A Novel, Noninvasive Marker for Portal Hypertension in Cirrhosis?
The von Willebrand factor antigen performed well in diagnosing portal hypertension and predicting decompensation outcomes and mortality in patients with cirrhosis.
Portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient [HVPG] 10 mm Hg) in patients with cirrhosis is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Measurement of HVPG is expensive, invasive, and typically available only in specialized centers. Now, researchers have explored whether von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF-Ag) is a useful alternative indicator of portal hypertension.
Generally no, except for certain high-risk patients — and even then, not within 7 days of the initial test
The recent increase in incidence and severity of Clostridium difficile infection has prompted a progressive switch from enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, because the latter is more sensitive and therefore more reliable when negative. But what about patients with suspected C. difficile infection whose symptoms persist despite negative PCR results? In a recent retrospective study, researchers at the Mayo Clinic evaluated the utility of repeat PCR testing for such patients. All testing was done using a real-time PCR assay developed in the Mayo Clinic's microbiology laboratory.
In a meta-analysis of 20 randomized, controlled trials, probiotics reduced risk by 66%.
Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea (CDAD) is increasing in incidence and severity in North America and Europe. Some studies have suggested that probiotics taken in combination with antibiotics can reduce the risk for antibiotic-induced CDAD.
Does Red Blood Cell Transfusion Increase the Risk for Rebleeding in UGIB?
A large observational study shows a positive association, but prospective trials are needed to address causality.
Adalimumab Shows Efficacy for Ileal Pouch Crohn Disease
Complete response was 50% for induction therapy and 33% for maintenance therapy.
Citalopram Reduces GERD Symptoms in Hypersensitive Esophagus
This selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor showed promise in a small clinical trial of patients who did not respond to acid suppressants.
