Luminal esophageal temperature monitoring with a deflectable esophageal temperature probe and intracardiac echocardiography may reduce esophageal injury during atrial fibrillation ablation procedures: results of a pilot study.

PubMed

Leite, Luiz R; Santos, Simone N; Maia, Henrique; Henz, Benhur D; Giuseppin, Fábio; Oliverira, Anderson; Zanatta, André R; Peres, Ayrton K; Novakoski, Clarissa; Barreto, Jose R; Vassalo, Fabrício; d'Avila, Andre; Singh, Sheldon M

2011-04-01

Luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring is one strategy to minimize esophageal injury during atrial fibrillation ablation procedures. However, esophageal ulceration and fistulas have been reported despite adequate LET monitoring. The objective of this study was to assess a novel approach to LET monitoring with a deflectable LET probe on the rate of esophageal injury in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation. Forty-five consecutive patients undergoing an atrial fibrillation ablation procedure followed by esophageal endoscopy were included in this prospective observational pilot study. LET monitoring was performed with a 7F deflectable ablation catheter that was positioned as close as possible to the site of left atrial ablation using the deflectable component of the catheter guided by visualization of its position on intracardiac echocardiography. Ablation in the posterior left atrial was limited to 25 W and terminated when the LET increased 2°C from baseline. Endoscopy was performed 1 to 2 days after the procedure. All patients had at least 1 LET elevation >2°C necessitating cessation of ablation. Deflection of the LET probe was needed to accurately measure LET in 5% of patients when ablating near the left pulmonary veins, whereas deflection of the LET probe was necessary in 88% of patients when ablating near the right pulmonary veins. The average maximum increase in LET was 2.5±1.5°C. No patients had esophageal thermal injury on follow-up endoscopy. A strategy of optimal LET probe placement using a deflectable LET probe and intracardiac echocardiography guidance, combined with cessation of radiofrequency ablation with a 2°C rise in LET, may reduce esophageal thermal injury during left atrial ablation procedures.

Evaluation of esophageal function in patients with esophageal motor abnormalities using multichannel intraluminal impedance esophageal manometry.

PubMed

Cho, Yu Kyung; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Park, Jae Myung; Oh, Jung Hwan; Paik, Chang Nyol; Lee, Joon Wook; Lee, In Seok; Kim, Sang Woo; Chung, In-Sik

2006-10-21

To evaluate the functional aspect of esophageal motility in healthy subjects and in patients who were referred for esophageal function testing using multichannel intraluminal impedance-esophageal manometry (MII-EM), and to assess the clinical utility of MII-EM. From September 2003 to January 2004, we performed the MII-EM on healthy volunteers and all the patients who were referred for esophageal function testing. Each patient received 10 liquid and 10 viscous swallows. We analyzed the results, the impedance and the manometric findings. Some of the subjects had additional ambulatory 24-h pH study performed to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Among 89 studied subjects, the MII-EM findings showed normal esophageal motility in 50 (56.17%), ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) in 17 (19.10%), nutcracker esophagus in 7 (7.86%), achalasia in 4 (4.49%), and scleroderma esophagus in 11 (12.35%) cases. The completeness and the speed of bolus transit were in the order of nutcracker esophagus, normal manometry and IEM. Some of the swallows showing normal manometry and IEM had incomplete transit. In the achalasia and scleroderma esophagus, almost all the swallows had incomplete transit. The body amplitudes were higher for the swallows with complete transit than for the swallows with incomplete transit. There was not a significant difference in the manometric and impedance findings between the subjects with and without GERD. MII-EM is a useful tool in assessing the esophageal function in the patients having esophageal motility abnormality. The primary factors influencing the bolus transit are the amplitude of the esophageal body and normal peristalsis.

Eosinophilic esophagitis in patients with esophageal atresia and chronic dysphagia.

PubMed

Kassabian, Sirvart; Baez-Socorro, Virginia; Sferra, Thomas; Garcia, Reinaldo

2014-12-21

Esophageal atresia (EA) is defined as a discontinuity of the lumen of the esophagus repaired soon after birth. Dysphagia is a common symptom in these patients, usually related to stricture, dysmotility or peptic esophagitis. We present 4 cases of patients with EA who complained of dysphagia and the diagnosis of Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) was made, ages ranging from 9 to 16 years. Although our patients were on acid suppression years after their EA repair, they presented with acute worsening of dysphagia. Esophogastroduodenoscopy and/or barium swallow did not show stricture and biopsies revealed elevated eosinophil counts consistent with EoE. Two of 4 patients improved symptomatically with the topical steroids. It is important to note that all our patients have asthma and 3 out of 4 have tested positive for food allergies. One of our patients developed recurrent anastomotic strictures that improved with the treatment of the EoE. A previous case report linked the recurrence of esophageal strictures in patients with EA repair with EoE. Once the EoE was treated the strictures resolved. On the other hand, based on our observation, EoE could be present in patients without recurrent anastomotic strictures. There appears to be a spectrum in the disease process. We are suggesting that EoE is a frequent concomitant problem in patients with history of congenital esophageal deformities, and for this reason any of these patients with refractory reflux symptoms or dysphagia (with or without anastomotic stricture) may benefit from an endoscopic evaluation with biopsies to rule out EoE.

[Effects of peroral endoscopic myotomy on esophageal dynamics in patients with esophageal achalasia].

PubMed

Zhong, Yun-shi; Li, Liang; Zhou, Ping-hong; Xu, Mei-dong; Ren, Zhong; Zhu, Bo-qun; Yao, Li-qing

2012-07-01

To investigate the effects of peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM) on esophageal dynamics in patients with esophageal achalasia. From September 2011 to November 2011, 20 cases with esophageal achalasia received POEM at the Endoscopic Center in the Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University. Pre-operation esophageal dynamics of all the patients were evaluated by high resolution manometry(HRM) system and 3 days after operation the test was repeated. Lower esophagus sphincter resting pressure(LESP), 4-second integrated relaxation pressure(4sIRP), lower esophagus sphincter relax rate(LESRR), lower esophagus sphincter length(LESL), and esophageal manometry were analyzed. After POEM, LESP decreased from(29.1±17.0) mm Hg to(14.6±4.9) mm Hg, and decrease rate was 49.8%(P<0.01). However, the decreases in LESRR and LESL were not statistically significant(P>0.05). Esophageal peristaltic contraction was absent in all the 20 patients preoperatively. After POEM, changes in the esophageal contraction were seen in 7 patients, and peristalsis was noticed but was below normal level. There were no significant changes in peristalsis in the remaining 13 patients. POEM can significantly reduce LESP and 4sIRP in patients with achalasia, but can not affect the contraction of the esophagus.

Pretreatment Dysphagia in Esophageal Cancer Patients May Eliminate the Need for Staging by Endoscopic Ultrasonography.

PubMed

Ripley, R Taylor; Sarkaria, Inderpal S; Grosser, Rachel; Sima, Camelia S; Bains, Manjit S; Jones, David R; Adusumilli, Prasad S; Huang, James; Finley, David J; Rusch, Valerie W; Rizk, Nabil P

2016-01-01

Neoadjuvant therapy is commonly administered to patients with localized disease who have T3-4 esophageal disease as staged by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Previously, we noted that patients who present with dysphagia have a higher EUS T stage. We hypothesized that the presence of dysphagia is predictive of EUS T3-4 disease and that staging EUS could be forgone for esophageal cancer patients with dysphagia. We performed a prospective, intent-to-treat, single-cohort study in which patients with potentially resectable esophageal cancer completed a standardized four-tier dysphagia score survey. EUS was performed as part of our standard evaluation. To determine whether the presence of dysphagia predicted EUS T3-4 disease, the dysphagia score was compared with EUS T stage. The study enrolled 114 consecutive patients between August 2012 and February 2014: 77% (88 of 114) received neoadjuvant therapy, 18% (20 of 114) did not, and 5% (6 of 114) pursued treatment elsewhere. In total, 70% (80 of 114) underwent esophagectomy; of these, 54% (61 of 114) had dysphagia and 46% (53 of 114) did not. Dysphagia scores were 66% (40 of 61) grade 1, 25% (15 of 61) grade 2, and 10% (6 of 61) grade 3 to 4. Among patients with dysphagia, 89% (54 of 61) had T3-4 disease by EUS; among those without dysphagia, only 53% (28 of 53) had T3-4 disease by EUS (p < 0.001). The presence of dysphagia in patients with esophageal cancer was highly predictive of T3-4 disease by EUS. On the basis of this finding, approximately 50% of patients currently undergoing staging EUS at our institution could potentially forgo EUS before neoadjuvant therapy. Patients without dysphagia, however, should still undergo EUS. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms Predictive of Candida Esophagitis and Erosive Esophagitis in HIV and Non-HIV Patients

PubMed Central

Takahashi, Yuta; Nagata, Naoyoshi; Shimbo, Takuro; Nishijima, Takeshi; Watanabe, Koji; Aoki, Tomonori; Sekine, Katsunori; Okubo, Hidetaka; Watanabe, Kazuhiro; Sakurai, Toshiyuki; Yokoi, Chizu; Mimori, Akio; Oka, Shinichi; Uemura, Naomi; Akiyama, Junichi

2015-01-01

Abstract Upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in both HIV and non-HIV-infected patients, but the difference of GI symptom severity between 2 groups remains unknown. Candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis, 2 major types of esophagitis, are seen in both HIV and non-HIV-infected patients, but differences in GI symptoms that are predictive of esophagitis between 2 groups remain unknown. We aimed to determine whether GI symptoms differ between HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected patients, and identify specific symptoms of candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis between 2 groups. We prospectively enrolled 6011 patients (HIV, 430; non-HIV, 5581) who underwent endoscopy and completed questionnaires. Nine upper GI symptoms (epigastric pain, heartburn, acid regurgitation, hunger cramps, nausea, early satiety, belching, dysphagia, and odynophagia) were evaluated using a 7-point Likert scale. Associations between esophagitis and symptoms were analyzed by the multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age, sex, and proton pump inhibitors. Endoscopy revealed GI-organic diseases in 33.4% (2010/6.011) of patients. The prevalence of candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis was 11.2% and 12.1% in HIV-infected patients, respectively, whereas it was 2.9% and 10.7 % in non-HIV-infected patients, respectively. After excluding GI-organic diseases, HIV-infected patients had significantly (P < 0.05) higher symptom scores for heartburn, hunger cramps, nausea, early satiety, belching, dysphagia, and odynophagia than non-HIV-infected patients. In HIV-infected patients, any symptom was not significantly associated with CD4 cell count. In multivariate analysis, none of the 9 GI symptoms were associated with candida esophagitis in HIV-infected patients, whereas dysphagia and odynophagia were independently (P < 0.05) associated with candida esophagitis in non-HIV-infected patients. However, heartburn and acid regurgitation were independently (P < 0

Esophageal manometric characteristics and outcomes for laparoscopic esophageal diverticulectomy, myotomy, and partial fundoplication for epiphrenic diverticula.

PubMed

Melman, Lora; Quinlan, Jessica; Robertson, Brian; Brunt, L M; Halpin, Valerie J; Eagon, J C; Frisella, Margaret M; Matthews, Brent D

2009-06-01

The purpose of this study is to characterize the esophageal motor and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) abnormalities associated with epiphrenic esophageal diverticula and analyze outcomes for laparoscopic esophageal diverticulectomy, myotomy, and partial fundoplication. The endoscopic, radiographic, manometric, and perioperative records for patients undergoing laparoscopic esophageal diverticulectomy, anterior esophageal myotomy, and partial fundoplication from 8/99 until 9/06 were reviewed from an Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved outcomes database. Data are given as mean +/- standard deviation (SD). An esophageal body motor disorder and/or LES abnormalities were present in 11 patients with epiphrenic diverticula; three patients were characterized as achalasia, one had vigorous achalasia, two had diffuse esophageal spasm, and five had a nonspecific motor disorder. Presenting symptoms included dysphagia (13/13), regurgitation (7/13), and chest pain (4/13). Three patients had previous Botox injections and three patients had esophageal dilatations. Laparoscopic epiphrenic diverticulectomy with an anterior esophageal myotomy was completed in 13 patients (M:F; 3:10) with a mean age of 67.6 +/- 4.2 years, body mass index (BMI) of 28.1 +/- 1.9 kg/m2 and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) 2.2 +/- 0.1. Partial fundoplication was performed in 12/13 patients (Dor, n = 2; Toupet, n = 10). Four patients had a type I and one patient had a type III hiatal hernia requiring repair. Mean operative time was 210 +/- 15.1 min and mean length of stay (LOS) was 2.8 +/- 0.4 days. Two grade II or higher complications occurred, including one patient who was readmitted on postoperative day 4 with a leak requiring a thoracotomy. After a mean follow-up of 13.6 +/- 3.0 months (range 3-36 months), two patients complained of mild solid food dysphagia and one patient required proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. The majority of patients

Preoperative determinants of an esophageal lengthening procedure in laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

PubMed

Urbach, D R; Khajanchee, Y S; Glasgow, R E; Hansen, P D; Swanstrom, L L

2001-12-01

In a minority of patients undergoing antireflux surgery, an esophageal lengthening procedure is required to reduce the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) below the esophageal hiatus. We evaluated risk factors associated with an irreducible GEJ to identify clinical features that were predictive of the need for a Collis gastroplasty in patients undergoing laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Patients who required a Collis gastroplasty during a laparoscopic antireflux procedure (defined as the inability to reduce the GEJ > 2.5 cm below the esophageal hiatus despite extensive mobilization of the mediastinal esophagus) were compared to a random sample of patients who did not have a Collis gastroplasty. Predictors of the need for an esophageal lengthening procedure were identified using logistic regression modeling. Risks were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Twenty patients who had a Collis gastroplasty were compared to 133 patients who had adequate esophageal length. The presence of a stricture (OR 3.0; 95% CI 1.0, 9.7), paraesophageal hernia (OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.3, 9.6), Barrett's esophagus (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.3, 10.7), and re-do antireflux surgery (OR 6.4; 95% CI 2.0, 20.7) were associated with the need for gastroplasty. Patients with none of these factors were extremely unlikely to require a gastroplasty (OR 0.08; 95% CI 0.02, 0.34). Patients undergoing laparoscopic antireflux surgery who are at high risk of needing an esophageal lengthening procedure can be easily identified preoperatively using simple clinical characteristics.

Endoscopic ultrasound staging for early esophageal cancer: Are we denying patients neoadjuvant chemo-radiation?

PubMed

Luu, Carrie; Amaral, Marisa; Klapman, Jason; Harris, Cynthia; Almhanna, Khaldoun; Hoffe, Sarah; Frakes, Jessica; Pimiento, Jose M; Fontaine, Jacques P

2017-12-14

To evaluate the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in early esophageal cancer (EC) performed in a high-volume tertiary cancer center. A retrospective review of patients undergoing esophagectomy was performed and patients with cT1N0 and cT2N0 esophageal cancer by EUS were evaluated. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment were reviewed. EUS staging was compared to surgical pathology to determine accuracy of EUS. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the cohort. Student's t test and Fisher's exact test or χ 2 test was used to compare variables. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine if clinical variables such as tumor location and tumor histology were associated with EUS accuracy. Between 2000 and 2015, 139 patients with clinical stageIorIIA esophageal cancer undergoing esophagectomy were identified. There were 25 (18%) female and 114 (82%) male patients. The tumor location included the middle third of the esophagus in 11 (8%) and lower third and gastroesophageal junction in 128 (92%) patients. Ninety-three percent of patients had adenocarcinoma. Preoperative EUS matched the final surgical pathology in 73/139 patients for a concordance rate of 53%. Twenty-nine patients (21%) were under-staged by EUS; of those, 19 (14%) had unrecognized nodal disease. Positron emission tomography (PET) was used in addition to EUS for clinical staging in 62/139 patients. Occult nodal disease was only found in 4 of 62 patients (6%) in whom both EUS and PET were negative for nodal involvement. EUS is less accurate in early EC and endoscopic mucosal resection might be useful in certain settings. The addition of PET to EUS improves staging accuracy.

Advanced esophageal cancer with tracheobronchial fistula successfully treated by　esophageal bypass surgery.

PubMed

Kimura, Masahiro; Ishiguro, Hideyuki; Tanaka, Tatsuya; Takeyama, Hiromitsu

2015-01-01

When esophageal cancer infiltrates the respiratory tract and forms a fistula, a patient's quality of life falls remarkably. Abstinence from oral feeding is necessary to prevent respiratory complications including pneumonia. Surgery is sometimes necessary to maintain quality of life. The aim of this study was to examine clinical outcomes of esophageal cancer complicated by tracheobronchial fistula. Twelve patients who underwent esophageal bypass between 2006 and 2011 in our hospital were studied. Patient characteristics, therapeutic course, outcome, and operation type were compared. Six patients among 8 who could not tolerate oral feeding could do so after bypass surgery. Ten patients were able to enjoy oral intake up until the last few days of life. Three patients survived for more than 10 months. In spite of undergoing an operation, 1 patient survived for only 2 months and another for 4 months. The only complication was postoperative delirium in 1 patient. While surgical bypass is more invasive than procedures such as endoscopic stenting, we had few complications after operative intervention and were able to maintain quality of life in our patients. This bypass procedure is a treatment option for patients with tracheobronchial fistula from advanced esophageal cancer. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Assessment and protection of esophageal mucosal integrity in patients with heartburn without esophagitis.

PubMed

Woodland, Philip; Lee, Chung; Duraisamy, Yasotha; Duraysami, Yasotha; Farré, Ricard; Dettmar, Peter; Sifrim, Daniel

2013-04-01

Intact esophageal mucosal integrity is essential to prevent symptoms during gastroesophageal reflux events. Approximately 70% of patients with heartburn have macroscopically normal esophageal mucosa. In patients with heartburn, persistent functional impairment of esophageal mucosal barrier integrity may underlie remaining symptoms. Topical protection of a functionally vulnerable mucosa may be an attractive therapeutic strategy. We aimed to evaluate esophageal mucosal functional integrity in patients with heartburn without esophagitis, and test the feasibility of an alginate-based topical mucosal protection. Three distal esophageal biopsies were obtained from 22 patients with heartburn symptoms, and 22 control subjects. In mini-Ussing chambers, the change in transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) of biopsies when exposed to neutral, weakly acidic, and acidic solutions was measured. The experiment was repeated in a further 10 patients after pretreatment of biopsies with sodium alginate, viscous control, or liquid control "protectant" solutions. Biopsy exposure to neutral solution caused no change in TER. Exposure to weakly acidic and acidic solutions caused a greater reduction in TER in patients than in controls (weakly acid -7.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) -9.9 to -4.5) vs. 3.2% (-2.2 to 8.6), P<0.05; acidic -22.8% (-31.4 to 14.1) vs. -9.4% (-17.2 to -1.6), P<0.01). Topical pretreatment with alginate but not with control solutions prevented the acid-induced decrease in TER (-1% (-5.9 to 3.9) vs. -13.5 (-24.1 to -3.0) vs. -13.2 (-21.7 to -4.8), P<0.05). Esophageal mucosa in patients with heartburn without esophagitis shows distinct vulnerability to acid and weakly acidic exposures. Experiments in vitro suggest that such vulnerable mucosa may be protected by application of an alginate-containing topical solution.

Laparoscopic treatment for esophageal achalasia: experience at a single center.

PubMed

Agrusa, A; Romano, G; Bonventre, S; Salamone, G; Cocorullo, G; Gulotta, G

2013-01-01

Achalasia is a not frequent esophageal disorder characterized by the absence of esophageal peristalsis and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Its cause is unknown. The aim of treatment is to improve the symptoms. We report the results of the treatment of this condition achieved in one center. We conducted a retrospective study of patients with esophageal achalasia. In the period 2010-2012 we observed 64 patients, of whom 19 were referred for medical treatment. Three of the remaining patients underwent botulinum toxin injection, 17 underwent multiple endoscopic dilation procedures and 25 underwent laparoscopic surgery. There were no complications in the group undergoing endoscopic therapy, but symptom remission was only temporary. Patients undergoing surgery showed a significant improvement in symptoms and no recurrence throughout the follow-up period, that is still ongoing (3 years). There were no major complications in any case and no morbidity or mortality. Surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia with laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication gives the best and longest-lasting results in suitably selected patients. The extension of the myotomy and reduction in LES pressure are the most important parameters to achieve a good result.

Indwelling esophageal balloon catheter for benign esophageal stenosis in infants and children.

PubMed

van der Zee, David; Hulsker, Caroline

2014-04-01

Balloon dilatation of benign esophageal strictures is an established mode of therapy in adults and children. There remains a group of patients with refractory stenosis despite dilatation at regular intervals. An indwelling balloon catheter may offer an alternative. This is a retrospective study of 19 children who underwent esophagoscopy between 2004 and 2012 with placement of an indwelling balloon catheter for refractory esophageal stenosis. Total number of endoscopies, number of endoscopies with indwelling balloon catheter, as well as complications, reoperations, and mortality due to use of the balloon catheter were studied. Patient age ranged from 4 weeks to 15 years. The indwelling balloon catheter was used to treat refractory stenosis after corrective surgery of long gap esophageal atresia (n = 5), esophageal atresia with distal fistula (n = 2), refractory esophageal stenosis due to caustic esophageal burns (n = 7), reflux (n = 2), and stenosis of unknown cause (n = 3). With the indwelling balloon catheter in place, the mean number of endoscopies equalled four. Complications were restenosis after a symptom-free period for which a new indwelling balloon catheter was necessary (n = 3). Two others needed two to five additional dilations: balloon leakage requiring replacement (n = 7 in 5 patients), sputum retention (n = 1), and dislodgement (n = 5 in 4 patients). More importantly, there was no mortality or the need for any patient to undergo a surgical resection. The indwelling balloon catheter is safe to use and can be used by parents at home. More importantly it obviates the need for rethoracotomy/-scopy or esophageal replacement.

Utility of silicone esophageal bypass stents in the management of delayed complex esophageal disruptions.

PubMed

Kim, Anthony W; Liptay, Michael J; Snow, Norman; Donahue, Philip; Warren, William H

2008-06-01

The objective of this study was to review the clinical experience of temporarily placing an endoesophageal silicone salivary bypass stent and its value in managing patients with life-threatening esophageal disruptions. Clinical records of patients undergoing placement of silicone Montgomery salivary bypass stents from June 1998 to September 2007 were reviewed. Seventeen patients had a proven esophageal disruption in the absence of malignancy and with life-threatening sepsis refractory to conventional management. Underlying conditions were iatrogenic trauma from prior pulmonary surgery (4 patients), significant anastomotic leaks after an esophagogastrectomy (4 patients), delayed presentation (> 24 hours) of a perforated esophagus (4 patients), leak after esophageal surgery (3 patients), and esophagobronchial fistula secondary to inflammation and infection (2 patients). Stents were placed without securing, were sutured in place to the esophageal wall at the time of thoracotomy, or were secured by bringing holding sutures through the nostrils and tied over the bridge of the nose. In all cases, placement of the esophageal stent led to prompt improvement of the leak and, within a week, improvement of the sepsis. Supportive measures were continued after placement of the stent. Sixteen patients overcame the sepsis with ultimate healing of the esophageal disruption (13 patients) or maturation of the perforation into a chronic fistula (3 patients). Endoscopic stent removal was performed 2 to 16 weeks after placement. No patient had a stricture develop at the disruption site. One patient died of ruptured thoracic aorta. Silicone salivary bypass stents serve as an effective way of diverting and excluding the oral-alimentary stream, thereby providing optimal conditions for sepsis control. They are a useful adjunct in the management of complex esophageal conditions.

High resolution manometry findings in patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.

PubMed

Vicentine, Fernando P P; Herbella, Fernando A M; Silva, Luciana C; Patti, Marco G

2011-12-01

The pathophysiology of esophageal epiphrenic diverticula is still uncertain even though a concomitant motility disorder is found in the majority of patients in different series. High resolution manometry may allow detection of motor abnormalities in a higher number of patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula compared with conventional manometry. This study aims to evaluate the high resolution manometry findings in patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula. Nine individuals (mean age 63 ± 10 years, 4 females) with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula underwent high resolution manometry. A single diverticulum was observed in eight patients and multiple diverticula in one. Visual analysis of conventional tracings and color pressure plots for identification of segmental abnormalities was performed by two researchers experienced in high resolution manometry. Upper esophageal sphincter was normal in all patients. Esophageal body was abnormal in eight patients; lower esophageal sphincter was abnormal in seven patients. Named esophageal motility disorders were found in seven patients: achalasia in six, diffuse esophageal spasm in one. In one patient, a segmental hypercontractile zone was noticed with pressure of 196 mm Hg. High resolution manometry demonstrated motor abnormalities in all patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.

Laparoscopic treatment for esophageal achalasia: experience at a single center

PubMed Central

AGRUSA, A.; ROMANO, G.; BONVENTRE, S.; SALAMONE, G.; COCORULLO, G.; GULOTTA, G.

2013-01-01

Summary Background Achalasia is a not frequent esophageal disorder characterized by the absence of esophageal peristalsis and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Its cause is unknown. The aim of treatment is to improve the symptoms. We report the results of the treatment of this condition achieved in one center. Patients and methods We conducted a retrospective study of patients with esophageal achalasia. In the period 2010–2012 we observed 64 patients, of whom 19 were referred for medical treatment. Three of the remaining patients underwent botulinum toxin injection, 17 underwent multiple endoscopic dilation procedures and 25 underwent laparoscopic surgery. Results There were no complications in the group undergoing endoscopic therapy, but symptom remission was only temporary. Patients undergoing surgery showed a significant improvement in symptoms and no recurrence throughout the follow-up period, that is still ongoing (3 years). There were no major complications in any case and no morbidity or mortality. Conclusions Surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia with laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication gives the best and longest-lasting results in suitably selected patients. The extension of the myotomy and reduction in LES pressure are the most important parameters to achieve a good result. PMID:24091178

Combined antegrade and retrograde esophageal dilation for head and neck cancer-related complete esophageal stenosis.

PubMed

Goguen, Laura A; Norris, Charles M; Jaklitsch, Michael T; Sullivan, Christopher A; Posner, Marshall R; Haddad, Robert I; Tishler, Roy B; Burke, Elaine; Annino, Donald J

2010-02-01

Assess the safety and efficacy of combined antegrade and retrograde esophageal dilation (CARD) for complete esophageal stenosis following head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Review HNC dysphagia management. Retrospective review of all patients undergoing CARD following HNC treatment between May 2001 and September 2008. Forty-five patients were identified for review. Parameters assessed included: ability to obtain intraoperative esophageal patency, complications, number of dilations required, diet, and gastric tube (GT) status. Factors associated with dilation failure were analyzed. Intraoperative esophageal patency was obtained in 91% of patients. Median number of all dilations per patient was three. Median number of CARDs per patient was one. Resumption of oral intake occurred in 36/45 (80%). Diet results included: regular or soft diet 32/45 (71%), GT removal 27/45 (60%), and GT dependence with nothing by mouth 9/45 (20%). Laryngeal and pharyngeal stenosis, radionecrosis, tracheotomy dependence, and elongated stenosis were associated with dilation failure. Complications occurred in 18/63 (29%) CARD procedures: eight pneumomediastinum, seven GT site problems, two esophageal perforations, and one pharyngeal infection. All complications resolved spontaneously or with minimal interventions. CARD was safe and effective. Intraoperative patency was achieved in 91% of patients. Eighty percent resumed oral intake. The majority of patients had their GTs removed and resumed a soft or regular diet. Dilation failure was associated with laryngeal, pharyngeal, and excessively long esophageal stenosis, often resulting from radionecrosis. Complications were minor. CARD should be considered before relegating patients with complete esophageal stenosis to chronic GT dependence or subjecting them to laryngopharyngo esophagectomy.

Response to preoperative chemotherapy predicts survival in patients undergoing hepatectomy for liver metastases from gastric and esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Andreou, Andreas; Viganò, Luca; Zimmitti, Giuseppe; Seehofer, Daniel; Dreyer, Martin; Pascher, Andreas; Bahra, Marcus; Schoening, Wenzel; Schmitz, Volker; Thuss-Patience, Peter C; Denecke, Timm; Puhl, Gero; Vauthey, Jean-Nicolas; Neuhaus, Peter; Capussotti, Lorenzo; Pratschke, Johann; Schmidt, Sven-Christian

2014-11-01

The role of hepatectomy for patients with liver metastases from gastric and esophageal cancer (GELM) is not well defined. The present study examined the morbidity, mortality, and long-term survivals after liver resection for GELM. Clinicopathological data of patients who underwent hepatectomy for GELM between 1995 and 2012 at two European high-volume hepatobiliary centers were assessed, and predictors of overall survival (OS) were identified. In addition, the impact of preoperative chemotherapy for GELM on OS was evaluated. Forty-seven patients underwent hepatectomy for GELM. The primary tumor was located in the stomach, cardia, and distal esophagus in 27, 16, and 4 cases, respectively. Twenty patients received preoperative chemotherapy before hepatectomy. After a median follow-up time of 76 months, 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates were 70, 37, and 24%, respectively. Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 32 and 4%, respectively. Outcomes were comparable between the two centers. Preoperative chemotherapy for GELM (5-year OS: 45 vs 9%, P = .005) and the lack of posthepatectomy complications (5-year OS: 34 vs 0%, P < .0001) were significantly associated with improved OS in univariate and multivariate analyses. When stratifying OS by radiologic response of GELM to preoperative chemotherapy, patients with progressive disease despite preoperative treatment had significantly worse OS (5-year OS: 0 vs 70%, P = .045). For selected patients with GELM, liver resection is safe and should be regarded as a potentially curative approach. A multimodal treatment strategy including systemic therapy may provide better patient selection resulting in prolonged survival in patients with GELM undergoing hepatectomy.

Prognostic significance of the prognostic nutritional index in esophageal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

PubMed

Nakatani, M; Migita, K; Matsumoto, S; Wakatsuki, K; Ito, M; Nakade, H; Kunishige, T; Kitano, M; Kanehiro, H

2017-08-01

Nutritional status is one of the most important issues faced by cancer patients. Several studies have shown that a low preoperative nutritional status is associated with a worse prognosis in patients with various types of cancer, including esophageal cancer (EC). Recently, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and/or radiotherapy have been accepted as the standard treatment for resectable advanced EC. However, NAC has the potential to deteriorate the nutritional status of a patient. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of the nutritional status for EC patients who underwent NAC. We retrospectively reviewed 66 squamous cell EC patients who underwent NAC consisting of docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil followed by subtotal esophagectomy at Nara Medical University Hospital between January 2009 and August 2015. To assess the patients' nutritional status, the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) before commencing NAC and prior to the operation was calculated as 10 × serum albumin (g/dl) + 0.005 × total lymphocyte count in the peripheral blood (per mm3). The cutoff value of the PNI was set at 45. A multivariable analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS). The mean pre-NAC and preoperative PNI were 50.2 ± 5.7 and 48.1 ± 4.7, respectively (P = 0.005). The PNI decreased following NAC in 44 (66.7%) patients. Before initiating NAC, 9 (13.6%) patients had a low PNI, and 12 (18.2%) patients had a low PNI prior to the operation. The pre-NAC PNI and preoperative PNI were significantly associated with the OS (P = 0.013 and P = 0.004, respectively) and RFS (P = 0.036 and P = 0.005, respectively) rates. The multivariable analysis identified the preoperative PNI as an independent prognostic factor for poor OS and RFS, although the pre-NAC PNI was not an independent predictor. Our results suggest that the preoperative PNI is a useful marker for predicting the long-term outcomes of EC patients

Retrospective Analyses of Esophageal Bypass Surgery for Patients with Esophagorespiratory Fistulas Caused by Esophageal Carcinomas.

PubMed

Nakajima, Yasuaki; Kawada, Kenro; Tokairin, Yutaka; Miyawaki, Yutaka; Okada, Takuya; Miyake, Satoshi; Kawano, Tatsuyuki

2016-05-01

Esophagorespiratory fistula (ERF) caused by esophageal carcinoma is a fatal complication. In our institution, esophageal bypass surgery has been indicated when possible. We herein retrospectively describe the clinical results of esophageal bypass surgery for ERF. Between April 2001 and March 2015, 20 patients with ERF underwent esophageal bypass surgery. For these patients, the clinical safety, validity, and effectiveness of esophageal bypass surgery were examined and compared with the results of bypass surgery without ERF. Eight patients developed ERF at the initial diagnosis, while 10 patients developed ERF during and after chemoradiotherapy. Postoperative complications such as pneumonia, surgical site infection, and anastomotic leakage developed in 12, 5, and 1 patient, respectively. All the patients could eat solid foods at a median of 9 postoperative days. Two patients died within 30 days after the operation and 1 patient developed in-hospital death. Fourteen patients received chemo(radio)therapy after the operation. The median overall survival was 244 days and the one-year and three-year overall survival rates were 45.7 and 15.3 %, respectively. There was no significant difference in terms of the intraoperative findings, postoperative morbidities, and short-term and long-term clinical results between the two groups. Esophageal bypass surgery for ERF is not considered to be highly invasive or risky compared with bypass surgery without ERF. After the operation, respiratory symptoms caused by ERF may improve and oral intake can be achieved. Esophageal bypass surgery should therefore be aggressively performed for patients with a tolerable performance status.

Esophageal eosinophilia in pediatric patients with cerebral palsy

PubMed Central

de Nápolis, Ana Carolina Ramos; Alves, Flavia Araujo; Rezende, Erica Rodrigues Mariano de Almeida; Segundo, Gesmar Rodrigues Silva

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the clinical picture, test results, and clinical evolution of patients with cerebral palsy associated with diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis, monitored at tertiary centre. Methods: Cross-sectional, retrospective and descriptive study that evaluated the medical records data of pediatric patients with diagnosis of cerebral palsy and eosinophilic esophagitis in a tertiary center of pediatric gastroenterology between August 2005 and August 2013. Results: Seven out of 131 patients with cerebral palsy had the diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis. The mean age at diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis was 52.3 months and the mean number of eosinophils in esophagus was 35 per high-power field. Symptoms more frequent were recurrent vomiting and disphagia. Endoscopic alterations found were mucosal thickening, vertical lines, mucosal opacificacion and white plaques. Conclusion: The frequency of eosinophilic esophagitis found was higher than in general pediatric population. The investigation of eosinophilic esophagitis should be done regularly in those patients, once this entity could overlap other gastrointestinal diseases. PMID:26154544

Exhaled gases online measurements for esophageal cancer patients and healthy people by proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Zou, Xue; Zhou, Wenzhao; Lu, Yan; Shen, Chengyin; Hu, Zongtao; Wang, Hongzhi; Jiang, Haihe; Chu, Yannan

2016-11-01

Esophageal cancer is a prevalent malignancy. There is a considerable demand for developing a fast and noninvasive method to screen out the suspect esophageal cancer patients who may undergo further clinical diagnosis. The exhaled breathes from 29 esophageal cancer patients and 57 healthy people were directly measured using our home-made proton transfer reaction mass spectrometer (PTR-MS). Mann-Whitney U test and stepwise discriminant analysis were applied to identify the ions in the breath mass spectral data which can distinguish cancer cohort from healthy group. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was also performed. Seven kinds of ions in the breath mass spectrum, viz., m/z 136, m/z 34, m/z 63, m/z 27, m/z 95, m/z 107 and m/z 45, have been found to distinguish between the esophageal cancer patients and healthy people with a sensitivity of 86.2% and a specificity of 89.5%, respectively. Compared with that from the healthy people, the breath mass spectra from esophageal cancer patients show that the mediant intensities of five kinds of ions were decrease and the rest two kinds of ions were increase. ROC analysis gave the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.943. This pilot study shows that the ionic characteristics of exhaled VOCs detected by PTR-MS may be used to differentiate between the esophageal cancer patients and the healthy people. Although the breath tests for more patients are needed to confirm such results, the present work indicates that the PTR-MS may be a promising method in the esophageal cancer screening. © 2016 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms Predictive of Candida Esophagitis and Erosive Esophagitis in HIV and Non-HIV Patients: An Endoscopy-Based Cross-Sectional Study of 6011 Patients.

PubMed

Takahashi, Yuta; Nagata, Naoyoshi; Shimbo, Takuro; Nishijima, Takeshi; Watanabe, Koji; Aoki, Tomonori; Sekine, Katsunori; Okubo, Hidetaka; Watanabe, Kazuhiro; Sakurai, Toshiyuki; Yokoi, Chizu; Mimori, Akio; Oka, Shinichi; Uemura, Naomi; Akiyama, Junichi

2015-11-01

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in both HIV and non-HIV-infected patients, but the difference of GI symptom severity between 2 groups remains unknown. Candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis, 2 major types of esophagitis, are seen in both HIV and non-HIV-infected patients, but differences in GI symptoms that are predictive of esophagitis between 2 groups remain unknown. We aimed to determine whether GI symptoms differ between HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected patients, and identify specific symptoms of candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis between 2 groups.We prospectively enrolled 6011 patients (HIV, 430; non-HIV, 5581) who underwent endoscopy and completed questionnaires. Nine upper GI symptoms (epigastric pain, heartburn, acid regurgitation, hunger cramps, nausea, early satiety, belching, dysphagia, and odynophagia) were evaluated using a 7-point Likert scale. Associations between esophagitis and symptoms were analyzed by the multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age, sex, and proton pump inhibitors.Endoscopy revealed GI-organic diseases in 33.4% (2010/6.011) of patients. The prevalence of candida esophagitis and erosive esophagitis was 11.2% and 12.1% in HIV-infected patients, respectively, whereas it was 2.9% and 10.7 % in non-HIV-infected patients, respectively. After excluding GI-organic diseases, HIV-infected patients had significantly (P < 0.05) higher symptom scores for heartburn, hunger cramps, nausea, early satiety, belching, dysphagia, and odynophagia than non-HIV-infected patients. In HIV-infected patients, any symptom was not significantly associated with CD4 cell count. In multivariate analysis, none of the 9 GI symptoms were associated with candida esophagitis in HIV-infected patients, whereas dysphagia and odynophagia were independently (P < 0.05) associated with candida esophagitis in non-HIV-infected patients. However, heartburn and acid regurgitation were independently (P < 0.05) associated with erosive

Robotic technological aids in esophageal surgery.

PubMed

Rebecchi, Fabrizio; Allaix, Marco E; Morino, Mario

2017-01-01

Robotic technology is an emerging technology that has been developed in order to overcome some limitations of the standard laparoscopic approach, offering a stereoscopic three-dimensional visualization of the surgical field, increased maneuverability of the surgical tools with consequent increased movement accuracy and precision and improved ergonomics. It has been used for the surgical treatment of most benign esophageal disorders. More recently, it has been proposed also for patients with operable esophageal cancer. The current evidence shows that there are no real benefits of the robotic technology over conventional laparoscopy in patients undergoing a fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal closure for giant hiatal hernia, or Heller myotomy for achalasia. A few small studies suggest potential advantages in patients undergoing redo surgery for failed fundoplication or Heller myotomy, but large comparative studies are needed to better clarify the role of the robotic technology in these patients. Robot-assisted esophagectomy seems to be safe and effective in selected patients; however, there are no data showing superiority of this approach over both conventional laparoscopic and open surgery. The short-term and long-term oncologic results of ongoing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are awaited to validate this approach for the treatment of esophageal cancer.

Robotic technological aids in esophageal surgery

PubMed Central

Allaix, Marco E.; Morino, Mario

2017-01-01

Robotic technology is an emerging technology that has been developed in order to overcome some limitations of the standard laparoscopic approach, offering a stereoscopic three-dimensional visualization of the surgical field, increased maneuverability of the surgical tools with consequent increased movement accuracy and precision and improved ergonomics. It has been used for the surgical treatment of most benign esophageal disorders. More recently, it has been proposed also for patients with operable esophageal cancer. The current evidence shows that there are no real benefits of the robotic technology over conventional laparoscopy in patients undergoing a fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal closure for giant hiatal hernia, or Heller myotomy for achalasia. A few small studies suggest potential advantages in patients undergoing redo surgery for failed fundoplication or Heller myotomy, but large comparative studies are needed to better clarify the role of the robotic technology in these patients. Robot-assisted esophagectomy seems to be safe and effective in selected patients; however, there are no data showing superiority of this approach over both conventional laparoscopic and open surgery. The short-term and long-term oncologic results of ongoing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are awaited to validate this approach for the treatment of esophageal cancer. PMID:29078570

Predictors of post-treatment stenosis in cervical esophageal cancer undergoing high-dose radiotherapy.

PubMed

Kim, Jun Won; Kim, Tae Hyung; Kim, Jie-Hyun; Lee, Ik Jae

2018-02-21

To evaluate toxicity and treatment outcome of high-dose radiotherapy (RT) for cervical esophageal cancer (CEC). We reviewed a total of 62 consecutive patients who received definitive RT for stage I to III cervical esophageal cancer between 2001 and 2015. Patients who received < 45 Gy, treated for lesions below sternal notch, treated with palliative aim, treated with subsequent surgical resection, or diagnosed with synchronous hypopharyngeal cancer were excluded. Treatment failures were divided into local (occurring within the RT field), outfield-esophageal, and regional [occurring in regional lymph node(s)] failures. Factors predictive of esophageal stenosis requiring endoscopic dilation were analyzed. Grade 1, 2, and 3 esophagitis occurred in 19 (30.6%), 39 (62.9%), and 4 patients (6.5%), respectively, without grade ≥ 4 toxicities. Sixteen patients (25.8%) developed post-RT stenosis, of which 7 cases (43.8%) were malignant. Four patients (6.5%) developed tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), of which 3 (75%) cases were malignant. Factors significantly correlated with post-RT stenosis were stage T3/4 ( P = 0.001), complete circumference involvement ( P < 0.0001), stenosis at diagnosis ( P = 0.024), and endoscopic complete response ( P = 0.017) in univariate analysis, while complete circumference involvement was significant in multivariate analysis ( P = 0.003). A higher dose (≥ 60 Gy) was not associated with occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF. With a median follow-up of 24.3 (range, 3.4-152) mo, the 2 y local control, outfield esophageal control, progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) rates were 78.9%, 90.2%, 49.6%, and 57.3%, respectively. Factors significantly correlated with OS were complete circumference involvement ( P = 0.023), stenosis at diagnosis ( P < 0.0001), and occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF ( P < 0.001) in univariate analysis, while stenosis at diagnosis ( P = 0.004) and occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF ( P = 0.023) were

The association between reflux esophagitis and airway hyper-reactivity in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux.

PubMed

Karbasi, Ashraf; Ardestani, Mohammad Emami; Ghanei, Mostafa; Harandi, Ali Amini

2013-06-01

The association of gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) with a wide variety of pulmonary disorders was recognized. We aimed to evaluate the effect of GER-induced esophagitis on airway hyper-reactivity (AHR) in patients and the response to treatment. In this cohort study, 30 patients attending the gastrointestinal clinic of a university hospital with acid reflux symptoms were included. All patients were evaluated endoscopically and divided into case group with esophagitis and control group without any evidence of esophagitis. Spirometry and methacholine test were done in all patients before and after treatment of GER with pantoprazole 40 mg daily for six months. There was a significant difference in the rate of positive methacholine test between the cases (40%) and the controls (6.7%) prior to anti-acid therapy (P < 0.0001). After six months of treatment, the frequency of positive methacholine test diminished from 40 to 13.3% in the case group (P < 0.05) but did not change in the controls (P = 0.15). The presence of esophagitis due to GER would increase the AHR and treatment with pantoperazole would decrease AHR in patients with proved esophagitis and no previous history of asthma after six months.

Should patients with esophageal atresia be submitted to esophageal substitution before they start walking?

PubMed

Tannuri, U; Tannuri, A C A

2011-01-01

Esophagocoloplasty and gastric transposition are two major methods for esophageal substitution in children with esophageal atresia, and there is broad agreement that these operations should not be performed before the children start walking. However, there are some reported advantages of performing such operations in the first months of life or in the neonatal period. In this study, we compared our experience with esophageal substitution procedures performed in walking children with esophageal atresia, with the outcomes of children who had the operation before the third month of life reported in the literature. The purpose of this study was to establish if we have to wait until the children start walking before indicating the esophageal replacement procedure. From February 1978 to October 2009, 129 children with esophageal atresia underwent esophageal replacement in our hospital (99 colonic interpositions and 30 gastric transpositions). The records of these patients were reviewed for data regarding demographics, complications (leaks, graft failures, strictures, and graft torsion), and mortality and compared with those reported in the two main articles on esophageal replacement in the neonatal period or in patients less than 3 months of age. The main complication of our casuistic was cervical anastomosis leakage, which sealed spontaneously in all except in four patients. One patient of the esophagocoloplasty group developed graft necrosis and three patients in the gastric transposition group had gastric outlet obstruction, secondary to axial torsion of the stomach placed in the retrosternal space. The long-term outcome of the patients in both groups was considered good to excellent in terms of normal weight gain, absence of dysphagia, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The comparisons of the main complications and mortality rates in walking children with esophageal substitutions performed in the first months of life showed that the incidences of cervical

Multidisciplinary approach for patients with esophageal cancer

PubMed Central

Villaflor, Victoria M; Allaix, Marco E; Minsky, Bruce; Herbella, Fernando A; Patti, Marco G

2012-01-01

Patients with esophageal cancer have a poor prognosis because they often have no symptoms until their disease is advanced. There are no screening recommendations for patients unless they have Barrett’s esophagitis or a significant family history of this disease. Often, esophageal cancer is not diagnosed until patients present with dysphagia, odynophagia, anemia or weight loss. When symptoms occur, the stage is often stage III or greater. Treatment of patients with very early stage disease is fairly straight forward using only local treatment with surgical resection or endoscopic mucosal resection. The treatment of patients who have locally advanced esophageal cancer is more complex and controversial. Despite multiple trials, treatment recommendations are still unclear due to conflicting data. Sadly, much of our data is difficult to interpret due to many of the trials done have included very heterogeneous groups of patients both histologically as well as anatomically. Additionally, studies have been underpowered or stopped early due to poor accrual. In the United States, concurrent chemoradiotherapy prior to surgical resection has been accepted by many as standard of care in the locally advanced patient. Patients who have metastatic disease are treated palliatively. The aim of this article is to describe the multidisciplinary approach used by an established team at a single high volume center for esophageal cancer, and to review the literature which guides our treatment recommendations. PMID:23239911

Prognostic significance of Glasgow prognostic score in patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Feng, Ji-Feng; Zhao, Qiang; Chen, Qi-Xun

2014-01-01

Recent studies have revealed that Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), an inflammation-based prognostic score, is inversely related to prognosis in a variety of cancers; high levels of GPS is associated with poor prognosis. However, few studies regarding GPS in esophageal cancer (EC) are available. The aim of this study was to determine whether the GPS is useful for predicting cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The GPS was calculated on the basis of admission data as follows: Patients with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) level (>10 mg/L) and hypoalbuminemia (<35 g/L) were assigned to GPS2. Patients with one or no abnormal value were assigned to GPS1 or GPS0, respectively. Our study showed that GPS was associated with tumor size, depth of invasion, and nodal metastasis (P<0.001). In addition, there was a negative correlation between the serum CRP and albumin (r=-0.412, P<0.001). The 5-year CSS in patients with GPS0, GPS1, and GPS2 were 60.8%, 34.7% and 10.7%, respectively (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that GPS was a significant predictor of CSS. GPS1-2 had a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.399 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.805-3.190] for 1-year CSS (P<0.001) and 1.907 (95% CI: 1.608-2.262) for 5-year CSS (P<0.001). High levels of GPS is associated with tumor progression. GPS can be considered as an independent prognostic factor in patients who underwent esophagectomy for ESCC.

Radiotherapy in elderly patients with inoperable esophageal cancer. Is there a benefit?

PubMed

Semrau, R; Herzog, S L; Vallböhmer, D; Kocher, M; Hölscher, A; Müller, R-P

2012-03-01

Radiation oncologists increasingly face elderly cancer patients impaired by comorbidities and reduced performance status. As less data are available for this particular group of patients, the aim of the study was to assess the prognosis of inoperable esophageal cancer patients ≥ 70 years undergoing definitive radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy. PATIENTS AND TREATMENT PROTOCOL: Patients aged ≥ 70 with inoperable carcinoma of the esophagus undergoing definitive radio(chemo)therapy between 1995 and 2006 at the University of Cologne were included retrospectively. Maximal total dose of radiotherapy administered was 63 Gy (5 × 1.8 Gy/week). Chemotherapy consisted of cisplatin (20 mg/m(2) on days 1-5 and days 29-33) and 5-fluorouracil (650-1,000 mg/m(2) on days 1-5 and days 29-33). Efficacy was compared with a cohort of 152 patients < 70 years treated with the same protocol during the same time period. A total of 51 patients aged  ≥ 70 with inoperable cancer of the esophagus undergoing definitive therapy were identified (stage I/II 23.5%, stage III 56.9%, stage IV 9.8%; squamous cell carcinoma 74.5%, adenocarcinoma 25.5%). While 15 patients (29.4%) received combined radiochemotherapy (RCT), 40 patients (70.6%) were treated with radiotherapy alone (RT). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 9.5 months; median overall survival (OS) was 13.9 months. Patients treated with RCT had a 2-year OS rate of 53.3% compared with 16.7% for RT patients (p = 0.039). The 2-year OS for clinically lymph node negative patients was 38.5% compared with 21.2% for lymph node positive patients (p = 0.072). Median OS was not significantly different between patients ≥ 70 years versus the patient cohort (n = 152) aged < 70 years (13.9 vs. 7.2 months, p = 0.072) but PFS showed a significant difference (4.9 vs. 9.5 months, p = 0.026) in favor of the > 70 years group. Prognosis in elderly patients with inoperable esophageal cancer

The association between reflux esophagitis and airway hyper-reactivity in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux

PubMed Central

Karbasi, Ashraf; Ardestani, Mohammad Emami; Ghanei, Mostafa; Harandi, Ali Amini

2013-01-01

Background: The association of gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) with a wide variety of pulmonary disorders was recognized. We aimed to evaluate the effect of GER-induced esophagitis on airway hyper-reactivity (AHR) in patients and the response to treatment. Materials and Methods: In this cohort study, 30 patients attending the gastrointestinal clinic of a university hospital with acid reflux symptoms were included. All patients were evaluated endoscopically and divided into case group with esophagitis and control group without any evidence of esophagitis. Spirometry and methacholine test were done in all patients before and after treatment of GER with pantoprazole 40 mg daily for six months. Results: There was a significant difference in the rate of positive methacholine test between the cases (40%) and the controls (6.7%) prior to anti-acid therapy (P < 0.0001). After six months of treatment, the frequency of positive methacholine test diminished from 40 to 13.3% in the case group (P < 0.05) but did not change in the controls (P = 0.15). Conclusion: The presence of esophagitis due to GER would increase the AHR and treatment with pantoperazole would decrease AHR in patients with proved esophagitis and no previous history of asthma after six months. PMID:24250694

Preoperative cetuximab, irinotecan, cisplatin, and radiation therapy for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Lee, Michael S; Mamon, Harvey J; Hong, Theodore S; Choi, Noah C; Fidias, Panagiotis M; Kwak, Eunice L; Meyerhardt, Jeffrey A; Ryan, David P; Bueno, Raphael; Donahue, Dean M; Jaklitsch, Michael T; Lanuti, Michael; Rattner, David W; Fuchs, Charles S; Enzinger, Peter C

2013-01-01

To determine the efficacy and toxicity of weekly neoadjuvant cetuximab combined with irinotecan, cisplatin, and radiation therapy in patients with locally advanced esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer. Patients with stage IIA-IVA esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer were enrolled in a Simon's two-stage phase II study. Patients received weekly cetuximab on weeks 0-8 and irinotecan and cisplatin on weeks 1, 2, 4, and 5, with concurrent radiotherapy (50.4 Gy on weeks 1-6), followed by surgical resection. In the first stage, 17 patients were enrolled, 16 of whom had adenocarcinoma. Because of a low pathologic complete response (pCR) rate in this cohort, the trial was discontinued for patients with adenocarcinoma but squamous cell carcinoma patients continued to be enrolled; two additional patients were enrolled before the study was closed as a result of poor accrual. Of the 19 patients enrolled, 18 patients proceeded to surgery, and 16 patients underwent an R0 resection. Three patients (16%) had a pCR. The median progression-free survival interval was 10 months, and the median overall survival duration was 31 months. Severe neutropenia occurred in 47% of patients, and severe diarrhea occurred in 47% of patients. One patient died preoperatively from sepsis, and one patient died prior to hospital discharge following surgical resection. This schedule of cetuximab in combination with irinotecan, cisplatin, and radiation therapy was toxic and did not achieve a sufficient pCR rate in patients with localized esophageal adenocarcinoma to undergo further evaluation.

Pattern of esophageal eosinophilic infiltration in patients with achalasia and response to Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication.

PubMed

Cools-Lartigue, J; Chang, S-Y; Mckendy, K; Mayrand, S; Marcus, V; Fried, G M; Ferri, L E

2013-01-01

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is now recognized as a common cause of dysphagia. Eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus has also been associated with other conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, the incidence, pattern, and clinical significance of eosinophilic infiltration in achalasia are poorly documented. We sought to characterize this histological finding in patients undergoing Heller myotomy (HM) for achalasia. Ninety-six patients undergoing laparoscopic HM for primary achalasia between 1999 and 2008 were identified from a prospective database. Serial mid and distal per-endoscopic esophageal biopsies taken from patients before and after surgery were assessed for the presence of elevated intraepithelial eosinophils (EIEs). Slides from patients with reports suggestive of EIE were reviewed independently by two pathologists, and the highest eosinophil count/high-power field (eos/hpf) was recorded. Dysphagia scores (0 = none to 5 = severe dysphagia), GERD health-related quality of life scores (0 = best to 45 = worst), and 24-hour pH results were compared before and 3 months after surgery. We related the highest eos to the symptoms and response to HM. Data are presented as median (range). Paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test determined significance, *P < 0.05. Of 96 patients with achalasia, 50 had undergone pre-HM biopsies revealing EIE in 17/50 (34%), with a median of 3 eos/hpf (1-21). Two patients were found to have superimposed esophageal candidiasis. One patient met the pathologic criteria for EoE. Twenty-five of 50 (50%) postoperative biopsies demonstrated a median of 5 eos/hpf (1-62) for a total of 28/50 patients (56%) with EIE in either the preoperative or postoperative period. Four patients (8%) met the pathologic criteria for EoE, and two demonstrated persistent esophageal candidiasis. A decrease in eosinophils was found in 6/28 patients (21%) from 3/hpf (1-21) to 0.5/hpf (0-4). Increase in eosinophils was found in

Current and future treatment of chest pain of presumed esophageal origin.

PubMed

Schmulson, Max J; Valdovinos, Miguel Angel

2004-03-01

Patients with chest pain of presumed esophageal origin should be reassured and should undergo an esophageal manometry study. In patients with spastic esophageal disorders, a trial with calcium channel blockers or low-dose antidepressants used as visceral analgesics is the best approach. Inpatients with non GERD-related, nonspastic esophageal motility disorder, low-dose antidepressants seem reasonable. Anxiolytics are useful in patients with panic disorders, and psychological interventions (eg, cognitive-behavioral therapy) are also valuable, mainly in patients in whom reassurance is not sufficient to avoid the misinterpretation of their symptoms. In the future, visceral sensitivity modifying agents such as serotoninergic agonists or antagonists may become the cornerstone of therapy in patients with chest pain of presumed esophageal origin. Combinations of different approaches, such as proton pump inhibitors and psychotropic or antinociceptive agents, should also be evaluated in clinical trials.

Liquid nitrogen spray cryotherapy for dysphagia palliation in patients with inoperable esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Kachaamy, Toufic; Prakash, Ravi; Kundranda, Madappa; Batish, Raman; Weber, Jeffrey; Hendrickson, Scott; Yoder, Leon; Do, Hannah; Magat, Theresa; Nayar, Rajeev; Gupta, Digant; DaSilva, Trisha; Sangal, Ashish; Kothari, Shivangi; Kaul, Vivek; Vashi, Pankaj

2018-05-08

Dysphagia is a debilitating symptom in patients with inoperable esophageal cancer contributing to poor quality of life and worsening nutritional status. The 2 most commonly used palliative modalities for dysphagia are radiation therapy (RT) and esophageal stent placement. However, RT is limited by adverse events (AEs) and total dose, and stent placement has a high rate of AEs including reflux, migration, and chest pain. A relatively new modality of liquid nitrogen endoscopic spray cryotherapy has been described as salvage when other options have been exhausted and when patients are no longer receiving systemic therapy. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of cryotherapy as the primary modality for relieving dysphagia in inoperable esophageal cancer including patients receiving systemic cancer therapy. This is a retrospective multicenter consecutive case series of 49 inoperable esophageal cancer patients undergoing palliative endoscopic cryotherapy at 4 specialized cancer centers from May 2014 to May 2016. The primary outcomes were change in dysphagia scores between pre- and post-cryotherapy and AE. Dysphagia was measured using a 4-point Likert scale: 0, no dysphagia; 1, dysphagia to solids; 2, dysphagia to semi-solids; 3, dysphagia to liquids; 4, dysphagia to saliva. There were 39 males and 10 females with a mean age of 58 years who underwent a total of 120 cryotherapy treatments. The mean dysphagia score improved significantly from 2.4 pre-cryotherapy to 1.7 post-cryotherapy (improvement of 0.7 points; p<0.001). Minor AE were seen in 6/120 (5.0%) cryotherapy treatments (1 intra-procedural and 5 post-procedural). In addition, one patient developed a severe intra-procedural AE of dilation-related perforation whereas another patient developed a benign stricture requiring dilation. This preliminary retrospective study suggests that liquid nitrogen spray cryotherapy may be safe and effective for dysphagia palliation in inoperable esophageal cancer. Large prospective

Predictors of post-treatment stenosis in cervical esophageal cancer undergoing high-dose radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Kim, Jun Won; Kim, Tae Hyung; Kim, Jie-Hyun; Lee, Ik Jae

2018-01-01

AIM To evaluate toxicity and treatment outcome of high-dose radiotherapy (RT) for cervical esophageal cancer (CEC). METHODS We reviewed a total of 62 consecutive patients who received definitive RT for stage I to III cervical esophageal cancer between 2001 and 2015. Patients who received < 45 Gy, treated for lesions below sternal notch, treated with palliative aim, treated with subsequent surgical resection, or diagnosed with synchronous hypopharyngeal cancer were excluded. Treatment failures were divided into local (occurring within the RT field), outfield-esophageal, and regional [occurring in regional lymph node(s)] failures. Factors predictive of esophageal stenosis requiring endoscopic dilation were analyzed. RESULTS Grade 1, 2, and 3 esophagitis occurred in 19 (30.6%), 39 (62.9%), and 4 patients (6.5%), respectively, without grade ≥ 4 toxicities. Sixteen patients (25.8%) developed post-RT stenosis, of which 7 cases (43.8%) were malignant. Four patients (6.5%) developed tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), of which 3 (75%) cases were malignant. Factors significantly correlated with post-RT stenosis were stage T3/4 (P = 0.001), complete circumference involvement (P < 0.0001), stenosis at diagnosis (P = 0.024), and endoscopic complete response (P = 0.017) in univariate analysis, while complete circumference involvement was significant in multivariate analysis (P = 0.003). A higher dose (≥ 60 Gy) was not associated with occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF. With a median follow-up of 24.3 (range, 3.4-152) mo, the 2 y local control, outfield esophageal control, progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) rates were 78.9%, 90.2%, 49.6%, and 57.3%, respectively. Factors significantly correlated with OS were complete circumference involvement (P = 0.023), stenosis at diagnosis (P < 0.0001), and occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF (P < 0.001) in univariate analysis, while stenosis at diagnosis (P = 0.004) and occurrence of post-RT stenosis or TEF (P = 0

Exploratory Research on Latent Esophageal Motility Disorders in Dysphagia Patients.

PubMed

Kawaguchi, Shinpei; Takeuchi, Toshihisa; Inoue, Yousuke; Takahashi, Yoshiaki; Ozaki, Haruhiko; Ota, Kazuhiro; Harada, Satoshi; Edogawa, Shoko; Kojima, Yuichi; Yamashita, Hiroshi; Fukuchi, Takumi; Ashida, Kiyoshi; Higuchi, Kazuhide

2017-01-01

High-resolution manometry (HRM) has been applied to assess esophageal motility disorders. However, the frequency and types of motility disorders in patients with dysphagia, which are frequently seen in clinical practice, are not clear. We evaluated latent esophageal motility disorders associated with dysphagia. The study included patients without erosive esophageal mucosal damage and with dysphagia symptoms refractory to at least 8 weeks of standard-dose proton pump inhibitors. After enrolment, HRM was used to evaluate for esophageal motility disorder based on the Chicago classification. Esophageal motility disorder was found in 58 of 100 patients and was classified based on the causes: achalasia (13%), esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (16%), distal esophageal spasms (3%), weak peristalsis (14%), frequently failed peristalsis (5%), and hypertensive peristalsis (7%). Primary esophageal motility disorder was found in approximately 50% of cases in dysphagia patients. Therefore, esophageal motility disorder is not an uncommon condition and should be sought for in order to elucidate precisely the cause of dysphagia. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Radiation Exposure and Attributable Cancer Risk in Patients With Esophageal Atresia.

PubMed

Yousef, Yasmine; Baird, Robert

2018-02-01

Cases of esophageal carcinoma have been documented in survivors of esophageal atresia (EA). Children with EA undergo considerable amounts of diagnostic imaging and consequent radiation exposure potentially increasing their lifetime cancer mortality risk. This study evaluates the radiological procedures performed on patients with EA and estimates their cumulative radiation exposure and attributable lifetime cancer mortality risk. Medical records of patients with EA managed at a tertiary care center were reviewed for demographics, EA subtype, and number and type of radiological investigations. Existing normative data were used to estimate the cumulative radiation exposure and lifetime cancer risk per patient. The present study included 53 patients with a mean follow-up of 5.7 years. The overall median and maximum estimated effective radiation dose in the neonatal period was 5521.4 μSv/patient and 66638.6 μSv/patient, respectively. This correlates to a median and maximum estimated cumulative lifetime cancer mortality risk of 1:1530 and 1:130, respectively. Hence, radiation exposure in the neonatal period increased the cumulative cancer mortality risk a median of 130-fold and a maximum of 1575-fold in EA survivors. Children with EA are exposed to significant amounts of radiation and an increased estimated cumulative cancer mortality risk. Efforts should be made to eliminate superfluous imaging.

Increased risk of esophageal eosinophilia and eosinophilic esophagitis in patients with active celiac disease on biopsy

PubMed Central

Jensen, Elizabeth T.; Eluri, Swathi; Lebwohl, Benjamin; Genta, Robert M.; Dellon, Evan S.

2015-01-01

Background and Aims The possible association between eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and celiac disease (CD) is controversial as prior results have been contradictory. We aimed to determine the relationship between EoE and CD among patients with concomitant esophageal and duodenal biopsies. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in a U.S. national pathology database, using data from January 2009 and June 2012. Our primary case definition was defined by the presence of esophageal eosinophilia with ≥ 15 eosinophils per high-power field. The crude and adjusted (for age and sex) odds of esophageal eosinophilia for patients with active CD were compared to those without CD. Sensitivity analyses were performed using more stringent case definitions and by estimating the associations between CD and reflux esophagitis, and CD and Barrett's esophagus (BE). Results Of 292,621 patients in the source population, 88,517 with both esophageal and duodenal biopsies were studied. 4,101 (4.6%) met criteria for EoE and 1,203 (1.4%) met criteria for CD. Odds of EoE were 26% higher in patients with CD than patients without CD (aOR: 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98 – 1.60). The magnitude of association varied according to EoE case definition (Table 3), but all definitions showed a weak, positive association between the two conditions. There was no association between CD and reflux esophagitis (aOR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.85 – 1.07) or BE (aOR 0.89, 95% CI: 0.69 – 1.14) and CD. Conclusions There is a weak increase in EoE in patients with CD. This association strengthened with increasingly stringent definitions of EoE, and was not observed for other esophageal conditions. In patients with CD, concomitant EoE should be considered in the correct clinical setting. PMID:25724709

Prevalence of esophageal disorders in patients with recurrent chest pain.

PubMed

Manterola, C; Barroso, M S; Losada, H; Muñoz, S; Vial, M

2004-01-01

The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of esophageal disorders (ED) associated with recurrent chest pain (RCP) and the utility of esophageal functional tests (EFT) in the study of these patients. The cross-sectional study was conducted at Hospital Clínico de La Frontera, Chile. One hundred and twenty-three patients with RCP were studied using esophageal manometry, edrophonium stimulation and 24-h pH monitoring. The performance of EFT was considered acceptable when they were capable of finding ED. To state the probability that RCP had an esophageal origin, patients were classified according to whether their pain had a probable, possible or unlikely esophageal origin. The prevalence of ED was determined according to diagnoses obtained after applying EFT and a multivariate analysis was performed to examine the association between the esophageal origin of RCP and ED. Rates of correct diagnosis of 65.9%, 56.9% and 31.7% was verified for 24-h pH monitoring, esophageal manometry and edrophonium stimulation, respectively. In 38.2% of patients with RCP, the pain was probably of esophageal origin, in 42.3% there was a possible esophageal origin and in 19.5% an unlikely esophageal origin. A 44.7% prevalence of GERD, 26.8% of GERD with secondary esophageal motor dysfunction and 8.9% of pure esophageal motor dysfunction were verified. The multivariate analysis allowed us to verify the association between the probability of esophageal origin of RCP, the variables RCP duration, esophagitis and dysphagia coexistence (P= 0.037, P= 0.030 and P= 0.024, respectively), and a statistically significant association between ED and dysphagia coexistence (P= 0.028). A high prevalence of ED was identified in patients with RCP.

Health-Care Utilization and Complications of Endoscopic Esophageal Dilation in a National Population

PubMed Central

Goyal, Abhinav; Chatterjee, Kshitij; Yadlapati, Sujani; Singh, Shailender

2017-01-01

Background/Aims Esophageal stricture is usually managed with outpatient endoscopic dilation. However, patients with food impaction or failure to thrive undergo inpatient dilation. Esophageal perforation is the most feared complication, and its risk in inpatient setting is unknown. Methods We used National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for 2007–2013. International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes were used to identify patients with esophageal strictures. Logistic regression was used to assess association between hospital/patient characteristics and utilization of esophageal dilation. Results There were 591,187 hospitalizations involving esophageal stricture; 4.2% were malignant. Endoscopic dilation was performed in 28.7% cases. Dilation was more frequently utilized (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; p<0.001), had higher in-hospital mortality (3.1% vs. 1.4%, p<0.001), and resulted in longer hospital stays (5 days vs. 4 days, p=0.01), among cases of malignant strictures. Esophageal perforation was more common in the malignant group (0.9% vs. 0.5%, p=0.007). Patients with malignant compared to benign strictures undergoing dilation were more likely to require percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy or jejunostomy (PEG/J) tube (14.1% vs. 4.5%, p<0.001). Palliative care services were utilized more frequently in malignant stricture cases not treated with dilation compared to those that were dilated. Conclusions Inpatient endoscopic dilation was utilized in 29% cases of esophageal stricture. Esophageal perforation, although infrequent, is more common in malignant strictures. PMID:28301921

The prevalence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and esophageal dysmotility in Chinese patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

PubMed

Gao, Feng; Hobson, Anthony Robert; Shang, Zhan Min; Pei, Yan Xiang; Gao, Yan; Wang, Jian Xin; Huang, Wan Nong

2015-02-19

The cause of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remains unknown, yet gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is highly prevalent in this population. GERD prevalence was studied, and esophageal function tests (EFT) were assessed in Chinese IPF patients. We prospectively studied 69 IPF patients who undertook both stationary High Resolution esophageal Manometry/Impedance (HRiM) and 24-hour esophageal Multi-Channel Intraluminal Impedance with pH Recordings (MII/pH). Patients were divided into GERD+ and GERD- groups according to pH results. Controls were HRiM treated healthy volunteers, and patients without IPF received HRiM and MII/pH diagnosed with GERD. 69 IPF patients, 62 healthy volunteers, and 88 IPF negative GERD patients were selected. GERD prevalence in IPF was 43/69 (62.3%), and 58.1% of patients presented with at least one typical symptom. Symptoms had a sensitivity of 58.1%, a specificity of 61.6%, a positive predictive value of 71.4% and a negative predictive of 47.1%. Compared with healthy volunteers, IPF patients had significantly decreased lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), upper esophageal sphincter pressure (UESP) and complete bolus transit rate (CBTR). By contrast, IPF patients had increased total bolus transit time and prevalence of weak peristalsis. MII/pH showed that one third of IPF patients had abnormal distal and proximal reflux, especially non-acid reflux. Compared with GERD patients without IPF, GERD patients with IPF had significantly decreased CBTR and UESP with increased bolus exposure time. GERD prevalence in IPF was high, but symptoms alone were an unreliable predictor of reflux. IPF patients had lower LESP and UESP, impaired esophageal peristalsis and bolus clearance function with more proximal reflux events.

Esophageal Lichen Planus: Clinical and Radiographic Findings in Eight Patients.

PubMed

Rauschecker, Andreas M; Levine, Marc S; Whitson, Matthew J; Tondon, Rashmi; Rubesin, Stephen E; Furth, Emma E; Metz, David C

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study is to present the clinical and radiographic findings of esophageal lichen planus. A search of computerized medical records identified 15 patients with pathologic findings of esophageal lichen planus on endoscopic biopsy specimens. Three other patients had presumed esophageal lichen planus, although no biopsy specimens were obtained. Twelve of these 18 patients (67%) had double-contrast esophagography performed at our institution; for eight of the 12 patients (67%), the studies revealed abnormalities in the esophagus. These eight patients constituted our study group. The barium esophagrams and medical records of these eight patients were reviewed to determine the clinical, radiographic, and endoscopic findings of esophageal lichen planus as well as the treatment and patient outcome. All eight patients were women (median age, 66.5 years), and all eight presented with dysphagia (mean duration, 3.2 years). Four patients had previous lichen planus that involved the skin (n = 1), the oral cavity (n = 2), or both (n = 1), and one patient later had lichen planus that involved the vagina. Five patients had a small-caliber esophagus with diffuse esophageal narrowing. The remaining three patients had segmental strictures in the cervical (n = 1), upper thoracic (n = 1), and distal thoracic (n = 1) esophagus. Esophageal lichen planus typically occurs in older women with longstanding dysphagia and often develops in the absence of extraesophageal disease. Barium esophagrams may reveal a small-caliber esophagus or, less commonly, segmental esophageal strictures. Greater awareness of the radiographic findings of esophageal lichen planus hopefully will lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of this condition.

Airway complications after covered stent placement for malignant esophageal stricture: special reference to radiation therapy.

PubMed

Park, Ji Yeon; Shin, Ji Hoon; Song, Ho-Young; Yi, Seong Yoon; Kim, Jin Hyoung

2012-02-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of airway complications and survival with special reference to radiation therapy in the care of patients undergoing covered stent placement for malignant esophageal strictures. A total of 208 patients who underwent stent placement with or without palliative radiation therapy for inoperable esophageal cancer were included. The endpoints were frequency, type, and management of airway complications; association between occurrence of airway complications and radiation therapy history; and differences in stent-to-complication interval and survival period after esophageal stenting between patients who underwent radiation therapy before and those who underwent radiation therapy after stent placement. Airway complications occurred in 23 patients (11.1%): 18 (78.3%) had esophagorespiratory fistula, three (13.0%) had airway narrowing, and two (8.7%) had both complications. The frequency of airway complications was significantly greater among patients who underwent RT than those who did not (p = 0.005) but was not significantly different between the radiation before stenting and radiation after stenting groups (p = 0.158). The median stent-to-complication interval and survival period after esophageal stenting were significantly shorter in the radiation before stenting group than in the radiation after stenting group (p = 0.002, p = 0.001). Esophagorespiratory fistula is much more common than airway narrowing as an airway complication. The rate of complications increases significantly in association with radiation therapy among patients with malignant esophageal stricture. Clinicians need to be aware of earlier airway complications and poorer prognosis among patients who undergo radiation therapy before placement of an esophageal stent than in patients who undergo radiation after stent placement.

Manometric assessment of esophageal motor function in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.

PubMed

Bektas, Mehmet; Seven, Gulseren; Idilman, Ramazan; Yakut, Mustafa; Doğanay, Beyza; Kabacam, Gökhan; Ustun, Yusuf; Korkut, Esin; Kalkan, Çağdaş; Sahin, Günay; Cetinkaya, Hulya; Bozkaya, Hakan; Yurdaydin, Cihan; Bahar, Kadir; Cinar, Kubilay; Soykan, Irfan

2014-03-01

Primary biliary cirrhosis is associated with other autoimmune diseases including Sjögren's syndrome, and scleroderma. Esophageal dysmotility is well known in scleroderma, and Sjögren's syndrome. The aim of this study is to investigate whether any esophageal motor dysfunction exists in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. The study was performed in 37 patients (36 women, mean age: 56.29 ± 10.01 years) who met diagnostic criteria for primary biliary cirrhosis. Thirty-seven functional dyspepsia patients, were also included as a control group. Patients entering the study were asked to complete a symptom questionnaire. Distal esophageal contraction amplitude, and lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure were assessed. Manometric findings in primary biliary cirrhosis patients vs. controls were as follows: Median lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure (mmHg): (24 vs 20, p=0.033); median esophageal contraction amplitude (mmHg): (71 vs 56, p=0.050); mean lower esophageal sphincter relaxation duration (sc, x ± SD): (6.10 ± 1.18 vs 8.29 ± 1.92, p<0.001); and median lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (%) (96 vs 98, p=0.019); respectively. No significant differences were evident in median peak velocity (sc) (3.20 vs 3.02, p=0.778) between patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and the functional dyspepsia patients. Esophageal dysmotility was found in 17 (45.9%) primary biliary cirrhosis patients (non-specific esophageal motor disorder in ten patients, hypomotility of esophagus in five patients, nutcracker esophagus in one patient and hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter in one patient). Esophageal dysmotility was detected in 45.9% of patients. The study suggests that subclinic esophageal dysmotility is frequent in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Esophageal motor activity in children with gastro-esophageal reflux disease and esophagitis.

PubMed

Chitkara, Denesh K; Fortunato, Christine; Nurko, Samuel

2005-01-01

To evaluate esophageal body motor contractions occurring during esophageal reflux in pediatric patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients referred for the evaluation of GERD who were evaluated with combined 24-hour pH probe and esophageal manometry test (MP24) were included. Patients were separated into the following groups: Group C -- normal pH probe and normal EGD; Group 1 -- abnormal pH probe and normal EGD; and Group 2 -- abnormal pH probe and EGD with histologic esophagitis. Esophageal motor function during reflux episodes was analyzed. Twenty-five patients were included. All had a normal stationary esophageal manometry. Patients in Groups 1 and 2 had significantly more gastroesophageal reflux by pH probe than Group C (P < 0.01). During the MP24, patients in Group 1 and 2 had significantly fewer contractions per minute pre-, during, and post-GER (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in the number of isolated and prolonged contractions (>7 sec) during prolonged GERD episodes >5 minutes (P < 0.05). Children with GERD have a decreased number and abnormal esophageal body contractions with esophageal reflux. This suggests that children with GERD with and without esophagitis have impaired esophageal body acid clearance.

The low incidence of bacteremia after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) obviates the need for prophylactic antibiotics in esophageal ESD.

PubMed

Kawata, Noboru; Tanaka, Masaki; Kakushima, Naomi; Takizawa, Kohei; Imai, Kenichiro; Hotta, Kinichi; Matsubayashi, Hiroyuki; Tsukahara, Mika; Kawamura, Ichiro; Kurai, Hanako; Ono, Hiroyuki

2016-11-01

Although a high incidence of bacteremia after esophageal endoscopic procedures has been reported, the incidence of bacteremia associated with esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the incidence of bacteremia associated with esophageal ESD. From April 2013 to March 2014, patients who underwent esophageal ESD were enrolled prospectively. Two sets of blood cultures were collected from patients at the following time points: (1) immediately after ESD; (2) the next morning; and (3) when fever ≥38 °C was present after ESD. A total of 424 blood culture sets were collected from 101 patients. Six patients had positive blood cultures immediately after ESD (4 %, 7/202 sets). Another patient had a positive blood culture the next morning (0.5 %, 1/202 sets). Ten patients (10 %) developed a post-ESD fever ≥38 °C, and blood cultures from these patients were all negative (0/20 sets). The seven patients with positive blood cultures had no post-ESD fever or infectious symptoms. Growth of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron was only observed in one patient (1 %) with positive blood cultures immediately after ESD, and this patient was diagnosed with transient bacteremia. The other six patients were considered to have contaminants in their blood cultures. Thus, the incidence of bacteremia after esophageal ESD was 1 % [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0-5 %]. No patient had infectious symptoms, and none required antibiotics after ESD. The incidence of bacteremia after esophageal ESD was low and post-ESD fever was not associated with bacteremia. We conclude that use of routine prophylactic antibiotics to patients undergoing esophageal ESD is unnecessary. UMIN000012908.

Monitoring sputum culture in resected esophageal cancer patients with preoperative treatment.

PubMed

Kosumi, K; Baba, Y; Yamashita, K; Ishimoto, T; Nakamura, K; Ohuchi, M; Kiyozumi, Y; Izumi, D; Tokunaga, R; Harada, K; Shigaki, H; Kurashige, J; Iwatsuki, M; Sakamoto, Y; Yoshida, N; Watanabe, M; Baba, H

2017-12-01

Pneumonia is a major cause of postesophagectomy mortality and worsens the long-term survival in resected esophageal cancer patients. Moreover, preoperative treatments such as chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (which have recently been applied worldwide) might affect the bacterial flora of the sputum. To investigate the association among preoperative treatments, the bacterial flora of sputum, and the clinical and pathological features in resected esophageal cancer patients, this study newly investigates the effect of preoperative treatments on the bacterial flora of sputum. We investigated the association among preoperative treatments, the bacterial flora of sputum, and clinical and pathological features in 163 resected esophageal cancer patients within a single institution. Pathogenic bacteria such as Candida (14.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (6.7%), Enterobacter cloacae (6.1%), Haemophilus parainfluenzae (4.9%), Klebisiella pneumoniae (3.7%), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (3.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2.5%), Escherichia coli (1.8%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (1.8%), and Haemophilus influenzae (1.2%) were found in the sputum. The pathogen detection rate in the present study was 34.3% (56/163). In patients with preoperative chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy, the indigenous Neisseria and Streptococcus species were significantly decreased (P= 0.04 and P= 0.04). However, the detection rates of pathogenic bacteria were not associated with preoperative treatments (all P> 0.07). There was not a significant difference of hospital stay between the sputum-monitored patients and unmonitored patients (35.5 vs. 49.9 days; P= 0.08). Patients undergoing preoperative treatments exhibited a significant decrease of indigenous bacteria, indicating that the treatment altered the bacterial flora of their sputum. This finding needs to be confirmed in large-scale independent studies or well-designed multicenter studies. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford

A disease-specific enteral nutrition formula improves nutritional status and functional performance in patients with head and neck and esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy: results of a randomized, controlled, multicenter trial.

PubMed

Fietkau, Rainer; Lewitzki, Victor; Kuhnt, Thomas; Hölscher, Tobias; Hess, Clemens-F; Berger, Bernhard; Wiegel, Thomas; Rödel, Claus; Niewald, Marcus; Hermann, Robert M; Lubgan, Dorota

2013-09-15

In patients with head and neck and esophageal tumors, nutritional status may deteriorate during concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT). The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of enteral nutrition enriched with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on body composition and nutritional and functional status. In a controlled, randomized, prospective, double-blind, multicenter study, 111 patients with head and neck and esophageal cancer undergoing concurrent CRT received either an enteral standard nutrition (control group) or disease-specific enteral nutrition Supportan®-containing EPA+DHA (experimental group) via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. The primary endpoint was the change of body cell mass (BCM) following CRT at weeks 7 and 14 compared with the baseline value. Secondary endpoints were additional parameters of body composition, anthropometric parameters, and nutritional and functional status. The primary endpoint of the study, improvement in BCM, reached borderline statistical significance. Following CRT, patients with experimental nutrition lost only 0.82 ± 0.64 kg of BCM compared with 2.82 ± 0.77 kg in the control group (P = .055). The objectively measured nutritional parameters, such as body weight and fat-free mass, showed a tendency toward improvement, but the differences were not significant. The subjective parameters, in particular the Kondrup score (P = .0165) and the subjective global assessment score (P = .0065) after follow-up improved significantly in the experimental group, compared with the control group. Both enteral regimens were safe and well tolerated. Enteral nutrition with EPA and DHA may be advantageous in patients with head and neck or esophageal cancer by improving parameters of nutritional and functional status during CRT. © 2013 American Cancer Society.

Increased Risk of Esophageal Eosinophilia and Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Patients With Active Celiac Disease on Biopsy.

PubMed

Jensen, Elizabeth T; Eluri, Swathi; Lebwohl, Benjamin; Genta, Robert M; Dellon, Evan S

2015-08-01

The possible association between eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and celiac disease is controversial because prior results have been contradictory. We aimed to determine the relationship between EoE and celiac disease among patients with concomitant esophageal and duodenal biopsies. We conducted a cross-sectional study in a U.S. national pathology database by using data from January 2009 through June 2012. Our primary case definition was defined by the presence of esophageal eosinophilia with ≥15 eosinophils per high-power field. The crude and adjusted (for age and sex) odds of esophageal eosinophilia for patients with active celiac disease were compared with those without celiac disease. Sensitivity analyses were performed by using more stringent case definitions and by estimating the associations between celiac disease and reflux esophagitis and celiac disease and Barrett's esophagus. Of 292,621 patients in the source population, 88,517 with both esophageal and duodenal biopsies were studied. Four thousand one hundred one (4.6%) met criteria for EoE, and 1203 (1.4%) met criteria for celiac disease. Odds of EoE were 26% higher in patients with celiac disease than in patients without celiac disease (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98-1.60). The magnitude of association varied according to EoE case definition, but all definitions showed a weak positive association between the 2 conditions. There was no association between celiac disease and reflux esophagitis (aOR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.85-1.07) or Barrett's esophagus (aOR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.69-1.14) and celiac disease. There is a weak increase in EoE in patients with celiac disease. This association strengthened with increasingly stringent definitions of EoE and was not observed for other esophageal conditions. In patients with celiac disease, concomitant EoE should be considered in the correct clinical setting. Copyright © 2015 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights

Esophageal Dysmotility in Patients following Total Laryngectomy.

PubMed

Zhang, Teng; Maclean, Julia; Szczesniak, Michal; Bertrand, Paul P; Quon, Harry; Tsang, Raymond K; Wu, Peter I; Graham, Peter; Cook, Ian J

2018-02-01

Objectives Dysphagia is common in total laryngectomees, with some symptoms suggesting esophageal dysmotility. Tracheoesophageal (TE) phonation requires effective esophagopharyngeal air passage. Hence, esophageal dysmotility may affect deglutition or TE phonation. This study aimed to determine (1) the characteristics of esophageal dysmotility in laryngectomees, (2) whether clinical history is sensitive in detecting esophageal dysmotility, and (3) the relationship between esophageal dysmotility and TE prosthesis dysfunction. Study Design Multidisciplinary cross-sectional study. Setting Tertiary academic hospital. Subjects and Methods For 31 participants undergone total laryngectomy 1 to 12 years prior, clinical histories were taken by a gastroenterologist and a speech pathologist experienced in managing dysphagia. Esophageal high-resolution manometry was performed and analyzed using Chicago Classification v3.0. Results Interpretable manometric studies were obtained in 23 (1 normal manometry). Esophageal dysmotility patterns included achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, diffuse esophageal spasm, and other major (30%) and minor (50%) peristaltic disorders. The sensitivity of predicting any esophageal dysmotility was 28%, but it is noteworthy that patients with achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) were predicted. Two of 4 participants with TE puncture leakage had poor esophageal clearance. Of 20 TE speakers, 12 had voice problems, no correlation between poor voice, and any dysmotility pattern. Conclusions Peristaltic and lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction are common in laryngectomees. Clinical history, while not predictive of minor motor abnormalities, predicted correctly cases with treatable spastic motor disorders. Dysmotility was not associated with poor phonation, although TE puncture leakage might be linked to poor esophageal clearance. Esophageal dysmotility should be considered in the laryngectomees with persisting dysphagia or

Role of the lower esophageal sphincter on esophageal acid exposure - a review of over 2000 patients.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Kazuto; Hoshino, Masato; Sundaram, Abhishek; Yano, Fumiaki; Mittal, Sumeet K

2012-01-01

Three lower esophageal sphincter (LES) characteristics associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are, LES pressure = 6 mmHg, abdominal length (AL) <1 cm and overall length (OL) <2 cm. The objective of this study was to validate this relationship and evaluate the extent of impact various LES characteristics have on the degree of distal esophageal acid exposure. A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database identified patients who underwent esophageal manometry and pH studies at Creighton University Medical Center between 1984 and 2008. Patients with esophageal body dysmotility, prior foregut surgery, missing data, no documented symptoms or no pH study, were excluded. Study subjects were categorized as follows: (1) normal LES (N-LES): patients with LES pressure of 6-26 mmHg, AL = 1.0 cm and OL = 2 cm; (2) incompetent LES (Inc-LES): patients with LES pressure <6.0 mmHg orAL <1 cm or OL <2 cm; and (3) hypertensive LES (HTN-LES): patients with LES pressure >26.0 mmHg with AL = 1 cm and OL = 2 cm. The DeMeester score was used to compare differences in acid exposure between different groups. Two thousand and twenty patients satisfied study criteria. Distal esophageal acid exposure as reflected by the DeMeester score in patients with Inc-LES (median=20.05) was significantly higher than in patients with an N-LES (median=9.5), which in turn was significantly higher than in patients with an HTN-LES. Increasing LES pressure and AL provided protection against acid exposure in a graded fashion. Increasing number of inadequate LES characteristics were associated with an increase both in the percentage of patients with abnormal DeMeester score and the degree of acid exposure. LES pressure (=6 mmHg) and AL (<1 cm) are associated with increased lower esophageal acid exposure, and need to be addressed for definitive management of GERD.

Esophageal motility in eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Weiss, A H; Iorio, N; Schey, R

2015-01-01

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus and is a potential cause of dysphagia and food impaction, most commonly affecting young men. Esophageal manometry findings vary from normal motility to aperistalsis, simultaneous contractions, diffuse esophageal spasm, nutcracker esophagus or hypotonic lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It remains unclear whether esophageal dysmotility plays a significant role in the clinical symptoms of EoE. Our aim is to review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and effect of treatment on esophageal dysmotility in EoE. A literature search utilizing the PubMed database was performed using keywords: eosinophilic esophagitis, esophageal dysmotility, motility, manometry, impedance planimetry, barium esophagogram, endoscopic ultrasound, and dysphagia. Fifteen studies, totaling 387 patients with eosinophilic esophagitis were identified as keeping in accordance with the aim of this study and included in this review. The occurrence of abnormal esophageal manometry was reported to be between 4 and 87% among patients with EoE. Esophageal motility studies have shown reduced distensibility, abnormal peristalsis, and hypotonicity of the LES in patients with EoE, which may also mimic other esophageal motility disorders such as achalasia or nutcracker esophagus. Studies have shown conflicting results regarding the presence of esophageal dysmotility and symptoms with some reports suggesting a higher rate of food impaction, while others report no correlation between motor function and dysphagia. Motility dysfunction of the esophagus in EoE has not been well reported in the literature and studies have reported conflicting evidence regarding the clinical significance of dysmotility seen in EoE. The correlation between esophageal dysmotility and symptoms of EoE remains unclear. Larger studies are needed to investigate the incidence of esophageal dysmotility, clinical implications, and effect of treatment on

What is the real impairment on esophageal motility in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease?

PubMed

Falcão, Angela; Nasi, Ary; Brandão, Jeovana; Sallum, Rubens; Cecconello, Ivan

2013-04-01

Impairment of esophageal motility is a common finding in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as reduced lower esophageal sphincter (LES) basal pressure. A very low LES pressure might facilitate the occurrence of more gastroesophageal reflux whereas abnormal esophageal peristalsis may contribute to impaired esophageal clearance after reflux. Evaluate the esophageal motor function of the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal body in the various forms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The manometrics records of 268 patients, who had evaluation of the esophageal motility as part of the diagnostic gastroesophageal reflux disease were split into four groups, as follows: 33 patients who had no esophagitis; 92 patients who had erosive esophagitis; 101 patients who had short Barrett's esophagus and 42 patients who had long Barrett's esophagus. The group who had long Barrett's esophagus showed smaller mean LES pressure and higher percentage of marked LES hypotonia; in the distal segment of the esophageal body the this group showed higher percentage of marked hypocontractility of the distal segment (<30 mm Hg); this same group showed higher percentage of esophageal motility disorders. The most intense esophageal motility disorders and lower pressure of lower esophageal sphincter were noted in the group with long Barrett's esophagus. Those with reflux esophagitis and short Barrett's esophagus had esophageal motility impairment, intermediate among patients with esophagitis and long Barrett's esophagus. Patients with typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux but without esophagitis by endoscopy study showed no impairment of esophageal motility.

The Esophageal Anastomotic Stricture Index (EASI) for the management of esophageal atresia.

PubMed

Sun, Linda Yi-Chan; Laberge, Jean-Martin; Yousef, Yasmine; Baird, Robert

2015-01-01

Anastomotic stricture is the most common complication following repair of esophageal atresia. An Esophageal Anastomotic Stricture Index (EASI) based on the postoperative esophagram may identify patients at high risk of stricture formation. Digital images of early postoperative esophagrams of patients undergoing EA repair from 2005 to 2013 were assessed. Demographics and outcomes including dilations were prospectively collected. Upper (U-EASI) and lower (L-EASI) pouch ratios were generated using stricture diameter divided by maximal respective pouch diameter. Score performances were evaluated with area under the receiver operator curves (AUC) and the Fisher's exact test for single and multiple (>3) dilatations. Interrater agreement was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Forty-five patients had esophagrams analyzed; 28 (62%) required dilatation and 19 received >3 (42%). U-EASI and L-EASI ratios ranged from 0.17 to 0.70, with L-EASI outperforming the U-EASI as follows: L-EASI AUC: 0.66 for a single dilatation, 0.65 for >3 dilatations; U-EASI AUC: 0.56 for a single dilatation, 0.67 for >3 dilatations. All patients with an L-EASI ratio of ≤0.30 (n=8) required multiple esophageal dilatations, p=0.0006. The interrater ICC was 0.87. The EASI is a simple, reproducible tool to predict the development and severity of anastomotic stricture after esophageal atresia repair and can direct postoperative surveillance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of Esophageal Functions by Manometry in Iron Deficiency Anemia Patients.

PubMed

Kubilay, Pinar; Doganay, Beyza; Bektas, Mehmet

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to investigate whether any esophageal motor dysfunction exists in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). The study included 39 patients (34 women, mean age: 44.17 ± 14.21 years) who met WHO diagnostic criteria for IDA. An additional 30 functional dyspepsia patients were also included as a control group. Esophageal motility testing was performed; esophagus contraction amplitude, peak velocity, contraction time, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure, LES relaxation, and LES relaxation duration were assessed. A majority (76.4%) of patients had at least one IDA symptom, such as reflux, chest pain, or dysphagia. Manometric findings in IDA patients vs. controls were as follows: mean LES resting pressure (mm Hg): 25.41 ± 11.67 vs. 19.96 ± 6.58 (P = 0.025); mean esophageal contraction amplitude (mm Hg): 61.61 ± 24.21 vs. 63.23 ± 18.86 (P = 0.764); mean LES relaxation duration (s, x ± SD): 5.33 ± 1.61 vs. 8.75 ± 1.86 (P = 0.000); mean LES relaxation (%): 93.30 ± 9.88 vs. 95.53 ± 5.81 (P = 0.278); mean peak velocity (cm/s): 12.67 ± 37.95 vs. 3.50 ± 1.63 (P = 0.191). Esophageal dysmotility was found in 11 (28.2%) IDA patients. Non-specific esophageal motor disorder was found in three patients, hypomotility of the esophagus was found in three patients, achalasia was found in two patients, hypertensive LES was found in two patients, and hypotensive LES was found in one patient. LES resting pressure was higher and LES relaxation duration was shorter in patients with IDA. Esophageal dysmotility was present in 28.2% of the patients with IDA A little more than half of patients had dysphagia symptoms. IDA may contribute to esophageal motility dysfunction and esophageal symptoms.

Long-term outcome of peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal achalasia in patients with previous Heller myotomy.

PubMed

Kristensen, Helle Ø; Kirkegård, Jakob; Kjær, Daniel Willy; Mortensen, Frank Viborg; Kunda, Rastislav; Bjerregaard, Niels Christian

2017-06-01

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging procedure in the treatment of esophageal achalasia, a primary motility disorder. However, the long-term outcome of POEM in patients, who have previously undergone a Heller myotomy, is unknown. Using a local database, we identified patients with esophageal achalasia, who underwent POEM. We compared patients with a previous Heller myotomy to those, who had received none or only non-surgical therapy prior to the POEM procedure. We conducted follow-up examinations at 3, 12, and 24 months following the procedure. We included 66 consecutive patients undergoing POEM for achalasia, of which 14 (21.2 %) had undergone a prior Heller myotomy. In both groups, the preoperative Eckardt score was 7. Postoperatively, the non-Heller group experienced a more pronounced symptom relief at both 3-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up compared with the Heller group, and there was a tendency for the effect of POEM to reduce over time. We suggest that there is a correlation between preoperative measurements of gastroesophageal sphincter pressures and the chance of a successful POEM. POEM has a place in the treatment of esophageal achalasia in patients with a prior Heller myotomy and persistent symptoms as it is a safe procedure with acceptable long-term results.

Evaluation of Quality of Life Following Placement of Self-Expanding Plastic Stents as a Bridge to Surgery in Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Therapy for Esophageal Cancer

PubMed Central

Cannon, Robert M.; Brown, Russell E.; Ellis, Susan F.; Williams, Sharon; Scoggins, C.R.; Abbas, Abbas E.

2014-01-01

Purpose. To determine whether self-expanding plastic stent (SEPS) placement significantly improves quality of life and maintains optimal nutrition while allowing full-dose neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) in patients with esophageal cancer. Patients and Methods. A prospective, dual-institution, single-arm, phase II (http://ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00727376) evaluation of esophageal cancer patients undergoing NAT prior to resection. All patients had a self-expanding polymer stent placed prior to NAT. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OG25, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Anorexia, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General surveys were administered prior to stenting, within 1 week post-stent placement, and at the completion of neoadjuvant therapy. Results. Fifty-two patients were enrolled; 3 (5.8%) had stent migrations requiring replacement. There were no instances of esophageal erosion or perforation. All patients received some form of neoadjuvant therapy. Thirty-six (69%) received chemoradiation; 34 (93%) of these patients received the planned dose of chemotherapy, and 27 (75%) received the full planned dose of radiotherapy. There were 16 (31%) patients receiving chemotherapy alone; 12 (74%) of patients in the chemotherapy-alone group completed the planned dose of therapy. Conclusion. Placement of SEPS appears to provide significant improvement in quality of life related to dysphagia and eating restriction in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy. Consideration of SEPS instead of percutaneous feeding tube should be initiated as a first line in dysphagia palliation and NAT nutritional support. PMID:24567281

Removable esophageal stents have poor efficacy for the treatment of refractory benign esophageal strictures (RBES).

PubMed

Dan, D T; Gannavarapu, B; Lee, J G; Chang, K; Muthusamy, V R

2014-08-01

With the recent availability of removable esophageal stents, endoscopic stenting has been utilized to treat refractory benign esophageal strictures (RBES). The objective of this study was to review the feasibility and effectiveness of removable esophageal stents to treat RBES. Patients who received removable esophageal stents for the treatment of RBES at the institution between 2004-2010 using its stent implantation logs and endoscopic database were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics, stricture etiology and location, stent and procedure characteristics, and clinical outcomes were obtained. Twenty-five patients with a mean age of 70 (72% male) underwent initial stent placement; 24 were successful. Overall clinical success was achieved in five of the 19 patients (26%) ultimately undergoing stent removal. RBES etiologies included anastomotic (13), radiation (5), peptic (3), chemotherapy (1), scleroderma (1), and unknown (2). Alimaxx-E (Merit-Endotek, South Jordan, UT, USA) stents were placed in 20 patients and Polyflex (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA, USA) stents were used in five patients. Immediate complications included failed deployment (1) and chest pain (7). Five patients died prior to stent removal. Stent migration was found in 53% (10/19) of patients who underwent stent removal: nine required additional therapy and one had symptom resolution. Out of the nine patients without stent migration, five required additional therapy and four had symptom resolution. Although placement of removable esophageal stents for RBES is technically feasible, it is frequently complicated by stent migration and chest pain. In addition, few patients achieved long-term stricture resolution after initial stenting. In this study, most patients ultimately required repeated stenting and/or dilations to maintain relief of dysphagia. © 2012 Copyright the Authors. Journal compilation © 2012, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Preventive Effect on Post-Operative Pneumonia of Oral Health Care among Patients Who Undergo Esophageal Resection: A Multi-Center Retrospective Study.

PubMed

Soutome, Sakiko; Yanamoto, Souichi; Funahara, Madoka; Hasegawa, Takumi; Komori, Takahide; Oho, Takahiko; Umeda, Masahiro

2016-08-01

Post-operative pneumonia is a frequent and possibly fatal complication of esophagectomy and is likely caused by aspiration of oropharyngeal fluid that contains pathogenic micro-organisms. We conducted a multi-center retrospective study to investigate the preventive effect of oral health care on post-operative pneumonia among patients with esophageal cancer who underwent esophagectomy. A total of 280 patients underwent esophagectomy at three university hospitals. These patients were divided retrospectively into those who received pre-operative oral care from dentists and dental hygienists (oral care group; n = 173) and those who did not receive such care (control group; n = 107). We evaluated the correlations between the occurrence of post-operative pneumonia and 18 predictive variables (patient factors, tumor factors, treatment factors, and pre-operative oral care) using the χ(2) test and logistic regression analysis. The differences of mean hospital days and mortality rate in both groups were analyzed by the Student t-test. Age, post-operative dysphagia, and absence of pre-operative oral care were correlated significantly with post-operative pneumonia in the univariable analysis. Multivariable analysis revealed that diabetes mellitus, post-operative dysphagia, and the absence of pre-operative oral care were independent risk factors for post-operative pneumonia. The mean hospital stay and mortality rate did not differ between the oral care and control groups. Pre-operative oral care may be an effective and easy method to prevent post-operative pneumonia in patients who are undergoing esophagectomy.

Risk of radiation pneumonitis in patients receiving taxane-based trimodality therapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Shaikh, Talha; Churilla, Thomas M; Monpara, Pooja; Scott, Walter J; Cohen, Steven J; Meyer, Joshua E

There are limited data regarding clinical and treatment factors associated with radiation pneumonitis (RP) in patients receiving taxane-based trimodality therapy for esophageal cancer. The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of RP in patients undergoing trimodality therapy. We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing chemoradiation followed by esophagectomy between 2006 and 2011. The association between clinical and dosimetric factors with RP was assessed using χ 2 test and Mann-Whitney U test. Multivariable regression was used to assess the relationship between grade 2+ RP and clinical/dosimetric factors. Receiver operator curves were generated to identify threshold doses for RP. A total of 139 patients were included; 19 (13.7%) patients experienced grade 2+ RP. Patients with upper/middle thoracic tumors (P = .038) and receiving higher radiation doses (P = .038) were more likely to develop grade 2+ RP. There was no association between taxane-based therapy and grade 2+ RP (P = .728). The percent volume of lung receiving 5 Gy (V5; P < .001), 10 Gy (P < .001), 20 Gy (V20; P < .001), and 30 Gy (P < .001) was associated with an increased risk of grade 2+ RP. On multivariable regression, the lung V5 (odds ratio, 1.101; 95% confidence interval, 1.1014-1.195) and V20 (odds ratio, 1.149; 95% confidence interval, 1.1015-1.301) remained associated with grade 2+ RP. A V5 ≤65% and V20 ≤25% were identified as optimal thresholds for increased grade 2+ RP. Dosimetric parameters are strong predictors of symptomatic RP in patients undergoing trimodality therapy for esophageal cancer. Mitigating the risk of RP in these patients should be an important consideration during treatment planning. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Radiation Oncology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Distribution of Esophageal Motor Disorders in Diabetic Patients With Dysphagia.

PubMed

George, Nina S; Rangan, Vikram; Geng, Zhuo; Khan, Freeha; Kichler, Adam; Gabbard, Scott; Ganocy, Stephen; Fass, Ronnie

Diabetes mellitus can cause various gastrointestinal symptoms. Assessment of esophageal dysmotility in diabetic patients has been scarcely studied. The aim of this study was to determine the esophageal motor characteristics of diabetic versus nondiabetic patients who present with dysphagia. High-resolution esophageal manometries (HREMs) of 83 diabetic patients and 83 age and gender-matched nondiabetic patients with dysphagia from 2 medical centers were included in this study. Demographic information, medical comorbidities, and medication usage were recorded for each patient in a single registry. HREM of each patient was evaluated and the different functional parameters were recorded. Overall, 46% of diabetic patients were found to have an esophageal motor disorder. Diabetic patients with dysphagia were more likely to have failed swallows on HREM (50.6% vs. 33.7%; P=0.03) as compared with nondiabetic patients. Among diabetic patients, those being treated with insulin were more likely to have failed (69.0% vs. 40.7%; P=0.01) and weak (65.5% vs. 33.3%; P=0.005) swallows as compared with diabetic patients not on insulin. Among diabetic patients, those with abnormal manometry were more likely to demonstrate diabetic retinopathy (27.0% vs. 8.7%; P=0.04). There was a trend toward increased incidence of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction in diabetic patients (10.8% vs. 2.4%; P=0.057) as compared with nondiabetic patients. Nearly half of diabetic patients with dysphagia have some type of an esophageal motility disorder. Diabetic retinopathy and the use of insulin are predictive of esophageal motor abnormalities among diabetic patients.

Postoperative esophageal leak management with the Polyflex esophageal stent.

PubMed

Freeman, Richard K; Ascioti, Anthony J; Wozniak, Thomas C

2007-02-01

Leak after esophageal anastomosis or perforation repair prolongs hospitalization, prevents oral hydration and nutrition, and can produce localized infection or sepsis. This investigation reviews our experience treating postoperative esophageal leaks with the Polyflex esophageal stent (Boston Scientific, Natick, Mass). Over a 30-month period, patients with a postoperative esophageal leak were treated with the Polyflex stent for leak occlusion. Leak occlusion was confirmed by means of esophagraphy. Patients were followed until their stent was removed and their esophageal leak had resolved. Twenty-one patients had 27 stents placed for leak occlusion after esophagectomy (n = 5), esophageal perforation (n = 5), surgical (n = 4) or endoscopic (n = 2) antireflux procedure, and esophageal diverticulectomy (n = 3) or myotomy (n = 2). The mean interval between surgical intervention and stent placement was 12 +/- 8 days (range, 3-31 days). Occlusion of the leak occurred in 20 patients. One patient experienced a dehiscence of the surgical esophageal perforation repair requiring esophageal diversion. Stent migration requiring repositioning (n = 3) or replacement (n = 4) occurred in 5 (24%) patients. Twenty (95%) stents were removed without residual leak (mean, 51 +/- 43 days; range, 15-175 days). One patient had a stricture after stent removal that required endoscopic dilatation. One patient in this series died. The Polyflex esophageal stent is an effective method for occluding a postoperative esophageal leak. It rapidly eliminates contamination of the mediastinum, pleura, and peritoneum; allows oral hydration and nutrition; and is easily removable. These stents also offer an appealing alternative to traditional esophageal diversion and subsequent reconstruction in patients with a persistent esophageal leak.

Impact of esophageal flexion level on the surgical outcome in patients with sigmoid esophageal achalasia.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Kazuto; Omura, Nobuo; Yano, Fumiaki; Hoshino, Masato; Yamamoto, Se-Ryung; Akimoto, Shunsuke; Masuda, Takahiro; Kashiwagi, Hideyuki; Yanaga, Katsuhiko

2017-11-01

Esophageal achalasia can be roughly divided into non-sigmoid and sigmoid types. Laparoscopic surgery has been reported to be less than optimally effective for sigmoid type. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the esophageal flexion level on the clinical condition and surgical outcomes of patients with sigmoid esophageal achalasia. The subjects were 36 patients with sigmoid esophageal achalasia who had been observed for >1 year after surgery. The subjects were divided into sigmoid type (Sg) and advanced sigmoid type (aSg) groups based on the flexion level of the lower esophagus to compare their clinical parameters and surgical outcomes. The Sg and aSg groups included 26 (72%) and 10 subjects, respectively. There were no marked differences in the clinical parameters or surgical outcomes between the two groups. However, the clearance rate calculated using the timed barium esophagogram was lower in the aSg group than in the Sg group. No differences were found in the postoperative symptom scores between the two groups, and both reported a high level of satisfaction. Although laparoscopic surgery for symptoms of sigmoid esophageal achalasia was highly successful regardless of the flexion level, the improvement in esophageal clearance was lower when the flexion level was higher.

A Contralateral Esophagus-Sparing Technique to Limit Severe Esophagitis Associated With Concurrent High-Dose Radiation and Chemotherapy in Patients With Thoracic Malignancies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Al-Halabi, Hani; Paetzold, Peter; Sharp, Gregory C.

2015-07-15

Purpose: Severe (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group [RTOG] grade 3 or greater) esophagitis generally occurs in 15% to 25% of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients undergoing concurrent chemotherapy and radiation therapy (CCRT), which may result in treatment breaks that compromise local tumor control and pose a barrier to dose escalation. Here, we report a novel contralateral esophagus-sparing technique (CEST) that uses intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to reduce the incidence of severe esophagitis. Methods and Materials: We reviewed consecutive patients with thoracic malignancies undergoing curative CCRT in whom CEST was used. The esophageal wall contralateral (CE) to the tumor wasmore » contoured as an avoidance structure, and IMRT was used to guide a rapid dose falloff gradient beyond the target volume in close proximity to the esophagus. Esophagitis was recorded based on the RTOG acute toxicity grading system. Results: We identified 20 consecutive patients treated with CCRT of at least 63 Gy in whom there was gross tumor within 1 cm of the esophagus. The median radiation dose was 70.2 Gy (range, 63-72.15 Gy). In all patients, ≥99% of the planning and internal target volumes was covered by ≥90% and 100% of prescription dose, respectively. Strikingly, no patient experienced grade ≥3 esophagitis (95% confidence limits, 0%-16%) despite the high total doses delivered. The median maximum dose, V45, and V55 of the CE were 60.7 Gy, 2.1 cc, and 0.4 cc, respectively, indicating effective esophagus cross-section sparing by CEST. Conclusion: We report a simple yet effective method to avoid exposing the entire esophagus cross-section to high doses. By using proposed CE dose constraints of V45 <2.5 cc and V55 <0.5 cc, CEST may improve the esophagus toxicity profile in thoracic cancer patients receiving CCRT even at doses above the standard 60- to 63-Gy levels. Prospective testing of CEST is warranted.« less

Use of radioisotopic esophageal transit in the assessment of patients with symptoms of reflux and non-specific esophageal motor disorders.

PubMed

Iascone, C; Di Giulio, E; Maffi, C; Ruperto, M

2004-01-01

The purposes of this study were to assess the esophageal clearance of a radioisotopic bolus in patients with symptoms of reflux and evaluate the impact of manometric abnormalities on scintigraphic esophageal transit. Esophageal clearance was assessed in a supine position and indicated by the retained radioactivity in the esophagus at 10, 20, 30 and 40 s after the ingestion of a liquid bolus labeled with 2 mCi 99 mTc-SC. The study included 214 consecutive patients with symptoms of reflux and 11 normal controls. The results were compared to the motility findings detected on manometry performed on a separate occasion. Esophageal manometry was normal in 93 patients. Nonspecific esophageal motor disorders were identified in 121 patients and were classified into: 'predominantly nonpropagated activity', 'predominantly low-amplitude peristaltic contractions' and 'miscellaneous disorders' diagnosed in 27, 47 and 47 patients, respectively. The radionuclide clearance was significantly delayed in the overall group of patients compared with that of normal controls (P < 0.001); in patients with reflux symptoms and nonspecific esophageal motor disorders compared with patients with reflux symptoms and 'normal manometry' (P < 0.01 at 20 s); and in patients with reflux symptoms and 'normal manometry' compared with the control group (P < 0.01 at 20 s). Abnormal radioisotope clearances were detected in 88% of patients with 'predominantly nonpropagated activity', in 70% of patients with 'predominantly low-amplitude peristaltic contractions' and in 57% of patients with 'miscellaneous disorders'. Radioisotopic esophageal clearance abnormalities are frequently observed in patients with reflux symptoms and are more likely to be associated to hypomotility disorders, i.e. nonpropagated motor activity or low-amplitude contractions.

Challenges in oral drug delivery in patients with esophageal dysphagia.

PubMed

Kappelle, Wouter F W; Siersema, Peter D; Bogte, Auke; Vleggaar, Frank P

2016-01-01

Esophageal dysphagia is a commonly reported symptom with various benign and malignant causes. Esophageal dysphagia can impede intake of oral medication, which often poses a major challenge for both patients and physicians. The best way to address this challenge depends of the cause of dysphagia. The pathophysiology of esophageal dysphagia is discussed, diagnostic tools to determine its cause are reviewed and recent developments in the treatment of esophageal dysphagia are discussed. Alternative options to administer medication in dysphagia are discussed and the appropriateness of them reviewed. Two ways can be followed to allow medication intake in patients with esophageal dysphagia, i.e. altering medication or resolving dysphagia. The latter is generally preferred, since esophageal dysphagia rarely only impedes medication intake. Esophageal resection is possible in more advanced esophageal cancer stages due to advances in neo-adjuvant therapy. Due to recent improvements in intraluminal radiotherapy, it can be expected that this will be the primary treatment in a palliative setting. Temporary self-expandable metal stent placement is a promising new alternative for bougienage in difficult-to-treat benign strictures.

Esophagogastric junction and esophageal body contraction metrics on high-resolution manometry predict esophageal acid burden.

PubMed

Rengarajan, A; Bolkhir, A; Gor, P; Wang, D; Munigala, S; Gyawali, C P

2018-05-01

Distal contractile integral (DCI) and esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI) are high-resolution manometry (HRM) software metrics assessing esophageal motor function in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients undergoing HRM and ambulatory pH monitoring off antisecretory therapy prospectively completed symptom questionnaires assessing symptom burden and a global symptom score (GSS) at baseline and after GERD therapy. DCI<450 mm Hg/cm/s in ≥5 swallows diagnosed ineffective esophageal motility (IEM); proportions of failed (DCI<100 mm Hg/cm/s) and weak (DCI 100-450 mm Hg/cm/s) sequences were separately assessed. EGJ-CI assessed vigor of the EGJ barrier. Univariate and multivariate analyses addressed performance of esophageal body and EGJ metrics in predicting abnormal esophageal reflux burden, and symptom outcome from antireflux therapy. Of 188 patients (55.2 ± 0.9 year, 64% F), 42.6% had low EGJ-CI, and 25.0% had IEM. While low EGJ-CI was associated with abnormal reflux burden (P = 0.003), IEM alone was not (P = 0.2). Increasing proportions of failed swallows predicted abnormal AET better than the current IEM definition. Combined low EGJ-CI and IEM segregated abnormal total and supine acid burden compared to patients with normal EGJ-CI and no IEM (P ≤ 0.007 for each comparison). Medical therapy and surgical antireflux therapy were similarly effective in improving symptom burden; surgery resulted in better outcomes with low EGJ-CI (P ≤ 0.04), especially with intact esophageal body motor function (P = 0.02). While abnormal EGJ and esophageal body metrics are collectively associated with elevated esophageal reflux burden, increasing proportions of failed swallows are better predictors of reflux burden and outcome compared to the current IEM definition. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Chemoradiation in elderly esophageal cancer patients: rationale and design of a phase I/II multicenter study (OSAGE).

PubMed

Servagi-Vernat, Stéphanie; Créhange, Gilles; Bonnetain, Franck; Mertens, Cécile; Brain, Etienne; Bosset, Jean François

2017-07-13

The management of elderly patients with cancer is a therapeutic challenge and a public health problem. Definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is an accepted standard treatment for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer who cannot undergo surgery. However, there are few reports regarding tolerance to CRT in elderly patients. We previously reported results for CRT in patients aged ≥75 years. Following this first phase II trial, we propose to conduct a phase I/II study to evaluate the combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel, with concurrent RT in unresectable esophageal cancer patients aged 75 years or older. This prospective multicenter phase I/II study will include esophageal cancer in patients aged 75 years or older. Study procedures will consist to determinate the tolerated dose of chemotherapy (Carboplatin, paclitaxel) and of radiotherapy (41.4-45 and 50.4 Gy) in the phase I. Efficacy will be assessed using a co-primary endpoint encompassing health related quality of life and the progression-free survival in the phase II with the dose recommended of CRT in the phase I. This geriatric evaluation was defined by the French geriatric oncology group (GERICO). This trial has been designed to assess the tolerated dose of CRT in selected patient aged 75 years or older. Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT02735057 . Registered on 18 March 2016.

Therapeutic esophageal interventions for dysphagia and bleeding.

PubMed

Siersema, Peter D

2006-07-01

This article reviews the most notable results of esophageal interventions for dysphagia and bleeding published in 2005. Long-term rubber tube placement was shown to be an interesting treatment option for difficult esophageal strictures. Two studies demonstrated that only 50% of patients who had undergone pneumatic dilation for achalasia were dysphagia-free after long-term follow-up. It was shown that patients with dysphagia from esophageal cancer should be treated by intraluminal radiotherapy (brachytherapy), whereas stent placement was preferable in those with a poor prognosis. Temporary stent placement is an option in patients undergoing radiotherapy for inoperable esophageal cancer to increase the dysphagia-free period. Two studies were published on the successful use of silicone-covered plastic stents for sealing of leaks after surgery of the esophagus. The optimal treatment for bleeding varices was confirmed to be endoscopic band ligation. A meta-analysis demonstrated that adding sclerotherapy to band ligation for secondary prophylaxis of bleeding varices had no effect on clinical outcome. In 2005, new techniques for the treatment of complicated strictures were presented. In addition, expanding indications for stents were reported. Finally, endoscopic band ligation was confirmed to be the most optimal technique for the treatment of varices.

Long telomere length predicts poor clinical outcome in esophageal cancer patients.

PubMed

Lv, Yanyan; Zhang, Yong; Li, Xinru; Ren, Xiaojuan; Wang, Meichen; Tian, Sijia; Hou, Peng; Shi, Bingyin; Yang, Qi

2017-02-01

Abnormal telomere length is widely reported in various human cancers, and it is considered to be an important hallmark of cancer. However, there is remarkably little consensus on the value of telomere length in the prognostic evaluation of esophageal cancers. Here, we attempted to determine the association of variable telomere length with clinical outcome of esophageal cancer patients. Using real-time quantitative PCR, we examined relative telomere lengths (RTL) in a cohort of esophageal cancer and normal esophageal tissues, and statistically investigated the association between RTL and clinical outcomes of esophageal cancer patients. The majority of esophageal cancers in this study had longer RTLs as compared to adjacent non-tumor tissues. Enhanced tumor RTL was associated with smoking habit, poor differentiation, advanced tumor stage, lymph node metastasis and cancer related death. In particular, a close relationship between longer RTL and poor survival was fully demonstrated by using cox regression and Kaplan-Maier survival curves. We found frequent telomere elongation in esophageal cancer tissues, and demonstrated longer RTL may be an independent poor prognostic factor for esophageal cancer patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Dosimetric correlations of acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takeda, Ken; Nemoto, Kenji; Saito, Haruo

2005-07-01

Purpose: To evaluate the factors associated with acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients treated with thoracic radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: We examined 35 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (n = 27, 77%) and small-cell lung cancer (n = 8, 23%) treated with thoracic radiotherapy between February 2003 and November 2004. The median patient age was 70 years (range, 50-83 years). The disease stage was Stage I in 2 patients (6%), Stage II in 1 (3%), Stage IIIa in 10 (28%), Stage IIIb in 9 (26%), and Stage IV in 9 (26%); 4 patients (11%) had recurrent disease after surgery. Amore » median dose of 60 Gy (range, 50-67 Gy) was given to the isocenter and delivered in single daily fractions of 1.8 or 2 Gy. With heterogeneity corrections, the median given dose to the isocenter was 60.3 Gy (range, 49.9-67.2 Gy). Of the 35 patients, 30 (86%) received concurrent chemotherapy consisting of a platinum agent, cisplatin or carboplatin, combined with paclitaxel in 18 patients (52%), irinotecan hydrochloride in 7 (20%), vincristine sulfate and etoposide in 2 (5%), vinorelbine ditartrate in 1 (3%), etoposide in 1 (3%), and docetaxel in 1 patient (3%). Three of these patients underwent induction therapy with cisplatin and irinotecan hydrochloride, administered before thoracic radiotherapy, and concurrent chemotherapy. Esophageal toxicity was graded according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group criteria. The following factors were analyzed with respect to their association with Grade 1 or worse esophagitis by univariate and multivariate analyses: age, gender, concurrent chemotherapy, chemotherapeutic agents, maximal esophageal dose, mean esophageal dose, and percentage of esophageal volume receiving >10 to >65 Gy in 5-Gy increments. Results: Of the 35 patients, 25 (71%) developed acute esophagitis, with Grade 1 in 20 (57%) and Grade 2 in 5 (14%). None of the patients had Grade 3 or worse toxicity. The most significant correlation was between esophagitis and percentage

Hypersensitivity to acid is associated with impaired esophageal mucosal integrity in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease with and without esophagitis.

PubMed

Weijenborg, Pim W; Smout, André J P M; Verseijden, Caroline; van Veen, Henk A; Verheij, Joanne; de Jonge, Wouter J; Bredenoord, Albert J

2014-08-01

Increased esophageal sensitivity and impaired mucosal integrity have both been described in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, but the relationship between hypersensitivity and mucosal integrity is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate acid sensitivity in patients with erosive and nonerosive reflux disease and control subjects to determine the relation with functional esophageal mucosal integrity changes as well as to investigate cellular mechanisms of impaired mucosal integrity in these patients. In this prospective experimental study, 12 patients with nonerosive reflux disease, 12 patients with esophagitis grade A or B, and 11 healthy control subjects underwent an acid perfusion test and upper endoscopy. Mucosal integrity was measured during endoscopy by electrical tissue impedance spectroscopy and biopsy specimens were analyzed in Ussing chambers for transepithelial electrical resistance, transepithelial permeability and gene expression of tight junction proteins and filaggrin. Patients with nonerosive reflux disease and esophagitis were more sensitive to acid perfusion compared with control subjects, having a shorter time to perception of heartburn and higher perceived intensity of heartburn. In reflux patients, enhanced acid sensitivity was associated with impairment of in vivo and vitro esophageal mucosal integrity. Mucosal integrity was significantly impaired in patients with esophagitis, displaying higher transepithelial permeability and lower extracellular impedance. Although no significant differences in the expression of tight junction proteins were found in biopsies among patient groups, mucosal integrity parameters in reflux patients correlated negatively with the expression of filaggrin. In conclusion, sensitivity to acid is enhanced in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, irrespective of the presence of erosions, and is associated with impaired esophageal mucosal integrity. Mucosal integrity of the esophagus

Prognostic impact of postoperative radiation in patients undergoing radical esophagectomy for pathologic lymph node positive esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Xu, Yaping; Liu, Jinshi; Du, Xianghui; Sun, Xiaojiang; Zheng, Yuanda; Chen, Jianxiang; Li, Bo; Liu, Wei; Jiang, Hao; Mao, Weimin

2013-05-08

Though postoperative radiation for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is offered in selected cases, there is conflicting evidence as to whether it improves overall survival (OS). A retrospective investigation was performed to analyze the prognostic impact of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in a large cohort of patients. From 2001 to 2009, 725 patients underwent radical esophagectomy (R0) with or without PORT were eligible for retrospective analysis. Patients were grouped into surgery alone (n = 467) and surgery plus PORT (n = 258). Median irradiation doses were 50 Gy (range: 40-56 Gy). Radiation fields encompassed the bilateral supraclavicular fossa, mediastinum, subcarinal area, and the tumor bed for the upper/middle-third disease; the bilateral supraclavicular fossa, mediastinum, the tumor bed, subcarinal area, and lower thoracic paraesophageal area for the lower-third disease. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis were used to compare OS. After median follow-up of 53 months, the median OS was 29 months in the PORT group and 23 months in the surgery alone group. The addition of PORT improved OS at 3 years from 36.6 to 43.6% compared with surgery alone. The use of PORT was associated with significantly improved OS (p = 0.018). For American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage III esophageal cancer (T1-2N2M0, T3N1-2M0, T4N1-3M0), there was significant improvement in OS (p = 0.002) in the PORT group, not only for lymph-node metastatic ratio (LNMR) ≥0.25 (p = 0.001), but also for LNMR <0.25 (p = 0.043). However, for stage IIB disease (T1-2N1M0) there was no significant differences. The addition of POCT didn't prolong the OS significantly (Surgery alone group, p = 0.079; PORT group, p = 0.111). This large retrospective analysis supports the use of PORT for pathologic lymph node positive stage III esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Given the retrospective nature of this study, the results should be confirmed by appropriately powered randomized trials

Intramural esophageal bleeding in a hemodialysis patient

PubMed Central

Lien, J. W. K.; Dufresne, L. R.; Daly, D. S.

1974-01-01

A case of intramural esophageal hemorrhage in a hemodialysis patient is described. The hemorrhage followed an episode of vomiting and violent retching. Spontaneous resolution occurred with conservative management. The clinical course resembled that of previous case reports of intramural esophageal hemorrhage, whether or not associated with chronic renal failure and intermittent hemodialysis. ImagesFIG. 1FIG. 2FIG. 3 PMID:4434294

Efficacy of pectin solution for preventing gastro-esophageal reflux events in patients with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy.

PubMed

Adachi, Kyoichi; Furuta, Kenji; Aimi, Masahito; Fukazawa, Kousuke; Shimura, Shino; Ohara, Shunji; Nakata, Shuji; Inoue, Yukiko; Ryuko, Kanji; Ishine, Junichi; Katoh, Kyoko; Hirata, Toshiaki; Ohhata, Shuzo; Katoh, Setsushi; Moriyama, Mika; Sumikawa, Masuko; Sanpei, Mari; Kinoshita, Yoshikazu

2012-05-01

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of pectin solution, which increases the viscosity of liquid nutrient, for prevention of gastro-esophageal reflux in comparison with half-solid nutrient. The subjects were 10 elderly patients undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding. Twenty-four-hour esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH testing was performed during intake of half-solid nutrient and a combination of pectin solution and liquid nutrient. During 4 h after delivery, there was no significant difference in the total number of gastro-esophageal reflux events between the feeding of the half-solid nutrient and the combination of pectin solution and liquid nutrient (5.7 ± 1.2 vs 5.3 ± 1.0/4 h). Acidic reflux after delivery of the half-solid nutrient was significantly more frequent than that after delivery of the combination of pectin solution and liquid nutrient (80.7% vs 60.4%, p = 0.018). The incidence of gastro-esophageal reflux reaching the upper portion of the esophagus tended to be higher during delivery of the half-solid nutrient than during delivery of the combination of pectin solution and liquid nutrient (47.4% vs 34.0%, p = 0.153). In conclusion, the usage of pectin solution combined with liquid nutrient is effective for preventing acidic gastro-esophageal reflux and gastro-esophageal reflux reaching the upper portion of the esophagus.

Low esophageal mucosal blood flow in patients with nutcracker esophagus

PubMed Central

Jiang, Yanfen

2015-01-01

Nutcracker esophagus (NE) is characterized by high-amplitude peristaltic esophageal contractions, and these patients often present with symptoms of “angina-like” or noncardiac chest pain. Tissue ischemia is a known cause of visceral pain, and the goal of our present study was to determine whether esophageal wall blood perfusion (EWBP) is reduced in patients with NE. Fourteen normal subjects (mean age 51 yr, 11 men) and 12 patients (mean age 53 yr, 9 men) with NE and noncardiac chest pain were investigated. The EWBP was measured continuously using a custom-designed laser Doppler probe tethered to a Bravo capsule, which anchored it to the esophageal wall. The baseline EWBP in normal subjects was 651 ± 27 perfusion units. In patients with NE, the baseline EWBP was significantly lower than in the normal subjects (451 ± 32 perfusion units). The EWBP decreased after injection of edrophonium (which increases muscle contractions) and increased following sublingual nitroglycerin administration (which relaxes muscle) in normal subjects, as well as in NE patients. Spontaneous pain events during the recording period were often associated with drops in the EWBP. We propose that low EWBP leads to hypoxia of the esophageal tissue, which may be a mechanism of esophageal pain in patients with NE. PMID:26702139

Esophageal Motility after Extensive Circumferential Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Superficial Esophageal Cancer.

PubMed

Kuribayashi, Yasutaka; Iizuka, Toshiro; Nomura, Kosuke; Furuhata, Tsukasa; Yamashita, Satoshi; Matsui, Akira; Kikuchi, Daisuke; Mitani, Toshifumi; Kaise, Mitsuru; Hoteya, Shu

2018-06-05

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for superficial esophageal cancer is sometimes extensive, and in our experience, patients not infrequently present with dysphagia after ESD even in the absence of esophageal stricture. The aim of this study was to evaluate esophageal motility using high-resolution manometry (HRM) in patients with and without dysphagia after extensive circumferential ESD. HRM was performed in a total of 52 patients who had undergone ESD for superficial esophageal cancer and a mucosal defect after ESD exceeded more than two-thirds of the esophageal circumference. The frequency and type of esophageal dysmotility and the relationship between esophageal motility and dysphagia were evaluated. Esophageal dysmotility was observed in 13 patients (25%): jackhammer esophagus in 4, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction in 4, absent contractility in 2, and distal esophageal spasm, ineffective esophageal motility, and fragmented peristalsis in 1 patient each. Of the 22 patients with dysphagia after ESD, 9 (41%) had esophageal dysmotility. Of the 30 patients without dysphagia after ESD, 4 (13%) had esophageal dysmotility. The relationship between dysmotility and dysphagia was significant (p = 0.025). Esophageal dysmotility exists in approximately one-quarter of patients after extensive circumferential ESD, which is associated with dysphagia in the absence of esophageal stricture. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Helicobacter pylori eradication and histopathological esophagitis in dyspeptic patients.

PubMed

Amini, Mohsen; Karbasi, Ashraf; Khedmat, Hossein; Jeihounian, Mojgan

2010-01-01

The association of Helicobacterpylori with peptic ulcer disease, atrophic gastritis, gastric adenocarcinoma, MALT (mucosa associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma is well recognized. This study was conducted to see whether there was any relation between H. pylori eradication and reflux esophagitis in Iran. Eligible dyspeptic patients referred to Gastroenterology clinic in Baqiyatollah hospital were endoscopied and evaluated for endoscopic and pathologic esophagitis and the H. pylori infection status was determined by rapid urease test. H. pylori infection was treated by an anti H. pylori drug regimen and successfully eradicated patients according to negative C14 urea breath test were followed and re-endoscopy was performed 6-9 months after the end of treatment. From 175 eligible patients, 54% were H. pylori positive, 68 of them (72%) had successful H.P. eradication and 64 patients completed the follow-up. The rate of histopathologic inflammatory esophagitis was higher in second endoscopy, compared with that of first endoscopy, i.e., before H. pylori eradication (75% vs 40.6%) (p < 0.05). Progression of pathological esophagitis was seen in 56.3% of patients between the two endoscopic evaluations in spite of no change in clinical and endoscopic findings. There were no significant differences in dietary and smoking habits and body weights on re-endoscopy session compared with that of the first endoscopy visit (p > 0.05). This study suggests that H. pylori eradication in dyspeptic patients may lead to increased frequency of histopathological esophagitis. Hence, In patients presenting with symptoms of dyspepsia, a cautious approach should be exercised if H. pylori eradication is being contemplated.

Predictive factors for complications in children with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula.

PubMed

Shah, R; Varjavandi, V; Krishnan, U

2015-04-01

The objective of this study was to describe the incidence of complications in children with esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) at a tertiary pediatric hospital and to identify predictive factors for their occurrence. A retrospective chart review of 110 patients born in or transferred to Sydney Children's Hospital with EA/TEF between January 1999 and December 2010 was done. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for the occurrence of complications in these children. From univariate analysis, early esophageal stricture formation was more likely in children with 'long-gap' EA (odds ratio [OR] = 16.32). Patients with early strictures were more likely to develop chest infections (OR = 3.33). Patients with severe tracheomalacia were more likely to experience 'cyanotic/dying' (OR = 180) and undergo aortopexy (OR = 549). Patients who had gastroesophageal reflux disease were significantly more likely to require fundoplication (OR = 10.83) and undergo aortopexy (OR = 6.417). From multivariate analysis, 'long-gap' EA was a significant predictive factor for late esophageal stricture formation (P = 0.007) and for gastrostomy insertion (P = 0.001). Reflux was a significant predictive factor for requiring fundoplication (P = 0.007) and gastrostomy (P = 0.002). Gastrostomy insertion (P = 0.000) was a significant predictive factor for undergoing fundoplication. Having a prior fundoplication (P = 0.001) was a significant predictive factor for undergoing a subsequent aortopexy. Predictive factors for the occurrence of complications post EA/TEF repair were identified in this large single centre pediatric study. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

The prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis in pediatric patients with IgE-mediated food allergy

PubMed Central

Hill, David A.; Dudley, Jesse W.; Spergel, Jonathan M.

2017-01-01

BACKGROUND Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic inflammatory disease that is triggered by food allergens and characterized by progressive esophageal dysfunction. Recently, EoE has been identified in patients undergoing oral immunotherapy (OIT) for IgE-mediated food allergy, suggesting an association. OBJECTIVE We sought to ascertain whether significant associations exist between IgE-mediated food allergies and EoE. METHODS Utilizing analysis of EMR data and manual chart review, we examined our sub-specialty care network of 35,528 children and adolescents to identify and characterize patients with IgE-mediated, and EoE food allergy. The most common food allergens were defined, and the prevalence of EoE in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy was determined. Logistic regression was used to measure the extent to which IgE-mediated food allergy to specific foods is associated with EoE. RESULTS The most common causes of EoE were milk, grains, meats, peanut, tree nuts, egg, and soy, an allergen pattern that is distinct from that of IgE-mediated food allergy. The prevalence of EoE in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy was higher than that reported in the general population (4.7% vs 0.04%). The distribution of IgE-mediated food allergens in patients with EoE was similar to that of the general population, and IgE-mediated allergy to egg (2.27; 1.91–2.64), milk (4.19; 3.52–4.97), or shellfish (1.55; 1.24–1.92) was significantly associated with EoE diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support a clinical association between these conditions that has implications for the management of children with food allergy, and particular relevance to patients undergoing OIT. PMID:28042003

Esophageal motor disorders in adults with eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Moawad, Fouad J; Maydonovitch, Corinne L; Veerappan, Ganesh R; Bassett, John T; Lake, Jason M; Wong, Roy K H

2011-05-01

An association between eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and esophageal motility disorders has been described in small studies. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of esophageal motor disorders in a large cohort of adults with EoE and examine whether an association exists between esophageal dysmotility and dysphagia. A retrospective review of esophageal manometry studies in adult EoE patients was performed. Tracings were reviewed for abnormalities including nutcracker esophagus and ineffective swallows, defined as low amplitude peristalsis (<30 mmHg) or non-propagating contractions. Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) was categorized as mild (30-40% ineffective swallows), moderate (50-60% ineffective swallows), and severe (≥70% ineffective swallows). Dysphagia was graded on a 0-3 scale for frequency and severity. Seventy-five tracings from EoE patients were reviewed (85% male, mean age 41 ± 12 years). IEM was identified in 25 patients and categorized as mild (n = 13), moderate (n = 6), and severe (n = 6). Nutcracker esophagus was found in three patients. There was no significant difference in eosinophil count among the motility groups: normal 46.5 ± 3.1, mild IEM 56.9 ± 36.9, moderate IEM 45.5 ± 23.7, severe IEM 34.3 ± 12.6 (P = 0.157). In this cohort of EoE patients, the majority had normal esophageal motility studies, although a subset of these patients had some esophageal dysmotility. It is unlikely that esophageal dysmotility is a major contributing factor to dysphagia, although it is reasonable to consider esophageal manometry testing in EoE patients to identify potential abnormalities of the smooth muscle esophagus.

Prevalence and management of colorectal neoplasia in surgically treated esophageal cancer patients.

PubMed

Takeuchi, Daisuke; Koide, Naohiko; Komatsu, Daisuke; Suzuki, Akira; Miyagawa, Shinichi

2015-05-01

The existence of other primary tumors during the treatment of esophageal cancer patients has been an important issue. Our aim is to investigate the prevalence and management of colorectal neoplasia (CRN) in surgically treated esophageal cancer patients. Between 2002 and 2008, 93 patients with esophageal cancer were surgically treated. Seventy-three patients underwent subtotal esophagectomy and 20 underwent lower esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Colonoscopy was available for detecting CRN before and after surgery. Eighty-nine (95.7%) of the 93 patients were screened by colonoscopy preoperatively or within a year from the operation. Thirty-nine patients (43.8%) with CRN were synchronously identified: adenoma in 34 (38.2%) and adenocarcinoma in 5 patients (5.6%). Eleven adenomas with high grade-dysplasia and 8 adenomas with low grade-dysplasia were removed endoscopically. Three superficial adenocarcinomas were endoscopically removed before surgery, and 2 adenocarcinomas were surgically removed. Seventy-four patients (83.1%) were followed using colonoscopy, and 11 subsequent CRN, including 2 superficial adenocarcinomas, were endoscopically detected in 8 patients (10.8%). The size of esophageal cancer was larger in the patients with than without CRN (p = 0.036). The body mass index in esophageal cancer patients with CRN tended to be higher than in those without CRN (p = 0.065). We noted that esophageal cancer is frequently associated with synchronous and/or metachronous colorectal cancer and adenomas. Colonoscopy is useful to detect and manage CRN before and after esophagectomy, although a few limitations exist. Copyright © 2015 IJS Publishing Group Limited. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Esophageal acid sensitivity and mucosal integrity in patients with functional heartburn.

PubMed

Weijenborg, P W; Smout, A J P M; Bredenoord, A J

2016-11-01

Patients with functional heartburn (FH) experience troublesome heartburn that is not related to gastroesophageal reflux. The etiology of the heartburn sensation in FH patients is unknown. In patients with reflux disease, esophageal hypersensitivity seems associated with impaired mucosal integrity. We aimed to determine esophageal sensitivity and mucosal integrity in FH and non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) patients. In this prospective experimental study, we performed an acid perfusion test and upper endoscopy with biopsies in 12 patients with NERD and nine patients with FH. Mucosal integrity was measured during endoscopy using electrical tissue impedance spectroscopy and biopsy specimens were analyzed in Ussing chambers for transepithelial electrical resistance and transepithelial permeability. Lag time to heartburn perception was significantly longer in FH patients (median 12 min) than in NERD patients (median 3 min). Once perceived, intensity of heartburn was scored equal with median visual analog scale 6.5 and 7.1 respectively. Esophageal mucosal integrity was also comparable between FH and NERD patients, both in vivo extracellular impedance and ex vivo transepithelial resistance and permeability were similar. Patients with FH did not show acid hypersensitivity as seen in patients with NERD. However, once perceived, intensity of heartburn is similar. Esophageal mucosal integrity is similar between NERD and FH patients, and is therefore unlikely to be the underlying cause of the observed difference in esophageal acid perception. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Esophageal Cancer—Patient Version

Cancer.gov

The most common types of esophageal cancer are adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These forms of esophageal cancer develop in some parts of the esophagus and are driven by genetic changes. Start here to find information on esophageal cancer treatment, causes and prevention, screening, research, and statistics.

The Potential Benefits of Applying Recent Advances in Esophageal Motility Testing in Patients with Esophageal Atresia

PubMed Central

Rommel, Nathalie; Rayyan, Maissa; Scheerens, Charlotte; Omari, Taher

2017-01-01

Infants and children with esophageal atresia commonly present with swallowing dysfunction or dysphagia. Dysphagia can lead to a range of significant consequences such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, dehydration, and food impaction. To improve oral intake, the clinical diagnosis of dysphagia in patients with esophageal atresia should focus on both the pharynx and the esophagus. To characterize the complex interactions of bolus flow and motor function between mouth, pharynx, and esophagus, a detailed understanding of normal and abnormal deglutition is required through the use of adequate and objective assessment techniques. As clinical symptoms do not correlate well with conventional assessment methods of motor function such as radiology or manometry but do correlate with bolus flow, the current state-of-the-art diagnosis involves high-resolution manometry combined with impedance measurements to characterize the interplay between esophageal motor function and bolus clearance. Using a novel pressure flow analysis (PFA) method as an integrated analysis method of manometric and impedance measurements, differentiation of patients with impaired esophago-gastric junction relaxation from patients with bolus outflow disorders is clinically relevant. In this, pressure flow matrix categorizing the quantitative PFA measures may be used to make rational therapeutic decisions in patients with esophageal atresia. Through more advanced diagnostics, improved understanding of pathophysiology may improve our patient care by directly targeting the failed biomechanics of both the pharynx and the esophagus. PMID:28680874

The Potential Benefits of Applying Recent Advances in Esophageal Motility Testing in Patients with Esophageal Atresia.

PubMed

Rommel, Nathalie; Rayyan, Maissa; Scheerens, Charlotte; Omari, Taher

2017-01-01

Infants and children with esophageal atresia commonly present with swallowing dysfunction or dysphagia. Dysphagia can lead to a range of significant consequences such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, dehydration, and food impaction. To improve oral intake, the clinical diagnosis of dysphagia in patients with esophageal atresia should focus on both the pharynx and the esophagus. To characterize the complex interactions of bolus flow and motor function between mouth, pharynx, and esophagus, a detailed understanding of normal and abnormal deglutition is required through the use of adequate and objective assessment techniques. As clinical symptoms do not correlate well with conventional assessment methods of motor function such as radiology or manometry but do correlate with bolus flow, the current state-of-the-art diagnosis involves high-resolution manometry combined with impedance measurements to characterize the interplay between esophageal motor function and bolus clearance. Using a novel pressure flow analysis (PFA) method as an integrated analysis method of manometric and impedance measurements, differentiation of patients with impaired esophago-gastric junction relaxation from patients with bolus outflow disorders is clinically relevant. In this, pressure flow matrix categorizing the quantitative PFA measures may be used to make rational therapeutic decisions in patients with esophageal atresia. Through more advanced diagnostics, improved understanding of pathophysiology may improve our patient care by directly targeting the failed biomechanics of both the pharynx and the esophagus.

Salvage radiotherapy in patients with recurrent esophageal carcinoma.

PubMed

Fakhrian, K; Gamisch, N; Schuster, T; Thamm, R; Molls, M; Geinitz, H

2012-02-01

The feasibility and effectiveness of radiotherapy in the management of recurrent esophageal carcinoma (REC) is reported. A consecutive cohort of 54 patients with rcT1-4, rcN0-1, or cM0 recurrent esophageal carcinoma (69% squamous cell carcinoma, 31% adenocarcinoma) was treated between 1988 and 2010. The initial treatment for these patients was definitive radiochemotherapy, surgery alone, or neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy + surgical resection in 8 (15%), 33 (61%), and 13 (24%) patients, respectively. The median time to recurrence from initial treatment was 19 months (range 4-79 months). The site of the recurrence was anastomotic or local, nodal, or both in 63%, 30%, and 7% of patients, respectively. Salvage radio(chemo)therapy was carried out with a median dose of 45 Gy (range 30-68 Gy). Median follow-up time for surviving patients from the start of R(C)T was 38 months (range 10-105 months). Relief of symptoms was achieved in 19 of 28 symptomatic patients (68%). The median survival time was 12 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 7-17 months) and the median recurrence-free interval was 8 months (95% CI 4-12 months). The survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 55 ± 7%, 29 ± 6%, and 19 ± 5%, respectively. The recurrence-free survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 44 ± 7%, 22 ± 6%, and 15 ± 5%, respectively. A radiation dose ≥ 45 Gy and conformal RT were associated with a better prognosis. RT is feasible and effective in the management of recurrent esophageal carcinoma, especially for relief of symptoms. Toxicity is in an acceptable range. The outcome of REC is poor; however, long-term survival of patients with recurrent esophageal carcinoma after radiochemotherapy might be possible, even with a previous history of radiotherapy in the initial treatment. If re-irradiation of esophageal carcinoma is contemplated, three-dimensional conformal techniques and a minimum total dose of 45 Gy are recommended.

Relationship between esophageal clinical symptoms and manometry findings in patients with esophageal motility disorders: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

FakhreYaseri, Hashem; FakhreYaseri, Ali Mohammad; Baradaran Moghaddam, Ali; Soltani Arabshhi, Seyed Kamran

2015-01-01

Manometry is the gold-standard diagnostic test for motility disorders in the esophagus. The development of high-resolution manometry catheters and software displays of manometry recordings in color-coded pressure plots have changed the diagnostic assessment of esophageal disease. The diagnostic value of particular esophageal clinical symptoms among patients suspected of esophageal motor disorders (EMDs) is still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive accuracy of presenting esophageal symptoms between abnormal and normal esophageal manometry findings. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 623 patients aged 11-80 years. Data were collected from clinical examinations as well as patient questionnaires. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated after high-resolution manometry plots were reviewed according to the most recent Chicago Criteria. The clinical symptoms were not sensitive enough to discriminate between EMDs. Nevertheless, dysphagia, noncardiac chest pain, hoarseness, vomiting, and weight loss had high specificity and high accuracy to distinguish EMDs from normal findings. Regurgitation and heartburn did not have good accuracy for the diagnosis of EMDs. Clinical symptoms are not reliable enough to discriminate between EMDs. Clinical symptoms can, however, discriminate between normal findings and EMDs, especially achalasia.

Acid Secretion and Its Relationship to Esophageal Reflux Symptom in Patients with Subtotal Gastrectomy.

PubMed

Oh, Hyun Jin; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Park, Jae Myung; Song, Kyo Young; Yoo, Han Mo

2018-03-01

Esophageal reflux symptom has been reported as common in patients with subtotal gastrectomy. Management of postoperative esophageal reflux symptom is not satisfactory. The aim of this study is to investigate prevalence of esophageal reflux symptom after subtotal gastrectomy and assess factors affecting esophageal reflux symptom in subtotal gastrectomy patients. We prospectively enrolled 100 consecutive patients with subtotal gastrectomy who were regularly followed up by endoscopic examination. Acid secretory capacity was assessed by measuring messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of H + /K + -adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in biopsy specimens. In total, 47 % of patients had typical esophageal reflux symptom, where heartburn or regurgitation was experienced at least weekly. Age, sex, body mass index, and type of reconstruction did not differ between esophageal reflux and non-esophageal-reflux groups. The esophageal reflux group had longer duration from time of operation until study (median 5.0 versus 3.6 years; P = 0.017). Hill grade for gastroesophageal (GE) flap valve was higher in the esophageal reflux group than in the non-esophageal-reflux group (P = 0.027). H + /K + -ATPase mRNA expression was higher in the esophageal reflux group than in the non-esophageal-reflux group [3967.6 (± 7583.7) versus 896.2 (± 1456.0); P = 0.006]. Multivariate analysis revealed that postoperative duration, H + /K + -ATPase mRNA expression level, and GE flap valve disruption were significantly associated with esophageal reflux symptom development. Esophageal reflux symptom is common in patients after subtotal gastrectomy, possibly because of anti-reflux-barrier impairment and preservation of acid secretory capacity following surgery. Optimal acid suppression may be helpful in managing postoperative esophageal reflux symptom.

Plasma Prothrombin Time and Esophageal Varices in Patients with Cirrhosis of Liver.

PubMed

Islam, Md Nasirul; Khan, Mobin; Ahmad, Nooruddin; Mamun-Al-Mahtab; Karim, Md Fazal

2016-01-01

Cirrhosis of the liver is a common complication of chronic liver disease and is associated with portal hypertension and esophageal varices. In this study, we checked the implication of prothrombin time, if any, in the genesis of esophageal varices. Sixty patients with cirrhosis of the liver were randomly assigned into two groups: Group I - 30 cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices, and group II - 30 cirrhotic patients without esophageal varices. The prothrombin time was checked for both groups. A positive correlation was found between the prolonged plasma prothrombin time (> 4 seconds) and esophageal varices with a sensitivity of 56.67% and specificity of 73.33%. The Child-Pugh score showed a correlation; however, the size of varices did not exhibit any such relation. Prothrombin time may be cautiously used to assess portal hypertension in a field level and rural setting where endoscopy is not available or feasible. Islam MN, Khan M, Ahmad N, Al-Mahtab M, Karim MF. Plasma Prothrombin Time and Esophageal Varices in Patients with Cirrhosis of Liver. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2016;6(1):10-12.

SU-E-T-575: To Analyze the Clinical Impact of Esophageal Sparing on Treatment Plans for Patients with Grade 3 Esophagitis.

PubMed

Niedzielski, J; Bluett, J; Williamson, R; Liao, Z; Gomez, D; Court, L

2012-06-01

To analyze the clinical impact of esophageal sparing on treatment plans for patients with grade 3 esophagitis. The treatment plans of 8 patients (project total: 20 patients) who were treated with IMRT and exhibited stage 3 esophagitis were re-planned to give a simulated clinical plan with dose distribution that mirrored our current clinical practice (74Gy to the target, and 5mm margins), and a plan that emphasized esophageal sparing. Doses to the esophagus, heart, cord, lung and PTV were compared. Comparing the esophageal sparing plan to the simulated clinical plan, the mean reduction in esophageal volume receiving 50, 55, 60, 65, and 70Gy were 2.0, 3.2, 5.0, 7.2, and 10.9 cm 3 , respectively. The mean reduction in the continuous length of esophagus receiving 50, 55, 60, 65, and 70Gy were 12, 24, 38, 40, and 47mm, respectively. The associated reduction in dose to 90% and 95% of the PTV was 2.2 and 3.8Gy, respectively. Of the 8 patients examined, 2 showed a significant decrease in PTV coverage (4.6Gy, 12.3Gy for 90% of PTV), 4 showed decreases under 1.1Gy, but 2 showed an increase of 1.4Gy and 0.5Gy for 90% PTV. Cord dose was maintained below 50Gy, and there was a slight increase in mean heart dose and mean lung dose of 2.4Gy, and 2.7Gy, respectively. Data will also be presented comparing these plans with the actual treated plans (for which the patients had grade 3 esophagitis) and plans that emphasize PTV coverage. Treatment planning to emphasize esophageal sparing can reduce the volume and continuous length of the esophagus which receives high doses. There is some associated modest reduction in PTV coverage. In summary, in many cases esophageal sparing can be accomplished for lung cancer cases while maintaining adequate PTV coverage, although there is variability between patients. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Impaired esophageal motor function in eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Santander, Cecilio; Chavarría-Herbozo, Carlos M; Becerro-González, Irene; Burgos-Santamaría, Diego

2015-10-01

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immunoallergic inflammatory disease of the esophagus that represents a major cause of digestive morbidity among the pediatric and young adult populations. Despite the fact that key symptoms in adults include dysphagia and food impaction, many patients lack structural changes in the esophagus to account for their complaints, which suggests the presence of underlying motor disorders and esophageal distensibility impairment. In the last few years the esophageal motility of these patients has been studied using various approaches, most particularly high-resolution manometry, ambulatory manometry, and impedance planimetry. This review focuses on the most relevant findings and scientific evidence regarding esophageal motor disorders in eosinophilic esophagitis.

Long-term outcomes and prognostic factors for patients with esophageal cancer following radiotherapy.

PubMed

Chen, Chuang-Zhen; Chen, Jian-Zhou; Li, De-Rui; Lin, Zhi-Xiong; Zhou, Ming-Zhen; Li, Dong-Sheng; Chen, Zhi-Jian

2013-03-14

To evaluate long-term outcomes and prognostic factors for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) treated with three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). Between January 2005 and December 2006, 153 patients (120 males, 33 females) with pathologically confirmed esophageal SCC and treated with 3D-CRT in Cancer Hospital of Shantou University were included in this retrospective analysis. Median age was 60 years (range: 37-84 years). The proportion of tumor location was as follows: upper thorax (including the cervical region), 73 (48%); middle thorax, 73 (48%); lower thorax, 7 (5%), respectively. The median radiation dose was 64 Gy (range: 50-74 Gy). Fifty four cases (35%) received cisplatin-based concurrent chemotherapy. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine the association between the correlative factors and prognosis. The five-year overall survival rate was 26.3%, with a median follow-up of 49 mo (range: 3-66 mo) for patients who were still alive. On univariate analysis, lesion location, lesion length by barium esophagogram, computed tomography imaging characteristics including Y diameter (anterior-posterior, AP, extent of tumor), gross tumor volume of primary lesion (GTV-E), volume of positive lymph nodes (GTV-LN), and the total target volume (GTV-T = GTV-E + GTV-LN) were prognostic for overall survival. By multivariate analysis, only the Y diameter [hazard ratio (HR) 2.219, 95%CI 1.141-4.316, P = 0.019] and the GTV-T (HR 1.372, 95%CI 1.044-1.803, P = 0.023) were independent prognostic factors for survival. The overall survival of esophageal carcinoma patients undergoing 3D-CRT was promising. The best predictors for survival were GTV-T and Y diameter.

Risk factors for pericardial effusion in patients with stage I esophageal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy.

PubMed

Tamari, Keisuke; Isohashi, Fumiaki; Akino, Yuichi; Suzuki, Osamu; Seo, Yuji; Yoshioka, Yasuo; Hayashi, Yoshito; Nishida, Tsutomu; Takehara, Tetsuo; Mori, Masaki; Doki, Yuichiro; Ogawa, Kazuhiko

2014-12-01

We investigated clinical and dosimetric factors influencing the risk of developing pericardial effusion (PCE) in patients with Stage I esophageal cancer undergoing definitive chemoradiotherapy. Sixty-nine patients with Stage I esophageal cancer who underwent definitive chemoradiotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Treatment comprised of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (60 Gy in 30 fractions) with concurrent chemotherapy. Clinical and dosimetric factors associated with PCE development were analyzed. The median follow-up was 37 months (range=8-111 months); the crude PCE incidence rate was 52.2%. Grade 2 and 3 incidence rate was 47.8% and 4.3%, respectively. The median time to PCE onset was 5.7 months after radiotherapy. In multivariate analysis, pericardial V30 ≥ 41.6%, age ≥ 66 years, body mass index (BMI) ≥ 19 and diabetes mellitus (DM) were significant predictors of developing PCE. The present study suggests that higher pericardial V30, advanced age, high BMI and DM are risk factors for developing PCE. Copyright© 2014 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.

Aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 genotypes and HLA haplotypes in Japanese patients with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Watanabe, Seishiro; Sasahara, Katsuyuki; Kinekawa, Fumihiko; Uchida, Naohito; Masaki, Tsutomu; Kurokohchi, Kazutaka; Murota, Masayuki; Touge, Tetsuo; Kawauchi, Kazuyoshi; Oda, Syuji; Kuriyama, Shigeki

2002-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine how aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) genotypes and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes contribute to the risk for esophageal cancer. We examined ALDH2 genotypes and HLA haplotypes in 29 Japanese patients with esophageal cancer. The ratio of patients who experienced current or former intense vasodilatation upon consuming alcohol (flushing type) was much higher in individuals with the inactive form of ALDH2 encoded by the ALDH2(2)/2(2) or ALDH2(1)/2(2) genotype than in those with the active form of ALDH2 encoded by the ALDH2(1)/2(1) genotype. The ratio of inactive ALDH2 was significantly higher in patients with esophageal cancer than in control normal subjects, suggesting that alcoholics with inactive ALDH2 were susceptible to esophageal cancer. HLA haplotypes A24, A26, B54, B61 and DR9 were prevalent in patients with esophageal cancer (82.8, 24.1, 34.5, 37.9 and 44.8%, respectively). HLA haplotype of A24 and inactive ALDH2 were simultaneously found in 58.6% of patients with esophageal cancer. Furthermore, we found other primary malignancies in 6 of 29 (20.7%) patients with esophageal cancer, and 4 of these 6 patients had both the inactive form of ALDH2 and the HLA A24 haplotype. The present study showed the high prevalence of the inactive form of ALDH2 and HLA haplotypes A24, A26, B54, B61 and DR9 in Japanese patients with esophageal cancer. Therefore, the examination of genotypes of ALDH2 loci and HLA haplotypes may allow the early detection of esophageal cancer in the Japanese population.

Mean esophageal radiation dose is predictive of the grade of acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

PubMed

Ozgen, Aytul; Hayran, Mutlu; Kahraman, Fatih

2012-11-01

The intention of this research was to define the predictive factors for acute esophagitis (AE) in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent chemotherapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy. The data for 72 lung cancer patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy between 2008 and 2010 were prospectively evaluated. Mean lung dose, mean dose of esophagus, volume of esophagus irradiated and percentage of esophagus volume treated were analysed according to esophagitis grades. The mean esophageal dose was associated with an increased risk of esophageal toxicity (Kruskal-Wallis test, P < 0.001). However, the mean lung dose and the volume of esophagus irradiated were not associated with an increased risk of esophageal toxicity (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.50 and P = 0.41, respectively). The mean radiation dose received by the esophagus was found to be highly correlated with the duration of Grade 2 esophagitis (Spearman test, r = 0.82, P < 0.001). The mean dose of esophagus ≥28 Gy showed statistical significance with respect to AE Grade 2 or worse (receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, 95% CI, 0.929-1.014). In conclusion, the mean esophageal dose was significantly associated with a risk of esophageal toxicity in patients with lung cancer treated with concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Mean esophageal radiation dose is predictive of the grade of acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy

PubMed Central

Ozgen, Aytul; Hayran, Mutlu; Kahraman, Fatih

2012-01-01

The intention of this research was to define the predictive factors for acute esophagitis (AE) in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent chemotherapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy. The data for 72 lung cancer patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy between 2008 and 2010 were prospectively evaluated. Mean lung dose, mean dose of esophagus, volume of esophagus irradiated and percentage of esophagus volume treated were analysed according to esophagitis grades. The mean esophageal dose was associated with an increased risk of esophageal toxicity (Kruskal-Wallis test, P < 0.001). However, the mean lung dose and the volume of esophagus irradiated were not associated with an increased risk of esophageal toxicity (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.50 and P = 0.41, respectively). The mean radiation dose received by the esophagus was found to be highly correlated with the duration of Grade 2 esophagitis (Spearman test, r = 0.82, P < 0.001). The mean dose of esophagus ≥28 Gy showed statistical significance with respect to AE Grade 2 or worse (receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, 95% CI, 0.929–1.014). In conclusion, the mean esophageal dose was significantly associated with a risk of esophageal toxicity in patients with lung cancer treated with concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy. PMID:22915782

Lymphocytic Esophagitis: An emerging clinicopathologic disease associated with dysphagia

PubMed Central

Pasricha, Sarina; Gupta, Amit; Reed, Craig C.; Speck, Olga; Woosley, John T.; Dellon, Evan S.

2016-01-01

Background Lymphocytic Esophagitis (LyE) is a recently described clinicopathological condition, but little is known about its features and clinical associations. Aim To characterize patients with LyE, compare them to non-LyE controls, and identify risk factors. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of all patients ≥18 years old who underwent upper endoscopy with esophageal biopsy between January 1, 2000 and June 1, 2012. Archived pathology slides were re-reviewed and LyE was diagnosed if there was lymphocyte-predominant esophageal inflammation with no eosinophils or granulocytes. Three non-LyE controls groups were also defined: reflux, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), and normal. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records, and LyE cases were compared to non-LyE controls. Results 27 adults were diagnosed with LyE, and the majority were female (63%). The most common symptom was dysphagia (70%). 52% had a prior or current diagnosis of reflux. Endoscopic findings included strictures (37%), erosive esophagitis (33%), rings (26%), and hiatal hernia (26%); 33% of patients required dilation. After histology re-review, 78% of LyE patients were found to have more than 20 lymphs/hpf. In comparison to the normal, reflux and EoE controls, patients with LyE tended to be non-white (p<0.01), were more commonly tobacco users (p=0.02), and less likely to have seasonal allergies (p=0.02). Conclusion LyE commonly presents with dysphagia due to esophageal strictures which require dilation. Smoking was associated with LyE whereas atopy was not. LyE should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in patients with these characteristics undergoing upper endoscopy. PMID:27343035

Low Prevalence of Biopsy-Proven Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Patients with Esophageal Food Impaction in Mexican Population.

PubMed

García-Compeán, Diego; González-González, José A; Duran-Castro, José J; Herrera-Quiñones, Gilberto; Borjas-Almaguer, Omar D; Maldonado-Garza, Héctor J

2018-06-01

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is the most common cause of dysphagia and esophageal food impaction (EFI) in the USA, Western Europe, and Australia. In Mexico, the uncomplicated form of this disease is infrequent, and prevalence in patients with EFI is unknown. To determine the prevalence and causes of EFI, endoscopic and therapeutic aspects, and establish the prevalence of biopsy-proven EoE in patients with EFI. Diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy reports from January 2011 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with therapeutic procedures, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, or non-food foreign body impaction were excluded. The number of patients with EFI was determined. Additionally, patients with esophageal biopsy were retained for EoE prevalence calculation. The diagnosis of EoE was defined with the presence of eosinophil infiltration count ≥ 15/high-power field with or without typical endoscopic abnormalities. A total of 4700 reports of the same number of patients were selected; 2209 were males (47%) with a mean age of 57.6 ± 12.3 years (range 14-93). We identified 36 patients with EFI (0.76, 95% CI 0.51-1.01), 16 males (44.4%) with a mean age of 54.9 ± 19.7 (range 22-92). Esophageal biopsies were obtained in 17/36 (47.2%) cases. The diagnosis of EoE was confirmed in 2 patients (11.7%). Peptic stenosis was the most frequent cause of EFI. EoE is an infrequent cause of EFI in the Mexican population (11.7%). EoE had the lowest prevalence compared to that reported in Caucasian populations. The prevalence of EFI was also low.

Ratio of metastatic lymph nodes to total number of nodes resected is prognostic for survival in esophageal carcinoma.

PubMed

Kelty, Clive J; Kennedy, Catherine W; Falk, Gregory L

2010-09-01

The role of the number of metastatic nodes in esophageal cancer surgery is of interest. We assess predictors of survival after oesophagectomy for esophageal and gastroesophageal junction malignancy. Prospective data of consecutive patients undergoing oesophagectomy and systematic lymphadenectomy between 1991 and 2007. Of 224 patients, 148 patients (66%) had adenocarcinoma, 70 (31%) squamous cell carcinoma, and 6 (2.6%) were other tumor types. Five-year survival was 43% with hospital mortality of 3.5%. Locoregional recurrence occurred in 14%. The total number of affected nodes significantly reduced survival (four or more metastatic nodes). Further analysis of the ratio of nodes affected to the total number resected showed a significant decrease in survival as the percentage of positive nodes increased (p < 0.001). Patients undergoing surgery for esophageal cancer should be staged according to a minimum total number of metastatic lymph nodes and ratios because this more accurately predicts survival than current staging systems.

Prospective study of bacteremia rate after elective band ligation and sclerotherapy with cyanoacrylate for esophageal varices in patients with advanced liver disease.

PubMed

Bonilha, Danielle Queiroz; Correia, Lucianna Motta; Monaghan, Marie; Lenz, Luciano; Santos, Marcus; Libera, Ermelindo Della

2011-01-01

Band ligation (BL) is the most appropriate endoscopic treatment for acute bleeding or prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding. Sclerotherapy with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (CY) can be an alternative for patients with advanced liver disease. Bacteremia is an infrequent complication after BL while the bacteremia rate following treatment with CY for esophageal varices remains unknown. To evaluate and compare the incidence of transient bacteremia between cirrhotic patients submitted to diagnostic endoscopy, CY and BL for treatment of esophageal varices. A prospective study comprising the period from 2004 to 2007 was conducted at Hospital of Universidade Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, SP, Brazil. Cirrhotic patients with advanced liver disease (Child-Pugh B or C) were enrolled. The patients were divided into two groups according treatment: BL Group (patients undergoing band ligation, n = 20) and CY Group (patients receiving cyanoacrylate injection for esophageal variceal, n = 18). Cirrhotic patients with no esophageal varices or without indication for endoscopic treatment were recruited as control (diagnostic group n = 20). Bacteremia was evaluated by blood culture at baseline and 30 minutes after the procedure. After 137 scheduled endoscopic procedures, none of the 58 patients had fever or any sign suggestive of infection. All baseline cultures were negative. No positive cultures were observed after CY or in the control group - diagnostic endoscopy. Three (4.6 %) positive cultures were found out of the 65 sessions of band ligation (P = 0.187). Two of these samples were positive for coagulase-negative staphylococcus, which could be regarded as a contaminant. The isolated microorganism in the other case was Klebsiella oxytoca. The patient in this case presented no evidence of immunodeficiency except liver disease. There was no significant difference in bacteremia rate between these three groups. BL or CY injection for non-bleeding esophageal varices may be considered

Prognostic factors, patterns of recurrence and toxicity for patients with esophageal cancer undergoing definitive radiotherapy or chemo-radiotherapy.

PubMed

Haefner, Matthias F; Lang, Kristin; Krug, David; Koerber, Stefan A; Uhlmann, Lorenz; Kieser, Meinhard; Debus, Juergen; Sterzing, Florian

2015-07-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of definitive chemo-radiation or radiotherapy alone in patients with esophageal cancer. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of n = 238 patients with squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus treated with definitive radiotherapy with or without concomitant chemotherapy at our institution between 2000 and 2012. Patients of all stages were included to represent actual clinical routine. We performed univariate and multivariate analysis to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Moreover, treatment-related toxicity and patterns of recurrence were assessed. Patients recieved either chemo-radiation (64%), radiotherapy plus cetuximab (10%) or radiotherapy alone (26%). In 69%, a boost was applied, resulting in a median cumulative dose of 55.8 Gy; the remaining 31% received a median total dose of 50 Gy. For the entire cohort, the median OS and PFS were 15.0 and 11.0 months, respectively. In multivariate analysis, important prognostic factors for OS and PFS were T stage (OS: P = 0.005; PFS: P = 0.006), M stage (OS: P = 0.015; PFS: P = 0.003), concomitant chemotherapy (P < 0.001) and radiation doses of >55 Gy (OS: P = 0.019; PFS: P = 0.022). Recurrences occurred predominantly as local in-field relapse or distant metastases. Toxicity was dominated by nutritional impairment (12.6% with G3/4 dysphagia) and chemo-associated side effects. Definitive chemo-radiation in patients with esophageal cancer results in survival rates comparable with surgical treatment approaches. However, local and distant recurrence considerably restrict prognosis. Further advances in radio-oncological treatment strategies are necessary for improving outcome. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japan Radiation Research Society and Japanese Society for Radiation Oncology.

T-helper 2 Cytokines, Transforming Growth Factor β1, and Eosinophil Products Induce Fibrogenesis and Alter Muscle Motility in Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis

PubMed Central

Rieder, Florian; Nonevski, Ilche; Ma, Jie; Ouyang, Zhufeng; West, Gail; Protheroe, Cheryl; DePetris, Giovanni; Schirbel, Anja; Lapinski, James; Goldblum, John; Bonfield, Tracey; Lopez, Rocio; Harnett, Karen; Lee, James; Hirano, Ikuo; Falk, Gary; Biancani, Piero; Fiocchi, Claudio

2014-01-01

BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) often become dysphagic from the combination of organ fibrosis and motor abnormalities. We investigated mechanisms of dysphagia, assessing the response of human esophageal fibroblasts (HEF), muscle cells (HEMC), and esophageal muscle strips to eosinophil-derived products. METHODS Biopsies were collected via endoscopy from the upper, middle and lower thirds of the esophagus of 18 patients with EoE and 21 individuals undergoing endoscopy for other reasons (controls). Primary cultures of esophageal fibroblasts and muscle cells were derived from 12 freshly resected human esophagectomy specimens. Eosinophil distribution was investigated by histologic analyses of full-thickness esophageal tissue. Active secretion of EoE-related mediators was assessed from medium underlying mucosal biopsy cultures. We quantified production of fibronectin and collagen I by HEF and HEMC in response to eosinophil products. We also measured expression of ICAM1 and VCAM1 by, and adhesion of human eosinophils to, HEF and HEMC. Eosinophil products were tested in an esophageal muscle contraction assay. RESULTS Activated eosinophils were present in all esophageal layers. Significantly higher concentrations of eosinophil-related mediators were spontaneously secreted in mucosal biopsies from patients with EoE than controls. Exposure of HEF and HEMC to increasing concentrations of eosinophil products or co-culture with eosinophils caused HEF and HEMC to increase secretion of fibronectin and collagen I; this was inhibited by blocking transforming growth factor (TGF)β1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAKP) signaling. Eosinophil binding to HEF and HEMC increased following incubation of mesenchymal cells with eosinophil-derived products, and decreased following blockade of TGFβ1 and p38MAPK blockade. Eosinophil products reduced electrical field-induced contraction of esophageal muscle strips, but not acetylcholine

Patients with established gastro-esophageal reflux disease might benefit from Helicobacter pylori eradication

PubMed Central

Moschos, John M.; Kouklakis, George; Vradelis, Stergios; Zezos, Petros; Pitiakoudis, Michael; Chatzopoulos, Dimitrios; Zavos, Christos; Kountouras, Jannis

2014-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in selected H. pylori-positive patients with a primary diagnosis of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) by using the 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring. Methods We recruited patients with erosive esophagitis at endoscopy and H. pylori infection at histology, successfully cured following eradication therapy; the selected H. pylori-positive patients had weekly reflux symptoms for at least six months and endoscopically established Grade A or B esophagitis. Twenty-nine eligible patients were initially subjected to esophageal manometry and ambulatory 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring. All patients received H. pylori triple eradication therapy accompanied by successful H. pylori eradication. After successful eradication of H. pylori (confirmed by 13C urea breath test), a second manometry and 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring were introduced to assess the results of eradication therapy, after a 3-month post-treatment period. Results All 29 selected H. pylori-positive patients became negative due to successful H. pylori eradication, evaluated by 13C urea breath test after a 4-week post-treatment period. Post-eradication, 62.1% patients showed similar manometric pattern at baseline; 17.2% showed improvement; 17.2% normalization; and 3.4% deterioration of the manometric patterns. The DeMeester symptom scoring in the 3-h postprandial ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring was improved after eradication of H. pylori (median 47.47 vs. 22.00, Wilcoxon’s singed rank; P=0.016). On comparing the pH monitoring studies for each patient at baseline and post-eradication period, 82.8% patients showed improvement and 17.2% deterioration of the DeMeester score. Conclusion By using 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring, this study showed, for the first time, that H. pylori eradication may positively influence GERD symptoms. Large-scale controlled

Patients with established gastro-esophageal reflux disease might benefit from Helicobacter pylori eradication.

PubMed

Moschos, John M; Kouklakis, George; Vradelis, Stergios; Zezos, Petros; Pitiakoudis, Michael; Chatzopoulos, Dimitrios; Zavos, Christos; Kountouras, Jannis

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) eradication in selected H. pylori -positive patients with a primary diagnosis of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) by using the 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring. We recruited patients with erosive esophagitis at endoscopy and H. pylori infection at histology, successfully cured following eradication therapy; the selected H. pylori -positive patients had weekly reflux symptoms for at least six months and endoscopically established Grade A or B esophagitis. Twenty-nine eligible patients were initially subjected to esophageal manometry and ambulatory 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring. All patients received H. pylori triple eradication therapy accompanied by successful H. pylori eradication. After successful eradication of H. pylori (confirmed by 13 C urea breath test), a second manometry and 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring were introduced to assess the results of eradication therapy, after a 3-month post-treatment period. All 29 selected H. pylori -positive patients became negative due to successful H. pylori eradication, evaluated by 13 C urea breath test after a 4-week post-treatment period. Post-eradication, 62.1% patients showed similar manometric pattern at baseline; 17.2% showed improvement; 17.2% normalization; and 3.4% deterioration of the manometric patterns. The DeMeester symptom scoring in the 3-h postprandial ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring was improved after eradication of H. pylori (median 47.47 vs. 22.00, Wilcoxon's singed rank; P=0.016). On comparing the pH monitoring studies for each patient at baseline and post-eradication period, 82.8% patients showed improvement and 17.2% deterioration of the DeMeester score. By using 3-h postprandial esophageal pH monitoring, this study showed, for the first time, that H. pylori eradication may positively influence GERD symptoms. Large-scale controlled relative studies are warranted to

Esophageal motor abnormalities in eosinophilic esophagitis identified by high-resolution manometry.

PubMed

Martín Martín, Leticia; Santander, Cecilio; Lopez Martín, Mari Carmen; Espinoza-Ríos, Jorge; Chavarría-Herbozo, Carlos; Gisbert, Javier P; Moreno-Otero, Ricardo

2011-09-01

Esophageal motility abnormalities, as measured by conventional manometry (CM), are non-specific in the majority of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Moreover, the study of CM is limited by poor interobserver agreement. The aims of the present study were: (i) to assess the esophageal patterns in EoE by a topographic analysis of high-resolution manometry (HRM) data; and (ii) to establish a relationship between motility abnormalities and symptoms of EoE, such as dysphagia and bolus impaction. All adult patients with EoE diagnosed according to histological criteria, and controls with gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and dysphagia, were included. HRM was done in EoE patients and controls. For the analysis of data, the Chicago classification was followed. HRM was performed in 21 patients with EoE, as well as in 21 controls. Of the 21 patients with EoE, 10 (48%) showed pan-esophageal pressurization, six (28%) showed peristaltic dysfunction, and in five cases (24%), HRM was normal. There was no pan-esophageal pressurization in controls. Nine of 10 patients with pan-esophageal pressurization required endoscopic bolus removal (P < 0.05); none had obstructive endoscopy findings. The most frequent esophageal motor abnormality measured by HRM was a pan-esophageal pressurization. Bolus impaction in patients with EoE was associated with pan-esophageal pressurization. © 2011 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Prevalence of Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Lymphocytic Esophagitis in Adults with Esophageal Food Bolus Impaction.

PubMed

Truskaite, Kotryna; Dlugosz, Aldona

2016-01-01

Background. The relation of esophageal food bolus impaction (FBI) to eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and lymphocytic esophagitis (LyE) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of EoE and LyE among adults with FBI. Methods. In this retrospective study we analyzed data from all patients referred for gastroscopy during the past 5 years, because of a present or recent episode of FBI. Results. We found 238 patients with FBI (median age 51 (17-96), 71% males). Endoscopic therapy was required in 143 patients. Esophageal biopsies were obtained in 185 (78%) patients. All biopsies were assessed for numbers of eosinophils and lymphocytes. EoE was found in 18% of patients who underwent biopsy. We found 41 patients (22%) who fulfilled the criteria for both EoE and LyE (EoE/LyE). LyE was found in the 9% of patients with FBI. EoE together with EoE/LyE was the leading cause of FBI in patients ≤50 years (64%). GERD was the leading cause of FBI among patients older than 50 years (42%). Conclusions. Our study showed that EoE was the leading cause of FBI in particular among young adults. Our study highlights the need for esophageal biopsies in any patient with FBI.

Clinical and manometric characteristics of patients with Parkinson's disease and esophageal symptoms.

PubMed

Su, A; Gandhy, R; Barlow, C; Triadafilopoulos, G

2017-04-01

Dysphagia is a common problem in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD); its etiology is multifactorial and its management is challenging. In this retrospective cohort analysis using prospectively collected data, we aimed to objectively characterize dysphagia and/or other esophageal symptoms in patients with PD, assess the prevalence of outflow obstruction as well as major or minor disorders of esophageal peristalsis leading to impaired esophageal clearance and highlight objective parameters that can help in the current management algorithm. Thirty-three consecutive patients with PD presenting with dysphagia, odynophagia, heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and weight loss underwent clinical and functional evaluation by high-resolution manometry (HRM). Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction and major as well as minor disorders of peristalsis were then assessed using the Chicago classification (v3). Thirty-three PD patients with esophageal symptoms were enrolled in the study; 12 of them reported weight loss that was considered as potentially reflecting underlying esophageal dysfunction. The median age of the patients was 70 years (range: 53-89 years), 24 (75%) were men. The majority (62%) experienced dysphagia, likely contributing to weight loss in 41% of patients. Odynophagia was rare (6%) while GER symptoms, such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain were noted in 37%, 31%, and 28% of patients, respectively. Using the hierarchy of the Chicago classification, 12 patients (39%) exhibited EGJ outflow obstruction, 16 (48%) diffuse esophageal spasm (DES), 18 (55%), ineffective esophageal peristalsis (IEM), 16 (48%) fragmented peristalsis, and only 2 patients (6%) had normal HRM tracings. There were no patients with HRM features of achalasia. Dysphagia is common in patients with PD and is associated with a high prevalence of underlying motility disturbances as identified by HRM. The exact impact of these motility abnormalities on symptom induction

Biomarkers Predict Prognosis of Esophageal Cancer Patients | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

New treatment strategies are needed to improve outcomes for patients with esophageal cancer. With five-year survival rates less than 25 percent, this is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. There are two main types of esophageal cancer—squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Esophageal adenocarcinoma is frequently preceded by Barrett’s esophagus, a chronic inflammatory

Articulation of sounds in Serbian language in patients who learned esophageal speech successfully.

PubMed

Vekić, Maja; Veselinović, Mila; Mumović, Gordana; Mitrović, Slobodan M

2014-01-01

Articulation of pronounced sounds during the training and subsequent use of esophageal speech is very important because it contributes significantly to intelligibility and aesthetics of spoken words and sentences, as well as of speech and language itself. The aim of this research was to determine the quality of articulation of sounds of Serbian language by groups of sounds in patients who had learned esophageal speech successfully as well as the effect of age and tooth loss on the quality of articulation. This retrospective-prospective study included 16 patients who had undergone total laryngectomy. Having completed the rehabilitation of speech, these patient used esophageal voice and speech. The quality of articulation was tested by the "Global test of articulation." Esophageal speech was rated with grade 5, 4 and 3 in 62.5%, 31.3% and one patient, respectively. Serbian was the native language of all the patients. The study included 30 sounds of Serbian language in 16 subjects (480 total sounds). Only two patients (12.5%) articulated all sounds properly, whereas 87.5% of them had incorrect articulation. The articulation of affricates and fricatives, especially sound /h/ from the group of the fricatives, was found to be the worst in the patients who had successfully mastered esophageal speech. The age and the tooth loss of patients who have mastered esophageal speech do not affect the articulation of sounds in Serbian language.

Impact of Weight Loss Surgery on Esophageal Physiology

PubMed Central

Naik, Rishi D.; Choksi, Yash A.

2015-01-01

Bariatric surgery has come to the forefront of weight loss treatment due to its complex interactions via anatomic, physiologic, and neurohormonal changes leading to sustained weight loss. Unlike lifestyle and pharmacologic options, which fail to show long-term sustained weight loss, bariatric surgery has been shown to decrease overall mortality and morbidity. Bariatric surgery can be purely restrictive, such as laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), or restrictive-malabsorptive, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). These surgeries cause specific anatomic changes that promote weight loss; however, they also have unintended effects on the esophagus, particularly in terms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal motility. Via restrictive surgery, LAGB has been widely reported to cause significant weight loss, although studies have also shown an increase and worsening of GERD as well as elevated rates of esophageal dilation, aperistalsis, and alterations in lower esophageal sphincter pressure. Along with LAGB, LSG has shown not only a worsening of GERD, but also the formation of de novo GERD in patients who were asymptomatic before the operation. In a restrictive-malabsorptive approach, RYGB has been reported to improve GERD and preserve esophageal motility. Bariatric surgery is a burgeoning field with immense implications on overall mortality. Future randomized, controlled trials are needed to better understand which patients should undergo particular surgeries, with greater emphasis on esophageal health and prevention of GERD and esophageal dysmotility. PMID:27134597

[Swallowing and Voice Disorders in Cancer Patients].

PubMed

Tanuma, Akira

2015-07-01

Dysphagia sometimes occurs in patients with head and neck cancer, particularly in those undergoing surgery and radiotherapy for lingual, pharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer. It also occurs in patients with esophageal cancer and brain tumor. Patients who undergo glossectomy usually show impairment of the oral phase of swallowing, whereas those with pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer show impairment of the pharyngeal phase of swallowing. Videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing provides important information necessary for rehabilitation of swallowing in these patients. Appropriate swallowing exercises and compensatory strategies can be decided based on the findings of the evaluation. Palatal augmentation prostheses are sometimes used for rehabilitation in patients undergoing glossectomy. Patients who undergo total laryngectomy or total pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy should receive speech therapy to enable them to use alaryngeal speech methods, including electrolarynx, esophageal speech, or speech via tracheoesophageal puncture. Regaining swallowing function and speech can improve a patient's emotional health and quality of life. Therefore, it is important to manage swallowing and voice disorders appropriately.

Esophageal transit time in patients with chagasic megaesophagus

PubMed Central

Martins, Paula; Ferreira, Cid Sergio; Cunha-Melo, José Renan

2018-01-01

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the esophageal transit time in control individuals and in chagasic patients with or without megaesophagus. A total of 148 patients were allocated in 6 groups according to serological diagnostic of Chagas disease and the degree of esophageal dilatation: A, control healthy individuals (n = 34, 22.9%); B, indeterminate form (n = 23, 15.5%); C, megaesophagus I (n = 37, 25.0%); D, megaesophagus II (n = 19, 12.8%); E, megaesophagus III (n = 21, 14.2%); and F, megaesophagus IV (n = 14, 9.5%). After 8-hour fasting, patients were asked to swallow 75 mL of barium sulfate solution. x-Rays were obtained after 8, 30, 60, and 90 seconds, 5, 10, 30, 60, and 90 minutes, 2, 6, 12, 24 hours, and at every 12 hours until no more contrast was seen in the esophagus. This was the transit time. The transit time varied from 8 seconds to 36 hours (median = 90 seconds). A linear correlation was observed between transit time and megaesophagus grade: 8 seconds in groups A and B, 5 minutes in C, 30 minutes in D, 2 hours in E, and 9:15 hours in F. Dysphagia was not reported by 60 of 114 (52.6%) patients with positive serological tests for Chagas disease (37/91—40.7%—of patients with megaesophagus I–IV grades). The esophageal transit time increased with the grade of megaesophagus. The esophageal transit time has a direct correlation with the grade of megaesophagus; dysphagia complaint correlates with the grade of megaesophagus. However, many patients with megaesophagus do not report dysphagia. PMID:29517674

Long-term outcomes and prognostic factors for patients with esophageal cancer following radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Chen, Chuang-Zhen; Chen, Jian-Zhou; Li, De-Rui; Lin, Zhi-Xiong; Zhou, Ming-Zhen; Li, Dong-Sheng; Chen, Zhi-Jian

2013-01-01

AIM: To evaluate long-term outcomes and prognostic factors for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) treated with three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). METHODS: Between January 2005 and December 2006, 153 patients (120 males, 33 females) with pathologically confirmed esophageal SCC and treated with 3D-CRT in Cancer Hospital of Shantou University were included in this retrospective analysis. Median age was 60 years (range: 37-84 years). The proportion of tumor location was as follows: upper thorax (including the cervical region), 73 (48%); middle thorax, 73 (48%); lower thorax, 7 (5%), respectively. The median radiation dose was 64 Gy (range: 50-74 Gy). Fifty four cases (35%) received cisplatin-based concurrent chemotherapy. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine the association between the correlative factors and prognosis. RESULTS: The five-year overall survival rate was 26.3%, with a median follow-up of 49 mo (range: 3-66 mo) for patients who were still alive. On univariate analysis, lesion location, lesion length by barium esophagogram, computed tomography imaging characteristics including Y diameter (anterior-posterior, AP, extent of tumor), gross tumor volume of primary lesion (GTV-E), volume of positive lymph nodes (GTV-LN), and the total target volume (GTV-T = GTV-E + GTV-LN) were prognostic for overall survival. By multivariate analysis, only the Y diameter [hazard ratio (HR) 2.219, 95%CI 1.141-4.316, P = 0.019] and the GTV-T (HR 1.372, 95%CI 1.044-1.803, P = 0.023) were independent prognostic factors for survival. CONCLUSION: The overall survival of esophageal carcinoma patients undergoing 3D-CRT was promising. The best predictors for survival were GTV-T and Y diameter. PMID:23539205

Lymphocytic Esophagitis: An Emerging Clinicopathologic Disease Associated with Dysphagia.

PubMed

Pasricha, Sarina; Gupta, Amit; Reed, Craig C; Speck, Olga; Woosley, John T; Dellon, Evan S

2016-10-01

Lymphocytic esophagitis (LyE) is a recently described clinicopathological condition, but little is known about its features and clinical associations. The aim of this study was to characterize patients with LyE, compare them to non-LyE controls, and identify risk factors. We conducted a retrospective study of all patients ≥18 years old who underwent upper endoscopy with esophageal biopsy between January 1, 2000, and June 1, 2012. Archived pathology slides were re-reviewed, and LyE was diagnosed if there was lymphocyte-predominant esophageal inflammation with no eosinophils or granulocytes. Three non-LyE controls groups were also defined: reflux, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), and normal. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records, and LyE cases were compared to non-LyE controls. Twenty-seven adults were diagnosed with LyE, and the majority were female (63 %). The most common symptom was dysphagia (70 %). Fifty-two percentage had a prior or current diagnosis of reflux. Endoscopic findings included strictures (37 %), erosive esophagitis (33 %), rings (26 %), and hiatal hernia (26 %); 33 % of patients required dilation. After histology re-review, 78 % of LyE patients were found to have more than 20 lymphs/hpf. In comparison with the normal, reflux and EoE controls, patients with LyE tended to be nonwhite (p < 0.01), were more commonly tobacco users (p = 0.02) and less likely to have seasonal allergies (p = 0.02). LyE commonly presents with dysphagia due to esophageal strictures which require dilation. Smoking was associated with LyE, whereas atopy was not. LyE should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in patients with these characteristics undergoing upper endoscopy.

Prognosis was not deteriorated by multiple primary cancers in esophageal cancer patients treated by radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Shirai, Katsuyuki; Tamaki, Yoshio; Kitamoto, Yoshizumi; Murata, Kazutoshi; Satoh, Yumi; Higuchi, Keiko; Ishikawa, Hitoshi; Nonaka, Tetsuo; Takahashi, Takeo; Nakano, Takashi

2013-01-01

Esophageal cancer patients are often associated with multiple primary cancers (MPC). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of MPC on prognosis in esophageal cancer patients treated by radiotherapy. Between 2001 and 2008, esophageal cancer patients treated by definitive radiotherapy at Gunma Cancer Center were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria were preoperative or postoperative radiotherapy, palliative radiotherapy, follow-up of <6 months, radiation dose of <50 Gy and no information on MPC. We analyzed 167 esophageal cancer patients and 56 (33.5%) were associated with MPC. Gastric cancer was the most frequent tumor (38.2%), followed by head and neck cancer (26.5%). Median follow-up time was 31.5 months (range 6.1–87.3 months). Patients with MPC included more stage I/II esophageal cancer than those without MPC (66.1% vs. 36.9%, P < 0.01). The 5-year overall survival rate for esophageal cancer with MPC was relatively better than those without MPC (46.1% vs. 26.7%), although the difference did not reach statistical significance in univariate analysis (P = 0.09). Stage I/II esophageal cancer patients had a significantly better overall survival than stage III/IV patients (P < 0.01). Among esophageal cancer patients with MPC, there was no difference in overall survival between antecedent and synchronous cancer (P = 0.59). Our study indicated that the prognosis of esophageal cancer patients treated by radiotherapy was primarily determined by the clinical stage itself, but not the presence of MPC. PMID:23381956

Esophageal Body Motility for Clinical Assessment in Patients with Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms.

PubMed

Jiang, Liuqin; Ye, Bixing; Wang, Ying; Wang, Meifeng; Lin, Lin

2017-01-30

Little data exists about esophageal body dysmotility and reflux patterns in refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (RGERD) patients off therapy. We aimed to evaluate effects of esophageal body dysmotility on reflux parameters in RGERD patients by combining impedance-pH monitoring and high-resolution manometry (HRM). We retrospectively reviewed the impedance-pH data and HRM metrics in patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Impedance-pH monitoring and manometric data were compared between 2 groups: ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and normal motility. Forty-eight patients (30 males, mean age 54.5 years) were included (16 erosive esophagitis, 24 non-erosive reflux disease, and 8 functional heartburn), amongst which 24 subjects showed IEM, and others had normal motility. Number of patients who had a large break in the IEM group was significantly higher than that of normal motility patients. IEM group had more patients with weakly acid reflux and long term acid reflux than the normal group ( P = 0.008, P = 0.004, respectively). There was no statistical difference in baseine impedance levels from z4 to z6 between the 2 groups (2911 ± 1160 Ω vs 3604 ± 1232 Ω, 2766 ± 1254 Ω vs 3752 ± 1439 Ω, 2349 ± 1131 Ω vs 3038 ± 1254 Ω, all P > 0.05). Acid exposure time, numbers of long term acid reflux and weakly acid reflux showed strong negative correlation with esophageal body motility and/or lower esophageal sphincter function. IEM was associated more with acid exposure, abnormal weakly acid reflux, and long term acid reflux in RGERD patients. These data suggested the role of esophageal body dysmotility in the pathophysiological mechanisms of RGERD patients.

Effects of topical steroids on tight junction proteins and spongiosis in esophageal epithelia of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Katzka, David A; Tadi, Ravikanth; Smyrk, Thomas C; Katarya, Eesha; Sharma, Anamay; Geno, Deborah M; Camilleri, Michael; Iyer, Prasad G; Alexander, Jeffrey A; Buttar, Navtej S

2014-11-01

The allergic response associated with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) occurs when food antigens permeate tight junction-mediated epithelial dilated intercellular spaces. We assessed whether levels of tight junction proteins correlate with the dilation of intercellular spaces (spongiosis) and the effects of topical steroids on these parameters. We assessed esophageal biopsy samples from 10 patients with active EoE treated with topical fluticasone, 10 untreated patients, and 10 patients without esophageal disease (controls) for degree of spongiosis. Immunohistochemical assays were used to determine the levels of the tight junction proteins filaggrin, zonula occludens (ZO)-1, ZO-2, ZO-3, and claudin-1. Histology and immunohistochemistry results were assessed blindly, with levels of tight junction proteins and degree of spongiosis rated on scales of 0 to 3. The mean degrees of spongiosis in untreated and treated patients with EoE were 1.3 and 0.4, respectively (P = .016). Esophageal epithelia did not stain significantly for ZO-1 or ZO-2. Filaggrin was observed in a predominant cytoplasmic pattern, compared with the cytoplasmic and membranous patterns of ZO-3 and claudin-1. In biopsy specimens from patients with active EoE, the mean staining intensities for filaggrin, ZO-3, and claudin-1 were 1.6, 1.4, and 0.7, respectively. In biopsy specimens from patients treated with fluticasone, levels of filaggrin, ZO-3, and claudin-1 were 2.8 (P = .002 compared with untreated patients), 1.7 (P = .46 compared with untreated patients), and 1.3 (P = .25 compared with untreated patients), respectively. The correlation between the level of filaggrin and the degree of spongiosis was r = 0.23, and between ZO-3 staining and the degree of spongiosis was r = .016 (P = .001 for filaggrin vs ZO-3 staining). Filaggrin, ZO-3, and claudin-1 (but not ZO-1 or ZO-2) are detected in the esophageal mucosa of patients with EoE treated with steroids and individuals without esophageal disease

T-helper 2 cytokines, transforming growth factor β1, and eosinophil products induce fibrogenesis and alter muscle motility in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Rieder, Florian; Nonevski, Ilche; Ma, Jie; Ouyang, Zhufeng; West, Gail; Protheroe, Cheryl; DePetris, Giovanni; Schirbel, Anja; Lapinski, James; Goldblum, John; Bonfield, Tracey; Lopez, Rocio; Harnett, Karen; Lee, James; Hirano, Ikuo; Falk, Gary; Biancani, Piero; Fiocchi, Claudio

2014-05-01

Patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) often become dysphagic from the combination of organ fibrosis and motor abnormalities. We investigated mechanisms of dysphagia, assessing the response of human esophageal fibroblasts (HEFs), human esophageal muscle cells (HEMCs), and esophageal muscle strips to eosinophil-derived products. Biopsy specimens were collected via endoscopy from the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the esophagus of 18 patients with EoE and 21 individuals undergoing endoscopy for other reasons (controls). Primary cultures of esophageal fibroblasts and muscle cells were derived from 12 freshly resected human esophagectomy specimens. Eosinophil distribution was investigated by histologic analyses of full-thickness esophageal tissue. Active secretion of EoE-related mediators was assessed from medium underlying mucosal biopsy cultures. We quantified production of fibronectin and collagen I by HEF and HEMC in response to eosinophil products. We also measured the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 by, and adhesion of human eosinophils to, HEFs and HEMCs. Eosinophil products were tested in an esophageal muscle contraction assay. Activated eosinophils were present in all esophageal layers. Significantly higher concentrations of eosinophil-related mediators were secreted spontaneously in mucosal biopsy specimens from patients with EoE than controls. Exposure of HEFs and HEMCs to increasing concentrations of eosinophil products or co-culture with eosinophils caused HEFs and HEMCs to increase secretion of fibronectin and collagen I; this was inhibited by blocking transforming growth factor β1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. Eosinophil binding to HEFs and HEMCs increased after incubation of mesenchymal cells with eosinophil-derived products, and decreased after blockade of transforming growth factor β1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase blockade. Eosinophil products reduced

Multiple Rapid Swallow Responses During Esophageal High-Resolution Manometry Reflect Esophageal Body Peristaltic Reserve

PubMed Central

Shaker, Anisa; Stoikes, Nathaniel; Drapekin, Jesse; Kushnir, Vladimir; Brunt, L. Michael; Gyawali, C. Prakash

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVES Dysphagia may develop following antireflux surgery as a consequence of poor esophageal peristaltic reserve. We hypothesized that suboptimal contraction response following multiple rapid swallows (MRS) could be associated with chronic transit symptoms following antireflux surgery. METHODS Wet swallow and MRS responses on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) were characterized collectively in the esophageal body (distal contractile integral (DCI)), and individually in each smooth muscle contraction segment (S2 and S3 amplitudes) in 63 patients undergoing antireflux surgery and in 18 healthy controls. Dysphagia was assessed using symptom questionnaires. The MRS/wet swallow ratios were calculated for S2 and S3 peak amplitudes and DCI. MRS responses were compared in patients with and without late postoperative dysphagia following antireflux surgery. RESULTS Augmentation of smooth muscle contraction (MRS/wet swallow ratios > 1.0) as measured collectively by DCI was seen in only 11.1% with late postoperative dysphagia, compared with 63.6% in those with no dysphagia and 78.1% in controls (P≤0.02 for each comparison). Similar results were seen with S3 but not S2 peak amplitude ratios. Receiver operating characteristics identified a DCI MRS/wet swallow ratio threshold of 0.85 in segregating patients with late postoperative dysphagia from those with no postoperative dysphagia with a sensitivity of 0.67 and specificity of 0.64. CONCLUSIONS Lack of augmentation of smooth muscle contraction following MRS is associated with late postoperative dysphagia following antireflux surgery, suggesting that MRS responses could assess esophageal smooth muscle peristaltic reserve. Further research is warranted to determine if antireflux surgery needs to be tailored to the MRS response. PMID:24019081

Frequency of motor alterations detected through manometry in patients with esophageal symptoms and scleroderma.

PubMed

Pérez Y López, N; Lugo-Zamudio, G; Barbosa-Cobos, R E; Wong-Lam, A; Torres-López, E

Scleroderma can present with esophageal involvement causing important morbidity. To describe the manometric findings and clinical characteristics of patients with scleroderma and esophageal symptoms. Patients with scleroderma and esophageal symptoms were evaluated through esophageal manometry within the time frame of one year. Descriptive statistics were carried out and the continuous variables were expressed as means and standard deviation. Frequencies were expressed as percentages. The study included 24 female patients with a mean age of 53.5 years and mean disease progression of 7.84 years. The most frequent findings were short and hypotonic lower esophageal sphincter (mean length 1.58cm and mean tone 9.49mmHg) and ineffective esophageal motility (mean non-transmitted waves 92.91%, mean effective primary peristalsis 40.05%, and mean amplitude 13.11mmHg). The most frequent symptom was dysphagia. Scleroderma is associated with lower esophageal sphincter alterations and symptomatic ineffective esophageal motility. Copyright © 2017 Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología. Publicado por Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

Endoscopic ultrasound as an adjunctive evaluation in patients with esophageal motor disorders subtyped by high-resolution manometry.

PubMed

Krishnan, K; Lin, C-Y; Keswani, R; Pandolfino, J E; Kahrilas, P J; Komanduri, S

2014-08-01

Esophageal motor disorders are a heterogeneous group of conditions identified by esophageal manometry that lead to esophageal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical utility of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the further evaluation of patients with esophageal motor disorders categorized using the updated Chicago Classification. We performed a retrospective, single center study of 62 patients with esophageal motor disorders categorized according to the Chicago Classification. All patients underwent standard radial endosonography to assess for extra-esophageal findings or alternative explanations for esophageal outflow obstruction. Secondary outcomes included esophageal wall thickness among the different patient subsets within the Chicago Classification. EUS identified 9/62 (15%) clinically relevant findings that altered patient management and explained the etiology of esophageal outflow obstruction. We further identified substantial variability in esophageal wall thickness in a proportion of patients including some with a significantly thickened non-muscular layer. EUS findings are clinically relevant in a significant number of patients with motor disorders and can alter clinical management. Variability in esophageal wall thickness of the muscularis propria and non-muscular layers identified by EUS may also explain the observed variability in response to standard therapies for achalasia. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Endoscopic ultrasound as an adjunctive evaluation in patients with esophageal motor disorders subtyped by high-resolution manometry

PubMed Central

Krishnan, Kumar; Lin, Chen-Yuan; Keswani, Rajesh; Pandolfino, John E; Kahrilas, Peter J; Komanduri, Srinadh

2015-01-01

Background and aims Esophageal motor disorders are a heterogenous group of conditions identified by esophageal manometry that lead to esophageal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical utility of endoscopic ultrasound in the further evaluation of patients with esophageal motor disorders categorized using the updated Chicago Classification. Methods We performed a retrospective, single center study of 62 patients with esophageal motor disorders categorized according to the Chicago Classification. All patients underwent standard radial endosonography to assess for extra esophageal findings or alternative explanations for esophageal outflow obstruction. Secondary outcomes included esophageal wall thickness among the different patient subsets within the Chicago Classification Key Results EUS identified 9/62 (15%) clinically relevant findings that altered patient management and explained the etiology of esophageal outflow obstruction. We further identified substantial variability in esophageal wall thickness in a proportion of patients including some with a significantly thickened non-muscular layer. Conclusions EUS findings are clinically relevant in a significant number of patients with motor disorders and can alter clinical management. Variability in esophageal wall thickness of the muscularis propria and non-muscular layers identified by EUS may also explain the observed variability in response to standard therapies for achalasia. PMID:25041229

Temporal trends in long-term survival and cure rates in esophageal cancer: a SEER database analysis.

PubMed

Dubecz, Attila; Gall, Isabell; Solymosi, Norbert; Schweigert, Michael; Peters, Jeffrey H; Feith, Marcus; Stein, Hubert J

2012-02-01

To assess long-term temporal trends in population-based survival and cure rates in patients with esophageal cancer and compare them over the last 3 decades in the United States. We identified 62,523 patients with cancer of the esophagus and the gastric cardia diagnosed between 1973 and 2007 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Long-term cancer-related survival and cure rates were calculated. Stage-by-stage disease-related survival curves of patients diagnosed in different decades were compared. Influence of available variables on survival and cure was analyzed with logistic regression. Ten-year survival was 14% in all patients. Disease-related survival of esophageal cancer improved significantly since 1973. Median survival in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results stages in local, regional, and metastatic cancers improved from 11, 10, and 4 months in the 1970s to 35, 15, and 6 months after 2000. Early stage, age 45 to 65 years at diagnosis and undergoing surgical therapy were independent predictors of 10-year survival. Cure rate improved in all stages during the study period and were 73%, 37%, 12%, and 2% in stages 0, 1, 2, and 4, respectively, after the year 2000. Percentage of patients undergoing surgery improved from 55% in the 1970s to 64% between 2000 and 2007. Proportion of patients diagnosed with in situ and local cancer remains below 30%. Long-term survival with esophageal cancer is poor but survival of local esophageal cancer improved dramatically over the decades. Complete cure of nonmetastatic esophageal cancer seems possible in a growing number of patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Radiotherapy Dose Perturbation of Esophageal Stents Examined in an Experimental Model

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Atwood, Todd F.; Hsu, Annie; Ogara, Maydeen M.

2012-04-01

Purpose: To investigate the radiotherapy dose perturbations caused by esophageal stents in patients undergoing external beam treatments for esophageal cancer. Methods and Materials: Four esophageal stents were examined (three metallic stents: WallFlex, Ultraflex, and Alveolus; one nonmetallic stent with limited radiopaque markers for visualization: Polyflex). All experiments were performed in a liquid water phantom with a custom acrylic stent holder. Radiochromic film was used to measure the dose distributions adjacent to the stents at locations proximal and distal to the radiation source. The stents were placed in an air-filled cavity to simulate the esophagus. Treatment plans were created and deliveredmore » for photon energies of 6 and 15 MV, and data analysis was performed on uniform regions of interest, according to the size and geometric placement of the films, to quantify the dose perturbations. Results: The three metallic stents produced the largest dose perturbations with distinct patterns of 'hot' spots (increased dose) measured proximal to the radiation source (up to 15.4%) and both 'cold' (decreased dose) and hot spots measured distal to the radiation source (range, -6.1%-5.8%). The polymeric Polyflex stent produced similar dose perturbations when the radiopaque markers were examined (range, -7.6%-15.4%). However, when the radiopaque markers were excluded from the analysis, the Polyflex stent produced significantly smaller dose perturbations, with maximum hot spots of 7.3% and cold spots of -3.2%. Conclusions: The dose perturbations caused by esophageal stents during the treatment of esophageal cancer using external beam radiotherapy should be understood. These perturbations will result in hot and cold spots in the esophageal mucosa, with varying magnitudes depending on the stent. The nonmetallic Polyflex stent appears to be the most suitable for patients undergoing radiotherapy, but further studies are necessary to determine the clinical significance

Radiotherapy dose perturbation of esophageal stents examined in an experimental model.

PubMed

Atwood, Todd F; Hsu, Annie; Ogara, Maydeen M; Luba, Daniel G; Tamler, Bradley J; Disario, James A; Maxim, Peter G

2012-04-01

To investigate the radiotherapy dose perturbations caused by esophageal stents in patients undergoing external beam treatments for esophageal cancer. Four esophageal stents were examined (three metallic stents: WallFlex, Ultraflex, and Alveolus; one nonmetallic stent with limited radiopaque markers for visualization: Polyflex). All experiments were performed in a liquid water phantom with a custom acrylic stent holder. Radiochromic film was used to measure the dose distributions adjacent to the stents at locations proximal and distal to the radiation source. The stents were placed in an air-filled cavity to simulate the esophagus. Treatment plans were created and delivered for photon energies of 6 and 15 MV, and data analysis was performed on uniform regions of interest, according to the size and geometric placement of the films, to quantify the dose perturbations. The three metallic stents produced the largest dose perturbations with distinct patterns of "hot" spots (increased dose) measured proximal to the radiation source (up to 15.4%) and both "cold" (decreased dose) and hot spots measured distal to the radiation source (range, -6.1%-5.8%). The polymeric Polyflex stent produced similar dose perturbations when the radiopaque markers were examined (range, -7.6%-15.4%). However, when the radiopaque markers were excluded from the analysis, the Polyflex stent produced significantly smaller dose perturbations, with maximum hot spots of 7.3% and cold spots of -3.2%. The dose perturbations caused by esophageal stents during the treatment of esophageal cancer using external beam radiotherapy should be understood. These perturbations will result in hot and cold spots in the esophageal mucosa, with varying magnitudes depending on the stent. The nonmetallic Polyflex stent appears to be the most suitable for patients undergoing radiotherapy, but further studies are necessary to determine the clinical significance of the dose perturbations. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc

Preoperative noninvasive EUS evaluation in patients with esophageal cancer considered for esophagectomy.

PubMed

Gheorghe, Cristian; Stanescu, Codrut; Gheorghe, Liana; Bancila, Ion; Herlea, Vlad; Becheanu, Gabriel; Voinea, Daniela; Iacob, Razvan; Lupescu, Ioana; Anghel, Rodica; Croitoru, Adina; Popescu, Irinel

2006-06-01

Worldwide, esophageal cancer ranks fifth in the mortality rate regarding tumor locations. EUS is an essential tool in the evaluation of these patients allowing accurate staging and permitting stratified treatment options. AIM. We have studied prospectively the impact of EUS in the evaluation and decision for therapy of patients with esophageal cancer diagnosed in our center. From March 2001 through March 2006, 220 patients were hospitalized at the Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, with the diagnosis of esophageal cancer. Out of the 220 patients, 41 patients, with no major comorbidities contraindicating esophagectomy already having been screened by abdominal and thoracic CT to disclose distant metastases, had EUS with the definite purpose of staging esophageal carcinoma and selecting adequate therapy. Assuming that without preoperative staging by EUS, all 41 patients in the study group would have been offered surgical treatment, we evaluated the number of patients and the modality in which EUS resulted in changes to the therapeutic plan. Depth of invasion was recorded for the 41 patients as follows: T1 in 2 patients (4.9%), T2 in 6 patients (14.6%), T3 in 24 patients (58.5%), and T4 in 10 patients (22%). Regional lymph node (N) status as determined by EUS criteria was as follows: N0 in 7 patients (17%) and N1 in 34 patients (83%). Assessment of distant metastases (M) was recorded showing 4 patients with celiac axis lymph nodes metastases (M1). Preoperative EUS staging changed the decision for surgery in 18 of 41 patients (44%) (p<0.0001) and allowed primary esophagectomy in only 6 patients (15%) (p<0.0001). Compared to histopathology, the overall accuracy of EUS staging for pT1 and pT2 was 80% for staging pT3 and pT4 77% and for lymph node evaluation was approximately 75%. Esophageal EUS offers useful information to clinicians caring for patients with esophageal cancer, impacts clinical decision making, and should be used in

Expression of immune checkpoints in T cells of esophageal cancer patients.

PubMed

Xie, Jinhua; Wang, Ji; Cheng, Shouliang; Zheng, Liangfeng; Ji, Feiyue; Yang, Lin; Zhang, Yan; Ji, Haoming

2016-09-27

Inhibition of immune checkpoint proteins (checkpoints) has become a promising anti-esophageal cancer strategy. We here tested expressions of immune checkpoints in human esophageal cancers. Our results showed the expressions of many immune checkpoints, including CD28, CD27, CD137L, programmed death 1 (PD-1), T cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (TIM-3), T cell Ig and ITIM domain (TIGIT), CD160, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), CD200, CD137 and CD158, were dysregulated in peripheral T cells of esophageal cancer patients. Further, the expressions of PD-1, TIM-3 and TIGIT were upregulated in tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which might be associated with TILs exhaustion. Meanwhile, the expressions of PD-1 and TIM-3 on CD4+ T cells were closely associated with clinic pathological features of esophageal cancer patients. These results indicate that co-inhibitory receptors PD-1, TIM-3 and TIGIT may be potential therapeutic oncotargets for esophageal cancer.

Silane surface modification for improved bioadhesion of esophageal stents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karakoy, Mert; Gultepe, Evin; Pandey, Shivendra; Khashab, Mouen A.; Gracias, David H.

2014-08-01

Stent migration occurs in 10-40% of patients who undergo placement of esophageal stents, with higher migration rates seen in those treated for benign esophageal disorders. This remains a major drawback of esophageal stent therapy. In this paper, we propose a new surface modification method to increase the adhesion between self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) and tissue while preserving their removability. Taking advantage of the well-known affinity between epoxide and amine terminated silane coupling agents with amine and carboxyl groups that are abundant in proteins and related molecules in the human body; we modified the surfaces of silicone coated esophageal SEMS with these adhesive self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). We utilized vapor phase silanization to modify the surfaces of different substrates including PDMS strips and SEMS, and measured the force required to slide these substrates on a tissue piece. Our results suggest that surface modification of esophageal SEMS via covalent attachment of protein-binding coupling agents improves adhesion to tissue and could offer a solution to reduce SEMS migration while preserving their removability.

Silane surface modification for improved bioadhesion of esophageal stents

PubMed Central

Karakoy, Mert; Gultepe, Evin; Pandey, Shivendra; Khashab, Mouen A.; Gracias, David H.

2014-01-01

Stent migration occurs in 10-40% of patients who undergo placement of esophageal stents, with higher migration rates seen in those treated for benign esophageal disorders. This remains a major drawback of esophageal stent therapy. In this paper, we propose a new surface modification method to increase the adhesion between self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) and tissue while preserving their removability. Taking advantage of the well-known affinity between epoxide and amine terminated silane coupling agents with amine and carboxyl groups that are abundant in proteins and related molecules in the human body; we modified the surfaces of silicone coated esophageal SEMS with these adhesive self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). We utilized vapor phase silanization to modify the surfaces of different substrates including PDMS strips and SEMS, and measured the force required to slide these substrates on a tissue piece. Our results suggest that surface modification of esophageal SEMS via covalent attachment of protein-binding coupling agents improves adhesion to tissue and could offer a solution to reduce SEMS migration while preserving their removability. PMID:25663731

Long-term esophageal motility changes after thyroidectomy: associations with aerodigestive disorders.

PubMed

Scerrino, G; Inviati, A; Di Giovanni, S; Paladino, N C; Di Giovanni, S; Paladino, N C; Di Paola, V; Raspanti, C; Melfa, G I; Cupido, F; Mazzola, S; Porrello, C; Bonventre, S; Gullotta, G

2017-01-01

Patients undergoing thyroidectomy often complain aerodigestive disorders. In a previous study we showed the associations between voice impairment and proximal acid reflux, swallowing impairment and Upper Esophageal Sphyncter (UES) incoordination and the decrease in UES pressure in thirty-six patients observed before and soon afterwards uncomplicated thyroidectomy. This study investigated the state of post-thyroidectomy esophageal motility changes and its associations with these disorders after 18-24 months. The thirty-six patients prospectively recruited according to selection criteria (thyroid volume ≤60 ml, benign disease, age 18-65 years, previous neck surgery, thyroiditis, pre- or postoperative vocal cord palsy) underwent voice (VIS) and swallowing (SIS) impairment scores, esophageal manometry and pH monitoring once again. After 18-24 months, both VIS and SIS recovered (respectively: p=0,022; p=0,0001); UES pressure increased (p=0,0001) nearing the preoperative values. The persistence of swallowing complaints were associated with the persistence of esophageal incoordination (p=0,03); the association between voice impairment and proximal acid reflux was confirmed (p<0,001). Our study confirms that aerodigestive disorders after uncomplicated thyroidectomy, largely transient, are strictly connected with upper esophageal motility changes. In this viewpoint, the innervation of upper aerodigestive anatomical structures (larynx, pharynx, upper esophagus) and its variations should be focused.

Esophageal hypermotility: cause or effect?

PubMed

Crespin, O M; Tatum, R P; Yates, R B; Sahin, M; Coskun, K; Martin, A V; Wright, A; Oelschlager, B K; Pellegrini, C A

2016-07-01

Nutcracker esophagus (NE), Jackhammer esophagus (JHE), distal esophageal spasm (DES), and hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter (HTLES) are defined by esophageal manometric findings. Some patients with these esophageal motility disorders also have abnormal gastroesophageal reflux. It is unclear to what extent these patients' symptoms are caused by the motility disorder, the acid reflux, or both. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) on esophageal motility disorders, gastroesophageal reflux, and patient symptoms. Between 2007 and 2013, we performed high-resolution esophageal manometry on 3400 patients, and 221 patients were found to have a spastic esophageal motility disorder. The medical records of these patients were reviewed to determine the manometric abnormality, presence of gastroesophageal symptoms, and amount of esophageal acid exposure. In those patients that underwent LNF, we compared pre- and postoperative esophageal motility, gastroesophageal symptom severity, and esophageal acid exposure. Of the 221 patients with spastic motility disorders, 77 had NE, 2 had JHE, 30 had DES, and 112 had HTLES. The most frequently reported primary and secondary symptoms among all patients were: heartburn and/or regurgitation, 69.2%; respiratory, 39.8%; dysphagia, 35.7%; and chest pain, 22.6%. Of the 221 patients, 192 underwent 24-hour pH monitoring, and 103 demonstrated abnormal distal esophageal acid exposure. Abnormal 24-hour pH monitoring was detected in 62% of patients with heartburn and regurgitation, 49% of patients with respiratory symptoms, 36.8 % of patients with dysphagia, and 32.6% of patients with chest pain. Sixty-six of the 103 patients with abnormal 24-hour pH monitoring underwent LNF. Thirty-eight (13NE, 2JHE, 6 DES, and 17 HTLES) of these 66 patients had a minimum of 6-month postoperative follow-up that included clinical evaluation, esophageal manometry, and 24-hour pH monitoring

Esophageal replacement.

PubMed

Kunisaki, Shaun M; Coran, Arnold G

2017-04-01

This article focuses on esophageal replacement as a surgical option for pediatric patients with end-stage esophageal disease. While it is obvious that the patient׳s own esophagus is the best esophagus, persisting with attempts to retain a native esophagus with no function and at all costs are futile and usually detrimental to the overall well-being of the child. In such cases, the esophagus should be abandoned, and the appropriate esophageal replacement is chosen for definitive reconstruction. We review the various types of conduits used for esophageal replacement and discuss the unique advantages and disadvantages that are relevant for clinical decision-making. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Esophageal Body Motility for Clinical Assessment in Patients with Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms

PubMed Central

Jiang, Liuqin; Ye, Bixing; Wang, Ying; Wang, Meifeng; Lin, Lin

2017-01-01

Background/Aims Little data exists about esophageal body dysmotility and reflux patterns in refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (RGERD) patients off therapy. We aimed to evaluate effects of esophageal body dysmotility on reflux parameters in RGERD patients by combining impedance-pH monitoring and high-resolution manometry (HRM). Methods We retrospectively reviewed the impedance-pH data and HRM metrics in patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Impedance-pH monitoring and manometric data were compared between 2 groups: ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and normal motility. Results Forty-eight patients (30 males, mean age 54.5 years) were included (16 erosive esophagitis, 24 non-erosive reflux disease, and 8 functional heartburn), amongst which 24 subjects showed IEM, and others had normal motility. Number of patients who had a large break in the IEM group was significantly higher than that of normal motility patients. IEM group had more patients with weakly acid reflux and long term acid reflux than the normal group (P = 0.008, P = 0.004, respectively). There was no statistical difference in baseine impedance levels from z4 to z6 between the 2 groups (2911 ± 1160 Ω vs 3604 ± 1232 Ω, 2766 ± 1254 Ω vs 3752 ± 1439 Ω, 2349 ± 1131 Ω vs 3038 ± 1254 Ω, all P > 0.05). Acid exposure time, numbers of long term acid reflux and weakly acid reflux showed strong negative correlation with esophageal body motility and/or lower esophageal sphincter function. Conclusions IEM was associated more with acid exposure, abnormal weakly acid reflux, and long term acid reflux in RGERD patients. These data suggested the role of esophageal body dysmotility in the pathophysiological mechanisms of RGERD patients. PMID:27599539

Influence of esophagectomy on the gastroesophageal reflux in patients with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Kim, D; Min, Y W; Park, J G; Lee, H; Min, B-H; Lee, J H; Rhee, P-L; Kim, J J; Zo, J I

2017-12-01

This study aims to assess the influence of esophagectomy with gastric transposition on the gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and gastric acidity in patients with esophageal cancer. Data on 53 esophageal cancer patients who underwent 24-hour impedance-pH monitoring after esophagectomy were retrospectively analyzed. We used a solid-state esophageal pH probe in which the esophageal pH sensor is placed 1.5 cm distal to the upper esophageal sphincter and the gastric pH sensor is located 15 cm distal to the esophageal pH channel. 24-hour impedance-pH monitoring data and other clinical data including anastomosis site stricture and incidence of pneumonia were collected. We defined pathologic reflux with reference to known normative data. Stricture was defined when an intervention such as bougienage or balloon dilatation was required to relieve dysphagia. The esophageal and gastric mean pH were 5.47 ± 1.51 and 3.33 ± 1.64, respectively. The percent time of acidic pH (<4) was 6.66 ± 12.49% in the esophagus and 70.53 ± 32.19% in the stomach. Esophageal pathologic acid reflux was noticed in 32.1%, 20.8%, and 35.8% during total, upright, and recumbent time, respectively. Esophageal pathologic bolus reflux was noted in 83.0%, 77.4%, and 64.2% during total, upright, and recumbent time, respectively. Gastric acidity increased with time after esophagectomy. Esophageal acid exposure time correlated with intragastric pH. However, esophageal pathologic acid reflux was not associated with anastomosis site stricture or pneumonia. In conclusion, GER frequently occurs after esophagectomy. Thus, strict lifestyle modifications and acid suppression would be necessary in patients following esophagectomy. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Pattern of food intolerance in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms.

PubMed

Caselli, Michele; Lo Cascio, Natalina; Rabitti, Stefano; Eusebi, Leonardo H; Zeni, Elena; Soavi, Cecilia; Cassol, Francesca; Zuliani, Giovanni; Zagari, Rocco M

2017-12-01

Many food items have been involved in gastro-esophageal reflux disease pathogenesis and dietary modification has been proposed as first-line treatment. Test-based exclusion diets have shown to significantly reduce reflux symptoms. We aimed to assess the patterns of food intolerance in a series of patients with typical gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms (GERS). We retrospectively evaluated all patients with typical reflux symptoms, attending the Centre Study Association on Food Intolerance and Nutrition of Ferrara from January 2010 to October 2015, who resulted positive to at least one food item at the Leucocytotoxic Test. The presence and severity of typical GERS (heartburn and/or acid regurgitation) were assessed using the Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease Impact Scale (GIS) questionnaire. Only individuals with a GIS Score of at least 5 points were included. Almost all patients (91.1%) were intolerant to at least 5 food items. The most frequent food intolerance (more than 33% of patients) were found for milk (55.4%), lettuce (46.4%), coffee (43.7%), brewer's yeast (42.9%), pork (42.9%), tuna (37.5%), rice (35.7%), sole (34.8%), asparagus (34.8%) and eggs (33.9%). Nine different clusters of food intolerance were detected. Patients with typical gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms seem to have intolerance to multiple food items, some of which (lettuce, brewer's yeast, tuna, rice, sole and asparagus) have not yet been associated to gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

[Nutritional screening before surgery for esophageal cancer - current status and evaluation results].

PubMed

Shimakawa, Takeshi; Asaka, Shinich; Sagawa, Masano; Shimazaki, Asako; Yamaguchi, Kentaro; Usui, Takebumi; Yokomizo, Hajime; Shiozawa, Shunichi; Yoshimatsu, Kazuhiko; Katsube, Takao; Naritaka, Yoshihiko

2014-10-01

The incidence of postoperative complications and mortality are usually higher in patients with preoperative malnutrition. Malnutrition often preexists, particularly in patients undergoing surgery for esophageal cancer, which is substantially invasive. It is therefore important to understand the nutritional condition of patients and actively control perioperative nutrition.Our hospital has been providing nutritional status screening for patients before resection of esophageal cancer, and we report the current status and evaluation results in this article.This screening included 158 patients requiring radical resection of esophageal cancer.Age, comorbidity with diabetes, body mass index(BMI), serum albumin(Alb), Onodera's prognostic nutritional index(PNI), and Glasgow prognostic score(GPS)were used as nutritional indicators to stratify patients for analysis.Evaluation parameters included the incidence of postoperative complications(any complication, pulmonary complications, psychiatric disorder, and anastomotic leakage)and rates of long-term postoperative hospitalization.The analysis indicated that age, BMI, serum Alb, PNI, and GPS are useful for predicting the onset of postoperative complications and prolonged postoperative hospitalization.For such patients, more active nutritional control should be provided.

Complications of botulinum toxin injections for treatment of esophageal motility disorders†.

PubMed

van Hoeij, Froukje B; Tack, Jan F; Pandolfino, John E; Sternbach, Joel M; Roman, Sabine; Smout, André J P M; Bredenoord, Albert J

2017-02-01

In achalasia and spastic esophageal motility disorders, botulinum toxin (botox) injection is considered an effective and low-risk procedure for short-term symptom relief. It is mainly offered to medically high-risk patients. However, no analysis of risks of botox injections has been performed. To determine the incidence and risk factors of procedure-related complications after esophageal botox injections, we analyzed the records of all patients undergoing botox injection therapy for esophageal motility disorders at four university hospitals in Europe and North America between 2008 and 2014. Complications were assigned grades according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. In 386 patients, 661 botox treatments were performed. Main indications were achalasia (51%) and distal esophageal spasm (DES) (30%). In total, 52 (7.9%) mild complications (Clavien-Dindo grade I) were reported by 48 patients, the majority consisting of chest pain or heartburn (29 procedures) or epigastric pain (5 procedures). No ulceration, perforation, pneumothorax, or abscess were reported. One patient died after developing acute mediastinitis (Clavien-Dindo grade V) following injections in the body of the esophagus. In univariate logistic regression, younger age was associated with an increased risk of complications (OR 1.43, 95%CI 1.03-1.96). Treatment for DES, injections into the esophageal body, more injections per procedure, more previous treatments and larger amount of injected botulinum toxin were no risk factors for complications. Esophageal botox injection seems particularly appropriate for high-risk patients due to low complication rate. However, it should not be considered completely safe, as it is associated with rare side effects that cannot be predicted. © 2016 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Esophageal Cancer Treatment Is Underutilized Among Elderly Patients in the USA.

PubMed

Molena, Daniela; Stem, Miloslawa; Blackford, Amanda L; Lidor, Anne O

2017-01-01

Large numbers of elderly patients in the USA receive no treatment for esophageal cancer, despite evidence that multimodality treatment can increase survival. Our goal is to identify factors that may contribute to lack of treatment. Using Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare Linked Database (2001-2009), we identified regional esophageal cancer patients ≥65 years old. Treatment was defined as receiving any medical or surgical therapy for esophageal cancer. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with failure to receive treatment. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard model. There were 5072 patients (median age, 75 years; interquartile range (IQR), 71-81 years). Majority were treated with definitive chemoradiation (48.49 %). Factors associated with lack of treatment included West geographic region and ≥80 years old. Patients who received therapy had better OS (log-rank, p < 0.001). Compared with treated patients, non-treated patients had worse adjusted OS (HR, 1.43; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.33-1.55; p < 0.001). Elderly patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer who received treatment had improved 5-year survival compared with patients without treatment. Disparities in utilization of treatment are associated with regional and socioeconomic factors, not presence of comorbidities.

[Primary esophageal motility disorders; especially about esophageal achalasia].

PubMed

Miyazaki, Tatsuya; Sohda, Makoto; Sakai, Makoto; Tanaka, Naritaka; Suzuki, Shigemasa; Yokobori, Takehiko; Inose, Takanori; Nakajima, Masanobu; Fukuchi, Minoru; Kato, Hiroyuki; Kusano, Motoyasu; Kuwano, Hiroyuki

2011-07-01

Esophageal motility disorders are classified primary and secondary, and primary esophageal motility disorders are classified esophageal achalasia and other diseases by manometry. An esophageal emptying disorder associated with insufficient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and elimination of peristaltic waves on the esophageal body is the major abnormality of achalasia. Esophagogram, endoscopy, and manometry are used for diagnosis. As pharmacological therapy, administration of a calcium channel blocker or nitrate is useful. The pharmacological therapy is not recommended as long-term basic therapy but as a temporary treatment. At 1st, the balloon dilation method is chosen in treatment of achalasia Surgical treatment is indicated in the following cases: (1) Patients uneffected by balloon dilation, (2) Flask type with grade II to III dilation, and sigmoid type, (3) the gradual progression to the pathophysiological stage, (4) young patients, (5) complicated with esophageal cancer. Laparoscopic Heller-Dor procedure is the most popular surgical procedure, recently. It is somewhat difficult to perform surgical treatment for this functional disease. We should select the most suitable individualized treatment with efficient comprehension of the pathophysiological situation.

Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation and esophageal motor response.

PubMed

Schneider, Joachim H; Küper, Markus A; Königsrainer, Alfred; Brücher, Björn L D M

2010-04-01

Gastroesophageal reflux is caused by transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) in healthy individuals and in most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Refluxate is normally propelled by pharyngeally induced swallowing events, but TLESRs may also be accompanied by retrograde esophageal motor responses (EMRs). These contractions have not previously been investigated and their effect on esophageal clearance is not known. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of EMRs after TLESR in healthy individuals and GERD patients and to develop an animal model for further investigation of EMRs. The frequency of TLESRs and esophageal body contractions after TLESRs was assessed using ambulatory manometry in five healthy individuals and five GERD patients. An animal model was developed for reproducible provocation of TLESRs and subsequent EMRs. Patients with GERD have significantly more TLESRs than healthy individuals. However, post-TLESR EMRs were not more frequent in the GERD group. All post-TLESR EMRs presented as simultaneous contractions of the esophagus. The feline model allowed reproducible initiation of the esophageal motor response after TLESR, showing that EMRs can be induced by external mechanoreceptor stimulation simultaneously with LES relaxation. This experimental design imitates the conditions after fundoplication in humans. The study demonstrated that GERD patients have significantly more TLESRs in comparison with healthy individuals, but these were only incidental to EMRs. Further research is needed to improve our understanding of esophageal motility disorders. The animal model presented offers a feasible tool for investigating TLESR-induced esophageal motility.

MicroRNA-130a is highly expressed in the esophageal mucosa of achalasia patients

PubMed Central

Shoji, Hiroyuki; Isomoto, Hajime; Yoshida, Akira; Ikeda, Haruo; Minami, Hitomi; Kanda, Tsutomu; Urabe, Shigetoshi; Matsushima, Kayoko; Takeshima, Fuminao; Nakao, Kazuhiko; Inoue, Haruhiro

2017-01-01

Esophageal achalasia is considered as a risk factor of esophageal cancer. The etiologies of esophageal achalasia remain unknown. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently been established as a minimally invasive method with high curability. The aims of the present study were to identify the microRNAs (miRs) specific to esophageal achalasia, to determine their potential target genes and to assess their alteration following POEM. RNA was extracted from biopsy samples from middle esophageal mucosa and analyzed using a microarray. Differentially expressed miRs in achalasia patients compared with control samples were identified and analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Correlations between specific miR expression levels and the patients' clinical background were also investigated. In addition, alterations of selected miR expression levels before and after POEM were analyzed. The results of RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that the miR-130a expression levels were significantly higher in patients with achalasia (P<0.0001). In addition, miR-130a expression was significantly correlated with male sex and smoking history in patients with achalasia. However, no significant change in miR-130a expression was observed between before and after POEM. In conclusion, miR-130a is highly expressed in the esophageal mucosa of patients with achalasia and may be a biomarker of esophageal achalasia. PMID:28810541

MicroRNA-130a is highly expressed in the esophageal mucosa of achalasia patients.

PubMed

Shoji, Hiroyuki; Isomoto, Hajime; Yoshida, Akira; Ikeda, Haruo; Minami, Hitomi; Kanda, Tsutomu; Urabe, Shigetoshi; Matsushima, Kayoko; Takeshima, Fuminao; Nakao, Kazuhiko; Inoue, Haruhiro

2017-08-01

Esophageal achalasia is considered as a risk factor of esophageal cancer. The etiologies of esophageal achalasia remain unknown. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently been established as a minimally invasive method with high curability. The aims of the present study were to identify the microRNAs (miRs) specific to esophageal achalasia, to determine their potential target genes and to assess their alteration following POEM. RNA was extracted from biopsy samples from middle esophageal mucosa and analyzed using a microarray. Differentially expressed miRs in achalasia patients compared with control samples were identified and analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Correlations between specific miR expression levels and the patients' clinical background were also investigated. In addition, alterations of selected miR expression levels before and after POEM were analyzed. The results of RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that the miR-130a expression levels were significantly higher in patients with achalasia (P<0.0001). In addition, miR-130a expression was significantly correlated with male sex and smoking history in patients with achalasia. However, no significant change in miR-130a expression was observed between before and after POEM. In conclusion, miR-130a is highly expressed in the esophageal mucosa of patients with achalasia and may be a biomarker of esophageal achalasia.

Risk Evaluation of Postoperative Delirium Using Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment in Elderly Patients with Esophageal Cancer.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Masaaki; Yamasaki, Makoto; Sugimoto, Ken; Maekawa, Yoshihiro; Miyazaki, Yasuhiro; Makino, Tomoki; Takahashi, Tsuyoshi; Kurokawa, Yukinori; Nakajima, Kiyokazu; Takiguchi, Shuji; Rakugi, Hiromi; Mori, Masaki; Doki, Yuichiro

2016-11-01

The number of geriatric patients with esophageal cancer is increasing in step with the aging of the population. Geriatric patients have a higher risk of postoperative complications, including delirium that can cause a fall or impact survival. Therefore, it is very important that we evaluate risks of postoperative complications before surgery. The aim of this study was to predict postoperative delirium in elderly patients. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 91 patients aged 75 years and over who underwent esophagectomy between January 2006 and December 2014. We investigated the association between postoperative delirium and clinicopathological factors, including comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). Postoperative delirium developed in 24 (26 %) patients. Postoperative delirium was significantly associated with low mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and high Geriatric Depression Scale 15 (GDS15), which are components of CGA, and psychiatric disorder (P < 0.0001, P = 0.002, and P = 0.017, respectively). With multiple logistic regression analysis, MMSE (odds ratio [OR], 1.4; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.2-1.6; P < 0.0001] and GDS15 (OR, 1.3; 95 % CI, 1.1-1.6; P = 0.004) were independently associated with postoperative delirium. Preoperative CGA, especially MMSE and GDS15, was useful for predicting postoperative delirium in elderly patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Intervention by a multidisciplinary team using CGA might help prevent postoperative delirium.

Office-based esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer: Safety, feasibility, and cost analysis.

PubMed

Howell, Rebecca J; Schopper, Melissa A; Giliberto, John Paul; Collar, Ryan M; Khosla, Sid M

2018-02-08

To review experience, safety, and cost of office-based esophageal dilation in patients with history of head and neck cancer (HNCA). The medical records of patients undergoing esophageal dilation in the office were retrospectively reviewed between August 2015 and May 2017. Patients were given nasal topical anesthesia. Next, a transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) was performed. If the patient tolerated TNE, we proceeded with esophageal dilation using Seldinger technique with the CRE™ Boston Scientific (Boston Scientific Corp., Marlborough, MA) balloon system. Patients were discharged directly from the outpatient clinic. Forty-seven dilations were performed in 22 patients with an average of 2.1 dilations/patient (range 1-10, standard deviation [SD] ± 2.2). Seventeen patients (77%) were male. The average age was 67 years (range 35-78 years, SD ± 8.5). The most common primary site of cancer was oral cavity/oropharynx (n = 10), followed by larynx (n = 6). All patients (100%) had history of radiation treatment. Four patients were postlaryngectomy. The indication for esophageal dilation was esophageal stricture and progressive dysphagia. All dilations occurred in the proximal esophagus. There were no major complications. Three focal, superficial lacerations occurred. Two patients experienced mild, self-limited epistaxis. One dilation was poorly tolerated due to discomfort. One patient required pain medication postprocedure. Office-based esophageal dilation generated $15,000 less in health system charges compared to traditional operating room dilation on average per episode of care. In patients with history of HNCA and radiation, office-based TNE with esophageal dilation appears safe, well-tolerated, and cost-effective. In a small cohort, the technique has low complication rate and is feasible in an otolaryngology outpatient office setting. 4. Laryngoscope, 2018. © 2018 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

Esophageal luminal stenosis is an independent prognostic factor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Yang, Yu-Shang; Hu, Wei-Peng; Ni, Peng-Zhi; Wang, Wen-Ping; Yuan, Yong; Chen, Long-Qi

2017-06-27

Predictive value of preoperative endoscopic characteristic of esophageal tumor has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of esophageal luminal stenosis on survival for patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The clinicopathologic characteristics of 623 ESCC patients who underwent curative resection as the primary treatment between January 2005 and April 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. The esophageal luminal stenosis measured by endoscopy was defined as a uniform measurement preoperatively. The impact of esophageal luminal stenosis on patients' overall survival (OS) and relation with other clinicopathological features were assessed. A Cox regression model was used to identify prognostic factors. The results showed that OS significantly decreased in patients with manifest stenotic tumor compared with patients without luminal obstruction (P<0.05). Considerable esophageal luminal stenosis was associated with a higher T stage, longer tumor length, and poorer differentiation (all P<0.05). In multivariate survival analysis, esophageal luminal stenosis remained as an independent prognostic factor for OS (P= 0.036). Esophageal luminal stenosis could have a significant impact on the OS in patients with resected ESCC and may provide additional prognostic value to the current staging system before any cancer-specific treatment.

Fully covered Alimaxx esophageal metal stents in the endoscopic treatment of benign esophageal diseases.

PubMed

Senousy, Bahaa E; Gupte, Anand R; Draganov, Peter V; Forsmark, Chris E; Wagh, Mihir S

2010-12-01

Expandable esophageal stents are widely used for the palliation of dysphagia in patients with esophageal cancer and are also beginning to be used in patients with benign esophageal diseases such as refractory strictures and fistulas. There is concern regarding the increased risk of migration of the fully covered Alimaxx metal esophageal stent and experience with this stent in benign esophageal pathology has been reported in only a small series of patients. To evaluate the technical success in placement and removal, efficacy and complications of the Alimaxx esophageal stent for benign esophageal diseases. Our endoscopy database was retrospectively reviewed from 1/2003 to 2/2009 to identify patients with Alimaxx esophageal stent placement for benign diseases. Chart review was performed for age, gender, indication, site of the lesion, success of placement, outcome, and incidence of complications. Twenty-eight stents were successfully placed in 14 patients with benign esophageal diseases (mean: two stents/patient; range 1-7). Indications included esophageal fistula in seven (50%) and benign strictures in 7/14 (50%). Dysphagia improved in all patients while the fistula resolved in 6/7 (85.8%) patients. Complications related to stents included pain (2/28, 7%), stent related gastric ulcer (1/28, 4%), nausea and vomiting (3/21, 11%) and stent migration (11/28, 39%). All migrated stents were successfully endoscopically retrieved. The fully covered and removable Alimaxx stent is effective in the endoscopic management of benign esophageal strictures or fistulas, despite its relatively high rate of migration. Stent migration was successfully managed endoscopically without complications.

Anxiety and depressive disorders among patients with esophageal cancer in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based study.

PubMed

Hu, Li-Yu; Ku, Fan-Chen; Wang, Yen-Po; Shen, Cheng-Che; Hu, Yu-Wen; Yeh, Chiu-Mei; Chen, Pan-Ming; Chiang, Huey-Ling; Lu, Ti; Chen, Tzeng-Ji; Teng, Chung-Jen; Liu, Chia-Jen

2015-03-01

The comorbidity of depression with anxiety disorders is associated with poorer treatment outcomes, worse quality of life, poorer adherence to treatment, and greater suicide risk in cancer patients. To assess the risk of comorbid anxiety and depressive disorders after the diagnosis of esophageal cancer compared with a matched cohort by using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). We conducted a retrospective study of 28,454 patients (14,227 patients with esophageal cancer and 14,227 matched patients) who were selected from the NHIRD. Patients were observed for a maximum of 12 years to determine the incidence of new-onset anxiety and depressive disorders for which antidepressants had been prescribed. A Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors associated with anxiety and depressive disorders in esophageal cancer patients. The cumulative incidence of anxiety and depressive disorders in the esophageal cancer patients was significantly higher than that in the matched cohort (P < .001). The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was 2.24 (95 % confidence interval, CI = 1.95-2.56, P < .001) in the esophageal cancer cohort compared with the matched cohort. Independent risk factors for developing anxiety and depressive disorders among the patients with esophageal cancer included cirrhosis, cerebrovascular disease, and surgical treatment. Esophageal cancer may be a prominent risk factor for anxiety and depressive disorders. Based on our data, we suggest that attention should be focused on esophageal cancer patients with comorbid cirrhosis and cerebrovascular disease and those who have received surgical interventions.

Does Chicago Classification address Symptom Correlation with High-resolution Esophageal Manometry?

PubMed Central

Srinivas, Melpakkam; Bawane, Piyush; Venkataraman, Jayanthi

2017-01-01

Aim: To assess the correlation of symptoms with findings on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) in Indian patients. Materials and methods: Prospective data collection of all patients undergoing esophageal manometry was done at two centers in India—Indore and Chennai—over a period of 18 months. Symptom profile of the study group was divided into four: Motor dysphagia, noncardiac chest pain (NCCP), gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and esophageal belchers. The symptoms were correlated with manometric findings. Results: Of the study group (154), 35.71% patients had a normal study, while major and minor peristaltic disorders were noted in 31.16 and 33.76% respectively. In patients with symptoms of dysphagia, achalasia cardia was the commonest cause (45.1%), followed by ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) (22.53%) and normal study (19.71%). In patients with NCCP, normal peristalsis (50%) and ineffective motility (31.25%) formed the major diagnosis. Of the 56 patients with GER symptoms, 26 (46.4%) had normal manometry. An equal number had ineffective motility. Of the 11 esophageal belchers, 7 (63.6%) of these had a normal study and 3 had major motility disorder. Dysphagia was the only symptom to have a high likelihood ratio and positive predictive value to pick up major motility disorder. Conclusion: Dysphagia correlates with high chance to pick up a major peristaltic abnormality in motor dysphagia. The role of manometry in other symptoms in Indian setting needs to be ascertained by larger studies. Clinical significance: The present study highlights lack of symptom correlation with manometry findings in Indian patients. How to cite this article: Jain M, Srinivas M, Bawane P, Venkataraman J. Does Chicago Classification address Symptom Correlation with High-resolution Esophageal Manometry? Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):122-125. PMID:29201792

Does Chicago Classification address Symptom Correlation with High-resolution Esophageal Manometry?

PubMed

Jain, Mayank; Srinivas, Melpakkam; Bawane, Piyush; Venkataraman, Jayanthi

2017-01-01

To assess the correlation of symptoms with findings on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) in Indian patients. Prospective data collection of all patients undergoing esophageal manometry was done at two centers in India-Indore and Chennai-over a period of 18 months. Symptom profile of the study group was divided into four: Motor dysphagia, noncardiac chest pain (NCCP), gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and esophageal belchers. The symptoms were correlated with manometric findings. Of the study group (154), 35.71% patients had a normal study, while major and minor peristaltic disorders were noted in 31.16 and 33.76% respectively. In patients with symptoms of dysphagia, achalasia cardia was the commonest cause (45.1%), followed by ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) (22.53%) and normal study (19.71%). In patients with NCCP, normal peristalsis (50%) and ineffective motility (31.25%) formed the major diagnosis. Of the 56 patients with GER symptoms, 26 (46.4%) had normal manometry. An equal number had ineffective motility. Of the 11 esophageal belchers, 7 (63.6%) of these had a normal study and 3 had major motility disorder. Dysphagia was the only symptom to have a high likelihood ratio and positive predictive value to pick up major motility disorder. Dysphagia correlates with high chance to pick up a major peristaltic abnormality in motor dysphagia. The role of manometry in other symptoms in Indian setting needs to be ascertained by larger studies. The present study highlights lack of symptom correlation with manometry findings in Indian patients. How to cite this article: Jain M, Srinivas M, Bawane P, Venkataraman J. Does Chicago Classification address Symptom Correlation with High-resolution Esophageal Manometry? Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):122-125.

The 5-HT1A receptor agonist buspirone improves esophageal motor function and symptoms in systemic sclerosis: a 4-week, open-label trial.

PubMed

Karamanolis, George P; Panopoulos, Stylianos; Denaxas, Konstantinos; Karlaftis, Anastasios; Zorbala, Alexandra; Kamberoglou, Dimitrios; Ladas, Spiros D; Sfikakis, Petros P

2016-09-01

Acute administration of the oral 5-HT1A receptor agonist buspirone, which is commonly used as an anxiolytic drug, may improve compromised lower esophageal sphincter function. In an open-label trial we assessed the effects of buspirone on esophageal motor function and symptoms in patients with esophageal involvement associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Thirty consecutive patients with SSc and symptomatic esophageal involvement, despite treatment with proton pump inhibitors, underwent high resolution manometry and chest computed tomography for assessment of motor function and esophageal dilatation, respectively. Regurgitation, heartburn, dysphagia, and chest pain severity was subjectively scored by visual analog scales. Manometric parameters (primary endpoint) and symptom severity (secondary endpoint) were re-examined after 4-week daily administration of 20 mg buspirone. Other medications remained unchanged. Eight patients did not complete the trial because of buspirone-associated dizziness (n = 2), or nausea (n = 2), or reluctancy to undergo final manometry. In the remaining 22 patients lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure increased from 7.7 ± 3.9 to 12.2 ± 4.6 mmHg (p = 0.00002) after buspirone administration; other manometric parameters did not change. Statistical analysis revealed negative correlation between individual increases in resting LES pressure and supra-aortic esophageal diameter (r = -0.589, p = 0.017), suggesting a more beneficial effect in patients with less severely affected esophageal function. Heartburn and regurgitation scores decreased at 4 weeks compared to baseline (p = 0.001, and p = 0.022, respectively). Our findings warrant more conclusive evaluation with a double-blind controlled study; however, buspirone could potentially be given under observation for objective improvement in all patients with SSc who report reflux symptoms despite undergoing standard treatment. Clinical

Effect of electrical stimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter using endoscopically implanted temporary stimulation leads in patients with reflux disease.

PubMed

Banerjee, Rupa; Pratap, Nitesh; Kalpala, Rakesh; Reddy, D Nageshwar

2014-03-01

Electrical stimulation therapy (EST) has been shown to increase lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure in animals; however, data on the effect of EST on LES pressure in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are lacking. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of EST on LES pressure and esophageal function in patients with GERD. Patients with a diagnosis of GERD responsive to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), increased esophageal acid on 24-h pH monitoring off GERD medications, basal LES pressure >5 mmHg, hernia <2 cm and esophagitis patients (mean age 34.6 years) underwent successful endoscopic lead implantation; the first patient had premature lead dislodgement and did not undergo EST. The remaining five patients underwent successful EST. All patients had a significant increase in LES pressure with all sessions of EST. There was no effect on swallow-induced LES relaxation, And there were no EST-related adverse symptoms or any cardiac rhythm abnormalities. In patients with GERD, short-term EST delivered using electrodes endoscopically implanted in the LES results in a significant increase in LES pressure without affecting patients' swallow function or causing any adverse symptoms or cardiac rhythm disturbances. EST may offer

Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) metrics on high-resolution manometry (HRM) differentiate achalasia subtypes.

PubMed

Blais, P; Patel, A; Sayuk, G S; Gyawali, C P

2017-12-01

The upper esophageal sphincter (UES) reflexively responds to bolus presence within the esophageal lumen, therefore UES metrics can vary in achalasia. Within consecutive patients undergoing esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM), 302 patients (58.2±1.0 year, 57% F) with esophageal outflow obstruction were identified, and compared to 16 asymptomatic controls (27.7±0.7 year, 56% F). Esophageal outflow obstruction was segregated into achalasia subtypes 1, 2, and 3, and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO with intact peristalsis) using Chicago Classification v3.0. UES and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) metrics were compared between esophageal outflow obstruction and normal controls using univariate and multivariate analysis. Linear regression excluded multicollinearity of pressure metrics that demonstrated significant differences across individual subtype comparisons. LES integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) had utility in differentiating achalasia from controls (P<.0001), but no utility in segregating between subtypes (P=.27). In comparison to controls, patients collectively demonstrated univariate differences in UES mean basal pressure, relaxation time to nadir, recovery time, and residual pressure (UES-RP) (P≤.049). UES-RP was highest in type 2 achalasia (P<.0001 compared to other subtypes and controls). In multivariate analysis, only UES-RP retained significance in comparison between each of the subgroups (P≤.02 for each comparison). Intrabolus pressure was highest in type 3 achalasia; this demonstrated significant differences across some but not all subtype comparisons. Nadir UES-RP can differentiate achalasia subtypes within the esophageal outflow obstruction spectrum, with highest values in type 2 achalasia. This metric likely represents a surrogate marker for esophageal pressurization. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

High prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis in patients with inherited connective tissue disorders

PubMed Central

Abonia, J. Pablo; Wen, Ting; Stucke, Emily M.; Grotjan, Tommie; Griffith, Molly S.; Kemme, Katherine A.; Collins, Margaret H.; Putnam, Philip E.; Franciosi, James P.; von Tiehl, Karl F.; Tinkle, Brad T.; Marsolo, Keith A.; Martin, Lisa J.; Ware, Stephanie M.; Rothenberg, Marc E.

2013-01-01

Background Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an emerging chronic inflammatory disease mediated by immune hypersensitization to multiple foods and strongly associated with atopy and esophageal remodeling. Objective We provide clinical and molecular evidence indicating a high prevalence of EoE in patients with inherited connective tissue disorders (CTDs). Methods We examined the rate of EoE among patients with CTDs and subsequently analyzed esophageal mRNA transcript profiles in patients with EoE with or without CTD features. Results We report a cohort of 42 patients with EoE with a CTD-like syndrome, representing 0.8% of patients with CTDs and 1.3% of patients with EoE within our hospital-wide electronic medical record database and our EoE research registry, respectively. An 8-fold risk of EoE in patients with CTDs (relative risk, 8.1; 95% confidence limit, 5.1-12.9; χ21 = 112.0; P < 10−3) was present compared with the general population. Esophageal transcript profiling identified a distinct subset of genes, including COL8A2, in patients with EoE and CTDs. Conclusion There is a remarkable association of EoE with CTDs and evidence for a differential expression of genes involved in connective tissue repair in this cohort. Thus, we propose stratification of patients with EoE and CTDs into a subset referred to as EoE-CTD. PMID:23608731

Clinical and dosimetric factors of radiation-induced esophageal injury: radiation-induced esophageal toxicity.

PubMed

Qiao, Wen-Bo; Zhao, Yan-Hui; Zhao, Yan-Bin; Wang, Rui-Zhi

2005-05-07

To analyze the clinical and dosimetric predictive factors for radiation-induced esophageal injury in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) during three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). We retrospectively analyzed 208 consecutive patients (146 men and 62 women) with NSCLC treated with 3D-CRT. The median age of the patients was 64 years (range 35-87 years). The clinical and treatment parameters including gender, age, performance status, sequential chemotherapy, concurrent chemotherapy, presence of carinal or subcarinal lymph nodes, pretreatment weight loss, mean dose to the entire esophagus, maximal point dose to the esophagus, and percentage of volume of esophagus receiving >55 Gy were studied. Clinical and dosimetric factors for radiation-induced acute and late grade 3-5 esophageal injury were analyzed according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) criteria. Twenty-five (12%) of the two hundred and eight patients developed acute or late grade 3-5 esophageal injury. Among them, nine patients had both acute and late grade 3-5 esophageal injury, two died of late esophageal perforation. Concurrent chemotherapy and maximal point dose to the esophagus > or =60 Gy were significantly associated with the risk of grade 3-5 esophageal injury. Fifty-four (26%) of the two hundred and eight patients received concurrent chemotherapy. Among them, 25 (46%) developed grade 3-5 esophageal injury (P = 0.0001<0.01). However, no grade 3-5 esophageal injury occurred in patients who received a maximal point dose to the esophagus <60 Gy (P = 0.0001<0.01). Concurrent chemotherapy and the maximal esophageal point dose > or =60 Gy are significantly associated with the risk of grade 3-5 esophageal injury in patients with NSCLC treated with 3D-CRT.

Risk Factors for Esophageal Fistula Associated With Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable Esophageal Cancer

PubMed Central

Tsushima, Takahiro; Mizusawa, Junki; Sudo, Kazuki; Honma, Yoshitaka; Kato, Ken; Igaki, Hiroyasu; Tsubosa, Yasuhiro; Shinoda, Masayuki; Nakamura, Kenichi; Fukuda, Haruhiko; Kitagawa, Yuko

2016-01-01

Abstract Esophageal fistula is a critical adverse event in patients treated with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced esophageal cancer. However, risk factors associated with esophageal fistula formation in patients receiving CRT have not yet been elucidated. We retrospectively analyzed data obtained from 140 patients who were enrolled in a phase II/III trial comparing low-dose cisplatin with standard-dose cisplatin administered in combination with 5-flurouracil and concomitant radiotherapy. Inclusion criteria were performance status (PS) 0 to 2 and histologically proven thoracic esophageal cancer clinically diagnosed as T4 and/or unresectable lymph node metastasis for which definitive CRT was applicable. Risk factors for esophageal fistula were examined with univariate analysis using Fisher exact test and multivariate analysis using logistic regression models. Esophageal fistula was observed in 31 patients (22%). Of these, 6 patients developed fistula during CRT. Median time interval between the date of CRT initiation and that of fistula diagnosis was 100 days (inter quartile range, 45–171). Esophageal stenosis was the only significant risk factor for esophageal fistula formation both in univariate (P = 0.026) and in multivariate analyses (odds ratio, 2.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.13–5.92, P = 0.025). Other clinicopathological factors, namely treatment arm, age, sex, PS, primary tumor location, T stage, lymph node invasion to adjacent organs, blood cell count, albumin level, and body mass index, were not risk factors fistula formation. Esophageal stenosis was a significant risk factor for esophageal fistula formation in patients treated with CRT for unresectable locally advanced thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. PMID:27196482

Esophageal motility pattern and gastro-esophageal reflux in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Gadel, Abil Ali; Mostafa, Mohamed; Younis, Ahmed; Haleem, Magdy

2012-01-01

The association of esophageal motility and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms with respiratory symptoms is not well established in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this work is to study the abnormalities of esophageal function in COPD patients and study its relation to smoking index, body mass index and indices of hyperinflation. This study included 40 male COPD patients and 10 healthy controls. The patients and controls were subjected to spirometry, body plethysmography, esophageal manometry and 24hr pH-metry. Upper gastrointestinal symptoms were found in 55% of patients, hypotensive upper esophageal sphincter pressure in 65% of patients and hypotensive lower esophageal sphincter pressure in 52.5% of patients. Pathological acid reflux was found in 35% of patients. The severity of GERD increased with increased age, smoking index and body mass index, p<0.005. There was negative correlation between LESP and UESP compared with indices of hyperinflation, p<0.001. There was high prevalence of esophageal motility disorders in COPD patients, LESP and UESP were significantly negatively correlated to indices of hyperinflation. There was a high prevalence of GERD in COPD patents especially elderly, severe stage of COPD, high smoking index and high body mass index (BMI).

Early enteral nutrition compared with parenteral nutrition for esophageal cancer patients after esophagectomy: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Peng, J; Cai, J; Niu, Z-X; Chen, L-Q

2016-05-01

Early postoperative enteral nutrition (EN) after esophagectomy in esophageal cancer patient has been reported to be correlated with a better rehabilitation than parenteral nutrition (PN). However, a robust conclusion has not been achieved. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to compare the postoperative EN and PN in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing esophagectomy. Three electronic databases were searched for eligible studies to be included in the meta-analysis. The summary relative risk/weighted mean difference (RR/WMD) estimates and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using fixed- and random-effects models. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The analysis demonstrated that the early postoperative EN could significantly decrease the pulmonary complications (RR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.22-0.62, P = 0.00, test for heterogeneity: I(2) = 0.0%, P = 0.89) and anastomotic leakage (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.22-0.96, P = 0.04, test for heterogeneity: I(2) = 0.0%, P = 0.66) compared with PN. On the eighth postoperative day, the EN group had a higher levels of albumin (WMD = 1.84, 95% CI = 0.47-3.21, P = 0.01, test for heterogeneity: I(2) = 84.5%, P = 0.00) and prealbumin (WMD = 12.96, 95% CI = 3.63-22.29, P = 0.01, test for heterogeneity: I(2) = 0.0%, P = 0.63) compared with the PN group. However, there was no difference in digestive complications between these two approaches (RR = 1.30, 95% CI = 0.79-2.13, P = 0.30, test for heterogeneity: I(2) = 0.0%, P = 0.97). For patients with esophageal cancer following esophagectomy, the early postoperative EN support could decrease the morbidity of severe complications, such as pulmonary complications and anastomotic leakage, and maintain patients at a better nutritional status than parenteral nutrion support. © 2015 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Effect of perioperative oral care on prevention of postoperative pneumonia associated with esophageal cancer surgery: A multicenter case-control study with propensity score matching analysis.

PubMed

Soutome, Sakiko; Yanamoto, Souichi; Funahara, Madoka; Hasegawa, Takumi; Komori, Takahide; Yamada, Shin-Ichi; Kurita, Hiroshi; Yamauchi, Chika; Shibuya, Yasuyuki; Kojima, Yuka; Nakahara, Hirokazu; Oho, Takahiko; Umeda, Masahiro

2017-08-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of oral care in prevention of postoperative pneumonia associated with esophageal cancer surgery.Postoperative pneumonia is a severe adverse event associated with esophageal cancer surgery. It is thought to be caused by aspiration of oropharyngeal fluid containing pathogens. However, the relationship between oral health status and postoperative pneumonia has not been well investigated.This study included 539 patients with esophageal cancer undergoing surgery at 1 of 7 university hospitals. While 306 patients received perioperative oral care, 233 did not. Various clinical factors as well as occurrence of postoperative pneumonia were retrospectively evaluated. Propensity-score matching was performed to minimize selection biases associated with comparison of retrospective data between the oral care and control groups. Factors related to postoperative pneumonia were analyzed by logistic regression analysis.Of the original 539 patients, 103 (19.1%) experienced postoperative pneumonia. The results of multivariate analysis of the 420 propensity score-matched patients revealed longer operation time, postoperative dysphagia, and lack of oral care intervention to be significantly correlated with postoperative pneumonia.The present findings demonstrate that perioperative oral care can reduce the risk of postoperative pneumonia in patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery.

Different definitions of esophagus influence esophageal toxicity prediction for esophageal cancer patients administered simultaneous integrated boost versus standard-dose radiation therapy.

PubMed

Huang, Bao-Tian; Huang, Rui-Hong; Zhang, Wu-Zhe; Lin, Wen; Guo, Long-Jia; Xu, Liang-Yu; Lin, Pei-Xian; Chen, Jian-Zhou; Li, De-Rui; Chen, Chuang-Zhen

2017-03-09

We aim to evaluate whether different definitions of esophagus (DEs) impact on the esophageal toxicity prediction for esophageal cancer (EC) patients administered intensity-modulated radiation therapy with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB-IMRT) vs. standard-dose IMRT (SD-IMRT). The esophagus for 21 patients diagnosed with primary EC were defined in the following four ways: the whole esophagus, including the tumor (ESO whole ); ESO whole within the treatment field (ESO infield ); ESO infield , excluding the tumor (ESO infield-tumor ) and ESO whole , excluding the tumor (ESO whole-tumor ). The difference in the dose variation, acute esophageal toxicity (AET) and late esophageal toxicity (LET) of four DEs were compared. We found that the mean esophageal dose for ESO whole , ESO infield , ESO infield-tumor and ESO whole-tumor were increased by 7.2 Gy, 10.9 Gy, 4.6 Gy and 2.0 Gy, respectively, in the SIB-IMRT plans. Radiobiological models indicated that a grade ≥ 2 AET was 2.9%, 3.1%, 2.2% and 1.6% higher on average with the Kwint model and 14.6%, 13.2%, 7.2% and 3.4% higher with the Wijsman model for the four DEs. A grade ≥ 3 AET increased by 4.3%, 7.2%, 4.2% and 1.2%, respectively. Additionally, the predicted LET increased by 0.15%, 0.39%, 1.2 × 10 -2 % and 1.5 × 10 -3 %. Our study demonstrates that different DEs influence the esophageal toxicity prediction for EC patients administered SIB-IMRT vs. SD-IMRT treatment.

Esophageal luminal stenosis is an independent prognostic factor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

PubMed Central

Yang, Yu-Shang; Hu, Wei-Peng; Ni, Peng-Zhi; Wang, Wen-Ping; Yuan, Yong; Chen, Long-Qi

2017-01-01

Background Predictive value of preoperative endoscopic characteristic of esophageal tumor has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of esophageal luminal stenosis on survival for patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods The clinicopathologic characteristics of 623 ESCC patients who underwent curative resection as the primary treatment between January 2005 and April 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. The esophageal luminal stenosis measured by endoscopy was defined as a uniform measurement preoperatively. The impact of esophageal luminal stenosis on patients’ overall survival (OS) and relation with other clinicopathological features were assessed. A Cox regression model was used to identify prognostic factors. Results The results showed that OS significantly decreased in patients with manifest stenotic tumor compared with patients without luminal obstruction (P<0.05). Considerable esophageal luminal stenosis was associated with a higher T stage, longer tumor length, and poorer differentiation (all P<0.05). In multivariate survival analysis, esophageal luminal stenosis remained as an independent prognostic factor for OS (P= 0.036). Conclusions Esophageal luminal stenosis could have a significant impact on the OS in patients with resected ESCC and may provide additional prognostic value to the current staging system before any cancer-specific treatment. PMID:28118615

Activated Eosinophils are Present in Esophageal Muscle in Patients with Achalasia of the Esophagus

PubMed Central

Jin, Hong; Wang, Bin; Zhang, Li-li

2018-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to undertake a histological evaluation of the presence of eosinophils in esophageal muscle in patients with achalasia before treatment with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), with clinical follow-up at one year. Material/Methods Before treatment, esophageal biopsies including mucosa and esophageal muscle were obtained from 28 patients with achalasia. Nine patients who had undergone esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma were included in the control group. The Eckardt Score was used to evaluate the clinical symptoms of achalasia. Histology of routinely processed tissue sections was used to perform eosinophil cell counts (0 to +++), and immunohistochemistry was used to detect expression of eosinophil major basic protein (MBP), eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN), and S100 protein in cases of achalasia (n=28) and controls (n=9). The findings in patients with achalasia were compared before and one year following POEM. Results Esophageal tissue from patients with achalasia showed eosinophils infiltrating into the muscularis externa in 85.7% (24/28), into the muscularis propria in 28.6% (8/28), and in 89% (25/28) there were few remaining myenteric ganglion cells, before POEM. The extent of inflammation was similar in all regions of the esophagus and between subtypes of achalasia. At one year following POEM, the Eckardt Scores between the former eosinophil (0) group and the eosinophil (+++) group were significantly different (Z=3.50, P=0.030). Conclusions Achalasia of the esophagus was associated with infiltration of the esophageal muscle by activated eosinophils and a decrease in the density of ganglion cells in the myenteric esophageal plexus. PMID:29672471

Fatal hemoptysis in patients with advanced esophageal cancer treated with apatinib

PubMed Central

Wang, Wei; Zhang, Lin; Xie, Yan; Zhen, Tianchang; Su, Gongzhang; Zang, Qi

2018-01-01

Targeted therapy is commonly used for treating advanced malignant tumors. Compared with cytotoxic drugs, targeted drugs have the characteristics of good curative results, less adverse effects, and convenient oral administration. Hence, they are especially suitable for patients with cancer who are not able to tolerate chemotherapy. Anti-angiogenic therapy can achieve the objective by inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels in tumors. Apatinib is a novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting the intracellular domain of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2. It has been proven to be effective and safe in treating patients with gastric carcinoma and gastroesophageal junction carcinoma. So far, no reports are available on the treatment of esophageal cancer with apatinib. Two patients with advanced esophageal cancer were treated with oral apatinib because of their poor physical condition. After treatment, the dyspnea symptoms disappeared and quality of life significantly improved. Chest computed tomography showed massive necrosis of tumor tissues in each patient. The tumors significantly reduced and a cavity was formed locally in each patient. However, both patients died of massive hemoptysis, probably due to the rupture of the bronchial artery eroded by tumors. The results indicated that apatinib was effective in treating some patients with advanced esophageal cancer, and adverse effects were controllable. However, doctors should choose appropriate candidates according to apatinib’s indications. In addition, the use of apatinib should be carefully controlled for patients with esophageal cancer, especially in those with large vessels and trachea or bronchus eroded by tumor, so as to avoid or reduce the occurrence of fatal hemorrhage. PMID:29765235

Fatal hemoptysis in patients with advanced esophageal cancer treated with apatinib.

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Zhang, Lin; Xie, Yan; Zhen, Tianchang; Su, Gongzhang; Zang, Qi

2018-01-01

Targeted therapy is commonly used for treating advanced malignant tumors. Compared with cytotoxic drugs, targeted drugs have the characteristics of good curative results, less adverse effects, and convenient oral administration. Hence, they are especially suitable for patients with cancer who are not able to tolerate chemotherapy. Anti-angiogenic therapy can achieve the objective by inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels in tumors. Apatinib is a novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting the intracellular domain of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2. It has been proven to be effective and safe in treating patients with gastric carcinoma and gastroesophageal junction carcinoma. So far, no reports are available on the treatment of esophageal cancer with apatinib. Two patients with advanced esophageal cancer were treated with oral apatinib because of their poor physical condition. After treatment, the dyspnea symptoms disappeared and quality of life significantly improved. Chest computed tomography showed massive necrosis of tumor tissues in each patient. The tumors significantly reduced and a cavity was formed locally in each patient. However, both patients died of massive hemoptysis, probably due to the rupture of the bronchial artery eroded by tumors. The results indicated that apatinib was effective in treating some patients with advanced esophageal cancer, and adverse effects were controllable. However, doctors should choose appropriate candidates according to apatinib's indications. In addition, the use of apatinib should be carefully controlled for patients with esophageal cancer, especially in those with large vessels and trachea or bronchus eroded by tumor, so as to avoid or reduce the occurrence of fatal hemorrhage.

Are additional trace elements necessary in total parenteral nutrition for patients with esophageal cancer receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy?

PubMed

Akutsu, Yasunori; Kono, Tsuguaki; Uesato, Masaya; Hoshino, Isamu; Murakami, Kentaro; Fujishiro, Takeshi; Imanishi, Shunsuke; Endo, Satoshi; Toyozumi, Takeshi; Matsubara, Hisahiro

2012-12-01

It is known that cisplatin induces the excretion of zinc from the urine and thereby reduces its serum concentration. However, the fluctuation of these trace elements during or after cisplatin-based chemotherapy has not been evaluated. To answer this question, we performed a clinical study in esophageal cancer patients undergoing cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Eighteen patients with esophageal cancer who were not able to swallow food or water orally due to complete stenosis of the esophagus were evaluated. The patients were divided into a control group [total parenteral nutrition (TPN) alone for 28 days, ten cases] and an intervention group (TPN with additional trace elements for 28 days, eight cases). The serum concentrations of zinc, iron, copper, manganese, triiodothyronin (T3), and thyroxin (T4), as alternative indicators of iodine, were measured on days 0, 14, and 28 of treatment, and statistically analyzed on day 28. In the control group, the serum concentration of copper was significantly decreased from 135.4 (day 0) to 122.1 μg/ml (day 14), and finally to 110.6 μg/ml (day 28, p = 0.015). The concentration of manganese was also significantly decreased from 1.34 (day 0) to 1.17 μg/ml (day 14) and finally to 1.20 (day 28, p = 0.049). The levels of zinc, iron, T3, and T4 were not significantly changed. In the intervention group, the supplementation with trace elements successfully prevented these decreases in their concentrations. TPN with supplementary trace elements is preferable and recommended for patients who are undergoing chemotherapy in order to maintain the patients' nutrient homeostasis.

PPMP, a novel tubulin-depolymerizing agent against esophageal cancer in patient-derived tumor xenografts.

PubMed

Sheng, Yuqiao; Liu, Kangdong; Wu, Qiong; Oi, Naomi; Chen, Hanyong; Reddy, Kanamata; Jiang, Yanan; Yao, Ke; Li, Haitao; Li, Wei; Zhang, Yi; Saleem, Mohammad; Ma, Wei-Ya; Bode, Ann M; Dong, Ziming; Dong, Zigang

2016-05-24

Esophageal cancer is one of the least studied and deadliest cancers worldwide with a poor prognosis due to limited options for treatment. Chemotherapy agents such as the microtubule-targeting compounds are the mainstay of palliation for advanced esophageal cancer treatment. However, the toxicity and side effects of tubulin-binding agents (TBAs) have promoted the development of novel, more potent but less toxic TBAs. Herein, we identified 2-[4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl]-5-[(2-methylprop-2-en-1-yl)oxy] phenol (PPMP) as a novel TBA for esophageal cancer treatment. PPMP markedly inhibited tubulin polymerization, and decreased viability and anchorage-independent growth of esophageal cancer cell lines, effects that were accompanied by G2/M arrest and apoptosis. Importantly, we produced patient-derived esophageal cancer xenografts to evaluate the therapeutic effect of PPMP in a setting that best mimics the clinical context in patients with esophageal cancer. Overall, we identified PPMP as a novel microtubule-destabilizing compound and as a new therapeutic agent against esophageal carcinoma.

Analysis of dose-volume parameters predicting radiation pneumonitis in patients with esophageal cancer treated with 3D-conformal radiation therapy or IMRT.

PubMed

Kumar, Gaurav; Rawat, Sheh; Puri, Abhishek; Sharma, Manoj Kumar; Chadha, Pranav; Babu, Anand Giri; Yadav, Girigesh

2012-01-01

Multimodality therapy for esophageal cancer can cause various kinds of treatment-related sequelae, especially pulmonary toxicities. This prospective study aims to investigate the clinical and dosimetric parameters predicting lung injury in patients undergoing radiation therapy for esophageal cancer. Forty-five esophageal cancer patients were prospectively analyzed. The pulmonary toxicities (or sequelae) were evaluated by comparing chest X-ray films, pulmonary function tests and symptoms caused by pulmonary damage before and after treatment. All patients were treated with either three-dimensional radiotherapy (3DCRT) or with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The planning dose volume histogram was used to compute the lung volumes receiving more than 5, 10, 20 and 30 Gy (V5, V10, V20, V30) and mean lung dose. V20 was larger in the IMRT group than in the 3DCRT group (p = 0.002). V20 (>15%) and V30 (>20%) resulted in a statistically significant increase in the occurrence of chronic pneumonitis (p = 0.03) and acute pneumonitis (p = 0.007), respectively. The study signifies that a larger volume of lung receives lower doses because of multiple beam arrangement and a smaller volume of lung receives higher doses because of better dose conformity in IMRT plans. Acute pneumonitis correlates more with V30 values, whereas chronic pneumonitis was predominantly seen in patients with higher V20 values.

Esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum associated with diffuse esophageal spasm.

PubMed

Matsumoto, Hideo; Kubota, Hisako; Higashida, Masaharu; Manabe, Noriaki; Haruma, Ken; Hirai, Toshihiro

2015-01-01

Esophageal diverticulum, a relatively rare condition, has been considered to be associated with motor abnormalities such as conditions that cause a lack of coordination between the distal esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter. We herein report a case of esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum associated with diffuse esophageal spasm. A 73-year-old woman presented with dysphagia and regurgitation. Imaging examinations revealed a right-sided esophageal diverticulum located about 10cm above the esophagogastric junction. High-resolution manometry revealed normal esophageal motility. However, 24-h pH monitoring revealed continuous acidity due to pooling of residue in the diverticulum. An esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum was diagnosed and resected thoracoscopically. Her dysphagia recurred 2 years later. High-resolution manometry revealed diffuse esophageal spasm. The diverticulum in the present case was considered to have been associated with diffuse esophageal spasm. The motility disorder was likely not identified at the first evaluation. In this case, the patient's symptoms spontaneously resolved without any treatment; however, longer-term follow-up is needed. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Comparison of bolus transit patterns identified by esophageal impedance to barium esophagram in patients with dysphagia.

PubMed

Cho, Y K; Choi, M-G; Oh, S N; Baik, C N; Park, J M; Lee, I S; Kim, S W; Choi, K Y; Chung, I-S

2012-01-01

Bolus transit through the esophagus has not been validated by videoesophagram in patients with dysphagia and changes in impedance with abnormal barium transit have not been described in those patients. The aim of this study was to compare esophageal impedance findings with barium esophagram measurements in patients with dysphagia. The consecutive patients with dysphagia underwent conventional multichannel esophageal impedance manometry, after which a barium videoesophagram was performed simultaneously with multichannel esophageal impedance manometry using a mean of three swallows of barium. Esophageal emptying patterns shown in the esophagogram were classified by the degree of intraesophageal stasis and presence of intraesophageal reflux. Bolus transit patterns in impedance were classified as complete and incomplete transit. Sixteen patients (M : F = 8 : 8, mean age, 47 years) were enrolled. Their manometric diagnosis were normal (n= 6), ineffective esophageal motility (n= 1), diffuse esophageal spasm (DES; n= 2), and achalasia (n= 7). Sixty-three swallows were analyzed. According to impedance analysis, 21/22 swallows with normal barium emptying showed complete transit (96%) and 31/32 swallows with severe stasis showed incomplete transit (97%). Nine swallows with mild stasis showed either complete or incomplete transit patterns in impedance. Swallows with mild barium stasis and complete transit in impedance were observed in patients who had received treatment (two patients with achalasia with history of esophageal balloonplasty and a patient with DES after nifedipine administration). Impedance reflected severe stasis with retrograde barium movement and described typical bolus transit patterns in patients with achalasia and DES. In conclusion, impedance-barium esophagram concordance is high for swallows with normal esophageal emptying and for severe barium stasis in patients with dysphagia. © 2011 Copyright the Authors. Journal compilation © 2011, Wiley

The Functional Lumen Imaging Probe Detects Esophageal Contractility not Observed with Manometry in Patients with Achalasia

PubMed Central

Carlson, Dustin A.; Lin, Zhiyue; Kahrilas, Peter J.; Sternbach, Joel; Donnan, Erica N.; Friesen, Laurel; Listernick, Zoe; Mogni, Benjamin; Pandolfino, John E.

2015-01-01

Background & Aims The functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) could improve characterization of achalasia subtypes by detecting non-occlusive esophageal contractions not observed with standard manometry. We aimed to evaluate for esophageal contractions during volumetric distention in patients with achalasia using FLIP topography. Methods Fifty one treatment-naïve patients with achalasia, defined and sub-classified by high-resolution esophageal pressure topography, and 10 asymptomatic individuals (controls) were evaluated with the FLIP during endoscopy. During stepwise distension, simultaneous intra-bag pressures and 16 channels of cross-sectional areas were measured; data were exported to software that generated FLIP topography plots. Esophageal contractility was identified by noting periods of reduced luminal diameter. Esophageal contractions were further characterized by propagation direction, repetitiveness, and based on whether they were occluding or non-occluding. Results Esophageal contractility was detected in all 10 controls: 8/10 had repetitive, antegrade, contractions and 9/10 had occluding contractions. Contractility was detected in 27% (4/15) of patients with type I achalasia and 65% (18/26, including 9 with occluding contractions) of patients with type II achalasia. Contractility was detected in all 10 patients with type III achalasia; 8 of these patients had a pattern of contractility not observed in controls (repetitive, retrograde contractions). Conclusions Esophageal contractility not observed with manometry can be detected in patients with achalasia using FLIP topography. The presence and patterns of contractility detected with FLIP topography may represent variations in pathophysiology, such as mechanisms of pan-esophageal pressurization in patients with type II achalasia. These findings could have implications for additional sub-classification to supplement prediction of the achalasia disease course. PMID:26278501

High endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression independently predicts poor survival of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Wu, Ching-Fang; Lee, Ching-Tai; Kuo, Yao-Hung; Chen, Tzu-Haw; Chang, Chi-Yang; Chang, I-Wei; Wang, Wen-Lun

2017-09-01

Patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma have poor survival and high recurrence rate, thus an effective prognostic biomarker is needed. Endothelin-converting enzyme-1 is responsible for biosynthesis of endothelin-1, which promotes growth and invasion of human cancers. The role of endothelin-converting enzyme-1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is still unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the significance of endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma clinically. We enrolled patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who provided pretreated tumor tissues. Tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and was defined as either low or high expression. Then we evaluated whether tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression had any association with clinicopathological findings or predicted survival of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Overall, 54 of 99 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma had high tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression, which was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis ( p = 0.04). In addition, tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression independently predicted survival of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and the 5-year survival was poorer in patients with high tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression ( p = 0.016). Among patients with locally advanced and potentially resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (stage II and III), 5-year survival was poorer with high tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression ( p = 0.003). High tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression also significantly predicted poorer survival of patients in this population. In patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, high tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression might indicate high tumor invasive property. Therefore, tumor endothelin-converting enzyme-1 expression

Correlation of radiographic and manometric findings in patients with ineffective esophageal motility.

PubMed

Shakespear, J S; Blom, D; Huprich, J E; Peters, J H

2004-03-01

Ineffective esophageal motility disorder (IEM) is a new, manometrically defined, esophageal motility disorder, associated with severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), GERD-associated respiratory symptoms, delayed acid clearance, and mucosal injury. Videoesophagram is an important, inexpensive, and widely available tool in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with esophageal pathologies. The efficacy of videoesophagography has not been rigorously examined in patients with IEM. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic value of videoesophagography in patients with IEM. The radiographic and manometric findings of 202 consecutive patients presenting with foregut symptoms were evaluated. IEM was defined by strict manometric criteria. All other named motility disorders such as achalasia were excluded. Videoesophagography was performed according to a standard protocol. Of patients in this cohort, 16% (33/202) had IEM by manometric criteria. Of IEM patients, 55% (18/33) had an abnormal videoesophagram, while in 45% (15/33) this test was read as normal. Only 11% (15/137) of patients with a normal videoesophagram were found to have IEM. Sensitivity of videoesophagram was 54.6%, specificity 72.2%, positive predictive value only 27.7%, and negative predictive value 89.1% in the diagnosis of IEM. These data show that videoesophagram is relatively insensitive in detecting patients with IEM and should not be considered a valid diagnostic test for this disorder. We conclude that esophageal manometry is an indispensable diagnostic modality in the workup of a patient with suspected of IEM.

Effects of preemptive analgesia with flurbiprofen ester on lymphocytes and natural killer cells in patients undergoing esophagectomy: A randomized controlled pilot study

PubMed Central

Zhou, Yi; Huang, Jinxi; Bai, Yu; Li, Changsheng

2017-01-01

Background Tumors may induce systemic immune dysfunction, which can be aggravated by surgery and anesthesia/analgesia. Data on the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on immune dysfunction is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells in patients undergoing thoracotomy and thoracoscopy radical esophagectomy, and to explore the analgesic methods suitable for tumor patients. Methods This was a randomized controlled pilot study of 89 patients with esophageal cancer treated with surgery at the Henan Cancer Hospital between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1, thoracotomy; group 2, thoracoscopy and laparoscopic surgery; and group 3, flurbiprofen, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopic surgery. CD3+, CD19+, NK, CD4+, and CD8+ cells in whole blood were measured by flow cytometry 30 minutes before surgery (T0), at the end of the thoracic section of the procedure (T1), and at the end of the operation (T2). Results There were no significant differences in CD3+, CD19+, CD8+, NK, and CD4+ cells between the three groups or regarding the time points during the procedure (all P > 0.05). Thoracotomy and thoracoscopy surgery resulted in similar immunological outcomes. Conclusion Flurbiprofen ester preemptive analgesia did not suppress the immune function in patients and could be a safe analgesic method for patients with esophageal cancer undergoing surgery. PMID:28892265

[Association between acid reflux and esophageal dysmotility in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease].

PubMed

Yi, Zhi-hui; Feng, Li; Wen, Mao-yao; Liu, Jian-rong; Yang, Li

2014-05-01

To investigate the association between esophageal motility and acid reflux in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A total of 94 patients with typical reflux symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation and chest pain, whose score (Sc) of reflux diagnostic questionnaire (RDQ) was greater than or equal to 12 were enrolled in the study. Each participant was evaluated by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, high resolution manometry (HRM) of esophagus and 24 h esophageal pH monitoring. The participants were divided into groups of reflux esophagitis (RE) and non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) on the basis of endoscopy findings. The 24 h esophageal pH monitoring categorized participants into physiologic reflux (pH) and pathologic reflux (pH+). The characteristics of esophageal motility and acid reflux were compared between the two groups of participants. Lower but non-significant differences (P > 0.05) were found in pressure of lower esophageal sphincter (LESP), length of lower esophageal sphincter (LESL), esophageal contraction amplitude (CA), distal contractile integral (DCI) and effective peristalsis proportion (EPP) in the participants in the RE group compared with those in the NERD group. Participants in the RE group had significantly higher prevalence of reduced LESP (63.0% vs. 31.7%, P < 0.01) and hiatus hernia (HH) (37.0% vs. 14.3%, P < 0.05) than those in the NERD group, pH+ was more prevalent in the RE group than in the NERD group (63.0% vs. 17.5%, P < 0.01). Indicators of 24 h esophageal pH monitoring were significantly higher in participants in the RE group compared with those in the NERD group (P < 0.05). Participants with pH+ had significantly lower LESP, CA and higher HH and prevalence of reduced LESP compared with those with pH (P < 0.05). LESL, DCI and EPP were lower in those with pH+ compared with those with pH-, but without statistical significance (P > 0.05). RE is closely associated with acid reflux and hiatus hernia. Esophageal

Predictors of radiation-induced esophageal toxicity in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer treated with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy.

PubMed

Singh, Anurag K; Lockett, Mary Ann; Bradley, Jeffrey D

2003-02-01

To evaluate the incidence and clinical/dosimetric predictors of acute and late Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Grade 3-5 esophageal toxicity in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with definitive three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 207 consecutive patients with NSCLC who were treated with high-dose, definitive 3D-CRT between March 1991 and December 1998. This population consisted of 107 men and 100 women. The median age was 67 years (range 31-90). The following patient and treatment parameters were studied: age, gender, race, performance status, sequential chemotherapy, concurrent chemotherapy, presence of subcarinal nodes, pretreatment weight loss, mean dose to the entire esophagus, maximal point dose to the esophagus, and percentage of volume of esophagus receiving >55 Gy. All doses are reported without heterogeneity corrections. The median prescription dose to the isocenter in this population was 70 Gy (range 60-74) delivered in 2-Gy daily fractions. All patients were treated once daily. Acute and late esophageal toxicities were graded by Radiation Therapy Oncology Group criteria. Patient and clinical/dosimetric factors were coded and correlated with acute and late Grade 3-5 esophageal toxicity using univariate and multivariate regression analyses. Of 207 patients, 16 (8%) developed acute (10 patients) or late (13 patients) Grade 3-5 esophageal toxicity. Seven patients had both acute and late Grade 3-5 esophageal toxicity. One patient died (Grade 5 esophageal toxicity) of late esophageal perforation. Concurrent chemotherapy, maximal point dose to the esophagus >58 Gy, and a mean dose to the entire esophagus >34 Gy were significantly associated with a risk of Grade 3-5 esophageal toxicity on univariate analysis. Concurrent chemotherapy and maximal point dose to the esophagus >58 Gy retained significance on multivariate analysis. Of 207 patients, 53 (26%) received concurrent

Esophageal dysmotility in children with eosinophilic esophagitis: a study using prolonged esophageal manometry.

PubMed

Nurko, Samuel; Rosen, Rachel; Furuta, Glenn T

2009-12-01

The pathophysiology of dysphagia in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is unknown but may be related to abnormal esophageal motor function. Symptoms rarely occur during stationary esophageal manometry, so it has been difficult to establish an association between symptoms and motor events. Our aim was to evaluate esophageal motor function in children with EoE with the use of stationary manometry and ambulatory prolonged esophageal manometry and pH-metry (PEMP). PEMP was performed in children with EoE and compared with controls and children with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Peristalsis was considered effective when the esophageal contractions had a normal amplitude and propagation. Results are expressed as mean+/-s.e. Seventeen patients with EoE, 13 with GERD, and 11 controls were studied. Values are expressed as mean+/-s.e. Stationary manometry identified abnormal peristalsis in 41% of children with EoE. During PEMP, children with EoE had an increased number of isolated (16.7+/-3.8 vs. 9.5+/-1.6 vs. 6.5+/-1.1; P<0.03) and high-amplitude contractions (4.1+/-1.2 vs. 1.8+/-0.8 vs. 0.1+/-0.1; P<0.03), and higher percentage ineffective peristalsis both during fasting (70.5%+/-2.5 vs. 57.8%+/-3.0 vs. 53.8%+/-1.9; P<0.05) and during meals (68.4+/-3.4 vs. 55.3+/-2.8 vs. 48.1+/-2.8; P<0.05) when compared with children with GERD and controls. Thirteen patients with EoE experienced 21 episodes of dysphagia, and all correlated with simultaneous abnormal motor function. PEMP allowed the detection of ineffective peristalsis in children with EoE. Symptoms observed in children with EoE may be related to esophageal motor dysfunction.

Cyclooxygenase-2 expression after preoperative chemoradiotherapy correlates with more frequent esophageal cancer recurrence

PubMed Central

Yoshikawa, Reigetsu; Fujiwara, Yoshinori; Koishi, Kenji; Kojima, Syoudou; Matsumoto, Tomohiro; Yanagi, Hidenori; Yamamura, Takehira; Hashimoto-Tamaoki, Tomoko; Nishigami, Takashi; Tsujimura, Tohru

2007-01-01

AIM: To investigate the relationship between cycloo-xygenase-2 (COX-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and to determine the clinical significance of this relationship in esophageal cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy (CRT). METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate COX-2 and VEGF expression in 40 patients with histologically-confirmed esophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC) who were undergoing preoperative CRT. RESULTS: Fourteen out of 40 ESCC patients showed a pathological complete response (CR) after CRT. COX-2 and VEGF protein expressions were observed in the cytoplasm of 17 and 13 tumors, respectively, with null expression in 9 and 13 tumors, respectively. COX-2 expression was strongly correlated with VEGF expression (P < 0.05). There were also significant associations between COX-2 expression, tumor recurrence, and lymph-node involvement (P = 0.0277 and P = 0.0095, respectively). COX-2 expression and VEGF expression had significant prognostic value for disease-free survival (log-rank test; P = 0.0073 and P = 0.0341, respectively), but not for overall survival, as assessed by univariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that COX-2 expression correlates with VEGF expression and might be a useful prognostic factor for more frequent tumor recurrence in ESCC patients undergoing neoadjuvant CRT. These findings support the use of anti-angiogenic COX-2 inhibitors in the treatment of ESCC. PMID:17511025

Gender differences in both the pathology and surgical outcome of patients with esophageal achalasia.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Kazuto; Omura, Nobuo; Yano, Fumiaki; Hoshino, Masato; Yamamoto, Se-Ryung; Akimoto, Shusuke; Masuda, Takahiro; Kashiwagi, Hideyuki; Yanaga, Katsuhiko

2016-12-01

Esophageal achalasia is a relatively rare disease that occurs usually in middle-aged patients. The laparoscopic Heller-Dor (LHD) procedure is the gold-standard surgical treatment for esophageal achalasia. There are many studies on the pathology and surgical outcome of esophageal achalasia from various perspectives, but there are no studies on gender differences in both the pathology and surgical outcome. This study aimed to evaluate gender differences in the surgical outcome with the LHD procedure and in the pathology of esophageal achalasia patients. The study included 474 LHD-treated patients who were postoperatively followed up for 6 months or more. The patients were divided into 2 groups by gender, to compare the preoperative pathology, surgical outcome, symptom scores before and after LHD, symptom score improvement frequency, and patient satisfaction with the surgery. The study population consisted of 248 male and 226 female, having a mean age of 45.1 years. There were no gender differences in the preoperative pathology, but a significantly lower BMI (p < 0.0001) and a smaller esophageal dilation (p = 0.0061) were observed in the female group. The frequency and severity of chest pain before the surgery were significantly higher in the female group (p = 0.0117 and p = 0.0103, respectively), and the improvement in both the frequency and severity of chest pain was significantly higher in the female group (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.003, respectively). No differences were identified in the surgical outcomes and postoperative course. The patient satisfaction with the surgery was high in both groups and comparable (p = 0.6863). The female patients with esophageal achalasia were characterized by low BMI, less esophageal dilation, and increased frequency and severity of chest pain. LHD improved the chest pain in the female patients, whereas the surgical outcome and satisfaction with the surgery were excellent regardless of gender.

The low IGFBP-3 level is associated with esophageal cancer patients: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Song, Guiqin; Liu, Kang; Zhu, Xiaoyan; Yang, Xiaolin; Shen, Yuewu; Wang, Wan; Shi, Guidong; Li, Qing; Duan, Yi; Zhao, Yunxia; Feng, Gang

2016-12-15

Esophageal cancer was a vital cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and the insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGFBPs) has been proved to be an important factor of multiple types of tumors. There is a controversy that whether the IGFBP-3 level is associated with the clinical pathological characteristics and overall survival of esophageal cancer patients. Herein, we aimed to comprehensively assess the association between the low IGFBP-3 level and the risk, overall survival and clinical pathological characteristics of esophageal cancer. We conducted a meta-analysis using seven eligible studies. The overall odds ratios (OR)/relative risk (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for each parameter. For the risk of esophageal cancer, the OR was 2.342 (p = 0.000), indicating that individuals with lower IGFBP-3 level were more likely to suffer from esophageal cancer, compared to those with relatively high IGFBP-3 level. With respect to the 3-year survival rate, the RR was 2.163 (p = 0.027), which demonstrated that esophageal cancer patients with low IGFBP-3 level had significantly lower 3-year survival rate; in terms of clinical pathological characteristics, significantly lower IGFBP-3 level was found for patients in all categories; for survival status, patients in low IGFBP-3 level are more likely to be in the dead survival status (OR = 4.480, p = 0.000). Our meta-analysis suggests that for esophageal cancer, the low IGFBP-3 level is associated with high cancer risk, poor prognosis, and unfavorable tumor stage and metastasis.

Association of Kruppel-like factor 4 expression with the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients

PubMed Central

Ma, Ming-Quan; Zhang, Hong-Dian; Tang, Peng; Jiang, Hong-Jing; Chen, Chuan-Gui

2014-01-01

Objective: To investigate the association of Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) expressions with the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients. Methods: Ninety-eight cases of esophageal carcinoma patients were enrolled. The expression of KLF4 in the esophageal SCC and normal esophageal mucosa tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. The correlations between the expression of KLF4 protein and patients’ clinical characteristics and prognosis were analyzed. Results: We observed higher expressed KLF4 in normal esophageal mucosa tissues than esophageal SCC tissues, with positive rate of 82.7% (81/98) and 43.8% (43/98) respectively. In patients with lymphatic metastasis, the positive rate of KLF4 was 24.4% (10/41), whereas it was 57.9% (33/57) in patients without lymphatic metastasis, and the difference was significant (x2 = 10.871, P = 0.001). The positive rates of KLF4 were 62.5% (5/8), 53.1% (26/49) and 29.3% (12/41) in stage I, II and III patients, respectively. There were no correlations between the expression of KLF4 and gender, age, tumor size, location, differentiation grade and infiltration depth. The 5-year survival rates and median survival times were 48.8% and 25.5%, and 55 and 26 months for the patients with KLF4 positive and negative expression, respectively. There were significant differences between the patients with KLF4 positive expression and negative expression in the 5-year survival rates and median survival times (x2 = 5.747 and 4.493, P = 0.017 and 0.034). Conclusion: KLF4 might act as a tumor suppressor in esophageal SCC and the expression status of KLF4 could be considered as a prognosis predictor for esophageal SCC patients. PMID:25400747

Relationship between HER-2 overexpression and brain metastasis in esophageal cancer patients

PubMed Central

Abu Hejleh, Taher; DeYoung, Barry R; Engelman, Eric; Deutsch, Jeremy M; Zimmerman, Bridget; Halfdanarson, Thorvardur R; Berg, Daniel J; Parekh, Kalpaj R; Lynch, William R; Iannettoni, Mark D; Bhatia, Sudershan; Clamon, Gerald

2012-01-01

AIM: To study if HER-2 overexpression by locally advanced esophageal cancers increase the chance of brain metastasis following esophagectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of esophageal cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics between 2000 and 2010. Data analyzed consisted of demographic and clinical variables. The brain metastasis tissue was assayed for HER-2 overexpression utilizing the FDA approved DAKO Hercept Test®. RESULTS: One hundred and forty two patients were reviewed. Median age was 64 years (36-86 years). Eighty eight patients (62%) received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Pathological complete and partial responses were achieved in 17 (19%) and 71 (81%) patients. Cancer relapsed in 43/142 (30%) patients. The brain was the first site of relapse in 9/43 patients (21%, 95% CI: 10%-36%). HER-2 immunohistochemistry testing of the brain metastasis tissue showed that 5/9 (56%) cases overexpressed HER-2 (3+ staining). CONCLUSION: HER-2 overexpression might be associated with increased risk of brain metastasis in esophageal cancer patients following esophagectomy. Further studies will be required to validate this observation. PMID:22645633

Laparoscopic Heller-Dor for primary esophageal achalasia: outcomes in 173 patients.

PubMed

Rosati, Riccardo; Fumagalli Romario, Uberto; Ceolin, Martina; Massaron, Simonetta; Peracchia, Alberto

2013-01-01

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy combined with anterior (Dor) fundoplication is the most widely-used surgical procedure for treating esophageal achalasia in Europe From November 1992 through May 2010 we performed laparoscopic Heller-Dor on 173 patients Conversion to laparotomy was required in three cases (1.7%) at the beginning of the experience (for mucosal) perforation which was the most frequent intraoperative complication, managed laparoscopically with the increasing experience. Five (2.9%) cases had minor postoperative complications. Clinical results were satisfactory in 99.4% of cases. One patient (0.6%) had severe persistent dysphagia. Mean esophageal diameter decreased from 50 mm ± 12 (range 20- 90) to 25 mm ± 7 (range 15-80). Lower esophageal sphincter pressure decreased from 32 mmHg (median, range 10- 93) pre-operatively to 11 mmHg (median, range 5-21) at one year follow up and residual pressure from 12 mmHg (median, range 3-30) to 4 mmHg (median, range 1-8). Impedance and pH monitoring showed normal levels in 39/47 (83%) patients who agreed to testing. The good outcomes of this experience, in part due to careful adherence to technical aspects of the operation, confirm that the laparoscopic Heller-Dor is the gold standard surgical treatment for esophageal achalasia.

Abnormal cerebral functional connectivity in esophageal cancer patients with theory of mind deficits in resting state.

PubMed

Cao, Yin; Xiang, JianBo; Qian, Nong; Sun, SuPing; Hu, LiJun; Yuan, YongGui

2015-01-01

To explore the function of the default mode network (DMN) in the psychopathological mechanisms of theory of mind deficits in patients with an esophageal cancer concomitant with depression in resting the state. Twenty-five cases of esophageal cancer with theory of mind deficits (test group) that meet the diagnostic criteria of esophageal cancer and neuropsychological tests, including Beck depression inventory, reading the mind in the eyes, and Faux pas, were included, Another 25 cases of esophageal cancer patients but without theory of mind deficits (control group) were enrolled. Each patient completed a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. The functional connectivity intensities within the cerebral regions in the DMN of all the enrolled patients were analyzed. The results of each group were compared. The functional connectivity of the bilateral prefrontal central region with the precuneus, bilateral posterior cingulate gyrus and bilateral ventral anterior cingulate gyrus in the patients of the test group were all reduced significantly (P < 0.05). In the resting state, the functional connectivity is abnormal in the cerebral regions in the DMN of esophageal cancer patients with theory of mind deficits. The theory of mind deficits might have an important function in the pathogenesis of esophageal cancer.

Trypanosoma cruzi Detection in Colombian Patients with a Diagnosis of Esophageal Achalasia.

PubMed

Panesso-Gómez, Santiago; Pavia, Paula; Rodríguez-Mantilla, Iván Enrique; Lasso, Paola; Orozco, Luis A; Cuellar, Adriana; Puerta, Concepción J; Mendoza de Molano, Belén; González, John M

2018-03-01

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus that might be secondary to a chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Several studies have investigated esophageal achalasia in patients with Chagas disease (CD) in Latin America, but no related studies have been performed in Colombia. The goals of the present study were to determine the presence of anti- T. cruzi antibodies in patients with esophageal achalasia who visited a referral hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, and to detect the presence of the parasite and its discrete typing units (DTUs). This cross-sectional study was conducted in adult patients (18-65 years old) who were previously diagnosed with esophageal achalasia and from whom blood was drawn to assess antibodies against T. cruzi using four different serological tests. Trypanosoma cruzi DNA was detected by conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In total, 38 patients, with an average age of 46.6 years (standard deviation of ±16.2) and comprising 16 men and 22 women, were enrolled. Five (13.15%) patients were found to be positive for anti- T. cruzi antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and two patients who were negative according to IFA were reactive by both enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblot (5.3%). Parasite DNA was detected in two of these seven patients by cPCR and in one of these by qPCR. The parasite DTU obtained was TcI. In summary, this study identified T. cruzi in Colombian patients with esophageal achalasia, indicating that digestive compromise could also be present in patients with chronic CD.

Thoracoscopic Surgery in a Patient with Multiple Esophageal Carcinomas after Surgery for Esophageal Achalasia.

PubMed

Yamasaki, Yuki; Tsukada, Tomoya; Aoki, Tatsuya; Haba, Yusuke; Hirano, Katsuhisa; Watanabe, Toshifumi; Kaji, Masahide; Shimizu, Koichi

2017-01-01

We present a case in which we used a thoracoscopic approach for resection of multiple esophageal carcinomas diagnosed 33 years after surgery for esophageal achalasia. A 68-year-old Japanese man had been diagnosed with esophageal achalasia and underwent surgical treatment 33 years earlier. He was examined at our hospital for annual routine checkup in which upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a "0-IIb+IIa" lesion in the middle esophagus. Iodine staining revealed multiple irregularly shaped iodine-unstained areas, the diagnosis of which was esophageal carcinoma. Thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy was performed. Esophageal carcinoma may occur many years after surgery for esophageal achalasia, even if the passage symptoms have improved. So, long-term periodic follow-up is necessary for detection of carcinoma at an earlier stage.

Thoracoscopic Surgery in a Patient with Multiple Esophageal Carcinomas after Surgery for Esophageal Achalasia

PubMed Central

Tsukada, Tomoya; Aoki, Tatsuya; Haba, Yusuke; Hirano, Katsuhisa; Watanabe, Toshifumi; Kaji, Masahide; Shimizu, Koichi

2017-01-01

We present a case in which we used a thoracoscopic approach for resection of multiple esophageal carcinomas diagnosed 33 years after surgery for esophageal achalasia. A 68-year-old Japanese man had been diagnosed with esophageal achalasia and underwent surgical treatment 33 years earlier. He was examined at our hospital for annual routine checkup in which upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a “0-IIb+IIa” lesion in the middle esophagus. Iodine staining revealed multiple irregularly shaped iodine-unstained areas, the diagnosis of which was esophageal carcinoma. Thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy was performed. Esophageal carcinoma may occur many years after surgery for esophageal achalasia, even if the passage symptoms have improved. So, long-term periodic follow-up is necessary for detection of carcinoma at an earlier stage. PMID:28951795

Swallow-induced esophageal shortening in patients without hiatal hernia is associated with gastroesophageal reflux.

PubMed

Masuda, T; Singhal, S; Akimoto, S; Bremner, R M; Mittal, S K

2018-05-01

Longitudinal esophageal body shortening with swallow-induced peristalsis has been reported in healthy individuals. Esophageal shortening is immediately followed by esophageal re-elongation, and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) returns to the baseline position. High-resolution manometry (HRM) allows for objective assessment of extent of shortening and duration of shortening. In patients without hiatal hernia at rest, swallow-induced esophageal shortening can lead to transient hiatal hernia (tHH) which at times may persist after the completion of swallow. This manometric finding has not been investigated in the literature, but a question arises whether this swallow-induced transient herniation can effect on the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux. This study aims to assess the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux and the subtypes of swallow-induced esophageal shortening, i.e. tHH and non-tHH, in patients without hiatal hernia at rest. After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, we queried a prospectively maintained database to identify patients who underwent HRM evaluation and 24-hour pH study between January to December 2015. Patients with type-I esophagogastric junction (EGJ) morphology (i.e. no hiatal hernia) according to the Chicago classification v3.0 were included. The patterns of the esophageal shortening with swallows were divided into two subtypes, i.e. tHH and non-tHH. tHH was defined as an EGJ double high-pressure zones (≥1 cm) at the second inspiration after the termination of swallow-induced esophageal body contraction. The number of episodes of tHH was counted per 10 swallows and tHH size was measured for each patient. In total, 41 patients with EGJ morphology Type-I met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 47.2 years, 35 patients (85.4%) were women, and the mean body mass index was 33.9 kg/m2. The mean number of tHH episodes was 3 out of 10 swallows; mean maximal tHH size was 1.3 cm. Patients who had tHH in ≥3 out of 10

Clinicopathological Features of Cervical Esophageal Cancer: Retrospective Analysis of 63 Consecutive Patients Who Underwent Surgical Resection.

PubMed

Saeki, Hiroshi; Tsutsumi, Satoshi; Yukaya, Takafumi; Tajiri, Hirotada; Tsutsumi, Ryosuke; Nishimura, Sho; Nakaji, Yu; Kudou, Kensuke; Akiyama, Shingo; Kasagi, Yuta; Nakashima, Yuichiro; Sugiyama, Masahiko; Sonoda, Hideto; Ohgaki, Kippei; Oki, Eiji; Yasumatsu, Ryuji; Nakashima, Torahiko; Morita, Masaru; Maehara, Yoshihiko

2017-01-01

The objectives of this retrospective study were to elucidate the clinicopathological features and recent surgical results of cervical esophageal cancer. Cervical esophageal cancer has been reported to have a dismal prognosis. Accurate knowledge of the clinical characteristics of cervical esophageal cancer is warranted to establish appropriate therapeutic strategies. The clinicopathological features and treatment results of 63 consecutive patients with cervical esophageal cancer (Ce group) who underwent surgical resection from 1980 to 2013 were analyzed and compared with 977 patients with thoracic or abdominal esophageal cancer (T/A group) who underwent surgical resection during that time. Among the patients who received curative resection, the 5-year overall and disease-specific survival rates of the Ce patients were significantly better than those of the T/A patients (overall: 77.3% vs 46.5%, respectively, P = 0.0067; disease-specific: 81.9% vs 55.8%, respectively, P = 0.0135). Although total pharyngo-laryngo-esophagectomy procedures were less frequently performed in the recent period, the rate of curative surgical procedures was markedly higher in the recent period (2000-1013) than that in the early period (1980-1999) (44.4% vs 88.9%, P = 0.0001). The 5-year overall survival rate in the recent period (71.5%) was significantly better than that in the early period (40.7%, P = 0.0342). Curative resection for cervical esophageal cancer contributes to favorable outcomes compared with other esophageal cancers. Recent surgical results for cervical esophageal cancer have improved, and include an increased rate of curative resection and decreased rate of extensive surgery.

Biomarkers Predict Prognosis of Esophageal Cancer Patients | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

New treatment strategies are needed to improve outcomes for patients with esophageal cancer. With five-year survival rates less than 25 percent, this is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. There are two main types of esophageal cancer—squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Esophageal adenocarcinoma is frequently preceded by Barrett’s esophagus, a chronic inflammatory condition caused by gastroesophageal reflux. It is known that communication between tumor cells and the immune system can alter the behavior of tumor cells, and chronic inflammation has been implicated in several types of human cancers, including cancer of the esophagus.

Value of preoperative esophageal function studies before laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

PubMed

Chan, Walter W; Haroian, Laura R; Gyawali, C Prakash

2011-09-01

The value of esophageal manometry and ambulatory pH monitoring before laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) has been questioned because tailoring the operation to the degree of hypomotility often is not required. This study evaluated a consecutive cohort of patients referred for esophageal function studies in preparation for LARS to determine the rates of findings that would alter surgical decisions. High-resolution manometry (HRM) was performed for each subject using a 21-lumen water-perfused system, and motor function was characterized. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was evident from ambulatory pH monitoring if thresholds for acid exposure time and/or positive symptom association probability were passed. Of 1,081 subjects (age, 48.4 ± 0.4 years; 56.7% female) undergoing preoperative HRM, 723 (66.9%) also had ambulatory pH testing performed. Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) hypotension (38.9%) and nonspecific spastic disorder (NSSD) of the esophageal body (36.1%) were common. Obstructive LES pathophysiology was noted in 2.5% (achalasia in 1%; incomplete LES relaxation in 1.5%), and significant esophageal body hypomotility in 4.5% (aperistalsis in 3.2%; severe hypomotility in 1.3%) of the subjects. Evidence of GERD was absent in 23.9% of the subjects. Spastic disorders were more frequent in the absence of GERD (43.9% vs. 23.1% with GERD; p < 0.0001), whereas hypomotility and normal patterns were more common with GERD. Findings considered absolute or relative contraindications for standard 360º fundoplication are detected in 1 of 14 patients receiving preoperative HRM. Additionally, spastic findings associated with persistent postoperative symptoms are detected at esophageal function testing that could be used in preoperative counseling and candidate selection. Physiologic testing remains important in the preoperative evaluation of patients being considered for LARS.

Overall survival and self-reported fatigue in patients with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Stauder, M C; Romero, Y; Kabat, B; Atherton, P J; Geno, D; Deschamps, C; Jatoi, A; Sloan, J A; Botros, M; Jung, K W; Arora, A S; Miller, R C

2013-02-01

A prospective cohort study was conducted to analyze whether self-reported fatigue predicts overall survival in patients with esophageal cancer. Patients enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Esophageal Adenocarcinoma and Barrett's Esophagus Registry between September 2001 and January 2009 who completed a baseline quality of life instrument were eligible for evaluation. The fatigue component was scored on a 0-10 scale, with 0 as extreme fatigue. Patients were categorized as having a decreased energy level if they reported a score of ≤ 5. Fatigue scores ≥ 6 reflect normal levels of energy. Data from a total of 659 enrolled patients were analyzed. A total of 392 (59 %) and 267 (41 %) patients reported decreased and normal energy, respectively. Univariate analysis indicates patients with normal energy had improved 5-year survival compared to patients with decreased energy (37 vs 28 %, hazard ratio (HR) 0.74, p = 0.006). Among the patients with locally advanced disease, the same relationship was seen (28 vs 17 %, HR = 0.67, p = 0.003); this remained significant on multivariate analysis (HR = 0.71, p = 0.015). A decreased energy level is associated with poor survival in patients with esophageal cancer. Thus, patients with high levels of fatigue should be referred for psychological support and be considered for therapy aimed at amelioration of fatigue symptoms.

Esophageal Motor Abnormalities in Patients With Scleroderma: Heterogeneity, Risk Factors, and Effects on Quality of Life.

PubMed

Crowell, Michael D; Umar, Sarah B; Griffing, W Leroy; DiBaise, John K; Lacy, Brian E; Vela, Marcelo F

2017-02-01

Systemic scleroderma (SSc) is associated with esophageal aperistalsis and hypotensive esophagogastric junction pressure, although there could be a gradation in esophageal motor dysfunction. We characterized esophageal motor function by high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) and assessed associations between SSc severity, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and HRM findings in patients. We performed a prospective study of 200 patients with SSc and 102 patients without SSc (controls) who underwent HRM at Mayo Clinic Arizona from May 2006 through January 2015. We used data on integrated relaxation pressure, distal contractile integral, and distal latency to classify esophageal motility disorders according to the Chicago Classification v 3.0. A subset of subjects (n = 122) completed SSc-specific gastrointestinal symptom and HRQOL questionnaires. HRM findings, symptoms, and HRQOL data were compared among diffuse SSc, limited SSc, and control subjects. Categorical variables were compared by using the χ 2 or Fisher exact test; continuous variables were compared by using Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis test. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between severity of esophageal dysmotility and baseline clinical factors. Among patients with SSc, 83 had diffuse SSc (42%), and 117 had limited SSc (58%). Absent contractility was more frequent in patients with SSc than in controls (56% vs 13%; P < .001). HRM findings varied among the patients; absent contractility (56%) was the most frequent diagnosis, followed by normal motility (26%) and ineffective esophageal motility (10%). Classic scleroderma esophagus (esophagogastric junction pressure with absent contractility) was only observed in 33% of patients (34% with diffuse SSc vs 32% limited SSc) (P = .880). Severe esophageal dysmotility was associated with disease duration, interstitial lung disease, and higher gastrointestinal symptom scores (P < .001). HRQOL was decreased in patients

[Conservative treatment improved corrosive esophagitis and pneumomediastinum in a patient who ingested bleaching agent containing sodium hypochlorite and sodium hydroxide].

PubMed

Nakano, Hiroshi; Iseki, Ken; Ozawa, Akiko; Tominaga, Aya; Sadahiro, Ryoichi; Otani, Koichi

2014-03-01

A 69-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department 3 hours after ingestion of a bleaching agent containing hypochlorous acid and sodium hydroxide in a suicide attempt. Enhanced chest computed tomography scans taken on admission indicated an edematous esophagus and air bubbles in the mediastinum. He underwent endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation until day 9 because of laryngeal edema. On day 10, his endoscopy indicated diffuse reddish mucosal hyperemia, erosions, and lacerated mucosal lesions in the esophagus that were indicative of grade 2b corrosive esophagitis. Treatment with a proton pump inhibitor was initiated, with which the condition of the esophagus improved, and on day 44, a slight stricture of the upper part of the esophagus was observed. He was discharged on day 64 without any complaints. The ingestion of sodium hypochlorite induces corrosive esophagitis and acute phase of gastritis. Ingestion of any corrosive agent is known as a risk factor for esophagus cancer in the long-term. In such cases with esophageal stricture, esophagectomy is recommended for preventing esophagus cancer. Considering the age of the patient, however, he did not undergo esophagectomy.

The Prevalence of Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Pediatric Patients with IgE-Mediated Food Allergy.

PubMed

Hill, David A; Dudley, Jesse W; Spergel, Jonathan M

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic inflammatory disease that is triggered by food allergens and characterized by progressive esophageal dysfunction. Recently, EoE has been identified in patients who underwent oral immunotherapy (OIT) for IgE-mediated food allergy, suggesting an association. We sought to ascertain whether significant associations exist between IgE-mediated food allergies and EoE. Using the analysis of electronic medical record data and manual chart review, we examined our subspecialty care network of 35,528 children and adolescents to identify and characterize patients with IgE-mediated and EoE food allergy. The most common food allergens were defined, and the prevalence of EoE in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy was determined. Logistic regression was used to measure the extent to which IgE-mediated food allergy to specific foods is associated with EoE. The most common causes of EoE were milk, soy, egg, grains, and meats, an allergen pattern that is distinct from that of IgE-mediated food allergy. The prevalence of EoE in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy was higher than that reported in the general population (4.7% vs 0.04%). The distribution of IgE-mediated food allergens in patients with EoE was similar to that of the general population, and IgE-mediated allergy to egg (2.27; 1.91-2.64), milk (4.19; 3.52-4.97), or shellfish (1.55; 1.24-1.92) was significantly associated with an EoE diagnosis. Our findings support a clinical association between these conditions that has implications for the management of children with food allergy, and particular relevance to patients undergoing OIT. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

BPC 157 therapy to detriment sphincters failure-esophagitis-pancreatitis in rat and acute pancreatitis patients low sphincters pressure.

PubMed

Petrovic, I; Dobric, I; Drmic, D; Sever, M; Klicek, R; Radic, B; Brcic, L; Kolenc, D; Zlatar, M; Kunjko, K; Jurcic, D; Martinac, M; Rasic, Z; Boban Blagaic, A; Romic, Z; Seiwerth, S; Sikiric, P

2011-10-01

Possibly, acute esophagitis and pancreatitis cause each other, and we focused on sphincteric failure as the common causative key able to induce either esophagitis and acute pancreatitis or both of them, and thereby investigate the presence of a common therapy nominator. This may be an anti-ulcer pentadecapeptide BPC 157 (tested for inflammatory bowel disease, wound treatment) affecting esophagitis, lower esophageal and pyloric sphincters failure and acute pancreatitis (10 μg/kg, 10 ng/kg intraperitoneally or in drinking water). The esophagitis-sphincter failure procedure (i.e., insertion of the tubes into the sphincters, lower esophageal and pyloric) and acute pancreatitis procedure (i.e., bile duct ligation) were combined in rats. Esophageal manometry was done in acute pancreatitis patients. In rats acute pancreatitis procedure produced also esophagitis and both sphincter failure, decreased pressure 24 h post-surgery. Furthermore, bile duct ligation alone immediately declines the pressure in both sphincters. Vice versa, the esophagitis-sphincter failure procedure alone produced acute pancreatitis. What's more, these lesions (esophagitis, sphincter failure, acute pancreatitis when combined) aggravate each other (tubes into sphincters and ligated bile duct). Counteraction occurred by BPC 157 therapies. In acute pancreatitis patients lower pressure at rest was in both esophageal sphincters in acute pancreatitis patients. We conclude that BPC 157 could cure esophagitis/sphincter/acute pancreatitis healing failure.

Impacts of treatments on the quality of life among esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients.

PubMed

Chen, C-Y; Hsieh, V C-R; Chang, C-H; Chen, P-R; Liang, W-M; Pan, S-C; Shieh, S-H

2017-10-01

This study aims to investigate the effects of treatments on the quality of life for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients diagnosed at early and late stages. From a medical center in central Taiwan, patients who had been diagnosed with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma from February 2007 and March 2011 were recruited. Using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire Oesophageal 18 (QLQ-OES18), quality of life scores for 105 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients were obtained and assessed. Multivariate analysis was performed on the quality of life scores after stratification by cancer stage. Among early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients, those received only surgery (S-only) performed better in physical and social functioning compared with patients who underwent surgery and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (S+CCRT) (β = 9.0, P = 0.03; β = 12.1, P = 0.04, respectively). For those that received only concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT-only), they performed worse in role and emotional functioning relative to S+CCRT patients (β = -17.2, P = 0.02; β = -15.7, P = 0.05, respectively). Among late-stage patients, CCRT-only treatment gave insignificantly better global health status and functional scale scores and less severe symptoms compared to the S+CCRT option. Better functional scores and less aggravated symptoms are observed in early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients who received surgery-only treatment relative to those that underwent both surgery and chemoradiotherapy. For late-stage esophageal cancer patients, the measured difference of quality of life is not significant between CCRT-only and S+CCRT treatments. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Scintigraphic Evaluation of Esophageal Motility and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Patients Presenting with Upper Respiratory Tract Symptoms

PubMed Central

Amalachandran, Jaykanth; Simon, Shelley; Elangoven, Indirani; Jain, Avani; Sivathapandi, Thangalakshmi

2018-01-01

Purpose of Study: The purpose is to evaluate the findings and utility of esophageal transit scintigraphy (ETS) and gastroesophageal reflux scintigraphy (GES) in patients presenting with upper respiratory tract (URT) symptoms suspected to be due to gastroesophageal reflux (GER) disease. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients aged between 19 and 60 years underwent nasopharyngolaryngoscopy (NPL), ETS, and GES. Correlation between GER, esophageal motility, and NPL was evaluated. Inclusion criteria include patients with recurrent URT symptoms such as chronic dry cough/hoarseness of voice and itching/foreign body sensation in throat. Those with typical gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms of GER, URT symptoms relieved by antibiotics, surgical intervention in abdomen, cardiac/hepatobiliary diseases, etc. were excluded from the study. Results: Significant correlation was found between GER and NPL in 28/30 patients. More the grade of reflux, more severe was the NPL findings. Two patients with Grade II reflux had normal NPL suggesting structural inflammatory changes due to acidic pH of refluxate which have not yet manifested or symptoms could be due to nonacid refluxate. Incidence of esophageal motility disorder was statistically significant in patients with GER disease (GERD). Patients who had symptoms, but no demonstrable GER showed delayed ET in supine position suggesting the presence of esophageal motility disorder even before GERD. Conclusion: GES demonstrated GER in patients presenting with URT symptoms without typical GI symptoms. ETS showed coexistence of esophageal motility disorder in most patients presenting with URT symptoms even without an associated reflux disease. We hypothesize that primary abnormal esophageal motility leads to delayed esophageal clearance and consequently to URT symptoms. Addition of ETS to GES is easily feasible with no significant additional cost, time, or radiation burden. PMID:29430111

Serum Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Change After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation Therapy Is Associated With Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Esophageal Cancer Patients Undergoing Combined Modality Therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lu, Shao-Lun; Hsu, Feng-Ming; Tsai, Chiao-Ling

Purpose: Our aim was to investigate the association of clinical factors, dosimetric parameters, and biomarkers with postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treated by neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) under strict pulmonary dose constraints and esophagectomy. Methods and Materials: We prospectively enrolled 112 patients undergoing trimodality treatment (including radiation therapy [40 Gy], concurrent taxane-/5-fluorouracil-based regimens, and radical esophagectomy) for ESCC. A PPC was defined as pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome within 30 days after surgery. Serum samples were collected before and within 1 month after CCRT. The association of serum biomarkers with PPCs wasmore » detected by proximity ligation assay (PLA) and verified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations of clinical factors, lung dosimetric parameters, and biomarkers with PPC were tested statistically. Results: Thirty-three patients (29.5%) had PPCs. None of the dosimetric parameters was associated with PPCs. Preoperative functional vital capacity (FVC) was significantly associated with PPCs (P=.004). Of the 15 PLA-screened biomarkers, posttreatment transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) was borderline significantly associated with PPCs (P=.087). Patients with PPCs had significantly larger pre-CCRT to post-CCRT decrease in serum TGF-β1 concentration (−11,310 vs −5332 pg/mL, P=.005) and higher pre-CCRT to post-CCRT percent decline in serum TGF-β1 concentration (−37.4% vs −25.0%, P=.009) than patients without PPCs. On multivariate analysis, preoperative FVC (P=.003) and decrease in TGF-β1 >7040 pg/mL (P=.014) were independent factors associated with PPCs. Conclusions: Preoperative FVC and decrease in serum TGF-β1 level after dose-limited CCRT to the lung are associated with the development of PPCs.« less

Severe bleeding from esophageal varices resistant to endoscopic treatment in a non cirrhotic patient with portal hypertension

PubMed Central

Caronna, Roberto; Bezzi, Mario; Schiratti, Monica; Cardi, Maurizio; Prezioso, Giampaolo; Benedetti, Michele; Papini, Federica; Mangioni, Simona; Martino, Gabriele; Chirletti, Piero

2008-01-01

A non cirrhotic patient with esophageal varices and portal vein thrombosis had recurrent variceal bleeding unsuccessfully controlled by endoscopy and esophageal transection. Emergency transhepatic portography confirmed the thrombosed right branch of the portal vein, while the left branch appeared angulated, shifted and stenotic. A stent was successfully implanted into the left branch and the collateral vessels along the epatoduodenal ligament disappeared. In patients with esophageal variceal hemorrhage and portal thrombosis if endoscopy fails, emergency esophageal transection or nonselective portocaval shunting are indicated. The rare patients with only partial portal thrombosis can be treated directly with stenting through an angioradiologic approach. PMID:18644135

A novel laparoscopic approach for severe esophageal stenosis due to reflux esophagitis: how to do it.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Kazuto; Omura, Nobuo; Yano, Fumiaki; Hoshino, Masato; Yamamoto, Se Ryung; Akimoto, Shunsuke; Kashiwagi, Hideyuki; Yanaga, Katsuhiko

2015-02-01

We herein report our technique for laparoscopic esophageal myotomy combined with Collis gastroplasty and Nissen fundoplication for severe esophageal stenosis. Our patient had experienced vomiting since childhood, and his dysphagia had gradually worsened. He was referred to our department for surgery because of resistance to pneumatic dilation. He was diagnosed with a short esophagus based on the findings of a preoperative upper gastrointestinal series and GI endoscopy. After exposing the abdominal esophagus, esophageal myotomy around the esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) was undertaken to introduce an esophageal bougie into the stomach. Then, stapled wedge gastroplasty was performed, and a short and loose Nissen fundoplication was performed. In addition, the bulging mucosa after myotomy was patched using the Dor method. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful. Most patients with esophageal stricture require subtotal esophagectomy. Laparoscopic surgery for patients with benign esophageal stricture refractory to repeated pneumatic dilation is challenging. However, our current procedure might abrogate the need for invasive esophagectomy for the surgical management of severe esophageal stenosis.

Effects of preemptive analgesia with flurbiprofen ester on lymphocytes and natural killer cells in patients undergoing esophagectomy: A randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Zhou, Yi; Huang, Jinxi; Bai, Yu; Li, Changsheng; Lu, Xihua

2017-11-01

Tumors may induce systemic immune dysfunction, which can be aggravated by surgery and anesthesia/analgesia. Data on the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on immune dysfunction is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells in patients undergoing thoracotomy and thoracoscopy radical esophagectomy, and to explore the analgesic methods suitable for tumor patients. This was a randomized controlled pilot study of 89 patients with esophageal cancer treated with surgery at the Henan Cancer Hospital between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1, thoracotomy; group 2, thoracoscopy and laparoscopic surgery; and group 3, flurbiprofen, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopic surgery. CD3+, CD19+, NK, CD4+, and CD8+ cells in whole blood were measured by flow cytometry 30 minutes before surgery (T0), at the end of the thoracic section of the procedure (T1), and at the end of the operation (T2). There were no significant differences in CD3+, CD19+, CD8+, NK, and CD4+ cells between the three groups or regarding the time points during the procedure (all P > 0.05). Thoracotomy and thoracoscopy surgery resulted in similar immunological outcomes. Flurbiprofen ester preemptive analgesia did not suppress the immune function in patients and could be a safe analgesic method for patients with esophageal cancer undergoing surgery. © 2017 The Authors. Thoracic Cancer published by China Lung Oncology Group and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

The potential of photodynamic therapy to treat esophageal candidiasis coexisting with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Qiu, Haixia; Mao, Yongping; Gu, Ying; Zhu, Jianguo; Wang, Ying; Zeng, Jing; Huang, Naiyan; Liu, Qingsen; Yang, Yunsheng

2014-01-05

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used in recent years to deal with fungal infections because of the prevalence of fungi resistance to drugs. However, PDT for gastrointestinal fungal infection has not been reported. This study was conducted to assess the potential of PDT to deal with esophageal candidiasis. Two male patients with histological evidence of esophageal candidiasis coexisting with esophageal cancer were included in this retrospective study. Both patients were treated with PDT. This treatment was repeated at least 1month after the initial PDT if the patient still had residual cancer or esophageal candidiasis. Short-term efficacy was evaluated on the basis of endoscopy and histology findings. Further follow-up data were obtained from endoscopy results or telephone conversation. The esophageal candidiasis located 21-24cm and 25-28cm from the incisors of case 1 reached complete remission after one and two PDT sessions, respectively. The esophageal cancer coexisting with esophageal candidiasis located 21-24cm from the incisors reached complete remission after two PDT sessions. No recurrence was found at a 14-month follow-up. The esophageal cancer located 30-35cm from the incisors reached partial response after three PDT sessions. Both of the esophageal candidiasis and the coexisting esophageal cancer at 23-26cm from the incisors of case 2 reached complete remission and the esophageal cancer at 34-37cm from the incisors reached complete remission after one PDT session. No recurrence was found at a 24-month follow-up. There were no serious adverse events found in either of the two cases. Results of this preliminary study indicate that PDT may be a potential method to deal with esophageal candidiasis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Clinical significance of preoperative and postoperative cytokeratin 19 messenger RNA level in peripheral blood of esophageal cancer patients.

PubMed

Qiao, Y-F; Chen, C-G; Yue, J; Ma, Z; Yu, Z-T

2016-11-01

The purpose of this study is to analyze the correlation between preoperative/postoperative Cytokeratin 19 (CK19) messenger RNA (mRNA) level in peripheral blood (PB) and the clinical significance in esophageal cancer patients with different clinicopathological factors. We detected the preoperative and postoperative CK19 mRNA level in the PB of 139 esophageal cancer patients who underwent complete resection and evaluated its clinical significance. We found that both the preoperative and postoperative CK19 mRNA level increased in the esophageal cancer patients with lymph node metastasis, relapse or distant metastasis compared with that in cancers without lymph node metastasis, relapse or distant metastasis. High postoperative CK19 mRNA levels indicate a short disease-free survival (DFS) for the whole cohort esophageal cancer patients, whereas the high preoperative CK19 mRNA levels only indicate a short DFS for the esophageal cancer patients with squamous cell carcinoma, TNM III stage, and lymph node metastasis. The dynamic change of CK19 mRNA levels could indicate the prognosis of esophageal cancer patients. The patients with decreasing CK19 mRNA level after surgery had good prognosis, and the patients with changeless CK19 mRNA level had poor prognosis. Taken together, CK19 mRNA levels could be a promising marker in assessing prognosis or assigning treatment for the esophageal cancer patients according to different clinicopathological factors. © 2015 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Endoscopic ultrasonography predicts early esophageal variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis: A case report.

PubMed

Men, Changjun; Zhang, Guoliang

2017-04-01

Bleeding esophageal and gastric varices constitute a serious complication in liver cirrhosis. Previous studies have shown that endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) can be used to predict early esophageal variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis. We report a case of a 46-year-old man with hepatitis B liver cirrhosis (CTP score, 5; Child-Pugh class, A) who was admitted to our hospital due to a decreased appetite lasting 1 week. He was initially diagnosed with decompensated hepatitis B cirrhosis; an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan indicated a diagnosis of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension (PHT). Common endoscopic examination showed no evidence of gastroesophageal varices; EUS revealed distinct varices of the esophageal and gastric veins. Six months after discharge, the patient was rehospitalized because of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopic ligation was implemented as well as esophageal varices loop ligature (EVL). Six months later, EUS showed obvious collateral and perforator veins. We should strongly recommend that patients with liver cirrhosis undergo EUS in addition to a routine endoscopic examination. EUS can play an important role in evaluating the risk for bleeding in PHT and can be used to assess the efficacy of EVL.

[Comparison of the prognostic value of the seventh and eighth edition of The AJCC Esophageal Cancer Staging System for the patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲesophageal squamous cell carcinoma].

PubMed

Zhong, H; Ma, R; Gong, L; Chen, C G; Tang, P; Ren, P; Jiang, H J; Yu, Z T

2017-12-01

Objective: To compare and evaluate the prognostic value of the 7(th) and 8(th) edition of The AJCC Esophageal Cancer Staging System for patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: The clinical data of 328 esophageal cancer patients who received operation at Department of Esophageal Cancer, Tianjin Tumour Hospital from January 2006 to December 2010 were restrospectively analyzed. There were 63 female and 265 male patients. The mean age was 65 (range: 33 to 87) years. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify the prognosis factors. Results: The five years overall survival rates among patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ were both significantly different (χ(2)=87.035, 84.730, all P =0.000) according to the 7(th) and 8(th) editions of the TNM staging systems. The five years overall survival rate among patients with stage ⅡB and ⅢA were significantly different (39.6% vs 23.4%, P =0.001) according to the 7(th) edition of the esophageal cancer staging systems.According to the 8(th) edition of the esophageal cancer staging system, the 5 years survival rate of patients with stage ⅡA and ⅡB, ⅢB and Ⅳ was statistically significant (58.5% vs . 35.5%, P =0.040; 18.9% vs . 0, P =0.000). In multivariate analysis, tumor size, T staging, N staging and tumor differentiation ( HR =1.592, 95% CI: 1.185 to 2.139, P =0.002; HR =1.519, 95% CI: 1.236 to 1.867, P =0.000; HR =1.647, 95% CI: 1.448 to 1.874, P =0.000; HR =1.404, 95% CI: 1.059 to 1.861, P =0.018) were the main independent prognosis factors affecting the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients. Conclusions: Both the 7(th) and the 8(th) editions of TNM staging systems are able to reflect the clinical prognosis of patients receiving radical resection of esophageal cancer, and the factors of tumor size, differentiaton, invasion depth and lymph node metastases are the independent predictors of prognosis. The 8(th) edition provides a more detailed and

Detection of esophageal fiducial marker displacement during radiation therapy with a 2-dimensional on-board imager: analysis of internal margin for esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Fukada, Junichi; Hanada, Takashi; Kawaguchi, Osamu; Ohashi, Toshio; Takeuchi, Hiroya; Kitagawa, Yuko; Seki, Satoshi; Shiraishi, Yutaka; Ogata, Haruhiko; Shigematsu, Naoyuki

2013-03-15

To quantify the interfraction displacement of esophageal fiducial markers for primary esophageal cancer radiation therapy. Orthogonal 2-dimensional (2D) matching records fused to vertebrae were analyzed in clinically staged T1/2N0 esophageal cancer patients undergoing endoscopic clipping as fiducial metal markers. Displacement of the markers between the digitally reconstructed radiographs and on-board kilovoltage images during radiation therapy was analyzed according to direction and esophageal site. Forty-four patients, with 81 markers (10 proximal, 42 middle, and 29 distal), underwent 367 2D matching sessions during radiation therapy. The mean (SD) absolute marker displacement was 0.26 (0.30) cm in the right-left (RL), 0.50 (0.39) cm in the superior-inferior (SI), and 0.24 (0.21) cm in the anterior-posterior (AP) direction. Displacement was significantly larger in the SI than in the RL and AP directions (P<.0001). In the SI direction, mean absolute displacements of the distal, middle, and proximal esophagus were 0.67 (0.45) cm, 0.42 (0.32) cm, and 0.36 (0.30) cm, respectively. Distal esophagus displacement was significantly larger than those of the middle and proximal esophagus (P<.0001). The estimated internal margin to cover 95% of the cases was 0.75 cm in the RL and AP directions. In the SI direction, the margin was 1.25 cm for the proximal and middle esophagus and 1.75 cm for the distal esophagus. The magnitude of interfraction displacement of esophageal clips was larger in the SI direction, particularly in the distal esophagus, but substantial displacement was observed in other directions and at other esophageal sites. It is practical to take estimated movements into account with internal margins, even if vertebrae-based 2D matching is performed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Detection of Esophageal Fiducial Marker Displacement During Radiation Therapy With a 2-dimensional On-board Imager: Analysis of Internal Margin for Esophageal Cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fukada, Junichi, E-mail: fukada@rad.med.keio.ac.jp; Hanada, Takashi; Kawaguchi, Osamu

Purpose: To quantify the interfraction displacement of esophageal fiducial markers for primary esophageal cancer radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: Orthogonal 2-dimensional (2D) matching records fused to vertebrae were analyzed in clinically staged T1/2N0 esophageal cancer patients undergoing endoscopic clipping as fiducial metal markers. Displacement of the markers between the digitally reconstructed radiographs and on-board kilovoltage images during radiation therapy was analyzed according to direction and esophageal site. Results: Forty-four patients, with 81 markers (10 proximal, 42 middle, and 29 distal), underwent 367 2D matching sessions during radiation therapy. The mean (SD) absolute marker displacement was 0.26 (0.30) cm in themore » right–left (RL), 0.50 (0.39) cm in the superior–inferior (SI), and 0.24 (0.21) cm in the anterior–posterior (AP) direction. Displacement was significantly larger in the SI than in the RL and AP directions (P<.0001). In the SI direction, mean absolute displacements of the distal, middle, and proximal esophagus were 0.67 (0.45) cm, 0.42 (0.32) cm, and 0.36 (0.30) cm, respectively. Distal esophagus displacement was significantly larger than those of the middle and proximal esophagus (P<.0001). The estimated internal margin to cover 95% of the cases was 0.75 cm in the RL and AP directions. In the SI direction, the margin was 1.25 cm for the proximal and middle esophagus and 1.75 cm for the distal esophagus. Conclusions: The magnitude of interfraction displacement of esophageal clips was larger in the SI direction, particularly in the distal esophagus, but substantial displacement was observed in other directions and at other esophageal sites. It is practical to take estimated movements into account with internal margins, even if vertebrae-based 2D matching is performed.« less

Factors predicting the presence of esophageal or gastric varices in patients with advanced liver disease.

PubMed

Zaman, A; Hapke, R; Flora, K; Rosen, H R; Benner, K

1999-11-01

Recently it has been recommended that all cirrhotic patients without previous variceal hemorrhage undergo endoscopic screening to detect varices and that those with large varices should be treated with beta-blockers (American College of Gastroenterology guidelines). However, endoscopic screening only of patients at highest risk for varices may be the most cost effective. Ninety-eight patients without a history of variceal hemorrhage underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy as part of a liver transplant evaluation. Univariate/multivariate analysis was used to evaluate associations between the presence of varices and patient characteristics including etiology of liver disease, Child-Pugh class, physical findings (spider angiomata, splenomegaly, and ascites), encephalopathy, laboratory parameters (prothrombin time, albumin, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, and platelets), and abdominal ultrasound findings (portal vein diameter/flow, splenomegaly, and ascites). The causes of cirrhosis among the 67 men and 31 women (mean age, 48 yr) included 28% Hepatitis C/alcoholism, 25% Hepatitis C, 13% alcoholism, 9% primary sclerosing cholangitis/primary biliary cirrhosis, 9% cryptogenic, 6% Hepatitis B, 1% Hepatitis B and C, and 9% other. Patients were Child-Pugh class A 34%, B 51%, and C 15%. Endoscopic findings included esophageal varices in 68% of patients (30% were large), gastric varices in 15%, and portal hypertensive gastropathy in 58%. Platelet count <88,000 was the only parameter identified by univariate/multivariate analysis (p < 0.05) as associated with the presence of large esophageal varices (odds ratio 5.5; 95% confidence interval 1.8-20.6) or gastric varices (odds ratio 5; 95% confidence interval 1.4-23). Platelet count <88,000 is associated with the presence of esophagogastric varices. A large prospective study is needed to verify and validate these findings and may allow identification of a group of patients who would most benefit from endoscopic screening for varices.

Advances in esophageal motor disorders.

PubMed

Smout, André Jpm

2008-07-01

Esophageal motor disorders, often leading to dysphagia and chest pain, continue to pose diagnostic and therapeutic problems. In the past 12 months important new information regarding esophageal motor disorders was published. This information will be reviewed in this paper. A number of studies have addressed the issue of heterogeneity in achalasia, the best defined esophageal motility disorder. The spastic esophageal motility disorders nutcracker esophagus and diffuse esophageal spasm may coexist with gastroesophageal reflux disease, which has consequences for the management of patients with these disorders. The entity labelled ineffective esophageal motility is associated with reflux esophagitis, but also with morbid obesity. For the detection of disordered transit caused by ineffective esophageal motility, application of intraluminal impedance monitoring in conjunction with manometry leads to improved diagnosis. New data on the effect of Nissen fundoplication on esophageal motility were published during the last year. Recent knowledge on the heterogeneity of achalasia and the association of spastic esophageal motor disorders and ineffective motility with reflux disease will help the clinician in the management of patients with these disorders.

Clinical outcome of elderly patients (≥ 70 years) with esophageal cancer undergoing definitive or neoadjuvant radio(chemo)therapy: a retrospective single center analysis.

PubMed

Walter, Franziska; Böckle, David; Schmidt-Hegemann, Nina-Sophie; Köpple, Rebecca; Gerum, Sabine; Boeck, Stefan; Angele, Martin; Belka, Claus; Roeder, Falk

2018-05-16

To analyse the outcome of elderly patients (≥70 years) with esophageal cancer treated with curative intent radio(chemo)therapy. Fifty five patients (median 75 years) receiving curative intent radio(chemo)therapy for esophageal cancer from 1999 to 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Most patients showed locally advanced disease (T3/4:78%, N+:58%) with squamous cell histology (74%). Charlson comorbidity score was > 1 in 27%. 48 patients (87%) received definitive treatment while 7 patients were treated neoadjuvantly. RT was carried out as 3D-conformal treatment or IMRT. Concurrent chemotherapy was applied in 85%, mainly cisplatin/5-FU or mitomycin/5-FU. 18 FDG-PET/CT staging was used in 65%. Median follow-up was 11 months (1-68) and 21 months in survivors. 1- and 2-year rates of LRC, DC, FFTF and OS were 60%/45, 81%/72, 55%/41 and 46%/26% for the entire cohort. In univariate analysis, addition of surgery was associated with improved LRC and FFTF, nodal involvement with improved DC and lower T stage, lower Charlson score and use of PET-CT with improved OS. In multivariate analysis, lower T stage and lower Charlson score remained significant for OS. Patients treated after 2008 showed a significantly improved FFTF (1-year FFTF 64% vs 35%) and OS (1-year OS 66% vs 24%). Maximum (chemo)radiation related grade3+ toxicity was observed in 80% including 7 deaths (13%). Grade5 toxicity was significantly associated with Charlson score (CS > 1:33% vs CS ≤ 1:5%) and treatment period (24% before vs 3% after 2008). The patients treated after 2008 included significantly more SCCs, less T4 stages, had a higher percentage of PET-CT staging and were treated with smaller field lengths. Trends were also observed for lower Charlson scores and increased use of IMRT. Curative intent (chemo)radiation of elderly patients with esophageal cancer may result in considerable toxicity and unfavorable outcome. However, a clear improvement over time was observed in our cohort

Hospital of Diagnosis Influences the Probability of Receiving Curative Treatment for Esophageal Cancer.

PubMed

van Putten, Margreet; Koëter, Marijn; van Laarhoven, Hanneke W M; Lemmens, Valery E P P; Siersema, Peter D; Hulshof, Maarten C C M; Verhoeven, Rob H A; Nieuwenhuijzen, Grard A P

2018-02-01

The aim of this article was to study the influence of hospital of diagnosis on the probability of receiving curative treatment and its impact on survival among patients with esophageal cancer (EC). Although EC surgery is centralized in the Netherlands, the disease is often diagnosed in hospitals that do not perform this procedure. Patients with potentially curable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction tumors diagnosed between 2005 and 2013 who were potentially curable (cT1-3,X, any N, M0,X) were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Multilevel logistic regression was performed to examine the probability to undergo curative treatment (resection with or without neoadjuvant treatment, definitive chemoradiotherapy, or local tumor excision) according to hospital of diagnosis. Effects of variation in probability of undergoing curative treatment among these hospitals on survival were investigated by Cox regression. All 13,017 patients with potentially curable EC, diagnosed in 91 hospitals, were included. The proportion of patients receiving curative treatment ranged from 37% to 83% and from 45% to 86% in the periods 2005-2009 and 2010-2013, respectively, depending on hospital of diagnosis. After adjustment for patient- and hospital-related characteristics these proportions ranged from 41% to 77% and from 50% to 82%, respectively (both P < 0.001). Multivariable survival analyses showed that patients diagnosed in hospitals with a low probability of undergoing curative treatment had a worse overall survival (hazard ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval 1.06-1.20; hazard ratio = 1.15, 95% confidence interval 1.07-1.24). The variation in probability of undergoing potentially curative treatment for EC between hospitals of diagnosis and its impact on survival indicates that treatment decision making in EC may be improved.

Esophageal motor disorders: recent advances.

PubMed

Dogan, Ibrahim; Mittal, Ravinder K

2006-07-01

The aim of this article is to highlight literature published during the last year in the context of previous knowledge. A number of novel techniques - high-resolution manometry, esophageal electrical impedance and intra-luminal ultrasound imaging - have improved our understanding of esophageal function in health and disease. Several studies address the function of longitudinal muscle layer of the esophagus in normal subjects and patients with motor disorders of the esophagus. Esophageal electrical impedance recordings reveal abnormal transit in patients with diffuse esophageal spasm, achalasia and patients with normal manometry. Loss of the mammalian Sprouty2 gene leads to enteric neuronal hyperplasia and esophageal achalasia. Several studies showed excellent long-term results of medical and surgical treatment of achalasia of the esophagus. For the first time, mechanisms of gastroesophageal reflux in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients are reported. Novel pharmacologic strategies in the treatment of reflux disease are highlighted. Several novel techniques, perfected during recent years, have improved our understanding of esophageal function and dysfunction. A number of important observations, reviewed here, provide important insight into the pathogenesis of esophageal motor disorders and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Multivariable normal-tissue complication modeling of acute esophageal toxicity in advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with intensity-modulated (chemo-)radiotherapy.

PubMed

Wijsman, Robin; Dankers, Frank; Troost, Esther G C; Hoffmann, Aswin L; van der Heijden, Erik H F M; de Geus-Oei, Lioe-Fee; Bussink, Johan

2015-10-01

The majority of normal-tissue complication probability (NTCP) models for acute esophageal toxicity (AET) in advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer (AS-NSCLC) patients treated with (chemo-)radiotherapy are based on three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). Due to distinct dosimetric characteristics of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), 3D-CRT based models need revision. We established a multivariable NTCP model for AET in 149 AS-NSCLC patients undergoing IMRT. An established model selection procedure was used to develop an NTCP model for Grade ⩾2 AET (53 patients) including clinical and esophageal dose-volume histogram parameters. The NTCP model predicted an increased risk of Grade ⩾2 AET in case of: concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCR) [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 14.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.70-42.19; p<0.001], increasing mean esophageal dose [Dmean; OR 1.12 per Gy increase, 95% CI 1.06-1.19; p<0.001], female patients (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.36-8.17; p=0.008), and ⩾cT3 (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.12-6.50; p=0.026). The AUC was 0.82 and the model showed good calibration. A multivariable NTCP model including CCR, Dmean, clinical tumor stage and gender predicts Grade ⩾2 AET after IMRT for AS-NSCLC. Prior to clinical introduction, the model needs validation in an independent patient cohort. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparable Molecular Alterations in 4-Nitroquinoline 1-Oxide-induced Oral and Esophageal Cancer in Mice and in Human Esophageal Cancer, Associated with Poor Prognosis of Patients

PubMed Central

YANG, ZHENGDUO; GUAN, BAOXIANG; MEN, TAOYAN; FUJIMOTO, JUNYA; XU, XIAOCHUN

2013-01-01

Background The murine model of 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)-induced oral and esophageal cancer is frequently used to assess the effects of different cancer prevention/therapy agents in vivo, but the molecular mechanisms in those 4-NQO-induced carcinogenesis are unknown. This study investigated aberrant expression of cell growth-critical genes in 4-NQO-induced oral and esophageal cancer tissues in mice compared to human disease for association with survival of patients. Materials and Methods C57LB6/129Sv mice were given 4-NQO in their drinking water to induce oral and esophageal cancer. Quantitative-reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to detect gene expression in the cancer tissues from mice and in 4-NQO-treated human esophageal cancer cell lines and esophageal cancer tissues. Methylation-specific PCR and DNA sequencing were performed to assess methylation of Rarb2 promoter in murine tissues. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to associate gene expression in esophageal cancer tissues with survival data for patients with esophageal cancer. Results 4-NQO dose-dependently induced pre-malignant and malignant lesions in oral cavity and esophagus in mice that pathologically and morphologically mimicked human oral and esophageal cancer. Molecularly, 4-NQO inhibited Rarβ2 but induced expression of phosphorylated extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (p-ERK1/2) and Cox2 proteins and Rarβ2 gene promoter methylation in murine tumors. In vitro treatment with 4-NQO altered expression of RARβ2, p-ERK1/2, and COX2 in human esophageal cancer cells. In tissues from 90 patients with esophageal cancer, expression of p-ERK1/2 and COX2 was up-regulated, and p-ERK1/2 expression was associated with advanced clinical tumor stage and consumption of hot beverages, while COX2 expression was associated with tumor de-differentiation in esophageal cancer. Furthermore, expression of p-ERK1/2 was associated

Ineffective esophageal motility phenotypes following fundoplication in gastroesophageal reflux disease.

PubMed

Mello, M D; Shriver, A R; Li, Y; Patel, A; Gyawali, C P

2016-02-01

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is associated with reflux disease, but its natural history is unclear. We evaluated patients undergoing repeat esophageal high resolution manometry (HRM) for symptomatic presentations after antireflux surgery (ARS) to understand the progression of IEM. Patients with repeat HRM after ARS were included. Ineffective esophageal motility was diagnosed if ≥5 sequences had distal contractile integral (DCI) <450 mmHg cm s. Augmentation of DCI following multiple rapid swallows (MRS) was assessed. The esophagogastric junction (EGJ) was interrogated using the EGJ contractile integral (EGJ-CI). Esophageal motor function was compared between patients with and without IEM. Sixty-eight patients (53.9 ± 1.8 years, 66.2% female) had pre- and post-ARS HRM studies 2.1 ± 0.19 years apart. Esophagogastric junction-CI augmented by a mean of 26.3% following ARS. Four IEM phenotypes were identified: 14.7% had persistent IEM, 8.8% resolved IEM after ARS, 19.1% developed new IEM, and 57.4% had no IEM at any point. Patients with IEM had a lower DCI pre- and post-ARS, lower pre-ARS EGJ CI, and lower pre-ARS-integrated relaxation pressure (p ≤ 0.02 for all comparisons); presenting symptoms and other EGJ metrics were similar (p ≥ 0.08 for all comparisons). The IEM phenotypes could be predicted by MRS DCI response patterns (p = 0.008 across groups); patients with persistent IEM had the least DCI augmentation (p = 0.007 compared to no IEM), while those who resolved IEM had DCI augmentation comparable to no IEM (p = 0.08). Distinct phenotypes of IEM exist among symptomatic reflux patients following ARS. Provocative testing with MRS may help identify these phenotypes pre-ARS. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Feeding Problems and Their Underlying Mechanisms in the Esophageal Atresia–Tracheoesophageal Fistula Patient

PubMed Central

Mahoney, Lisa; Rosen, Rachel

2017-01-01

Feeding difficulties such as dysphagia, coughing, choking, or vomiting during meals, slow eating, oral aversion, food refusal, and stressful mealtimes are common in children with repaired esophageal atresia (EA) and the reasons for this are often multifactorial. The aim of this review is to describe the possible underlying mechanisms contributing to feeding difficulties in patients with EA and approaches to management. Underlying mechanisms for these feeding difficulties include esophageal dysphagia, oropharyngeal dysphagia and aspiration, and aversions related to prolonged gastrostomy tube feeding. The initial diagnostic evaluation for feeding difficulties in a patient with EA may involve an esophagram, videofluoroscopic imaging or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation during swallowing, upper endoscopy with biopsies, pH-impedance testing, and/or esophageal motility studies. The main goal of management is to reduce the factors contributing to feeding difficulties and may include reducing esophageal stasis, maximizing reflux therapies, treating underlying lung disease, dilating strictures, and altering feeding methods, routes, or schedules. PMID:28620597

Associated factors of radiation pneumonitis induced by precise radiotherapy in 186 elderly patients with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Cui, Zhen; Tian, Ye; He, Bin; Li, Hongwei; Li, Duojie; Liu, Jingjing; Cai, Hanfei; Lou, Jianjun; Jiang, Hao; Shen, Xueming; Peng, Kaigui

2015-01-01

Radiation pneumonitis is one of the most severe complications of esophageal cancer. To explore the factors correlated to radiation pneumonitis induced by precise radiotherapy for elderly patients with esophageal cancer. The retrospective analysis was used to collect clinical data from 186 elderly patients with esophageal cancer. The incidence of radiation pneumonitis was observed, followed by statistical analysis through ANVON or multiple regression analysis. 27 in 186 cases of esophageal cancer suffered from radiation pneumonitis, with incidence of 14.52%. The single factor analysis showed that, Karnofsky performance status (KPS) score, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, gross tumor volume (GTV) dose, lung V20, mean lung dose (MLD) and planning target volume (PTV) were associated with radiation pneumonitis. The logistic regression analysis indicated that, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, GTV dose, lung V20 and PTV were the independent factors of radiation pneumonitis. The concurrent chemoradiotherapy, GTV dose, lung V20, MLD and PTV are the major risk factors of radiation pneumonitis for elderly patients with esophageal cancer.

The Functional Lumen Imaging Probe Detects Esophageal Contractility Not Observed With Manometry in Patients With Achalasia.

PubMed

Carlson, Dustin A; Lin, Zhiyue; Kahrilas, Peter J; Sternbach, Joel; Donnan, Erica N; Friesen, Laurel; Listernick, Zoe; Mogni, Benjamin; Pandolfino, John E

2015-12-01

The functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) could improve the characterization of achalasia subtypes by detecting nonocclusive esophageal contractions not observed with standard manometry. We aimed to evaluate esophageal contractions during volumetric distention in patients with achalasia using FLIP topography. Fifty-one treatment-naive patients with achalasia, defined and subclassified by high-resolution esophageal pressure topography, and 10 asymptomatic individuals (controls) were evaluated with the FLIP during endoscopy. During stepwise distension, simultaneous intrabag pressures and 16 channels of cross-sectional areas were measured; data were exported to software that generated FLIP topography plots. Esophageal contractility was identified by noting periods of reduced luminal diameter. Esophageal contractions were characterized further by propagation direction, repetitiveness, and based on whether they were occluding or nonoccluding. Esophageal contractility was detected in all 10 controls: 8 of 10 had repetitive antegrade contractions and 9 of 10 had occluding contractions. Contractility was detected in 27% (4 of 15) of patients with type I achalasia and in 65% (18 of 26, including 9 with occluding contractions) of patients with type II achalasia. Contractility was detected in all 10 patients with type III achalasia; 8 of these patients had a pattern of contractility that was not observed in controls (repetitive retrograde contractions). Esophageal contractility not observed with manometry can be detected in patients with achalasia using FLIP topography. The presence and patterns of contractility detected with FLIP topography may represent variations in pathophysiology, such as mechanisms of panesophageal pressurization in patients with type II achalasia. These findings could have implications for additional subclassification to supplement prediction of the achalasia disease course. Copyright © 2015 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights

Incidence and risk factors of acute kidney injury after esophageal cancer surgery: A nested case-control study.

PubMed

Wang, Wen; Wang, Tong; Feng, Xiaoshuang; Sun, Li

2017-03-01

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been increasingly recognized as a common and serious postoperative complication. Although many studies have been conducted to investigate postoperative AKI after thoracic surgery, little is known about AKI after esophageal surgery. Thus, we conducted this study to determine the incidence and identify risk factors of postoperative AKI after esophageal cancer surgery. A retrospective nested case-control study of patients undergoing elective esophageal cancer surgery between July 2013 and July 2016 in a single tertiary specialized cancer hospital was performed. The primary outcome was development of AKI. Conditional logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for AKI. Of 2094 patients, 51 (2.4%) developed postoperative AKI after esophageal cancer surgery. In multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis, four risk factors for AKI after esophageal surgery for cancer were identified: preoperative serum creatinine level (OR 1.040; 95% CI 1.012-1.069), duration of surgery (OR 1.009; 95% CI 1.005-1.014), smoking history (OR 3.029; 95% CI 1.092-8.399) and hypertension (OR 6.422; 95% CI 2.736-15.070). Postoperative AKI occurred in 2.4% of patients after esophageal surgery for cancer. Preoperative serum creatinine level, duration of surgery, smoking history and hypertension were independent risk factors for postoperative AKI. Copyright © 2017 IJS Publishing Group Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Conservative management of esophageal perforations during pneumatic dilation for idiopathic esophageal achalasia.

PubMed

Vanuytsel, Tim; Lerut, Toni; Coosemans, Willy; Vanbeckevoort, Dirk; Blondeau, Kathleen; Boeckxstaens, Guy; Tack, Jan

2012-02-01

Esophageal perforation is the most serious adverse event of pneumatic dilation (PD) for achalasia; it is usually managed by surgical repair. We investigated risk factors for esophageal perforation after PD and evaluated safety and long-term outcome of nonsurgical management strategies. We analyzed medical records of patients with achalasia who were treated with PD from 1992-2010 at the University Hospital Gasthuisberg in Leuven, Belgium; all patients with esophageal perforation were contacted to determine long-term outcomes. Achalasia outcomes were assessed by using the Vantrappen criteria. Of 830 PD procedures performed on 372 patients with manometry-confirmed achalasia (57 ± 1 years, 51% male), 16 were complicated by transmural esophageal perforation (4.3% of patients, 1.9% of dilations). Age >65 years was the only significant risk factor for complications (odds ratio, 3.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-10.2). All patients were treated conservatively with broad-spectrum antibiotics and nothing by mouth. In 6 patients (38%) the clinical course was further complicated by a pleural effusion, which required a drain in 4 patients. One patient (6%) died of mediastinal hemorrhage within 12 hours after PD. Patients with complications were discharged after 19 ± 2.3 days, compared with 4 ± 0.2 days for those without complications (P < .0001). Long-term outcomes (mean follow-up, 84 ± 14 months) were determined for 12 patients (75%); 11 had excellent or good outcomes (69%), and 1 had a moderate outcome (6%). Age >65 years is a significant risk factor for esophageal perforation after PD. Nonsurgical management of transmural esophageal tears is feasible, with favorable short-term and long-term outcomes, but is not devoid of complications. Copyright © 2012 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Baseline impedance measured during high-resolution esophageal impedance manometry reliably discriminates GERD patients.

PubMed

Ravi, K; Geno, D M; Vela, M F; Crowell, M D; Katzka, D A

2017-05-01

Baseline impedance measured with ambulatory impedance pH monitoring (MII-pH) and a mucosal impedance catheter detects gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, these tools are limited by cost or patient tolerance. We investigated whether baseline impedance measured during high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) distinguishes GERD patients from controls. Consecutive patients with clinical HRIM and MII-pH testing were identified. Gastroesophageal reflux disease was defined by esophageal pH <4 for ≥5% of both the supine and total study time, whereas controls had an esophageal pH <4 for ≤3% of the study performed off PPI. Baseline impedance was measured over 15 seconds during the landmark period of HRIM and over three 10 minute intervals during the overnight period of MII-pH. Among 29 GERD patients and 26 controls, GERD patients had a mean esophageal acid exposure time of 22.7% compared to 1.2% in controls (P<.0001). Mean baseline impedance during HRIM was lower in GERD (1061 Ω) than controls (2814 Ω) (P<.0001). Baseline mucosal impedance measured during HRIM and MII-pH correlated (r=0.59, P<.0001). High-resolution esophageal manometry baseline impedance had high diagnostic accuracy for GERD, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.931 on receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. A HRIM baseline impedance threshold of 1582 Ω had a sensitivity of 86.2% and specificity of 88.5% for GERD, with a positive predictive value of 89.3% and negative predictive value of 85.2%. Baseline impedance measured during HRIM can reliably discriminate GERD patients with at least moderate esophageal acid exposure from controls. This diagnostic tool may represent an accurate, cost-effective, and less invasive test for GERD. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Outcome of Radiation Monotherapy for High-risk Patients with Stage I Esophageal Cancer.

PubMed

Shirakawa, Yasuhiro; Noma, Kazuhiro; Maeda, Naoaki; Tanabe, Shunsuke; Kuroda, Shinji; Kagawa, Shunsuke; Katsui, Kuniaki; Katayama, Norihisa; Kanazawa, Susumu; Fujiwara, Toshiyoshi

2017-04-01

Currently, chemoradiation is the most widely used nonsurgical treatment for esophageal cancer. However, some patients, particularly the very elderly or those with severe vital organ dysfunction, face difficulty with the chemotherapy component. We therefore examined the outcome of radiation therapy (RT) alone for patients with esophageal cancer at our facility. Between January 2005 and December 2014, 84 patients underwent RT at our hospital, and 78 of these patients received concomitant chemotherapy. The remaining 6 patients underwent RT alone; these patients were considered to be high-risk and to have no lymph node metastasis (stage I). Five of them received irradiation up to a curative dose: 4 showed a complete response (CR) and 1 showed a partial response (PR). Of the patients exhibiting CR, 3 are currently living recurrence-free, whereas 1 patient underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) as salvage therapy for local recurrence, with no subsequent recurrence. High-risk stage I esophageal cancer patients can be treated radically with RT alone under certain conditions. In the future, to broaden the indications for RT monotherapy to include some degree of advanced cancers, a novel concurrent therapy should be identified.

Mechanisms of repetitive retrograde contractions in response to sustained esophageal distension: a study evaluating patients with postfundoplication dysphagia.

PubMed

Carlson, Dustin A; Kahrilas, Peter J; Ritter, Katherine; Lin, Zhiyue; Pandolfino, John E

2018-03-01

Repetitive retrograde contractions (RRCs) in response to sustained esophageal distension are a distinct contractility pattern observed with functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry that are common in type III (spastic) achalasia. RRCs are hypothesized to be indicative of either impaired inhibitory innervation or esophageal outflow obstruction. We aimed to apply FLIP panometry to patients with postfundoplication dysphagia (a model of esophageal obstruction) to explore mechanisms behind RRCs. Adult patients with dysphagia after Nissen fundoplication ( n = 32) or type III achalasia ( n = 25) were evaluated with high-resolution manometry (HRM) and upper endoscopy with FLIP. HRM studies were assessed for outflow obstruction and spastic features: premature contractility, hypercontractility, and impaired deglutitive inhibition during multiple-rapid swallows. FLIP studies were analyzed to determine the esophagogastric junction (EGJ)-distensibility index and contractility pattern, including RRCs. Barium esophagram was evaluated when available. RRCs were present in 8/32 (25%) fundoplication and 19/25 (76%) achalasia patients ( P < 0.001). EGJ outflow obstruction was detected in 21 (67%) fundoplication patients by HRM, FLIP, or esophagram [6 (29%) had RRCs]. On HRM, none of the fundoplication patients had premature contractility, whereas 3/4 with defective inhibition on multiple-rapid swallows and 2/4 with hypercontractility had RRCs. Regression analysis demonstrated HRM with spastic features, but not esophageal outflow obstruction, as a predictor for RRCs. RRCs in response to sustained esophageal distension appear to be a manifestation of spastic esophageal motility. Although future study to further clarify the significance of RRCs is needed, RRCs on FLIP panometry should prompt evaluation for a major motor disorder. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Repetitive retrograde contractions (RRCs) are a common response to sustained esophageal distension among spastic achalasia patients

Role of Endoscopy in Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

PubMed

Muir, Amanda B; Merves, Jamie; Liacouras, Chris A

2016-01-01

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic allergic (immune-mediated) disease that leads to esophageal dysfunction and feeding disorders in children. Foods, and possibly environmental triggers, cause an inflammatory response in the esophagus, leading to esophageal inflammation, eosinophilic infiltration, and esophageal dysmotility, which may progress to dysphagia, food impaction, and esophageal stricture. Endoscopy with biopsy and histologic evaluation is currently the only method to diagnose EoE. Once diagnosed with EoE, children undergo follow-up endoscopy after therapy initiation and adjustments to ensure remission. Furthermore, children with food impactions or strictures may require endoscopic intervention such as foreign body removal and/or esophageal dilation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines in patients with esophageal cancer after perioperative treatment with G-CSF.

PubMed

Hübel, K; Mansmann, G; Schäfer, H; Oberhäuser, F; Diehl, V; Engert, A

2000-12-01

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been shown to effectively stimulate granulopoiesis, in both neutropenic and in non-neutropenic patients. Recently, other effects of G-CSF on the immune system have attracted interest in treating non-neutropenic patients with a high risk of severe infection. In this phase II trial, we measured the effects of G-CSF on the serum cytokine levels in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing esophagectomy. Twenty subsequent patients (study group, 19 evaluable) received G-CSF (rhG-CSF, Filgrastim) at standard doses (300 microg or 480 microg) subcutaneously 2 days before and up to 7 days after surgery. G-CSF was well tolerated. Leukocytes increased from 7600/microl at study entry (day -2) to a maximum of 45 100/microl (day 6). In the study patients, we found a highly significant (P<0.001) postoperative increase of G-CSF, IL-1ra, sTNFRp55 and sTNFRp75 as compared with the baseline level. In contrast, IL-8 levels were decreased by a factor of 6.8; there were no changes in the very low TNF-alpha levels. The comparison of the study group with a control group of 21 cancer patients undergoing major surgery who were not treated with G-CSF showed significant differences in the serum levels of G-CSF, sTNFRp55, sTNFRp75, and IL-1ra, respectively. There was no infection in the study group up to 10 days after surgery as compared with 29.9% in a historical control group (P=0.008). Thus, the induction of anti-inflammatory cytokines and the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines by G-CSF might be a promising adjuvant treatment of infectious complications in patients undergoing esophagectomy. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Comparative Study of Esophageal Stent and Feeding Gastrostomy/Jejunostomy for Tracheoesophageal Fistula Caused by Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Chiu, Yi-Chun; Lu, Hung-I; Huang, Cheng-Hua; Rau, Kun-Ming; Liu, Chien-Ting

2012-01-01

Background A malignant tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a life-threatening complication of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. A feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy had been the most common treatment method for patients with TEF before the era of stenting. The aim of this retrospective study is to compare the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients with TEF treated with an esophageal metallic stent to those treated with a feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy. Methods We retrospectively reviewed a total of 1011 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma between 1996 and 2011 at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and 86 patients with TEF (8.5%) were identified. The overall survival and other clinical data were compared between 30 patients treated with an esophageal metallic stent and 35 patients treated with a feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy. Results Among the 65 patients receiving either an esophageal metallic stent or a feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy, univariate analysis showed that treatment modality with an esophageal metallic stent (P = 0.007) and radiotherapy treatment after fistula diagnosis (P = 0.04) were predictive of superior overall survival. In the multivariate comparison, treatment modality with an esophageal metallic stent (P = 0.026, odds ratio: 1.859) represented the independent predictive factor of superior overall survival. There were no significant differences between groups in mean decrease in serum albumin or mean body weight loss. Compared to the feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy group, a significantly higher proportion of patients in the stenting group (53% versus 14%, P = 0.001) were able to receive chemotherapy within 30 days after fistula diagnosis, indicating better infection control in the stenting group. Conclusions Compared with a feeding gastrostomy/jejunostomy, an esophageal metallic stent significantly improves overall survival in patients with malignant TEF in our retrospective

The preoperative manometric pattern predicts the outcome of surgical treatment for esophageal achalasia.

PubMed

Salvador, Renato; Costantini, Mario; Zaninotto, Giovanni; Morbin, Tiziana; Rizzetto, Christian; Zanatta, Lisa; Ceolin, Martina; Finotti, Elena; Nicoletti, Loredana; Da Dalt, Gianfranco; Cavallin, Francesco; Ancona, Ermanno

2010-11-01

A new manometric classification of esophageal achalasia has recently been proposed that also suggests a correlation with the final outcome of treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate this hypothesis in a large group of achalasia patients undergoing laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy. We evaluated 246 consecutive achalasia patients who underwent surgery as their first treatment from 2001 to 2009. Patients with sigmoid-shaped esophagus were excluded. Symptoms were scored and barium swallow X-ray, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry were performed before and again at 6 months after surgery. Patients were divided into three groups: (I) no distal esophageal pressurization (contraction wave amplitude <30 mmHg); (II) rapidly propagating compartmentalized pressurization (panesophageal pressurization >30 mmHg); and (III) rapidly propagating pressurization attributable to spastic contractions. Treatment failure was defined as a postoperative symptom score greater than the 10th percentile of the preoperative score (i.e., >7). Type III achalasia coincided with a longer overall lower esophageal sphincter (LES) length, a lower symptom score, and a smaller esophageal diameter. Treatment failure rates differed significantly in the three groups: I = 14.6% (14/96), II = 4.7% (6/127), and III = 30.4% (7/23; p = 0.0007). At univariate analysis, the manometric pattern, a low LES resting pressure, and a high chest pain score were the only factors predicting treatment failure. At multivariate analysis, the manometric pattern and a LES resting pressure <30 mmHg predicted a negative outcome. This is the first study by a surgical group to assess the outcome of surgery in 3 manometric achalasia subtypes: patients with panesophageal pressurization have the best outcome after laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy.

Successful bypass operation for esophageal obstruction after acute esophageal necrosis: a case report.

PubMed

Sakatoku, Yayoi; Fukaya, Masahide; Miyata, Kazushi; Nagino, Masato

2017-12-01

Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is a rare clinical disorder. Esophageal stenosis or obstruction is one of severe complications, but there are a few reports about surgical treatments. In such a situation, it still remains controversial which to choose, esophagectomy or bypass operation. A 61-year-old woman was admitted to the local hospital for septic shock with diabetic ketoacidosis due to necrotizing fasciitis of the right thigh. Three days later, she had hematemesis, and gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed black mucosal coloration throughout the entire esophagus. She was diagnosed as having AEN. Her general condition improved after intensive care, debridement, and treatment with antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor; the esophageal mucosal color recovered. However, an esophageal stricture developed after 1 month, and the patient underwent gastrostomy to remove an esophageal obstruction after 3 months. She was referred to our hospital for surgical treatment 1 year and 4 months after the occurrence of AEN because of her strong desire for oral intake. Her medical condition was poor, and she could not walk due to generalized muscle weakness. After rehabilitation for 8 months, we performed an esophageal bypass using a gastric conduit via the percutaneous route rather than esophagectomy because of her multiple severe comorbidities including walking difficulty, chronic hepatitis C, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic renal failure. Minor leakage of the esophagogastrostomy occurred and was resolved with conservative treatment. The patient began oral intake on postoperative day 34 and was discharged on day 52. Esophageal obstruction after AEN was successfully treated by esophageal bypass using a gastric conduit in a high-risk patient. Because the majority of patients with AEN have multiple severe comorbidities, assessing the medical condition of the patient adequately is important prior to choosing either an esophagectomy or bypass surgery.

Characterization of esophageal pressure-flow abnormalities in patients with non-obstructive dysphagia and normal manometry findings.

PubMed

Chen, Chien-Lin; Yi, Chih-Hsun; Liu, Tso-Tsai; Hsu, Ching-Sheng; Omari, Taher I

2013-06-01

Patients with non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD) report symptoms of impaired esophageal bolus transit without evidence of bolus stasis. In such patients, manometric investigation may diagnose esophageal motility disorders; however, many have normal motor patterns. We hypothesized that patients with NOD would demonstrate evidence of high flow-resistance during bolus passage which in turn would relate to the reporting of bolus hold up perception. Esophageal pressure-impedance recordings of 5 mL liquid and viscous swallows from 18 NOD patients (11 male; 19-71 years) and 17 control subjects (9 male; 25-60 years) were analyzed. The relationship between intrabolus pressure and bolus flow timing in the esophagus was assessed using the pressure flow index (PFI). Bolus perception was assessed swallow by swallow using standardized descriptors. NOD patients were characterized by a higher PFI than controls. The PFI defined a pressure-flow abnormality in all patients who appeared normal based on the assessment esophageal motor patterns and bolus clearance. The PFI was higher for individual swallows during which subjects reported perception of bolus passage. Bolus flow-resistance is higher in NOD patients compared with controls as well as higher in relation to perception of bolus transit, suggesting the presence of an esophageal motility disorder despite normal findings on conventional analysis. © 2013 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Esophageal motility and 24-h pH profiles of patients with heterotopic gastric mucosa in the cervical esophagus.

PubMed

Korkut, Esin; Bektaş, Mehmet; Alkan, Murat; Ustün, Yusuf; Meco, Cem; Ozden, Ali; Soykan, Irfan

2010-02-01

Heterotopic gastric mucosa occurs as a flat island of red mucosa in the proximal third of the esophagus where it gives rise to the cervical inlet patch. The aims of this study were to investigate the esophageal motility pattern and 24-h pH profiles of patients with cervical inlet patch. Thirty patients (16 women, mean age: 44.9 years, range: 23-72) diagnosed as having heterotopic gastric mucosa in the cervical esophagus with upper gastrointestinal symptoms had undergone esophageal motility testing and 24-h pH monitorisation with a double-channel pH probe. Manometric investigation was abnormal in 7 patients (non-specific esophageal motor disorder in 4 patients, esophageal hypomotility in 1 patient, and hypotensive LES in 2 patients). Pathological acid reflux (pH<4) was found in 9 (30%) of 30 heterotopic gastric mucosa patients during pH monitorisation from the distal probe. Pathological acid reflux in the proximal esophagus (percentage of total time of pH<4) was seen in four of these nine patients. Only four of the 30 patients (13.3%) presented with "acid independent episodes" during the 24-h esophageal pH monitorisation. Manometric investigation and 24-h pH monitorisation revealed that some of the patients with HGM have signs of esophageal motor dysfunction and "acid independent episodes" from the patches. These abnormalities may be responsible for some of the symptoms of HGM patients. Copyright 2009 European Federation of Internal Medicine. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Perioperative morbidity and outcome of esophageal surgery in dogs and cats: 72 cases (1993-2013).

PubMed

Sutton, Jessie S; Culp, William T N; Scotti, Katherine; Seibert, Rachel L; Lux, Cassie N; Singh, Ameet; Wormser, Chloe; Runge, Jeffrey J; Schmiedt, Chad W; Corrie, Jessica; Phillips, Heidi; Selmic, Laura E; Nucci, Daniel J; Mayhew, Philipp D; Kass, Philip H

2016-10-01

OBJECTIVE To evaluate perioperative morbidity and outcome in dogs and cats undergoing esophageal surgery. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS 63 client-owned dogs and 9 client-owned cats. PROCEDURES Medical records of dogs and cats that underwent esophageal surgery were reviewed for information on signalment, history, results of preoperative diagnostic testing, condition treated, details of surgery, intraoperative complications, and postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up data were obtained via veterinarian and client telephone conversations. The relationship between complications and survival to hospital discharge was evaluated by means of regression analysis. RESULTS The most common indication for surgical intervention was an esophageal foreign body in dogs (50/63 [79%]) and esophageal stricture in cats (3/9). Complications were documented in 54% (34/63) of dogs and 3 of 9 cats. The most common immediate postoperative complications were respiratory in nature (9 dogs, 1 cat). Partial esophagectomy and resection with anastomosis were significantly associated with the development of immediate postoperative complications in dogs. The most common delayed postoperative complications were persistent regurgitation (7 dogs) and esophageal stricture formation (3 dogs, 1 cat). For dogs, a mass lesion and increasing lesion size were significantly associated with the development of delayed postoperative complications. Six dogs (10%) and 1 cat died or were euthanized prior to discharge, and pneumomediastinum and leukopenia were negative prognostic factors for dogs being discharged from the hospital. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results of this study suggested that the short-term prognosis for dogs and cats that survive surgery for treatment of esophageal lesions is favorable, with 90% of patients discharged from the hospital (57/63 dogs; 8/9 cats). However, dogs treated for more extensive esophageal lesions as well as those undergoing esophagectomy or

Sex difference in survival of patients treated by surgical resection for esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Hidaka, Hideki; Hotokezaka, Masayuki; Nakashima, Shinya; Uchiyama, Shuichiro; Maehara, Naoki; Chijiiwa, Kazuo

2007-10-01

Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for most of the esophageal cancers in Japan and is often related to excessive smoking and drinking. Although esophageal cancer occurs far more frequently in men than in women, it is not certain whether there are sex-specific differences in morbidity and mortality after surgical resection of the esophagus. We conducted a study to determine the influence of sex on the short- and long-term results of surgical resection in patients with esophageal cancer. There were 295 patients with a newly diagnosed primary malignant neoplasm of the esophagus treated at our University hospital between January 1978 and December 2005. There were 185 patients (166 men, 19 women; age range 39-86 years) who underwent surgical resection for primary esophageal malignant neoplasms. Survival rates were calculated according to the Kaplan-Meier method and tested with the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess independent predictors of survival. The cumulative amount of alcohol consumed and number of cigarettes smoked were significantly higher in men than in women. Postoperative complications occurred in 101 men (60.8%) and 9 women (47.4%), but significant sex differences in postoperative morbidity and mortality were not observed. Overall survival was significantly better for women than for men. Postoperative morbidity and mortality do not appear to differ between men and women with esophageal cancer treated by surgical resection. Long-term survival after surgical resection of the esophagus appears to be significantly better for women than for men.

Symptom relief in patients with reflux esophagitis: comparative study of omeprazole, lansoprazole, and rabeprazole.

PubMed

Adachi, Kyoichi; Hashimoto, Tomoyuki; Hamamoto, Naoharu; Hirakawa, Kazuya; Niigaki, Masatoshi; Miyake, Tatsuya; Taniura, Hiroyuki; Ono, Masahiro; Kaji, Takekazu; Suetsugu, Hiroshi; Yagi, Junko; Komazawa, Yoshinori; Mihara, Takafumi; Katsube, Tomoko; Fujishiro, Hirofumi; Shizuku, Toshihiro; Hattori, Shuzo; Yamamoto, Shun; Kinoshita, Yoshikazu

2003-12-01

Rabeprazole has a faster onset of antisecretory activity than omeprazole and lansoprazole. The aim of the present study was to clarify whether there is any difference in the speed of symptom relief in patients with reflux esophagitis following the administration of these three proton pump inhibitors (PPI). Eighty-five patients with erosive reflux esophagitis were randomized to receive 8 weeks of 20 mg of omeprazole (n = 30), 30 mg of lansoprazole (n = 25), or 20 mg of rabeprazole (n = 30) once a morning. Daily changes in heartburn and acid reflux symptoms in the first 7 days of administration were assessed using a six-point scale (0: none, 1: mild, 2: mild-moderate, 3: moderate, 4: moderate-severe, 5: severe). The mean heartburn score in patients administered rabeprazole decreased more rapidly than those given the other PPI. Complete heartburn remission also occurred more rapidly in patients administered rabeprazole (compared with omeprazole: P = 0.035, compared with lansoprazole: P = 0.038 by log-rank test). No differences were seen in the rate of endoscopic healing of reflux esophagitis at 8 weeks between the three treatment regimens. Rabeprazole may be more effective than omeprazole and lansoprazole for the rapid relief of heartburn symptoms in patients with reflux esophagitis.

The clinical implications of myocardial perfusion abnormalities in patients with esophageal or lung cancer after chemoradiation therapy.

PubMed

Gayed, Isis; Gohar, Salman; Liao, Zhongxing; McAleer, Mary; Bassett, Roland; Yusuf, Syed Wamique

2009-06-01

This study aims to identify the clinical implications of myocardial perfusion defects after chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in patients with esophageal and lung cancer. We retrospectively compared myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) results before and after CRT in 16 patients with esophageal cancer and 24 patients with lung cancer. New MPI defects in the radiation therapy (RT) fields were considered related to RT. Follow-up to evaluate for cardiac complications and their relation with the results of MPI was performed. Statistical analysis identified predictors of cardiac morbidities. Eleven females and twenty nine males at a mean age of 66.7 years were included. Five patients (31%) with esophageal cancer and seven patients (29%) with lung cancer developed myocardial ischemia in the RT field at mean intervals of 7.0 and 8.4 months after RT. The patients were followed-up for mean intervals of 15 and 23 months in the esophageal and lung cancer groups, respectively. Seven patients in each of the esophageal (44%) and lung (29%) cancer patients (P = 0.5) developed cardiac complications of which one patient with esophageal cancer died of complete heart block. Six out of the fourteen patients (43%) with cardiac complication had new ischemia on MPI after CRT of which only one developed angina. The remaining eight patients with cardiac complications had normal MPI results. MPI result was not a statistically significant predictor of future cardiac complications after CRT. A history of congestive heart failure (CHF) (P = 0.003) or arrhythmia (P = 0.003) is a significant predictor of cardiac morbidity after CRT in univariate analysis but marginal predictors when multivariate analysis was performed (P = 0.06 and 0.06 for CHF and arrhythmia, respectively). Cardiac complications after CRT are more common in esophageal than lung cancer patients but the difference is not statistically significant. MPI abnormalities are frequently seen after CRT but are not predictive of future cardiac

Esophageal bypass operation prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy in advanced esophageal cancer with tracheobronchial invasion.

PubMed

Hihara, Jun; Hamai, Yoichi; Emi, Manabu; Aoki, Yoshiro; Taomoto, Junya; Miyata, Yoshihiro; Okada, Morihito

2014-01-01

In T4 esophageal cancer with tracheobronchial invasion, an esophagorespiratory fistula (ERF) often occurs during or after chemoradiotherapy. We have performed esophageal bypass operations prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy for these patients to increase the chemoradiotherapy completion rate by minimizing the potential effect of an ERF. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical outcome of esophageal bypass surgery prior to chemoradiotherapy. Between 1997 and 2010, 17 patients underwent esophageal bypass surgery followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy for esophageal cancer with tracheobronchial invasion (bypass group). Ten patients in the same circumstances were treated with chemoradiotherapy alone (control group). Overall survival, the clinical effect of chemoradiotherapy, the ERF incidence rate, and the safety of esophageal bypass surgery were assessed. The overall response rate to chemoradiotherapy was 64.7% in the bypass group and 90.0% in the control group. Except for 2 patients with ERF at initial diagnosis, 4 (26.7%) of the 15 patients developed ERF in the bypass group, and 3 (30.0%) of the 10 patients developed ERF in the control group during or after chemoradiotherapy. The 2-year and 3-year overall survival rates were 17.6% and 17.6% in the bypass group and 20.0% and 0% in the control group, respectively (p = 0.924); long-term survival of more than 3 years was seen only in the bypass group. Esophageal bypass surgery prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy could be performed safely, and this strategy contributed to long-term survival in the patients who achieved a good response to chemoradiotherapy but developed an ERF. Copyright © 2014 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Grade of eosinophilia versus symptoms in patients with dysphagia and esophageal eosinophilia.

PubMed

Larsson, H; Norder Grusell, E; Tegtmeyer, B; Ruth, M; Bergquist, H; Bove, M

2016-11-01

The aim of this study was to assess whether the symptom severity and health-related quality of life (HRQL) of patients with dysphagia and esophageal eosinophilia correlate with disease activity as expressed by the number of eosinophils in the esophageal mucosa. This study included newly diagnosed (n = 58) or relapsed patients (n = 7), where 40% were diagnosed in connection with esophageal bolus impaction. The mean age was 45 years (19-88), and 74% were men. Symptoms and HRQL were recorded using the Watson Dysphagia Scale (WDS), the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Oesophageal Module 18 and the Short Form-36 Questionnaire. Histological samples gathered from the proximal and distal esophageal mucosa were stained using both hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and an immunohistochemical (IHC) technique against 'Eosinophil Major Basic Protein,' and the peak number of eosinophils per high-power field was assessed. More eosinophils were detected after IHC staining than HE staining (P < 0.001). No correlation was found between symptoms or the HRQL and the number of eosinophils. However, higher numbers of eosinophils at the proximal esophagus were found in patients with concomitant bolus impaction (IHC P < 0.05 and HE P < 0.05) and could serve as a risk marker. © 2015 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Age-Related Differences in Clinical Characteristics and Esophageal Motility in Patients with Dysphagia.

PubMed

Nakato, Rui; Manabe, Noriaki; Kamada, Tomoari; Matsumoto, Hideo; Shiotani, Akiko; Hata, Jiro; Haruma, Ken

2017-06-01

Dysphagia in elderly patients has a major effect on nutrition and quality of life (QOL). Although several studies have shown that aging itself is associated with changes in esophageal motility, the impact of these changes on dysphagia symptoms and QOL is unknown. This study assessed the manometric diagnoses of elderly patients with dysphagia compared with diagnoses in younger counterparts. Participants included 116 consecutive patients examined for dysphagia from 2007 to 2014. We divided patients into three groups by age: Group A, 66 years and older (24 men, 23 women); Group B, 45-65 years (18 men, 24 women); and Group C, 44 years and younger (15 men, 12 women). The three groups were compared in regard to symptoms, esophageal motility, and health-related QOL (HRQOL). All patients underwent esophageal manometry examination and completed a self-administered questionnaire concerning their symptoms; HRQOL assessment was based on results of the Short Form-8 General Health Survey. Symptoms rated ≥4 points on the Likert scale were defined as significant. Although all patients had dysphagia as a major symptom, more elderly patients reported globus sensation, whereas more young patients reported heartburn as the primary symptom. Manometric diagnoses were generally similar across the three groups. Ineffective esophageal motility was more prevalent in Groups A and C than in Group B, although the difference was not statistically significant. No significant differences in manometric parameters or HRQOL were detected among the three groups. Despite differences in symptom patterns, broad manometric diagnoses and impairment of HRQOL in elderly patients with dysphagia are similar to those in younger counterparts.

Radionuclide Esophageal Transit Scintigraphy in Primary Hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Khan, Shoukat H; P, Madhu Vijay; Rather, Tanveer A; Laway, Bashir A

2017-01-30

Esophageal dysmotility is associated with gastrointestinal dysmotility in various systemic and neuroregulatory disorders. Hypothyroidism has been reported to be associated with impaired motor function in esophagus due to accumulation of glycosaminoglycan hyaluronic acid in its soft tissues, leading to changes in various contraction and relaxation parameters of esophagus, particularly in the lower esophageal sphincter. In this study we evaluated esophageal transit times in patients of primary hypothyroidism using the technique of radionuclide esophageal transit scintigraphy. Thirty-one patients of primary hypothyroidism and 15 euthyroid healthy controls were evaluated for esophageal transit time using 15-20 MBq of Technetium-99m sulfur colloid diluted in 10-15 mL of drinking water. Time activity curve was generated for each study and esophageal transit time was calculated as time taken for clearance of 90% radioactive bolus from the region of interest encompassing the esophagus. Esophageal transit time of more than 10 seconds was considered as prolonged. Patients of primary hypothyroidism had a significantly increased mean esophageal transit time of 19.35 ± 20.02 seconds in comparison to the mean time of 8.25 ± 1.71 seconds in healthy controls ( P < 0.05). Esophageal transit time improved and in some patients even normalized after treatment with thyroxine. A positive correlation ( r = 0.39, P < 0.05) albeit weak existed between the serum thyroid stimulating hormone and the observed esophageal transit time. A significant number of patients with primary hypothyroidism may have subclinical esophageal dysmotility with prolonged esophageal transit time which can be reversible by thyroxine treatment. Prolonged esophageal transit time in primary hypothyroidism may correlate with serum thyroid stimulating hormone levels.

Esophagitis with eosinophil infiltration associated with congenital esophageal atresia and stenosis.

PubMed

Yamada, Yoshiyuki; Nishi, Akira; Kato, Masahiko; Toki, Fumiaki; Yamamoto, Hideki; Suzuki, Norio; Hirato, Junko; Hayashi, Yasuhide

2013-01-01

The esophagus is physiologically devoid of eosinophils, so their presence would suggest some underlying pathology. The prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has steadily increased in Western countries. Previous studies have described EoE in association with congenital esophageal atresia (CEA), which is the most common congenital anomaly of the esophagus. However, the association remains unclear. We performed a retrospective histological analysis examining for eosinophil infiltration in the esophagus of patients with CEA following surgical repair or congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) who underwent esophageal biopsy or surgical resection in our hospital between 2005 and 2012. There were 6 patients with CEA following surgical repair or CES who had eosinophil-dominant infiltration in the esophagus. All had associated allergic disorders, including food allergies in 4. Moreover, all except for one fulfilled the histological criteria of EoE. Impairment of eosinophil infiltration and symptomatic improvement were observed in those treated with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), either alone or in combination with steroids after esophageal dilatation. These findings suggest that CEA repair or CES in conjunction with allergic conditions and coexisting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may induce greater esophageal eosinophilic inflammation. In addition, esophageal dilatation followed by PPI treatment, alone or with steroids, may be a therapeutic strategy that can provide symptomatic relief by reducing eosinophilic inflammation in esophageal strictures or GERD associated with CEA or CES. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Long-Term Outcomes of Patients with Tracheoesophageal Fistula/Esophageal Atresia: Survey Results from Tracheoesophageal Fistula/Esophageal Atresia Online Communities.

PubMed

Acher, Charles Wynn; Ostlie, Daniel J; Leys, Charles M; Struckmeyer, Shannon; Parker, Matthew; Nichol, Peter F

2016-12-01

Introduction  Outcome studies of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and/or esophageal atresia (EA) are limited to retrospective chart reviews. This study surveyed TEF/EA patients/parents engaged in social media communities to determine long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods  A 50-point survey was designed to study presentation, interventions, and ongoing symptoms after repair in patients with TEF/EA. It was validated using a test population and made available on TEF/EA online communities. Results  In this study, 445 subjects completed the survey during a 2-month period. Mean age of patients when surveyed was 8.7 years (0-61 years) and 56% were male. Eighty-nine percent of surveys were completed by the parent of the patient. Sixty-two percent of patients underwent repair in the first 7 days of life. Standard open repair was most common (56%), followed by primary esophageal replacement (13%) and thoracoscopic repair (13%). Out of 405, 106 (26%) patients had postoperative leak. Postoperative leak was least likely in primary esophageal replacement (18%) and standard open repair (19%). Leak occurred in 32% of patients who had thoracoscopic repair; 31% (128/413) reported long-gap atresia, which was significantly associated with increased risk of postoperative leak (54/128, 42%) when compared with standard short-gap atresia (odds ratio, 3.5; p  = 0.001). Out of 409, 221 (54%) patients reported dysphagia after repair, with only 77/221 (34.8%) reporting resolution by age 5. Out of 381, 290 (76%) patients reported symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There was no difference in dysphagia rates or GERD symptoms based on type of initial repair. Antireflux surgery was required in 63/290, 22% of patients with GERD (15% of all patients) and 27% of these patients who had surgery required more than one procedure antireflux procedure. The most common was Nissen fundoplication (73%), followed by partial wrap (14%). Reflux recurred in 32% of patients after

Esophageal Mucosal Impedance Pattern is Distinct in Patients With Extraesophageal Reflux Symptoms and Pathologic Acid Reflux.

PubMed

Kavitt, Robert T; Lal, Pooja; Yuksel, Elif Saritas; Ates, Fehmi; Slaughter, James C; Garrett, C Gaelyn; Higginbotham, Tina; Vaezi, Michael F

2017-05-01

Current diagnostic tests for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) do not consistently measure chronicity of reflux. Mucosal impedance (MI) is a minimally invasive measurement to assess esophageal conductivity changes due to GERD. We aimed to investigate MI pattern in patients with symptoms of extraesophageal reflux (EER) in a prospective longitudinal cohort study. Patients with potential symptoms of EER undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with wireless pH monitoring were studied. Participants included those with erosive esophagitis (E+), normal EGD/abnormal pH (E-/pH+), and normal EGD/normal pH (E-/pH-). MI was measured from the site of injury in patients with E+, as well as at 2, 5, and 10 cm above the squamocolumnar junction (SCJ) in all participants. Forty-one patients with symptoms of EER were studied. MI measurements at 2 cm above the SCJ were significantly (P = 0.04) different among the three groups, with MI lowest for E+ and greatest for E-/pH- patients. Although not statistically significant, there is a graded increase in median (interquartile range) MI axially along the esophagus at 5 cm (P = 0.20) and at 10 cm (P = 0.27) above the SCJ, with those with reflux (E+ and E-/pH+) having a lower MI than those without. Patients with symptoms of EER and evidence of acid reflux have an MI lower than those without at 2 cm above the SCJ, with a trend at 5 cm and 10 cm as well. MI may be a tool to assess presence of GERD in patients presenting with EER symptoms. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Role of Esophageal Hypersensitivity in Functional Esophageal Disorders.

PubMed

Farmer, Adam D; Ruffle, James K; Aziz, Qasim

2017-02-01

The Rome IV diagnostic criteria delineates 5 functional esophageal disorders which include functional chest pain, functional heartburn, reflux hypersensitivity, globus, and functional dysphagia. These are a heterogenous group of disorders which, despite having characteristic symptom profiles attributable to esophageal pathology, fail to demonstrate any structural, motility or inflammatory abnormalities on standard clinical testing. These disorders are associated with a marked reduction in patient quality of life, not least considerable healthcare resources. Furthermore, the pathophysiology of these disorders is incompletely understood. In this narrative review we provide the reader with an introductory primer to the structure and function of esophageal perception, including nociception that forms the basis of the putative mechanisms that may give rise to symptoms in functional esophageal disorders. We also discuss the provocative techniques and outcome measures by which esophageal hypersensitivity can be established.

High-Resolution Manometry Evaluation of the Pharynx and Upper Esophageal Sphincter Motility in Patients with Achalasia.

PubMed

Menezes, Mariano A; Herbella, Fernando A M; Patti, Marco G

2015-10-01

The motility of the pharynx and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) is still poorly understood. It is also unclear if the motility of this area may be compromised in patients with achalasia. This study aims to evaluate the motility of the pharynx, UES, and proximal esophagus in patients with esophageal achalasia. Sixty patients with achalasia underwent high-resolution manometry (HRM) (52 % females, mean age 54 years). Esophageal dilatation was classified according to the radiologic diameter in Type I (<4 cm): 6 %; Type II (4-7 cm): 36 %; Type III (7-10 cm): 34 %; and Type IV (>10 cm): 24 %. HRM classified 43 % of the patients as Chicago Type I and 57 % as Type II. Manometric parameters were compared to normal values obtained from a previous study in volunteers. The motility of the velopharynx showed short, premature, and hypertonic contraction. The epiglottis also showed hypertonic contraction. The UES had increased residual pressure. Chicago classification Type II patients had higher UES residual pressure (p = 0.03). The degree of esophageal dilatation did not correlate with manometric parameters. Achalasia may affect the motility of the pharyngo-upper esophageal area. The changes observed may represent functional alterations to prevent aspiration, especially in patients with Chicago classification Type II achalasia.

Esophageal symptoms and their lack of association with high-resolution manometry in systemic sclerosis patients.

PubMed

Arana-Guajardo, Ana Cecilia; Barrera-Torres, Gustavo; Villarreal-Alarcón, Miguel Ángel; Vega-Morales, David; Esquivel-Valerio, Jorge Antonio

2017-12-16

The esophageal involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) causes impact in the morbidity and mortality. High resolution manometry assesses esophageal involvement. Our aim was to categorize esophageal motor disorder in patients with SSc by HRM. We carried out an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. All patients underwent HRM as well as semi-structured interviews to assess frequency and severity of upper GI symptoms. Patients also completed the gastroesophageal reflux questionnaire (Carlsson-Dent). We included 19 patients with SSc, 1 with morphea, and 1 with scleroderma sine scleroderma. Dysphagia and heartburn were the most frequent symptoms (61% each). We found an abnormal HRM in 15 (71.4%) patients. We found no statistically significant association between clinical or demographic variables and an abnormal HRM, or between any upper GI symptom and HRM findings. We observed a high prevalence of esophageal symptoms and of HRM abnormalities. However, there was no clear association between symptomatology and HRM findings. HRM does not seem to accurately predict upper GI symptomatology. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Esophageal Dose Tolerance in Patients Treated With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy.

PubMed

Nuyttens, Joost J; Moiseenko, Vitali; McLaughlin, Mark; Jain, Sheena; Herbert, Scott; Grimm, Jimm

2016-04-01

Mediastinal critical structures such as trachea, bronchus, esophagus, and heart are among the dose-limiting factors for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to central lung lesions. The purpose of this study was to characterize the risk of esophagitis for patients treated with SBRT and to develop a statistical dose-response model to assess the equivalent uniform dose, D10%, D5cc, D1cc, and Dmax, to the esophagus and the risk of toxicity. Toxicity outcomes of a dose-escalation study of 56 patients who had taken CyberKnife treatment from 45-60Gy in 3-7 fractions at the Erasmus MC-Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center were utilized to create the dose-response model for esophagus. A total of 5 grade 2 esophageal complications were reported (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0); 4 complications were early effects and 1 complication was a late effect. All analyses were performed in terms of 5-fraction equivalent dosing. According to our study, D1cc at a dose of 32.9Gy and Dmax dose of 43.4Gy corresponded to a complication probability of 50% for grade 2 toxicity. In this series of 58 CyberKnife mediastinal lung cases, no grade 3 or higher esophageal toxicity occurred. Our estimates of esophageal toxicity are compared with the data in the literature. Further research needs to be performed to establish more reliable dose limits as longer follow-up and toxicity outcomes are reported in patients treated with SBRT for central lung lesions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is highly associated with giant idiopathic esophageal ulcers in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients.

PubMed

Lv, Bei; Cheng, Xin; Gao, Jackson; Zhao, Hong; Chen, Liping; Wang, Liwei; Huang, Shaoping; Fan, Zhenyu; Zhang, Renfang; Shen, Yinzhong; Li, Lei; Liu, Baochi; Qi, Tangkai; Wang, Jing; Cheng, Jilin

2016-01-01

This study aimed to determine whether the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) exists in giant idiopathic esophageal ulcers in the patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). 16 AIDS patients with a primary complaint of epigastric discomfort were examined by gastroscopy. Multiple and giant esophageal ulcers were biopsied and analyzed with pathology staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to determine the potential pathogenic microorganisms, including HIV, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex viruses (HSV). HIV was detected in ulcer samples from 12 out of these 16 patients. Ulcers in 2 patients were infected with CMV and ulcers in another 2 patients were found HSV positive. No obvious cancerous pathological changes were found in these multiple giant esophageal ulcer specimens. HIV may be one of the major causative agents of multiple benign giant esophageal ulcers in AIDS patients.

Impact of the early detection of esophageal neoplasms in hypopharyngeal cancer patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

PubMed

Watanabe, Shigenobu; Ogino, Ichiro; Inayama, Yoshiaki; Sugiura, Madoka; Sakuma, Yasunori; Kokawa, Atsushi; Kunisaki, Chikara; Inoue, Tomio

2017-04-01

We examined the risk factors and prognostic factors for synchronous esophageal neoplasia (SEN) by comparing the characteristics of hypopharyngeal cancer (HPC) patients with and without SEN. We examined 183 patients who were treated with definitive radiotherapy for HPC. Lugol chromoendoscopy screening of the esophagus was performed in all patients before chemoradiotherapy. Thirty-six patients had SEN, 49 patients died of HPC and two died of esophageal cancer. The patients with SEN exhibited significantly higher alcohol consumption than those without SEN (P = 0.018). The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate of the 36 patients with SEN was lower than that of the other patients (36.2% vs 63.4%, P = 0.006). The SEN patients exhibited significantly shorter HPC cause-specific survival than the other patients (P = 0.039). Both the OS (P = 0.005) and the HPC cause-specific survival (P = 0.026) of the patients with SEN were significantly shorter than those of the patients without SEN in multivariate analysis. Category 4/T1 stage esophageal cancer was treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), endoscopic treatment or chemotherapy. The 5-year survival rates for esophageal cancer recurrence for CCRT, endoscopic treatment and chemotherapy were 71.5, 43.7 and 0%, respectively. The median (range) survival time (months) of CCRT, endoscopic treatment and chemotherapy was 22.7 (7.5-90.6), 46.44 (17.3-136.7) and 7.98 (3.72-22.8), respectively. Advanced HPC patients with SEN might have a poorer prognosis than those without SEN even when the esophageal cancer is detected early and managed appropriately. © 2014 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

[Evaluation of stents in treating childhood benign esophageal strictures].

PubMed

Reinshagen, K; Kähler, G; Manegold, B C; Waag, K-L

2009-01-01

Esophageal stenting is a popular of treatment of esophageal strictures in adults. It has also been described for children with benign strictures who did not respond to standard dilatation therapy. The aim of the study was to evaluate weather esophageal stents could be used safely and effectively in the treatment of benign esophageal strictures in children. From 1993 to 2005 stenting therapy was performed in 12 children with complicated esophageal strictures. Etiologies of the strictures were caustic burns in 9 patients, postoperative strictures due to complicated esophageal atresia in 2 patients and iatrogenic esophageal injury in 1 patient. Esophageal silicon tubi, covered retrievable expandable nitinol and plastic stents were placed endoscopically. The clinical course and the long term follow up were evaluated retrospectively The stents and tubi were placed in all patients without complications and were later removed successfully. 6 patients were treated with a self expanding plastic stent. The plastic stents showed a distinct tendency to migrate but in 5/6 patients esophageal stricture was treated successfully. 3 patients were treated by a covered self expanding nitinol stent. No migration occurred. One patient was asymptomatic after therapy, one required further dilatation therapy and the third had esophageal resection. 3 patients were treated by esophageal tubi. 2 patients required surgery in the follow up, one patient is asymptomatic. The use of stenting devices in children to treat benign esophageal strictures is safe and efficient. The self expanding plastic stents had the best long term results but required high compliance of parents and children due to the tendency of stent migration. Self expanding nitinol stents are more traumatic at the extraction procedure and are useful in patients with low compliance. Recurrence of strictures occurred most often after esophageal tubi possibly due to the lack of radial expansion.

Prognostic impact of blood biomarkers TS and DPD in neoadjuvant-treated esophageal cancer patients.

PubMed

Grimminger, Peter P; Maus, Martin K H; Bergenthal, Juliane; Wandhöfer, Christoph; Fetzner, Ullrich K; Herbold, Till; Bollschweiler, Elfriede; Hölscher, Arnulf H; Brabender, Jan

2015-03-01

The prognostic value of TS (thymidylate synthase) and DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase) RNA expression in the blood of patients with esophageal cancer is not known. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the significance of these molecular alterations in the blood as a prognostic marker for patients with neoadjuvant-treated esophageal cancer. A total of 29 patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer (cT3-T4, Nx, M0) were enrolled in this prospective study. All patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by a transthoracic resection (curative transthoracic en bloc esophagectomy, RO). Peripheral blood samples were drawn before initiation of therapy. The analysis was performed using quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The histomorphological regressions grading after neoadjuvant therapy was defined as follows: major response (MaR)=less than 10% vital tumor tissue, minor response (MiR)=more than 10% vital tumor tissue. Nineteen out of 29 patients (65.5%) had a MiR and 10 (34.5%) had a MaR. The median survival of patients was 2.08 years (range=0.15-4.53). Among the tested genes, the RNA expression of TS was significantly associated with prognosis of patients. Patients with TS expression above 0.78 had a median survival of 1.1 years (range=0.21-3.96) compared to 2.6 years (range=0.15 to 4.53) in patients with TS expression lower than 0.78 (p=0.031, log rank test). There was no association between clinical variables (e.g., tumor stage, gender, age, etc.) and the RNA expression of TS in the serum. The RNA expression of TS in the blood is a potential prognostic marker in patients with neoadjuvant-treated esophageal cancer. The significance of these molecular alterations as non-invasive prognostic marker for esophageal cancer should be evaluated in prospective studies. Copyright© 2015 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.

Comparison of standardized uptake value-based positron emission tomography and computed tomography target volumes in esophageal cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

PubMed

Vali, Faisal S; Nagda, Suneel; Hall, William; Sinacore, James; Gao, Mingcheng; Lee, Steven H; Hong, Robert; Shoup, Margaret; Emami, Bahman

2010-11-15

To study various standardized uptake value (SUV)-based approaches to ascertain the best strategy for delineating metabolic tumor volumes (MTV). Twenty-two consecutive previously treated esophageal cancer patients with positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and computed tomography (CT)-based radiotherapy plans were studied. At the level of the tumor epicenter, MTVs were delineated at 11 different thresholds: SUV ≥2, ≥2.5, ≥3, ≥3.5 (SUV(n)); ≥40%, ≥45%, and ≥50% of the maximum (SUV(n%)); and mean liver SUV + 1, 2, 3, and 4 standard deviations (SUV(Lnσ)). The volume ratio and conformality index were determined between MTVs, and the corresponding CT/endoscopic ultrasound-based gross tumor volume (GTV) at the epicenter. Means were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures and further compared using a paired t test for repeated measures. The mean conformality indices ranged from 0.33 to 0.48, being significantly (p < 0.05) closest to 1 at SUV(2.5) (0.47 ± 0.03) and SUV(L4σ) (0.48 ± 0.03). The mean volume ratios ranged from 0.39 to 2.82, being significantly closest to 1 at SUV(2.5) (1.18 ± 0.36) and SUV(L4σ) (1.09 ± 0.15). The mean value of the SUVs calculated using the SUV(L4σ) approach was 2.4. Regardless of the SUV thresholding method used (i.e., absolute or relative to liver mean), a threshold of approximately 2.5 yields the highest conformality index and best approximates the CT-based GTV at the epicenter. These findings may ultimately aid radiation oncologists in the delineation of the entire GTV in esophageal cancer patients. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Moss, William J; Pang, John; Orosco, Ryan K; Weissbrod, Philip A; Brumund, Kevin T; Weisman, Robert A; Brigger, Matthew T; Coffey, Charles S

2018-01-01

To characterize the safety profile and effectiveness of esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer patients. A systematic review was undertaken for articles reporting outcomes of esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer patients. The Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Complications related to esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer patients was the primary outcome of interest. Success rates, demographic data, cancer staging, and treatment data were assessed secondarily. Statistical analyses included both qualitative and quantitative assessments. A limited meta-analysis and pooling of the data was performed using a random effects model. Of the collective 8,243 initial candidate articles, 15 retrospective studies containing data for a collective 449 patients were ultimately included in the analysis. There was significant heterogeneity in the outcomes data. With an overall complication rate of 10.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.1%,17%) and a pooled success rate of 72.9% (95% CI: 65.7%,80.1%) per patient, the articles generally supported the use of dilation. Head and neck cancer patients experience a higher rate of complications following dilation compared to patients with other causes of benign stricture. Esophageal dilation is effective in improving dysphagia, but these benefits are often transient and thus necessitate repeat interventions. Laryngoscope, 128:111-117, 2018. © 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

[Comparison of treatments in patients with inoperable stage IV advanced esophageal cancer].

PubMed

Lee, Gyu Jin; Park, Moo In; Gwoo, Sangeon; Jung, Hyun Joo; Kim, Joo Hoon; Park, Seun Ja; Moon, Won; Kim, Hyung Hun; Kim, Yang Soo; Park, Sung Dal; Jeong, Tae Sig

2012-04-01

The aim of this study was to compare palliative treatments such as chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy or radiotherapy with best supportive care in patients with inoperable advanced esophageal cancer. A total of 67 patients with inoperable advanced esophageal cancer visiting Kosin University Gospel Hospital between January 2000 and July 2010 were included in a retrospective analysis. Patients were categorized as having palliative treatment or best supportive care to compare their prognosis. The median survival was 6.4 months in 67 patients. There was significant difference in median survival between the palliative and best supportive treatment (9.8 months vs. 4.5 months, p=0.01). The patients who underwent palliative treatment had superior 1-year and 3-year overall survival rate than those with best supportive treatment (27%, 10% vs. 5%, 5%, respectively). The 1-year and 3-year overall survival rate of palliative treatment was 18% (1-year overall survival rate) in chemotherapy, 33% (1-year overall survival rate) in radiotherapy, 45% and 9% in concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and 20% and 20% in sequential chemoradiotherapy, respectively. These results may suggest that palliative treatments are more effective than best supportive care. Further prospective studies are still needed to elucidate beneficial effect of palliative treatments on inoperable advanced esophageal cancer.

Prognostic Impact of the 6th and 7th American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM Staging Systems on Esophageal Cancer Patients Treated With Chemoradiotherapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nomura, Motoo, E-mail: excell@hkg.odn.ne.jp; Department of Radiation Oncology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital; Shitara, Kohei

2012-02-01

Purpose: The new 7th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM staging system is based on pathologic data from esophageal cancers treated by surgery alone. There is no information available on evaluation of the new staging system with regard to prognosis of patients treated with chemoradiotherapy (CRT). The objective of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of the new staging system on esophageal cancer patients treated with CRT. Methods and Materials: A retrospective review was performed on 301 consecutive esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients treated with CRT. Comparisons were made of the prognostic impacts of themore » 6th and 7th staging systems and the prognostic impacts of stage and prognostic groups, which were newly defined in the 7th edition. Results: There were significant differences between Stages I and III (p < 0.01) according to both editions. However, the 7th edition poorly distinguishes the prognoses of Stages III and IV (p = 0.36 by multivariate analysis) in comparison to the 6th edition (p = 0.08 by multivariate analysis), although these differences were not significant. For all patients, T, M, and gender were independent prognostic factors by multivariate analysis (p < 0.05). For the Stage I and II prognostic groups, survival curves showed a stepwise decrease with increase in stage, except for Stage IIA. However, there were no significant differences seen between each prognostic stage. Conclusions: Our study indicates there are several problems with the 7th TNM staging system regarding prognostic factors in patients undergoing CRT.« less

Treatment of advanced esophageal cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kelsen, D.

1982-12-01

When radiation therapy is used for palliation of obstruction in patients with advanced esophageal carcinoma, an improvement in dysphagia can be expected in approximately 50% of patients. Major objective responses have rarely been quantitied but, in one study, were seen in 33% patients. Recurrence of dysphagia is usually seen within 2-6 months of treatment. Radiation toxicities and complications, even when used with palliative intent, can be substantial and include esophagitis, tracheoesophageal or esophageal-aortic fistula, mediastinitis, hemorrhage, pneumonitis, and myelosuppression. (JMT)

Esophageal Cancer Prevention (PDQ®)—Patient Version

Cancer.gov

Esophageal cancer prevention strategies include avoiding risk factors like alcohol and tobacco. Learn more about risk factors and possible protective factors for esophageal cancer in this expert-reviewed summary.

Congenital esophageal stenosis associated with esophageal atresia.

PubMed

McCann, F; Michaud, L; Aspirot, A; Levesque, D; Gottrand, F; Faure, C

2015-04-01

Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) is a rare clinical condition but is frequently associated with esophageal atresia (EA). The aim of this study is to report the diagnosis, management, and outcome of CES associated with EA. Medical charts of CES-EA patients from Lille University Hospital, Sainte-Justine Hospital, and Montreal Children's Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Seventeen patients (13 boys) were included. The incidence of CES in patients with EA was 3.6%. Fifteen patients had a type C EA, one had a type A EA, and one had an isolated tracheoesophageal fistula. Seven patients had associated additional malformations. The mean age at diagnosis was 11.6 months. All but two patients had non-specific symptoms such as regurgitations or dysphagia. One CES was diagnosed at the time of surgical repair of EA. In 12 patients, CES was suspected based on abnormal barium swallow. In the remaining four, the diagnostic was confirmed by esophagoscopy. Eleven patients were treated by dilation only (1-3 dilations/patient). Six patients underwent surgery (resection and anastomosis) because of failure of attempted dilations (1-7 dilations/patient). Esophageal perforation was encountered in three patients (18%). Three patients had histologically proven tracheobronchial remnants. CES associated with EA is frequent. A high index of suspicion for CES must remain in the presence of EA. Dilatation may be effective to treat some of them, but perforation is frequent. Surgery may be required, especially in CES secondary to ectopic tracheobronchial remnants. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Laparogastroscopy and Esophageal Stenosis.

PubMed

Sabău, Alexandru-Dan; Hassan, Noor; Smarandache, Cătălin Gabriel; Miheţiu, Alin; Ţîţu, Ștefan; Sabău, Dan

2018-01-01

An original technique using laparoscopic instruments in a gastric endocavitary work chamber with potential for esophagus, stomach and D1 vizualisation. The main purpose of laparagastroscopy is to improve the quality of life of the patient disabling by the esophageal tumor. This method has several advantages: providing physiological feeding, harvesting materials for histopathological examination, solving eso-tracheal fistulas concurrently with the proposed operation and hemostatic role through compression, low energy and plastic consumption, rapid socio-economic reintegration, mental psychological care of the patient. Patients and Methods: The paper deals with 162 cases with different tumors of the esophagus, patients with different grades of esophageal stenosis, different stages of esophageal neoplasm. Both the patients with eso-tracheal fistulas and those with gastro- or jejunostoma were included. Results: From 162 cases, 33 cases (20%) with cervical esophageal neoplasm, 66 (41%) cases with thoracic esophageal neoplasm and 63 (39%) cases with abdominal esophageal neoplasm. The histopathological type is 37% adenocarcinomas and 63% squamous carcinomas. From total number of cases, 87 (54%) had no metastasis, and 75 (46%) had secondary determinations. The most frequent localization of metastasis was pulmonary, followed by liver (Fig. 1) and bone. The analysis of this intervention has shown that complications have been much lower both in terms of their numerical value and their severity, a longer survival time with a much higher satisfaction index is ensured. Esophageal endoprosthesis (EPE) through laparagastroscopic approach should be a a reserve procedure instead of a disabling gastrostomy or jejunostomy. EPE is an extremely effective procedure specially by keeping the physiology of food bowl. The approach is minimally invasive with minimal attack on the body with significant plastic and aesthetic reductions. This procedure allows the prosthesis to be viewed both

Preoperative enteral access is not necessary prior to multimodality treatment of esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Jenkins, Thomas K; Lopez, Alexandra N; Sarosi, George A; Ben-David, Kfir; Thomas, Ryan M

2018-04-01

Surgical enteral access prior to multimodality treatment for esophageal cancer is controversial as dysphagia is often used for feeding tube referral. We hypothesized that enteral access before neoadjuvant chemoradiation for esophageal cancer provides no benefit compared to that placed during definitive esophagectomy. Patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal malignancy from 2007 - 2014 were retrospectively identified. Clinicopathologic factors were recorded including preoperative enteral access, weight change, nutritional laboratory works, and perioperative complications. Of 156 identified patients, 99 (63.5%) received neoadjuvant chemoradiation and comprised the study cohort. Fifty (50.5%) underwent enteral access (gastrostomy [14], jejunostomy [32], other [4]; "Access Group") prior to chemoradiation followed by esophagectomy and were compared to 49 "No-Access" patients who underwent enteral access during esophagectomy. Clinicopathologic variables were similar between cohorts. The Access and No-Access cohorts had similar reported dysphagia (86% vs 75.5%, respectively; P = .2) and mean preesophagectomy serum albumin (3.9 vs 4 gm/dL, respectively; P = .2). Weight loss ± 6-month periesophagectomy was similar between access versus No-Access cohorts (-11.2% vs -15.4%, respectively; P = .1). Weight loss during this period was likewise similar for patients with dysphagia in the Access (-11%) versus No-Access group (-15.2%, P = .1). No difference in complication rates was noted between Access (64%) and No-Access groups (51%, P = .2). Despite healthcare provider bias, there seems to be no nutritional or perioperative benefit for enteral access before neoadjuvant chemoradiation for esophageal malignancy. Patients with esophageal malignancy should therefore proceed to appropriate neoadjuvant and surgical therapy with enteral access performed during definitive resection or reserved for those with frank obstruction on endoscopy. Published by

Clinical application of oral meglumine diatrizoate esophagogram in screening esophageal fistula during radiotherapy for esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Geng, Lidan; Wu, Rong; Hu, He; Zhao, Yu; Fan, Lingli; Zhao, Zhenhua; Liao, Dongbiao; Li, Musheng; Xiang, Miao; Ma, Ying; Du, Xiaobo

2018-05-01

Esophageal fistula is a serious and common complication of radiotherapy for esophageal cancer. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment is necessary. Because of side effect of barium esophagography, it cannot be used to screening esophageal fistula during radiotherapy. Meglumine diatrizoate is an ionic contrast agent, its adverse reactions were rarely seen when it was used in the body cavity. The purpose of this trial is identified the sensitivity and specificity of oral meglumine diatrizoate in an esophagogram for screening esophageal fistula during radiotherapy. This trial was a prospective, multicenter, diagnostic clinical trial. A total of 105 patients with esophageal cancer will swallowed meglumine diatrizoate and underwent a radiographic examination weekly during radiotherapy, medical personnel observed the esophageal lesions to determine whether an esophageal fistula formed. If an esophageal fistula was observed, esophagofiberoscopy and/or computer tomography was used to further confirm the diagnosis. And the sensitivity and specificity of meglumine diatrizoate should be calculated for screening esophageal fistula during radiotherapy. To our knowledge, this study protocol is the first to identify the sensitivity and specificity of oral meglumine diatrizoate in an esophagogram for screening esophageal fistula during radiotherapy. If oral meglumine diatrizoate can be used to screening esophageal fistula, more patients will benefit from early detection and treatment.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is highly associated with giant idiopathic esophageal ulcers in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients

PubMed Central

Lv, Bei; Cheng, Xin; Gao, Jackson; Zhao, Hong; Chen, Liping; Wang, Liwei; Huang, Shaoping; Fan, Zhenyu; Zhang, Renfang; Shen, Yinzhong; Li, Lei; Liu, Baochi; Qi, Tangkai; Wang, Jing; Cheng, Jilin

2016-01-01

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) exists in giant idiopathic esophageal ulcers in the patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods: 16 AIDS patients with a primary complaint of epigastric discomfort were examined by gastroscopy. Multiple and giant esophageal ulcers were biopsied and analyzed with pathology staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to determine the potential pathogenic microorganisms, including HIV, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex viruses (HSV). Results: HIV was detected in ulcer samples from 12 out of these 16 patients. Ulcers in 2 patients were infected with CMV and ulcers in another 2 patients were found HSV positive. No obvious cancerous pathological changes were found in these multiple giant esophageal ulcer specimens. Conclusion: HIV may be one of the major causative agents of multiple benign giant esophageal ulcers in AIDS patients. PMID:27830031

Clinical Application of Esophageal High-resolution Manometry in the Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders.

PubMed

van Hoeij, Froukje B; Bredenoord, Albert J

2016-01-31

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is replacing conventional manometry in the clinical evaluation of patients with esophageal symptoms, especially dysphagia. The introduction of HRM gave rise to new objective metrics and recognizable patterns of esophageal motor function, requiring a new classification scheme: the Chicago classification. HRM measurements are more detailed and more easily performed compared to conventional manometry. The visual presentation of acquired data improved the analysis and interpretation of esophageal motor function. This led to a more sensitive, accurate, and objective analysis of esophageal motility. In this review we discuss how HRM changed the way we define and categorize esophageal motility disorders. Moreover, we discuss the clinical applications of HRM for each esophageal motility disorder separately.

Clinical Application of Esophageal High-resolution Manometry in the Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders

PubMed Central

van Hoeij, Froukje B; Bredenoord, Albert J

2016-01-01

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is replacing conventional manometry in the clinical evaluation of patients with esophageal symptoms, especially dysphagia. The introduction of HRM gave rise to new objective metrics and recognizable patterns of esophageal motor function, requiring a new classification scheme: the Chicago classification. HRM measurements are more detailed and more easily performed compared to conventional manometry. The visual presentation of acquired data improved the analysis and interpretation of esophageal motor function. This led to a more sensitive, accurate, and objective analysis of esophageal motility. In this review we discuss how HRM changed the way we define and categorize esophageal motility disorders. Moreover, we discuss the clinical applications of HRM for each esophageal motility disorder separately. PMID:26631942

Causes and Outcomes of Esophageal Perforation in Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

PubMed

Runge, Thomas M; Eluri, Swathi; Cotton, Cary C; Burk, Caitlin M; Woosley, John T; Shaheen, Nicholas J; Dellon, Evan S

2017-10-01

To characterize patients who suffer perforation in the context of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and to identify predictors of perforation. Esophageal perforation is a serious complication of EoE. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of the University of North Carolina EoE clinicopathologic database from 2001 to 2014. Subjects were included if they had an incident diagnosis of EoE and met consensus guidelines, including nonresponse to a PPI trial. Patients with EoE who had suffered perforation at any point during their course were identified, and compared with EoE cases without perforation. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of perforation. Out of 511 subjects with EoE, 10 (2.0%) had experienced an esophageal perforation. Although those who perforated tended to have a longer duration of symptoms before diagnosis (11.4 vs. 7.0 y, P=0.13), a history of food impaction (odds ratio, 14.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.7-129.2) and the presence of a focal stricture (odds ratio, 4.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-19.7) were the only factors independently associated with perforation. Most perforations (80%) occurred after a prolonged food bolus impaction, and only half of individuals (5/10) carried a diagnosis of EoE at the time of perforation; none occurred after dilation. Six patients (60%) were treated with nonoperative management, and 4 (40%) required surgical repair. Esophageal perforation is a rare but serious complication of eosinophilic esophagitis, occurring in ∼2% of cases. Most episodes are due to food bolus impaction or strictures, suggesting that patients with fibrostenotic disease due to longer duration of symptoms are at increased risk.

Heller myotomy with esophageal diverticulectomy: an operation in need of improvement.

PubMed

Bowman, Ty A; Sadowitz, Benjamin D; Ross, Sharona B; Boland, Andrew; Luberice, Kenneth; Rosemurgy, Alexander S

2016-08-01

This study was undertaken to evaluate the outcomes after laparoscopic Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication and diverticulectomy for patients with achalasia and esophageal diverticula. 634 patients undergoing laparoscopic Heller myotomy and anterior fundoplication from 1992 to 2015 are prospectively followed up; patients were stratified for those undergoing concomitant diverticulectomy. Patients graded symptom frequency and severity before and after myotomy, using a Likert scale (0 = never/not bothersome to 10 = always/very bothersome). Median data are presented (mean ± SD). Forty-four patients, age 70 years (65 ± 14.2), underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy, anterior fundoplication, and diverticulectomy. Operative time was 182 min (183 ± 54.6). Fifty percentage of patients had a postoperative complication: Most notable were leaks at the diverticulectomy site (n = 8) and pulmonary complications (n = 11; 10 effusion, 1 empyema). Length of stay (LOS) was 3 days (5 ± 8.3). All leaks occurred after discharge and resolved without sequelae using transthoracic catheter drainage and parenteral nutrition; two patients received endoscopic esophageal stents. Median follow-up is 39 months. Symptoms amelioration was significant postoperatively, including severity of dysphagia [6 (6 ± 3.9) to 2(4 ± 3.6)]. Seventy-six percentage of patients rated their symptoms at last follow-up as satisfying/very satisfying. Seventy-seven percentage of patients had symptoms once per week or less. Eighty-one percentage would have the operation again knowing what they know now. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy, anterior fundoplication, and diverticulectomy well palliate the symptoms of achalasia with accompanying esophageal diverticulum. The operations are generally longer than those without diverticulectomy and are accompanied by a relatively longer LOS. Complications are relatively frequent and severe (e.g., leaks and pneumonia). In particular, leaks at the

Role of altered esophageal intraluminal baseline impedance levels in patients with gatroesophageal reflux disease refractory to proton pump inhibitors

PubMed Central

Jiang, Liuqin; Ye, Bixing; Lin, Lin; Wang, Ying; Wang, Meifeng

2016-01-01

Abstract Numerous studies have investigated utility of esophageal intraluminal baseline impedance levels (BILs) in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, effect of BILs in refractory GERD (RGERD) has not been well investigated. The aim of this study is to evaluate role of BILs in RGERD patients. Total 62 subjects with refractory gastroesophageal reflux symptoms underwent 24-hour impedance-pH monitoring and gastroendoscopy. Distal BILs in acid reflux type were significantly lower than those in nonacid reflux type and functional heartburn (FH) group. Distal BILs of reflux esophagitis (RE) patients were lower than those of nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) patients, while there were no statistical significance between 2 groups. Patients with severe esophagitis had lower distal BILs than those with mild esophagitis and NERD patients, and patients with severe esophagitis in acid reflux type had the lowest distal BILs. Distal BILs were significantly negatively correlated with DeMeester score, episodes of acid reflux, and acid exposure time, but no correlated with episodes of nonacid reflux. Characteristics of BILs in RGERD patients were similar with those in GERD patients, but might be more complicated. Evaluating BILs in RGERD patients could achieve a better understanding of pathophysiology in RGERD. PMID:27537561

Development of a Multicomponent Prediction Model for Acute Esophagitis in Lung Cancer Patients Receiving Chemoradiotherapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

De Ruyck, Kim, E-mail: kim.deruyck@UGent.be; Sabbe, Nick; Oberije, Cary

2011-10-01

Purpose: To construct a model for the prediction of acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients receiving chemoradiotherapy by combining clinical data, treatment parameters, and genotyping profile. Patients and Methods: Data were available for 273 lung cancer patients treated with curative chemoradiotherapy. Clinical data included gender, age, World Health Organization performance score, nicotine use, diabetes, chronic disease, tumor type, tumor stage, lymph node stage, tumor location, and medical center. Treatment parameters included chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy technique, tumor dose, mean fractionation size, mean and maximal esophageal dose, and overall treatment time. A total of 332 genetic polymorphisms were considered in 112 candidatemore » genes. The predicting model was achieved by lasso logistic regression for predictor selection, followed by classic logistic regression for unbiased estimation of the coefficients. Performance of the model was expressed as the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic and as the false-negative rate in the optimal point on the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: A total of 110 patients (40%) developed acute esophagitis Grade {>=}2 (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v3.0). The final model contained chemotherapy treatment, lymph node stage, mean esophageal dose, gender, overall treatment time, radiotherapy technique, rs2302535 (EGFR), rs16930129 (ENG), rs1131877 (TRAF3), and rs2230528 (ITGB2). The area under the curve was 0.87, and the false-negative rate was 16%. Conclusion: Prediction of acute esophagitis can be improved by combining clinical, treatment, and genetic factors. A multicomponent prediction model for acute esophagitis with a sensitivity of 84% was constructed with two clinical parameters, four treatment parameters, and four genetic polymorphisms.« less

Randomized controlled trial comparing esophageal dilation to no dilation among adults with esophageal eosinophilia and dysphagia.

PubMed

Kavitt, R T; Ates, F; Slaughter, J C; Higginbotham, T; Shepherd, B D; Sumner, E L; Vaezi, M F

2016-11-01

The role of esophageal dilation in patients with esophageal eosinophilia with dysphagia remains unknown. The practice of dilation is currently based on center preferences and expert opinion. The aim of this study is to determine if, and to what extent, dysphagia improves in response to initial esophageal dilation followed by standard medical therapies. We conducted a randomized, blinded, controlled trial evaluating adult patients with dysphagia and newly diagnosed esophageal eosinophilia from 2008 to 2013. Patients were randomized to dilation or no dilation at time of endoscopy and blinded to dilation status. Endoscopic features were graded as major and minor. Subsequent to randomization and endoscopy, all patients received fluticasone and dexlansoprazole for 2 months. The primary study outcome was reduction in overall dysphagia score, assessed at 30 and 60 days post-intervention. Patients with severe strictures (less than 7-mm esophageal diameter) were excluded from the study. Thirty-one patients were randomized and completed the protocol: 17 randomized to dilation and 14 to no dilation. Both groups were similar with regard to gender, age, eosinophil density, endoscopic score, and baseline dysphagia score. The population exhibited moderate to severe dysphagia and moderate esophageal stricturing at baseline. Overall, there was a significant (P < 0.001) but similar reduction in mean dysphagia score at 30 and 60 days post-randomization compared with baseline in both groups. No significant difference in dysphagia scores between treatment groups after 30 (P = 0.93) or 60 (P = 0.21) days post-intervention was observed. Esophageal dilation did not result in additional improvement in dysphagia score compared with treatment with proton pump inhibitor and fluticasone alone. In patients with symptomatic esophageal eosinophilia without severe stricture, dilation does not appear to be a necessary initial treatment strategy. © 2015 International Society for

Clinical results of proton beam therapy for twenty older patients with esophageal cancer

PubMed Central

Ono, Takashi; Nakamura, Tatsuya; Azami, Yusuke; Yamaguchi, Hisashi; Hayashi, Yuichiro; Suzuki, Motohisa; Hatayama, Yoshiomi; Tsukiyama, Iwao; Hareyama, Masato; Kikuchi, Yasuhiro; Nemoto, Kenji

2015-01-01

Background In an aging society, increasing number of older patients are diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of proton beam therapy for older patients with esophageal cancer. Patients and methods. Older patients (age: ≥ 65 years) newly diagnosed with esophageal cancer between January 2009 and June 2013 were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent either proton beam therapy alone or proton beam therapy with initial X-ray irradiation. Toxicities were evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. Results Twenty patients were eligible for this study and all completed the treatment. The median age was 78 years (range: 65–89 years) and the median follow-up time was 26.5 months (range: 6–62 months). Seven patients had lymph node metastases and 10 had stage II/III cancer. The median dose of proton beam therapy was 72.6 Gy relative biological dose effectiveness (RBE) (range: 66–74.8 Gy [RBE]) for proton beam therapy alone and 33 Gy (RBE) (range: 30.8–39.6 Gy [RBE]; total dose range: 66.8–75.6 Gy [RBE]) for proton beam therapy with initial X-ray irradiation. The 2-year overall survival rate was 81.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 62.4%–100%), and the 2-year local control rate was 89.4% (95% CI: 75.5%–100%). Grade 2 or 3 toxicities occurred in some cases; however, no grade 4 or 5 toxicity was observed. Conclusions High-dose (66–75.6 Gy [RBE]) proton beam therapy without chemotherapy was an efficacious and safe treatment for older patients with esophageal cancer. PMID:26834524

Esophageal Epithelial-Derived IL-33 Is Upregulated in Patients with Heartburn.

PubMed

Sei, Hiroo; Oshima, Tadayuki; Shan, Jing; Wu, Liping; Yamasaki, Takahisa; Okugawa, Takuya; Kondo, Takashi; Tomita, Toshihiko; Fukui, Hirokazu; Watari, Jiro; Miwa, Hiroto

2016-01-01

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a tissue-derived cytokine that is constitutively expressed in epithelial cells of tissues exposed to the environment and plays a role in sensing damage caused by inflammatory diseases. IL-33 acts as both a traditional cytokine and as a chromatin-associated nuclear factor in both innate and adaptive immunity. We recently showed that IL-33 in esophageal mucosa is upregulated in reflux esophagitis. However, IL-33 expression in patients with heartburn without mucosal injury and its relationship with intercellular space (ICS) have never been examined. We therefore examined the expression of cytokines and ICS in patients with heartburn. The expression of IL-33 in the middle and distal esophageal mucosa of patients with heartburn without mucosal break and control samples was examined using real-time RT-PCR and immunofluorescence. The mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and RANTES, and ICS was also analyzed. IL-33 expression and the mean ICS were significantly increased in the mucosa of patients with heartburn compared to that of the control. IL-33 and ICS were not different between the patients who were taking a PPI and those who were not. The upregulated IL-33 expression in the heartburn group was located in the nuclei of the basal cell layer. Although IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and RANTES levels were not different between control and patients with heartburn samples, IL-33 mRNA levels were still significantly correlated with IL-6, IL-8, or MCP-1 mRNA levels. Nuclear IL-33 is upregulated in patients with heartburn. Upregulated IL-33 in heartburn patients is related to the symptoms.

Prognostic significance of hyperfibrinogenemia in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Suzuki, Takashi; Shimada, Hideaki; Nanami, Tatsuki; Oshima, Yoko; Yajima, Satoshi; Washizawa, Naohiro; Kaneko, Hironori

2017-06-01

Preoperative hyperfibrinogenemia is associated with inflammatory mediators and a poor prognosis in several types of cancer. However, there is no published information on the monitoring of patients with preoperative hyperfibrinogenemia after surgery. The aim of the study reported here was to assess the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of plasma fibrinogen levels in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma before and after surgical treatment. Plasma fibrinogen levels were analyzed before surgical treatment (endoscopic submucosal dissection and surgery) in 82 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The clinicopathological significance of plasma fibrinogen levels and the relationship of plasma fibrinogen levels with several biomarkers were evaluated. The cutoff value for hyperfibrinogenemia was 321 mg/dl. Univariate and multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model were performed to evaluate the prognostic significance of plasma fibrinogen levels. The changing patterns of plasma fibrinogen were monitored after surgical treatment to evaluate prognostic impact. Hyperfibrinogenemia was significantly associated with advanced pathological stage of cancer and high C-reactive protein levels. Plasma fibrinogen levels significantly decreased after surgical treatment in recurrence-free patients but did not decrease in patients with recurrence. The multivariate analysis indicated that preoperative hyperfibrinogenemia was an independent prognostic factor for poor survival (hazard ratio 1.005, 95% confidence interval 1.000-1.010; P = 0.039). Preoperative hyperfibrinogenemia was associated with inflammatory mediators, tumor progression, and poor survival in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The absence of a decrease in plasma fibrinogen levels after surgical treatment may indicate the possibility of tumor recurrence.

Comparison of four proton pump inhibitors for the short-term treatment of esophagitis in elderly patients.

PubMed

Pilotto, Alberto; Franceschi, Marilisa; Leandro, Gioacchino; Scarcelli, Carlo; D'Ambrosio, Luigi Piero; Paris, Francesco; Annese, Vito; Seripa, Davide; Andriulli, Angelo; Di Mario, Francesco

2007-09-07

To compare efficacy and tolerability of four proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) commonly used in the short-term therapy of esophagitis in elderly patients. A total of 320 patients over 65 years with endoscopically diagnosed esophagitis were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments for 8 wk: (1) omeprazole 20 mg/d; (2) lansoprazole 30 mg/d; (3) pantoprazole 40 mg/d, or (4) rabeprazole 20 mg/d. Major symptoms, compliance, and adverse events were recorded. After 8 wk, endoscopy and clinical evaluation were repeated. Per protocol and intention to treat healing rates of esophagitis were: omeprazole = 81.0% and 75.0%, lansoprazole = 90.7% (P = 0.143 vs omeprazole) and 85.0%, pantoprazole = 93.5% (P = 0.04 vs omeprazole) and 90.0% (P = 0.02 vs omeprazole), rabeprazole = 94.6% (P = 0.02 vs omeprazole) and 88.8% (P = 0.04 vs omeprazole). Dividing patients according to the grades of esophagitis, omeprazole was significantly less effective than the three other PPIs in healing grade 1 esophagitis (healing rates: 81.8% vs 100%, 100% and 100%, respectively, P = 0.012). Pantoprazole and rabeprazole (100%) were more effective vs omeprazole (89.6%, P = 0.0001) and lansoprazole (82.4%, P = 0.0001) in decreasing heartburn. Pantoprazole and rabeprazole (92.2% and 90.1%, respectively) were also more effective vs lansoprazole (75.0%, P < 0.05) in decreasing acid regurgitation. Finally, pantoprazole and rabeprazole (95.2% and 100%) were also more effective vs lansoprazole (82.6%, P < 0.05) in decreasing epigastric pain. In elderly patients, pantoprazole and rabeprazole were significantly more effective than omeprazole in healing esophagitis and than omeprazole or lansoprazole in improving symptoms. H pylori infection did not influence the healing rates of esophagitis after a short-term treatment with PPI.

Comparison of four proton pump inhibitors for the short-term treatment of esophagitis in elderly patients

PubMed Central

Pilotto, Alberto; Franceschi, Marilisa; Leandro, Gioacchino; Scarcelli, Carlo; D’Ambrosio, Luigi Piero; Paris, Francesco; Annese, Vito; Seripa, Davide; Andriulli, Angelo; Di Mario, Francesco

2007-01-01

AIM: To compare efficacy and tolerability of four proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) commonly used in the short-term therapy of esophagitis in elderly patients. METHODS: A total of 320 patients over 65 years with endoscopically diagnosed esophagitis were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments for 8 wk: (1) omeprazole 20 mg/d; (2) lansoprazole 30 mg/d; (3) pantoprazole 40 mg/d, or (4) rabeprazole 20 mg/d. Major symptoms, compliance, and adverse events were recorded. After 8 wk, endoscopy and clinical evaluation were repeated. RESULTS: Per protocol and intention to treat healing rates of esophagitis were: omeprazole = 81.0% and 75.0%, lansoprazole = 90.7% (P = 0.143 vs omeprazole) and 85.0%, pantoprazole = 93.5% (P = 0.04 vs omeprazole) and 90.0% (P = 0.02 vs omeprazole), rabeprazole = 94.6% (P = 0.02 vs omeprazole) and 88.8% (P = 0.04 vs omeprazole). Dividing patients according to the grades of esophagitis, omeprazole was significantly less effective than the three other PPIs in healing grade 1 esophagitis (healing rates: 81.8% vs 100%, 100% and 100%, respectively, P = 0.012). Pantoprazole and rabeprazole (100%) were more effective vs omeprazole (89.6%, P = 0.0001) and lansoprazole (82.4%, P = 0.0001) in decreasing heartburn. Pantoprazole and rabeprazole (92.2% and 90.1%, respectively) were also more effective vs lansoprazole (75.0%, P < 0.05) in decreasing acid regurgitation. Finally, pantoprazole and rabeprazole (95.2% and 100%) were also more effective vs lansoprazole (82.6%, P < 0.05) in decreasing epigastric pain. CONCLUSION: In elderly patients, pantoprazole and rabeprazole were significantly more effective than omeprazole in healing esophagitis and than omeprazole or lansoprazole in improving symptoms. H pylori infection did not influence the healing rates of esophagitis after a short-term treatment with PPI. PMID:17724802

[Esophageal motor function of gastroesophageal reflux disease].

PubMed

Wang, Hong; Tian, Yuan; Ding, Yan

2010-08-01

To study the relationship between esophageal motor functional disorder [decreased lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP)and ineffective motility (IEM)] and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Totally 89 patients with GERD were enrolled in this study. All of them underwent 24-hour pH monitoring with dual-channel probe and stationary esophageal manometry. In addition, 77 of these patients underwent upper endoscopy. IEM and LES, 10 mmHg were common disturbances in patients with GERD (54% and 48%, respectively). The number of the acid reflux events of distal esophagus and prevalence of moderate or severe erosive esophagitis (EE) were significantly higher in patients with low LESP and IEM than patients without low LESP ( P<0.05). The number of the acid reflux events in distal esophagus was significantly correlated with the severity of esophagitis, distal esophagus amplitude, and LESP, while no such correlation was found between IEM and degree of esophageal acid exposure or esophagitis. The pathophysiology of GERD is probably multifactorial. Lower LESP or IEM is not a independent pathophysiological factor for GERD. However,one single factor is insufficient to explain all the pathogenic mechanism of GERD.

Predictive factors of silent reflux in subjects with erosive esophagitis.

PubMed

Lei, Wei-Yi; Yu, Hao-Chun; Wen, Shu-Hui; Liu, Tso-Tsai; Yi, Chih-Hsun; Wang, Chia-Chi; Hsu, Ching-Sheng; Chen, Chien-Hwa; Chen, Chien-Lin; Pace, Fabio

2015-01-01

Asymptomatic erosive esophagitis by definition is a condition lacking any reflux symptom. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of asymptomatic erosive esophagitis in a general population undergoing periodic health checkup. Consecutive subjects undergoing a medical checkup were enrolled for evaluation of reflux disease with upper endoscopy and a validated reflux questionnaire. The presence and severity of erosive esophagitis were evaluated. In all subjects, demographic characteristics and biochemical data were recorded, and sleep and psychological characteristics were assessed by means of self-administered Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score, Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire score, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score. Of 2568 subjects eligible for this study, erosive esophagitis was found in 676 subjects (26.3%), in whom the proportions of asymptomatic and symptomatic erosive esophagitis were 59.2% (400 subjects) and 40.8% (276 subjects) respectively. At a univariate analysis, it was found that asymptomatic erosive esophagitis subjects were more frequently of female gender, of older age, with a lower level of education. They also showed less alcohol and tea consumption, less depression, less anxiety, lower serum level of triglyceride, and lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (OR = 1.645, p = 0.0146) was a positive predictive factor for asymptomatic erosive esophagitis, whereas higher level of education (OR = 0.564, p = 0.044), higher Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire score (OR = 0.922, p < 0.001), and the presence of metabolic syndrome (OR = 0.625, p = 0.0379) were negative predictive factors. Asymptomatic erosive esophagitis is a common feature in otherwise healthy subjects and is independently associated with female gender, lower education level, less depression, and lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Copyright © 2014 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights

Comparison of curative surgery and definitive chemoradiotherapy as initial treatment for patients with cervical esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Takebayashi, Katsushi; Tsubosa, Yasuhiro; Matsuda, Satoru; Kawamorita, Keisuke; Niihara, Masahiro; Tsushima, Takahiro; Yokota, Tomoya; Sato, Hiroshi; Onozawa, Yusuke; Ogawa, Hirofumi; Kamijo, Tomoyuki; Onitsuka, Tetsuro; Nakagawa, Masahiro; Yasui, Hirofumi

2017-02-01

Esophagectomy and definitive chemoradiotherapy are recognized standard initial treatment modalities for cervical esophageal cancer. The goal of this study was to compare the treatment outcomes of curative surgery with those of chemoradiotherapy in patients who had potentially resectable tumor and who were candidates for surgery. We evaluated the data from 49 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with potentially resectable cervical esophageal cancer and who were deemed candidates for surgery. Thirteen patients were included in the surgery group, and 36 patients were included in chemoradiotherapy group. Baseline characteristics were balanced between the two groups. In the chemoradiotherapy group, the complete response rate was 58.3%. There was no significant difference in 5-year overall survival when comparing the surgery group and the chemoradiotherapy group (surgery, 60.6%; chemoradiotherapy, 51.4%; P = 0.89). In the chemoradiotherapy group, of the 15 patients who failed to respond to initial treatment, 11 patients subsequently underwent salvage surgery. In conclusion, curative surgery and chemoradiotherapy as initial treatment for cervical esophageal cancer have comparable survival outcomes. Chemoradiotherapy should be selected as the initial larynx-preserving treatment for patients with cervical esophageal cancer although chemoradiotherapy non-responders require additional treatment, including salvage surgery. © 2016 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Feasibility of transnasal endoscopy in screening for esophageal and gastric varices in patients with chronic liver disease

PubMed Central

de Faria, Anderson Antônio; Dias, Carlos Alberto Freitas; Dias Moetzsohn, Luciana; de Castro Carvalho, Silas; Ferrari, Tereza Abreu; Nunes Arantes, Vitor

2017-01-01

Background and study aims  Screening for esophageal and gastric varices is indicated for patients with portal hypertension or cirrhosis. Typically, conventional endoscopy is used; however, the need for sedation increases the costs and risks, especially in cirrhotic patients. Use of transnasal endoscopy with an ultrathin endoscope enables study of the upper gastrointestinal tract without the need for sedation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of transnasal endoscopy in screening for esophageal and gastric varices in patients with chronic liver disease. Patients and methods  This was a prospective study in which transnasal endoscopy was carried out in patients with cirrhosis or portal hypertension who had indications for screening of esophageal and gastric varices. The following variables were evaluated: demographical data, duration of procedure, patient tolerance and acceptance, adverse events (AEs), endoscopic findings and interobserver agreement related to portal hypertension alterations ( kappa index). Results  A total of 50 patients entered the study. The most common cause of liver disease was chronic viral hepatitis (66 %). Among the cirrhotic patients, most of the patients were Child-Pugh A (74 %). In 5 patients (10 %), nasal intubation was not possible. Two patients (4 %) experienced minor epistaxis. Tolerance was excellent or good in 92 % according with a visual analogic scale. In 16 patients (32 %), esophageal varices were detected and in 2 patients (4 %) gastric varices were detected. The mean duration of the procedure was 7 minutes. Conclusions  Transnasal endoscopy is feasible, effective and well tolerated for screening of esophageal and gastric varices in patients with chronic liver disease. It can be performed in outpatient clinics safely and without the use of sedation. PMID:28691048

[Using (1)H-nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics and gene ontology to establish pathological staging model for esophageal cancer patients].

PubMed

Chen, X; Wang, K; Chen, W; Jiang, H; Deng, P C; Li, Z J; Peng, J; Zhou, Z Y; Yang, H; Huang, G X; Zeng, J

2016-07-01

By combining the metabolomics and computational biology, to explore the relationship between metabolic phenotype and pathological stage in esophageal cancer patients, to find the mechanism of metabolic network disturbance and develop a new method for fast preoperative clinical staging. A prospective cohort study (from April 2013 to January 2016) was conducted. The preoperative patients from Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, who were diagnosed with esophageal cancer from May 2013 to April 2014 were included, and their serum samples were collected to detect (1)H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics for the purpose of drawing the metabolic fingerprinting in different stages of patients with esophageal cancer. The data were processed with these methods-principal components analysis: partial least squares regression and support vector machine, for the exploration of the enzyme-gene network regulatory mechanism in abnormal esophageal cancer metabolic network regulation and to build the quantitative prediction model of esophageal cancer staging in the end. All data were processed on high-performance computing platforms Matalab. The comparison of data had used Wilcoxon test, variance analysis, χ(2) test and Fisher exact test. Twenty patients with different stages of esophageal cancer were included; and their serum metabolic fingerprinting could differentiate different tumor stages. There were no difference among the five teams in the age (F=1.086, P>0.05), the body mass index (F=1.035, P>0.05), the distance from the incisors to tumor (F=1.078, P>0.05). Among the patients with different TNM stages, there was a significant difference in plasma metabolome. Compared to ⅡB, ⅢA, Ⅳstage patients, increased levels of butanone, ethanol amine, homocysteine, hydroxy acids and estriol, together with decreased levels of glycoprotein, creatine, choline, isobutyricacid, alanine, leucine, valine, were observed inⅠB, ⅡA stage patients. Four metabolic markers

Stents in patients with esophageal cancer before chemoradiotherapy: high risk of complications and no impact on the nutritional status.

PubMed

Mão-de-Ferro, S; Serrano, M; Ferreira, S; Rosa, I; Lage, P; Alexandre, D P; Freire, J; Mirones, L; Casaca, R; Bettencourt, A; Pereira, A D

2016-03-01

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy is the standard of care for locally advanced esophageal cancer, causing persistent deterioration in the nutritional status. We performed a prospective study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of esophageal double-covered self-expandable metal stents in patients with esophageal cancer before chemoradiotherapy. The nutritional status and dysphagia were prospectively recorded. Eleven patients were included: eight were moderate and three were severely malnourished. After stent placement, dysphagia improved in all patients. With regard to complications, one patient developed an esophageal perforation that required urgent esophagectomy. Four patients presented stent migration. Three of these patients required enteral nutrition and none was submitted to surgery because of poor nutritional status. Of the other six patients, only four were operated upon. Stent placement presented a high complication rate and did not prevent weight loss or malnutrition. Other alternatives, including naso-gastric tube placement or endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy or jejunostomy, should be considered.

Clinical features and treatment of patients with esophageal cancer and a history of gastrectomy: a multicenter, questionnaire survey in Kyushu, Japan

PubMed Central

Mori, N.; Tanaka, T.; Morita, M.; Toh, Y.; Saeki, H.; Maehara, Y.; Nakamura, K.; Honda, H.; Yoshida, N.; Baba, H.; Natsugoe, S.

2015-01-01

Summary It is still controversial whether patients with a history of gastrectomy have high risk of esophageal carcinogenesis. On the other hand, the treatment strategy for esophageal cancer patients after gastrectomy is complicated. The association between histories of gastrectomy and esophageal carcinogenesis was retrospectively analyzed, and the treatment of esophageal cancer patients after gastrectomy was evaluated based on questionnaire data collected from multiple centers in Kyushu, Japan. The initial subject population comprised 205 esophageal cancer patients after gastrectomy. Among them, 108 patients underwent curative surgical treatment, and 70 patients underwent chemoradiation therapy (CRT). The time between gastrectomy and esophageal cancer development was longer in peptic ulcer patients (28.3 years) than in gastric cancer patients (9.6 years). There were no differences in the location of esophageal cancer according to the gastrectomy reconstruction method. There were no significant differences in the clinical background characteristics between patients with and without a history of gastrectomy. Among the 108 patients in the surgery group, the 5‐year overall survival rates for stages I (n = 30), II (n = 18), and III (n = 60) were 68.2%, 62.9%, and 32.1%, respectively. In the CRT group, the 5‐year overall survival rate of stage I (n = 29) was 82.6%, but there were no 5‐year survivors in other stages. The 5‐year overall survival rate of patients with CR (n = 33) or salvage surgery (n = 10) was 61.2% or 36%, respectively. For the treatment of gastrectomized esophageal cancer patients, surgery or CRT is recommended for stage I, and surgery with or without adjuvant therapy is the main central treatment in advanced stages, with surgery for stage II, neoadjuvant therapy + surgery for stage III, and CRT + salvage surgery for any stage, if the patient's condition permits. PMID:26542524

Targeted therapy in esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Ma, Jiaojiao; Han, Yu; Liu, Jinqiang; Zhou, Wei; Hong, Liu; Fan, Daiming

2016-01-01

An increasing number of patients are diagnosed with esophageal cancer at an advanced stages, and only a small group of them can benefit from the traditional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. So far, multiple monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been developed, alone or in combination with traditional therapy, to improve the prognosis of patients with advanced esophageal cancer. This review summarizes the recent advances of targeted therapies against EGFR, HER2, VEGFR and c-MET in esophageal cancer. More clinical trials should be performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various targeted therapy regimens. Future basic research should focus on investigating the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic targets in esophageal cancer.

Hospitalization for esophageal achalasia in the United States.

PubMed

Molena, Daniela; Mungo, Benedetto; Stem, Miloslawa; Lidor, Anne O

2015-09-25

To assess the outcome of different treatments in patients admitted for esophageal achalasia in the United States. This is a retrospective analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over an 8-year period (2003-2010). Patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of achalasia were divided into 3 groups based on their treatment: (1) Group 1: patients who underwent Heller myotomy during their hospital stay; (2) Group 2: patients who underwent esophagectomy; and (3) Group 3: patients not undergoing surgical treatment. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), discharge destination and total hospital charges. Among 27141 patients admitted with achalasia, nearly half (48.5%) underwent Heller myotomy, 2.5% underwent esophagectomy and 49.0% had endoscopic or other treatment. Patients in group 1 were younger, healthier, and had the lowest mortality when compared with the other two groups. Group 2 had the highest LOS and hospital charges among all groups. Group 3 had the highest mortality (1.2%, P < 0.001) and the lowest home discharge rate (78.8%) when compared to the other groups. The most frequently performed procedures among group 3 were esophageal dilatation (25.9%) and injection (13.3%). Among patients who died in this group the most common associated morbidities included acute respiratory failure, sepsis and aspiration pneumonia. Surgery for achalasia carries exceedingly low mortality in the modern era; however, in complicated patients, even less invasive treatments are burdened by significant mortality and morbidity.

Oxaliplatin in combination with protracted-infusion fluorouracil and radiation: report of a clinical trial for patients with esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Khushalani, Nikhil I; Leichman, Cynthia Gail; Proulx, Gary; Nava, Hector; Bodnar, Lisa; Klippenstein, Donald; Litwin, Alan; Smith, Judy; Nava, Enriqueta; Pendyala, Lakshmi; Smith, Patrick; Greco, William; Berdzik, Joanne; Douglass, Harold; Leichman, Lawrence

2002-06-15

To identify a dose and schedule of oxaliplatin (OXP) to be safely administered in combination with protracted-infusion (PI) fluorouracil (5-FU) and external-beam radiation therapy (XRT) for patients with primary esophageal carcinoma (EC). Eligibility included therapeutically naïve EC patients with clinical disease stages II, III, or IV. Initial doses and schedules for cycle 1 consisted of OXP 85 mg/m(2) on days 1, 15, and 29; PI 5-FU 180 mg/m(2) for 24 hours for 35 days; and XRT 1.8 Gy in 28 fractions starting on day 8. At completion of cycle 1, eligible patients could undergo an operation or begin cycle 2 without XRT. Postoperative patients were eligible for cycle 2. Stage IV patients were allowed three cycles in the absence of disease progression. OXP and 5-FU increases were based on dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) encountered in cohorts of three consecutive patients. Thirty-eight eligible patients received therapy: 22 noninvasively staged as IV and 16 noninvasively staged as II and III. Thirty-six patients completed cycle 1, 29 patients started cycle 2, and 24 patients completed cycle 2. The combined-modality therapy was well tolerated, but DLT prevented OXP and 5-FU escalation. No grade 4 hematologic toxicity was noted. Eleven grade 3 and two grade 4 clinical toxicities were noted in eight patients. After cycle 1, 29 patients (81%) had no cancer in the esophageal mucosa. Thirteen patients underwent an operation with intent to resect the esophagus; five patients (38%) exhibited pathologic complete responses. OXP 85 mg/m(2) on days 1, 15, and 29 administered with PI 5-FU and XRT is safe, tolerable, and seems effective against primary EC. The role of OXP in multimodality regimens against EC deserves further evaluation.

Esophageal dysmotility in scleroderma: a prospective study of 183 cases.

PubMed

Lahcene, M; Oumnia, N; Matougui, N; Boudjella, M; Tebaibia, A; Touchene, B

2009-01-01

The goal of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of esophageal motor disorders in systemic sclerosis. In 183 consecutive cases of scleroderma, as diagnosed by American College of Rheumatology criteria (1980). Patients' mean age was 40.6+/-13.3 years, the gender ratio was 0.13 and the average duration of disease was 6.8+/-7.5 years. A localized, cutaneous form was observed in 148 patients (81%) and a diffuse form in 35 (19%). All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and standard esophageal manometry. Esophageal symptoms and reflux esophagitis were found in 108 (59%) and 68 (37%) of patients, respectively. Esophageal motor disorders were present in 148 patients (81%), and were associated with a hypotensive lower esophageal sphincter in 114 (62%). The presence of these motor abnormalities was not related to age, gender, skin extension or duration of disease. Esophageal motor disorders were present in almost all patients with esophageal symptoms or esophagitis, and were also found in 48 (64%) of the asymptomatic patients. Esophageal motor disorders are frequently seen in scleroderma, especially in cases with clinical symptoms, but are not associated with a specific form of the disease.

(18)F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Can Quantify and Predict Esophageal Injury During Radiation Therapy.

PubMed

Niedzielski, Joshua S; Yang, Jinzhong; Liao, Zhongxing; Gomez, Daniel R; Stingo, Francesco; Mohan, Radhe; Martel, Mary K; Briere, Tina M; Court, Laurence E

2016-11-01

We sought to investigate the ability of mid-treatment (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) studies to objectively and spatially quantify esophageal injury in vivo from radiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer. This retrospective study was approved by the local institutional review board, with written informed consent obtained before enrollment. We normalized (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET uptake to each patient's low-irradiated region (<5 Gy) of the esophagus, as a radiation response measure. Spatially localized metrics of normalized uptake (normalized standard uptake value [nSUV]) were derived for 79 patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer. We used nSUV metrics to classify esophagitis grade at the time of the PET study, as well as maximum severity by treatment completion, according to National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, using multivariate least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression and repeated 3-fold cross validation (training, validation, and test folds). This 3-fold cross-validation LASSO model procedure was used to predict toxicity progression from 43 asymptomatic patients during the PET study. Dose-volume metrics were also tested in both the multivariate classification and the symptom progression prediction analyses. Classification performance was quantified with the area under the curve (AUC) from receiver operating characteristic analysis on the test set from the 3-fold analyses. Statistical analysis showed increasing nSUV is related to esophagitis severity. Axial-averaged maximum nSUV for 1 esophageal slice and esophageal length with at least 40% of axial-averaged nSUV both had AUCs of 0.85 for classifying grade 2 or higher esophagitis at the time of the PET study and AUCs of 0.91 and 0.92, respectively, for maximum grade 2 or higher by treatment completion. Symptom progression was predicted with an AUC of 0

Predictors of Acute Esophagitis in Lung Cancer Patients Treated With Concurrent Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rodriguez, Nuria; Department of Medicine, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona; Algara, Manuel

2009-03-01

Purpose: To evaluate the risk factors for acute esophagitis (AET) in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent 3D-CRT and chemotherapy. Methods and Materials: Data from 100 patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with a mean dose of 62.05 {+-} 4.64 Gy were prospectively evaluated. Esophageal toxicity was graded according to criteria of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. The following dosimetric parameters were analyzed: length and volume of esophagus in treatment field, percentage of esophagus volume treated to {>=}10, {>=}20, {>=}30, {>=}35, {>=}40, {>=}45, {>=}50, {>=}55, and {>=}60 Gy, and the maximum (D{sub max}) and mean doses (D{sub mean}) delivered to themore » esophagus. Also, we developed an esophagitis index (EI) to account the esophagitis grades over treatment time. Results: A total of 59 patients developed AET (Grade 1, 26 patients; Grade 2, 29 patients; and Grade 3, 4 patients). V50 was associated with AET duration (p = 0.017), AET Grade 1 duration (p = 0.016), maximum analgesia (p = 0.019), esophagitis index score (p = 0.024), and AET Grade {>=}1 (p = 0.058). If V50 is <30% there is a 47.3% risk of AET Grade {>=}1, which increases to 73.3% if V50 is {>=}30% (p = 0.008). The predictive abilities of models (sensitivity and specificity) were calculated by receiver operating characteristic curves. Conclusions: According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the 30% of esophageal volume receiving {>=}50 Gy was the most statistically significant factor associated with AET Grade {>=}1 and maximum analgesia (A{sub max}). There was an association with AET Grade {>=}2 but it did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.076)« less

Predictors of acute esophagitis in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Núria; Algara, Manuel; Foro, Palmira; Lacruz, Marti; Reig, Anna; Membrive, Ismael; Lozano, Joan; López, José Luis; Quera, Jaime; Fernández-Velilla, Enric; Sanz, Xavier

2009-03-01

To evaluate the risk factors for acute esophagitis (AET) in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent 3D-CRT and chemotherapy. Data from 100 patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with a mean dose of 62.05 +/- 4.64 Gy were prospectively evaluated. Esophageal toxicity was graded according to criteria of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. The following dosimetric parameters were analyzed: length and volume of esophagus in treatment field, percentage of esophagus volume treated to >or=10, >or=20, >or=30, >or=35, >or=40, >or=45, >or=50, >or=55, and >or=60 Gy, and the maximum (D(max)) and mean doses (D(mean)) delivered to the esophagus. Also, we developed an esophagitis index (EI) to account the esophagitis grades over treatment time. A total of 59 patients developed AET (Grade 1, 26 patients; Grade 2, 29 patients; and Grade 3, 4 patients). V50 was associated with AET duration (p = 0.017), AET Grade 1 duration (p = 0.016), maximum analgesia (p = 0.019), esophagitis index score (p = 0.024), and AET Grade >or=1 (p = 0.058). If V50 is <30% there is a 47.3% risk of AET Grade >or=1, which increases to 73.3% if V50 is >or=30% (p = 0.008). The predictive abilities of models (sensitivity and specificity) were calculated by receiver operating characeristic curves. According to the receiver operating characeristic curve analysis, the 30% of esophageal volume receiving >or=50 Gy was the most statistically significant factor associated with AET Grade >or=1 and maximum analgesia (A(max)). There was an association with AET Grade >or=2 but it did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.076).

High-Resolution Manometry Improves the Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders in Patients With Dysphagia: A Randomized Multicenter Study.

PubMed

Roman, Sabine; Huot, Laure; Zerbib, Frank; Bruley des Varannes, Stanislas; Gourcerol, Guillaume; Coffin, Benoit; Ropert, Alain; Roux, Adeline; Mion, François

2016-03-01

High-resolution manometry (HRM) might be superior to conventional manometry (CM) to diagnose esophageal motility disorders. We aimed to compare the diagnosis performed with HRM and CM and confirmed at 6 months in a multicenter randomized trial. Patients with unexplained dysphagia were randomized to undergo either CM or HRM. Motility disorders were diagnosed using the Castell and Spechler classification for CM and the Chicago classification for HRM. Diagnosis confirmation was based on clinical outcome and response to treatment after 6-month follow-up. The initial diagnosis and percentage of confirmed diagnoses were compared between the two arms (CM and HRM). In total, 247 patients were randomized and 245 analyzed: 122 in the CM arm and 123 in the HRM arm. A manometric diagnosis was more frequently initially achieved with HRM than with CM (97% vs. 84%; P<0.01). Achalasia was more frequent in the HRM arm (26% vs. 12% in the CM arm; P<0.01) while normal examinations were more frequent in the CM arm (52% vs. 28% in the HRM arm; P<0.05). After follow-up, the initial diagnosis was confirmed in 89% of patients in the HRM arm vs. 81% in the CM arm (P=0.07). Finally, overall procedure tolerance was better with CM than with HRM (P<0.01). This randomized trial demonstrated an improved diagnostic yield for achalasia with HRM compared with CM. Diagnoses tended to be more frequently confirmed in patients who underwent HRM, suggesting that esophageal motility disorders could be identified earlier with HRM than with CM (ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT01284894).

Neoadjuvant Therapy for Esophageal Adenocarcinoma in the Community Setting—Practice and Outcomes

PubMed Central

Abdo, Joe; Bertellotti, Carrie A.; Cornell, David L.; Agrawal, Devendra K.; Mittal, Sumeet K.

2017-01-01

There has been an alarming rise in the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma which continues to have poor survival rates primarily due to lack of effective chemotherapy and presentation at advanced stages. Over a dozen chemotherapeutic agents are FDA approved for esophageal cancer (EC), and a two or three-drug combination is typically prescribed as first-line therapy for the majority of EC patients, administered either pre or post-operatively with esophageal resection. We have noticed significant variability in adjuvant and neoadjuvant regimens used in the community setting. The aim of this study was to review the various drug regimens used in the neoadjuvant setting for EC patients with adenocarcinoma undergoing resection at a single tertiary referral center in the Midwest. A total of 123 patients (stage II–III) underwent esophageal resection after neoadjuvant treatment at the center. Overall, 18 distinct drug regimens were used in 123 patients including two patients who received targeted therapy. Median survival post-surgery for this group was 11.2 months with no single regimen offering a survival advantage. These results reveal an unclear algorithm of how accepted regimens are prescribed in the community setting as well as a dire need for agents that are more effective. Additionally, it was noted that although proteomic markers have been found to predict drug response to 92% of the FDA-approved drugs in EC (12 of 13), according to pathology reports, molecular diagnostic testing was not used to direct treatment in this cohort. We therefore propose potential strategies to improve clinical outcomes including the use of a robust molecular oncology diagnostic panel and discuss the potential role for targeted chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy in the management of EC patients. PMID:28770168