011) version.

KEY RESULTS

Chicago Classification v3.0 utilizes a hierarchical approach, sequentially prioritizing: (i) disorders of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow (achalasia subtypes I-III and EGJ outflow obstruction), (ii) major disorders of peristalsis (absent contractility, distal esophageal spasm, hypercontractile esophagus), and (iii) minor disorders of peristalsis characterized by impaired bolus transit. EGJ morphology, characterized by the degree of overlap between the lower esophageal sphincter and the crural diaphragm and baseline EGJ contractility are also part of CC v3.0. Compared to the previous CC version, the key metrics of interpretation, the integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), the distal contractile integral (DCI), and the distal latency (DL) remain unchanged, albeit with much more emphasis on DCI for defining both hypo- and hypercontractility. New in CC v3.0 are: (i) the evaluation of the EGJ at rest defined in terms of morphology and contractility, (ii) 'fragmented' contractions (large breaks in the 20-mmHg isobaric contour), (iii) ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), and (iv) several minor adjustments in nomenclature and defining criteria. Absent in CC v3.0 are contractile front velocity and small breaks in the 20-mmHg isobaric contour as defining characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Chicago Classification v3.0 is an updated analysis scheme for clinical esophageal HRM recordings developed by the International HRM Working Group.

Quality of life in bimodal hearing users (unilateral cochlear implants and contralateral hearing aids)

The main objective was to evaluate the bimodal self-rated benefits on auditory performance under real conditions and the quality of life in two groups of cochlear-implanted adults, with or without a contralateral hearing aid. The secondary objective was to investigate correlations between the use of a hearing aid and residual hearing on the non-implanted ear. This retrospective study was realized between 2000 and 2010 in two referral centers. A population of 183 postlingually deaf adults, implanted with a cochlear experience superior to 6 months, was selected. The Speech, Spatial, and other Qualities of Hearing Scale were administered to evaluate the auditory performances, and the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire to evaluate the quality of life. The population was divided into two groups: a group with unilateral cochlear implants (Cochlear Implant-alone, n = 54), and a bimodal group with a cochlear implant and a contralateral hearing aid (n = 62). Both groups were similar in terms of auditory deprivation duration, duration of cochlear implant use, and pure-tone average on the implanted ear. There was a significant difference in terms of pure-tone average on low and low-to-mid frequencies on the non-implanted ear. The scores on both questionnaires showed an improvement in the basic sound perception and quality of social activities for the bimodal group. The results suggest that the bimodal stimulation (cochlear implant and contralateral hearing aid) improved auditory perception in quiet and the quality of life domain of social activities.

Oesophageal function assessed by high-resolution manometry in patients with diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control

AIMS

To describe oesophageal function in people with diabetes and poor glycaemic control using oesophageal high-resolution manometry and to compare the result between control subjects and patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

METHODS

The results of oesophageal high-resolution manometry and a gastric emptying test were reviewed in 20 patients with diabetes. The high-resolution manometry protocol consisted of 5-ml swallows of water and multiple swallows of water. Oesophageal motility disorders were classified according to the Chicago classification system. The occurence of multiphasic contractions and intragastric and intrabolus pressures were measured. High-resolution manometry results were compared between 10 control subjects and 20 patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Data were expressed as medians and compared using Mann-Whitney and chi-squared tests.

RESULTS

Oesophageal motility disorders were similarly distributed between the groups. Multiphasic contractions occurred more frequently in patients with diabetes than in those with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (60 vs 20% per patient; P<0.01) and were not observed in control subjects. Gastric emptying was delayed in six patients with diabetes and did not correlate with symptoms or oesophageal motility disorders. Intrabolus pressure was higher in patients with diabetes and gastroparesis than in those without (17 vs 10 mmHg; P=0.02) and correlated with intragastric pressure (r=0.46, P<0.01). During multiple swallows of water, oesophageal contractile activity was incompletely inhibited in 83% of patients with diabetes and gastroparesis vs 9% without (P<0.01). Oesophageal function and gastric emptying were not influenced by fasting glycaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with gastroparesis might present with impaired inhibition of contractile activity during multiple swallows of water. Increased intrabolus pressure is suggestive of delayed oesophageal clearance as a consequence of gastroparesis.

Botulinum toxin injection for hypercontractile or spastic esophageal motility disorders: may high-resolution manometry help to select cases?

Endoscopic injections of botulinum toxin in the cardia or distal esophagus have been advocated to treat achalasia and spastic esophageal motility disorders. We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate whether manometric diagnosis using the Chicago classification in high-resolution manometry (HRM) would be predictive of the clinical response. Charts of patients with spastic and hypertensive motility disorders diagnosed with HRM and treated with botulinum toxin were retrospectively reviewed at two centers. HRM recordings were systematically reanalyzed, and a patient's phone survey was conducted. Forty-five patients treated between 2008 and 2013 were included. Most patients had achalasia type 3 (22 cases). Other diagnoses were jackhammer esophagus (8 cases), distal esophageal spasm (7 cases), esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (5 cases), nutcracker esophagus (1 case), and 2 unclassified cases. Botulinum toxin injections were performed into the cardia only in 9 cases, into the wall of the distal esophagus in 19 cases, and in both locations (cardia and distal esophagus) in 17 cases. No complication occurred in 31 cases. Chest pain was noticed for less than 7 days in 13 cases. One death related to mediastinitis occurred 3 weeks after botulinum toxin injection. Efficacy was assessed in 42 patients: 71% were significantly improved 2 months after botulinum toxin, and 57% remained satisfied for more than 6 months. No clear difference was observed in terms of response according to manometric diagnosis; however, type 3 achalasia previously dilated and with normal integrated relaxation pressure (4s-integrated relaxation pressure < 15 mmHg) had the worst outcome: none of these patients responded to the endoscopic injection of botulinum toxin. Endoscopic injections of botulinum toxin may be effective in some patients with spastic or hypercontractile esophageal motility disorders. The manometric Chicago classification diagnosis does not seem to predict the results. Prospective randomized trials are required to identify patients most likely to benefit from esophageal botulinum toxin treatment.

Inter-observer agreement for diagnostic classification of esophageal motility disorders defined in high-resolution manometry

High-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) is a recent development used in the evaluation of esophageal function. Our aim was to assess the inter-observer agreement for diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders using this technology. Practitioners registered on the HRM Working Group website were invited to review and classify (i) 147 individual water swallows and (ii) 40 diagnostic studies comprising 10 swallows using a drop-down menu that followed the Chicago Classification system. Data were presented using a standardized format with pressure contours without a summary of HRM metrics. The sequence of swallows was fixed for each user but randomized between users to avoid sequence bias. Participants were blinded to other entries. (i) Individual swallows were assessed by 18 practitioners (13 institutions). Consensus agreement (≤ 2/18 dissenters) was present for most cases of normal peristalsis and achalasia but not for cases of peristaltic dysmotility. (ii) Diagnostic studies were assessed by 36 practitioners (28 institutions). Overall inter-observer agreement was 'moderate' (kappa 0.51) being 'substantial' (kappa > 0.7) for achalasia type I/II and no lower than 'fair-moderate' (kappa >0.34) for any diagnosis. Overall agreement was somewhat higher among those that had performed >400 studies (n = 9; kappa 0.55) and 'substantial' among experts involved in development of the Chicago Classification system (n = 4; kappa 0.66). This prospective, randomized, and blinded study reports an acceptable level of inter-observer agreement for HRM diagnoses across the full spectrum of esophageal motility disorders for a large group of clinicians working in a range of medical institutions. Suboptimal agreement for diagnosis of peristaltic motility disorders highlights contribution of objective HRM metrics.

[Burkitt's leukemia presenting as atypical acute mastoiditis in a 7-month-old child]

A 7-month-old girl presented with left acute mastoiditis and a white blood cell count of 79,000/mm(3). A surgically obtained bacteriological sample showed Streptococcus pneumoniae. Direct blood examination revealed leukemic blast cells. Histological samples showed leukemic infiltration of the left temporal bone. The final diagnosis was Burkitt's leukemia with left temporal bone leukemic infiltration. The patient received chemotherapy according to the LMB 2001 protocol from the Société française d'oncologie pédiatrique. Clinical, biological, and imaging follow-up 30 months after the end of treatment showed remission with complete recovery in the left temporal bone. Atypical presentation of acute mastoiditis (AM) should prompt investigation into whether there is a rare underlying pathology, such as a hemopathy, histiocytosis, or solid tumor. The first sign of leukemia may be acute middle ear disease. To our knowledge, no other cases of Burkitt's leukemia with temporal bone leukemic infiltration presenting as AM have been reported in a child under 1 year of age.