Colorectal Segments Research Articles

P281 The role of transabdominal ultrasound in evaluating Ulcerative Colitis disease activity and predicting treatment response

Abstract Background As a non-invasive, accurate, and feasible examination, transabdominal ultrasound（TAUS） is of great value in disease monitoring of ulcerative colitis. The cut-off for disease activity of 3.0 or 4.0 mm is often debated， and studies lacked assessment of treatment response. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of TAUS in detecting disease activity in adult patients with UC using endoscopy as the reference standard and evaluate TAUS for treatment response in a longitudinal cohort. Methods This study prospectively consecutive adult patients with an established diagnosis of UC in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University between June 2022 and September 2023. The patients with moderate-to-severe disease activity at baseline should have follow-up endoscopic assessment after induction, with available corresponding TAUS. The primary outcome of this study was the difference in BWT in the descending colon(DC) or sigmoid colon(SC) for patients with and without segmental endoscopic response after treatment. Endoscopic remission was defined as MES=0-1 or UCEIS=0-1, and Endoscopic response as a decrease of MES ≥1 or a reduction of UCEIS ≥2. Results A total of 315 colon segments in 80 patients were included. 171 (54.3%) colorectal segments had endoscopic remission and 144(45.7%) were in endoscopic activity. The TAUS parameters correlated with the Mayo endoscopic sub-score with significant differences between patients in endoscopic remission and patients in endoscopic activity. And we found 3.45mm(AUROC 0.833;95%CI 0.789-0.878， P＜0.001) to be the cutoff for endoscopic remission with 78% sensitivity and 75% specificity. The multivariable analysis identified BWT， the Colour Doppler Signal(CDS), and the wall layer stratification as independent predictors for endoscopic activity（ P＜0.001、=0.004、=0.001）. BWT in the DC or SC was significantly lower in patients with endoscopic response than those without after treatment. A 28% decrease in BWT from baseline predicted endoscopic response [AUROC 0.743;95%CI 0.589-0.896， P=0.015] with 58% sensitivity and 93% specificity. Multivariable analysis among all the ultrasound parameters considered normal wall layer stratification at baseline as the only independent predictor of endoscopic response at reassessment (odds ratio [OR]23.334, 95% CI 2.257-241.219; p = 0.008). Conclusion TAUS, importantly BWT, CDS, and wall layer stratification as the crucial parameters, is highly accurate in detecting disease activity and treatment response when evaluated against endoscopic outcomes. Normal intestinal wall stratification at baseline predicts long-term endoscopic response.

A novel artificial intelligence–assisted “vascular healing” diagnosis for prediction of future clinical relapse in patients with ulcerative colitis: a prospective cohort study (with video)

Background and AimsImage-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) has attracted attention as a method for detecting inflammation and predicting outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC); however, the procedure requires specialist endoscopists. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted IEE may help non-experts to provide objective accurate predictions using optical imaging. We aimed to develop a novel AI-based system using 8853 images from 167 patients with UC to diagnose “vascular-healing” and establish the role of AI-based vascular-healing for predicting the outcomes of patients with UC. MethodsThis open-label, prospective cohort study analyzed data for 104 patients with UC in clinical remission. Endoscopists performed colonoscopy using the AI system, which identified the target mucosa as AI-based vascular-active or vascular-healing. Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES), AI outputs, and histological assessment were recorded for six colorectal segments from each patient. Patients were followed-up for 12 months. Clinical relapse was defined as a partial Mayo score >2 ResultsThe clinical relapse rate was significantly higher in the AI-based vascular-active group [23.9% (16/67)] compared with the AI-based vascular-healing group [3.0% (1/33)] (P=0.01). In a sub-analysis predicting clinical relapse in patients with MES ≤1, the area under the curve for the combination of complete endoscopic remission and vascular-healing (0.70) was increased compared with that for complete endoscopic remission alone (0.65). ConclusionsAI-based vascular healing diagnosis system may potentially be used to provide more confidence to physicians to accurately identify patients in remission of UC who would likely relapse rather than remain stable.

Repurposing celecoxib for colorectal cancer targeting via pH-triggered ultra-elastic nanovesicles: Pronounced efficacy through up-regulation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in DMH-induced tumorigenesis

Celecoxib (CLX), a selective inhibitor for cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), has manifested potential activity against diverse types of cancer. However, low bioavailability and cardiovascular side effects remain the major challenges that limit its exploitation. In this work, we developed ultra-elastic nanovesicles (UENVs) with pH-triggered surface charge reversal traits that could efficiently deliver CLX to colorectal segments for snowballed tumor targeting. CLX-UENVs were fabricated via a thin-film hydration approach. The impact of formulation factors (Span 80, Tween 80, and sonication time) on the nanovesicular features was evaluated using Box–Behnken design, and the optimal formulation was computed. The optimum formulation was positively coated with polyethyleneimine (CLX-PEI-UENVs) and then coated with Eudragit S100 (CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs). The activity of the optimized nano-cargo was explored in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal cancer in Wistar rats. Levels of COX-2, Wnt-2 and β-catenin were assessed in rats' colon. The diameter of the optimized CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs formulation was 253.62 nm, with a zeta potential of −23.24 mV, 85.64% entrapment, and 87.20% cumulative release (24 h). ES coating hindered the rapid release of CLX under acidic milieu (stomach and early small intestine) and showed extended release in the colon section. In colonic environments, the ES coating layer was removed due to high pH, and the charge on the nanovesicular corona was shifted from negative to positive. Besides, a pharmacokinetics study revealed that CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs had superior oral bioavailability by 2.13-fold compared with CLX suspension. Collectively, these findings implied that CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs could be a promising colorectal-targeted nanoplatform for effective tumor management through up-regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

ADC Values for Detecting Bowel Inflammation and Biologic Therapy Response in Patients With Crohn Disease: A Post Hoc Prospective Trial Analysis.

BACKGROUND. New biologic agents for Crohn disease (CD) create a need for noninvasive disease markers. DWI may assess bowel inflammation without contrast agents. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ADC values for identifying bowel inflammation and therapeutic response in patients with CD treated with biologic therapy. METHODS. This study entailed post hoc analysis of prospective trial data. Analysis included 89 patients (median age, 37 years; 49 women, 40 men) with CD treated by biologic therapy who underwent MR enterography (MRE) at baseline and 46 weeks after therapy, from March 2013 to April 2021; 43 patients underwent ileocolonoscopy at both time points. Analysis was conducted at the level of small-bowel and colorectal segments (586 segments analyzed). MR index of activity (MaRIA) score and presence of endoscopic ulcers were determined at both time points. One observer measured bowel wall ADC. Diagnostic performance was evaluated. Dichotomous ADC assessments used a threshold of 1301 × 10-6 mm2/s based on initial ROC analysis; dichotomous MaRIA score assessments used a threshold of 11 (moderate to severe inflammation). A second observer repeated ADC measurements in 15 patients. RESULTS. At baseline, ADC had AUC of 0.92, sensitivity of 78.6%, specificity of 91.4%, and accuracy of 88.2% for detecting segments with MaRIA score 11 or greater. At baseline, AUC for detecting endoscopic ulcers was 0.96 for MaRIA score versus 0.87 for ADC (p < .001); sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 70.8%, 90.2%, and 85.1% for ADC and 86.2%, 96.2%, and 93.6% for MaRIA score. At follow-up, ADC had AUC of 0.87, sensitivity of 75.4%, specificity of 83.6%, and accuracy of 80.0% for detecting improvement in MaRIA score to less than 11. At follow-up, AUC for detecting endoscopic ulcer healing was 0.94 for MaRIA score versus 0.84 for ADC (p = .01); sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 70.7%, 95.8%, and 84.4% for ADC and 90.2%, 100.0%, and 95.6% for MaRIA score. Interobserver agreement for ADC, based on intraclass correlation coefficient, was 0.70 at baseline and 0.65 at follow-up. CONCLUSION. The findings do not support use of ADC rather than MaRIA scores for detecting biologic therapy response. CLINICAL IMPACT. ADC may have an adjunct role in assessing bowel inflammation in CD, but showed limited performance for detecting biologic therapy response.

P349 Faecal Calprotectin in Ulcerative Colitis - Associations with Mucosal Inflammatory Activity and Disease Extent

Abstract Background In ulcerative colitis (UC), faecal calprotectin (FC) correlates with endoscopic severity and disease extent, and low levels are associated with histological remission [1, 2]. The effect of mucosal inflammatory activity versus disease extent on the FC levels, remains poorly understood. We aimed to compare FC levels in patients grouped by endoscopic and histologic scores of the inflammatory activity. We also grouped patients according to active disease extent based on endoscopic or histological evaluations. Methods This was a post hoc analysis of patients diagnosed with UC or with confirmed UC at Stavanger University Hospital, Norway, from 2012 to 2020. Visits were performed at diagnosis, and after 3 and 11 months. FC was analysed in samples collected from 4 weeks before until 3 days after visits (EliA Calprotectin or EliA Calprotectin 2, Thermo Scientific). At each visit, colonoscopy was performed, and biopsies were collected from three colorectal segments (rectum, left colon, right colon). Mucosal inflammatory activity was scored endoscopically by Mayo Endoscopic Score (MES 0 – 3) and histologically by Nancy Histological Index (NHI 0 – 4). The highest value of the segmental NHI scores were reported. Disease extent was defined by Montreal classification. Distribution of acute inflammation was defined by the number of colorectal segments with NHI ≥ 2 (presence of neutrophilic infiltrates). Results In total 554 visits of 249 patients were analysed. FC levels increased significantly for every stepwise increase in MES, and median FC was 30-fold (range 19-49) higher in MES 3 than in MES 0 subgroups. The largest difference was observed between MES 1 and MES 2 (Figure 1a). FC levels also increased significantly for every stepwise increase in NHI, except between NHI 3 and NHI 4. Median FC level was 54-fold higher in NHI 4 group compared with the NHI 0 group, and the largest difference was observed between NHI 1 and NHI 2 (Figure 1b). Disease extent showed little effect on FC, and significant difference was only observed between proctitis and pancolitis with 3-fold (range 1.6 – 4.5) higher levels in the latter groups (Figure 2a). Median FC level was 3-fold higher in patients with acute inflammation in all 3 segments compared to patients with acute inflammation in only 1 colorectal segment (Figure 2b). Conclusion FC increased significantly by increasing mucosal inflammatory activity, whereas disease extent showed a modest effect on the FC levels. FC is an accurate and useful biomarker of both endoscopic and histological inflammatory activity in patients with ulcerative colitis.

Comparison of missed adenomas in deep-sedated and unsedated colonoscopy: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUNDDeep-sedated colonoscopy with propofol is widely used in China. However, its impact on quality metrics remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the effects of deep-sedated colonoscopy on missed adenomas, specifically in each colorectal segment. METHODSData of 3710 individuals from seven hospitals in China who underwent an initial colonoscopy with or without propofol sedation and a second colonoscopy without sedation within six months for surveillance or polypectomy by endoscopist of the same level between October 2020 and September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTSA total of 1113 missed adenomas in 3710 patients were evaluated. The adenoma miss rate (AMR) was significantly higher in deep-sedated colonoscopy than in unsedated colonoscop [19.14% (578/3020) vs. 16.15% (535/3313), P < 0.05]. The risk of missing adenomas in deep-sedated colonoscopy was 1.229 times higher than in unsedated colonoscopy (OR, 1.229; 95% CI: 1.080–1.399). AMRs of the splenic flexure (26.02% [96/369] vs. 16.04% [47/293], P < 0.05) and descending colon (20.86% [102/489] vs. 13.37% [54/404], P < 0.05) were significantly higher in deep-sedated colonoscopy than in unsedated colonoscopy when performed by middle-level endoscopists rather than high-level endoscopists (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONSAMR was higher in deep-sedated colonoscopy than in unsedated colonoscopy. Furthermore, adenomas in the splenic flexure and descending colon were more frequently missed in deep-sedated colonoscopy than in unsedated colonoscopy, particularly when performed by less experienced endoscopists.

Computer-aided classification of colorectal segments during colonoscopy: a deep learning approach based on images of a magnetic endoscopic positioning device

Objective Assessment of the anatomical colorectal segment of polyps during colonoscopy is important for treatment and follow-up strategies, but is largely operator dependent. This feasibility study aimed to assess whether, using images of a magnetic endoscope imaging (MEI) positioning device, a deep learning approach can be useful to objectively divide the colorectum into anatomical segments. Methods Models based on the VGG-16 based convolutional neural network architecture were developed to classify the colorectum into anatomical segments. These models were pre-trained on ImageNet data and further trained using prospectively collected data of the POLAR study in which endoscopists were using MEI (3930 still images and 90,151 video frames). Five-fold cross validation with multiple runs was used to evaluate the overall diagnostic accuracies of the models for colorectal segment classification (divided into a 5-class and 2-class colorectal segment division). The colorectal segment assignment by endoscopists was used as the reference standard. Results For the 5-class colorectal segment division, the best performing model correctly classified the colorectal segment in 753 of the 1196 polyps, corresponding to an overall accuracy of 63%, sensitivity of 63%, specificity of 89% and kappa of 0.47. For the 2-class colorectal segment division, 1112 of the 1196 polyps were correctly classified, corresponding to an accuracy of 93%, sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 90% and kappa of 0.82. Conclusion The diagnostic performance of a deep learning approach for colorectal segment classification based on images of a MEI device is yet suboptimal (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03822390).

Prognostic role of detailed colorectal location and tumor molecular features: analyses of 13,101 colorectal cancer patients including 2994 early-onset cases.

The pathogenic effect of colorectal tumor molecular features may be influenced by several factors, including those related to microbiota, inflammation, metabolism, and epigenetics, which may change along colorectal segments. We hypothesized that the prognostic association of colon cancer location might differ by tumor molecular characteristics. Utilizing a consortium dataset of 13,101 colorectal cancer cases, including 2994 early-onset cases, we conducted survival analyses of detailed tumor location stratified by statuses of microsatellite instability (MSI), CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), and KRAS and BRAF oncogenic mutation. There was a statistically significant trend for better colon cancer-specific survival in relation to tumor location from the cecum to sigmoid colon (Ptrend = 0.002), excluding the rectum. The prognostic association of colon location differed by MSI status (Pinteraction = 0.001). Non-MSI-high tumors exhibited the cecum-to-sigmoid trend for better colon cancer-specific survival [Ptrend < 0.001; multivariable hazard ratio (HR) for the sigmoid colon (vs. cecum), 0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70-0.92], whereas MSI-high tumors demonstrated a suggestive cecum-to-sigmoid trend for worse survival (Ptrend = 0.020; the corresponding HR, 2.13; 95% CI 1.15-3.92). The prognostic association of colon tumor location also differed by CIMP status (Pinteraction = 0.003) but not significantly by age, stage, or other features. Furthermore, MSI-high status was a favorable prognostic indicator in all stages. Both detailed colonic location and tumor molecular features need to be accounted for colon cancer prognostication to advance precision medicine. Our study indicates the important role of large-scale studies to robustly examine detailed colonic subsites in molecular oncology research.

A Narrative Review of the Usefulness of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography for Perfusion Assessment in Colorectal Surgery.

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most dreaded complications of colorectal surgery and is strongly associated with tissue perfusion. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) using indocyanine green and near-infrared systems is an innovative technique that allows the visualization of anastomotic perfusion. Based on this information on tissue perfusion status, surgeons will be able to clearly identify colorectal segments with good blood flow for safer colorectal anastomosis. The results of several clinical trials indicate that ICG-FA may reduce the risk of AL in colorectal resection; however, the level of evidence is not high, as several other studies have failed to demonstrate a reduction in the risk of AL. Several large-scale RCTs are currently underway, and their results will determine whether ICG-FA is, indeed, useful. The major limitation of the current ICG-FA evaluation method, however, is that it is subjective and based on visual assessment by the surgeon. To complement this, the utility of objective evaluation methods for fluorescence using quantitative parameters is being investigated. Promising results have been reported from several clinical trials, but all trials are preliminary owing to their small sample size and lack of standardized protocols for quantitative evaluation. Therefore, appropriately standardized, high-quality, large-scale studies are warranted.

Comparison of adenoma detection in different colorectal segments between deep-sedated and unsedated colonoscopy

To investigate if deep-sedated colonoscopy affects adenoma detection in certain colorectal segment. Review of colonoscopy reports, electronic images and medical records of individuals underwent screening colonoscopy with or without propofol sedation between October 2020 and March 2021 from seven hospitals in China. A total of 4500 individuals were analyzed. There was no significant difference in ADR between deep-sedated colonoscopy and unsedated colonoscopy [45.4% vs. 46.3%, P > 0.05]. The APP of deep-sedated colonoscopy was lower than unsedated colonoscopy (1.76 ± 0.81 vs. 2.00 ± 1.30, P < 0.05). Both average number of adenomas and luminal distention score of splenic flexure and descending colon were lower in deep-sedated colonoscopy (P < 0.05), and average number of adenomas was positively correlated with an improved distension score in splenic flexure and descending colon (splenic flexure r = 0.031, P < 0.05; descending colon r = 0.312, P < 0.05). Linear regression model showed deep-sedated colonoscopy significantly affected luminal distention of splenic flexure and descending colon as well as average number of adenomas detected in splenic flexure (P < 0.05). Deep-sedated colonoscopy decreased adenoma detection in splenic flexure and the luminal distention of splenic flexure and descending colon compared with unsedated colonoscopy.

Crypts in Asymmetric Branching in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis in Remission

Background/Aim: To report the frequency of crypts in asymmetric branching (CAB) in biopsies from all colorectal segments in patients with ulcerative colitis in remission (UCR). Patients and Methods: Biopsies in 100 UC patients were investigated: 50 with UCR and 50 with ongoing long-lasting UC (LLU; i.e., controls). Results: The frequency of CAB was significantly lower in UCR than in LLUC, both in the right colon and left colorectum. CAB frequency was not influenced by two important confounders: the age and sex of patients. Conclusion: CAB is a pathologic aberration of colorectal cryptogenesis evoked by chronic mucosal inflammation. When chronic inflammation waned in UCR, the production of CAB plummeted or ceased. Chronic inflammation and protracted disease-duration in LLUC increase the risk for colorectal dysplasia or carcinoma. Importantly, dysplastic CAB were recently detected in LLUC-associated dysplasia. Whether the abrogation of CAB is instrumental in reducing the neoplastic risk in UCR patients, deserves further investigation.

Nonpolypous Hamartomas of the Gastrointestinal Tract: An Updated Review on Classification, Denominations, and Clinical Management.

Purpose To perform the first systematic report about histological subtypes of nonpolypous hamartomas of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from esophagus to anal canal. Design From over 19,000 studies about hamartomas, most of them published as case series or case presentations, we have selected the most representative ones for the GI tract, excluding polyposis syndromes. To have a whole picture of these hamartomas, all of the data were combined with the personal experience of the authors who are GI pathologists. Results The examined articles showed predominance of vascular and combined vascular and mesenchymal hamartomas. Arteriovenous hamartomas or Brunner gland hamartomas are mainly diagnosed in the small intestine, with preponderance for duodenum. Other malformations such cavernous hamartomas are more specific for the colorectal segments, whereas chondromatous hamartomas or those derived from the neural ectoderm were mostly reported in the esophagus. As newly recognized entities were admitted in the last years, misdiagnosis is frequent, and the best therapeutic approach is far to be known. Conclusion Even rare, hamartomas of the GI tract need to be differentiated from tumors and familial polyposis syndromes. Knowing their proper denominations and possible complications is valuable for gastroenterologists, pathologists, and surgeons, to be aware in the differential diagnosis.

Infliximab Increases the Tissue Contents of Type-I and Type-III Collagen in Colorectal Segments Without Fecal Stream After Hartmann’s Procedure

Infliximab Increases the Tissue Contents of Type-I and Type-III Collagen in Colorectal Segments Without Fecal Stream After Hartmann’s Procedure

New scoring systems for predicting advanced proximal neoplasia in asymptomatic adults with or without knowing distal colorectal findings: a prospective, cross-sectional study.

Models estimating risk for advanced proximal colorectal neoplasia (APN) may be used to select colorectal cancer (CRC) screening test, either prior to knowing distal colorectal findings or afterward. Current models have only fair discrimination and nearly all require knowing distal findings. Derive and test risk prediction models for APN with and without distal findings. Selected endoscopy centers within central Indiana, USA. Average-risk persons undergoing first-time screening colonoscopy. Demographics, personal and family medical history, lifestyle factors and physical measures were linked to the most advanced finding in proximal and distal colorectal segments. For both models, logistic regression identified factors independently associated with APN on a derivation set. Based on equation coefficients, points were assigned to each factor, and risk for APN was examined for each score. Scores with comparable risks were collapsed into risk categories. Both models and their scoring systems were tested on the validation set. APN, defined as any adenoma or sessile serrated lesion ≥1 cm, one with villous histology or high-grade dysplasia, or CRC proximal to the descending colon. Among 3025 subjects in the derivation set (mean age 57.3 ± 6.5 years; 52% women), APN prevalence was 4.5%; 2859 (94.5%) had complete data on risk factors. Independently associated with APN were age, sex, cigarette smoking, cohabitation status, metabolic syndrome, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use and physical activity. This model (without distal findings) was well-calibrated (P = 0.62) and had good discrimination (c-statistic = 0.73). In low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups that comprised 21, 58 and 21% of the sample, respectively, APN risks were 1.47% (95% CI, 0.67-2.77%), 3.09% (CI, 2.31-4.04%) and 11.6% (CI, 9.10-14.4%), respectively (P < 0.0001), with no proximal CRCs in the low-risk group and 2 in the intermediate-risk group. When tested in the validation set of 1455, the model retained good metrics (calibration P = 0.85; c-statistic = 0.83), with APN risks in low- (22%), intermediate- (56%) and high-risk (22%) subgroups of 0.62% (CI, 0.08-2.23%) 2.20% (CI, 1.31-3.46%) and 13.0% (CI, 9.50-17.2%), respectively (P < 0.0001). There were no proximal CRCs in the low-risk group, and two in the intermediate-risk group. The model with distal findings performed comparably, with validation set metrics of 0.18 for calibration, 0.76 for discrimination and APN risk (% sample) in low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups of 1.1 (69%), 8.3 (22%) and 22.3% (9%). These models stratify large proportions of average-risk persons into clinically meaningful risk groups, and could improve screening efficiency, particularly for noncolonoscopy-based programs.

Clinical effect and standardization of indocyanine green angiography in the laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Anastomotic complications occur after 5% to 20% of operations for rectosigmoid colon cancer. The intestinal perfusion status at the anastomotic site is an important modifiable risk factor, and surgeons should carefully evaluate and optimize the perfusion at the intended site of anastomosis. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography is a simple noninvasive perfusion assessment modality. The use of ICG angiography is rapidly spreading in the field of colorectal surgery. However, there is debate on its contribution to reducing anastomotic complications. In this review, we discuss the clinical utility and the standardization of ICG angiography. ICG angiography can unequivocally reveal unfavorable perfusion zones and provide quantitative parameters to predict the risk of hypoperfusion-related anastomotic complications. Many studies have demonstrated the clinical utility of ICG angiography for reducing anastomotic complications. Recently, two multicenter randomized clinical trials reported that ICG angiography did not significantly reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Most previous studies have been small-scale single-center studies, and there is no standardized ICG angiography protocol to date. Additionally, ICG angiography evaluations have mostly relied on surgeons’ subjective judgment. For these reasons, it is necessary to establish a standardized ICG angiography protocol and develop a quantitative analysis protocol for the objective assessment. In conclusion, ICG angiography could be useful for detecting poorly perfused colorectal segments to prevent anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery. An optimized and standardized ICG angiography protocol should be established to improve the reliability of perfusion assessments. In the future, artificial intelligence-based quantitative analyses could be used to easily assess colonic perfusion status.

Intrapelvic Intestinal Leiomyoma in a Dog - Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges

Background: Rectal tumors are uncommon in dogs and cats. The clinical signs result from intra- and extraluminal compression. Diagnosis and treatment of rectal tumors are challenging due to their intraplevic location. Owing to considerable bone superposition, computed tomography is the best exam to evaluate the tumor and plan surgery; however, poor availability and high costs may hinder its use. The objective of this case report is to describe the successful use of a combination of diagnostic techniques, namely transrectal ultrasound, transrectal fine-needle aspiration, and colonoscopy, for diagnosis and surgery planning in a case of intrapelvic intestinal leiomyoma in a dog.Case: A 13-year-old female mongrel dog with tenesmus, low stool production, and hematochezia for two months was presented for examination. During this two-month period, a symptomatic treatment was administered, but there was no clinical improvement. In the clinical evaluation revealed a painless mass on the left dorsolateral region, at a depth of around 4 cm, with considerable luminal reduction. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a mass close to the descending colon; however, bone superposition precluded identification of its origin or delimitation of its boundaries. The patient was subjected to transrectal ultrasound imaging, colonoscopy, and cytological examination of fine-needle aspiration biopsy material collected under general anesthesia. The mass was located at the final portion of the descending colon; it was extraluminal, and measured around 7 x 7 cm. The integrity of the intestinal wall was preserved. Next, radiographic examination of the thorax using three projections (ventrodorsal, left lateral, and right lateral) was performed to check for metastases, and no alteration was detected. Cytology suggested presence of leiomyoma. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy with pubic osteotomy for intrapelvic access. The extraluminal mass was found adhered to the dorsal colorectal surface, whose serosa was compromised. The mass, which occupied around 80 to 90% of the pelvic canal, was completely removed and submitted to histopathological examination, which confirmed presence of proliferative neoplastic mesenchymal cells (intestinal leiomyoma). The patient's clinical picture evolved without intercurrences, and the patient was discharged 40 days after the pubic bone consolidation procedure.Discussion: The occurrence of leiomyomas in the colorectal segment of the intestine is rare in dogs. Neoplasms that develop in such a region of the intestine are usually more frequently found in elderly animals, such as the patient of this report. Leiomyomas are benign (non-invasive) neoplasms with slow growth. Consequently, clinical signs emerge when the mass exhibits a large size, which causes intra- or extraluminal compression, tenesmus, diminished production or absence of defecation, and hematochezia, as observed in the present case. Even though the clinical signs are similar in these cases, they are unspecific; consequently, for reaching a diagnosis, biopsy and histological investigation are required. In spite of the usefulness of these procedures for diagnosis, computed tomography is the exam of choice to investigate neoplasms in intrapelvic intestinal segments because it allows three-dimensional reconstruction of the affected structures and facilitates surgical planning. Unfortunately, computed tomography was not available for this case. Consequently, colonoscopy, transrectal ultrasound, and transrectal fine-needle aspiration biopsy were performed. When combined, these procedures allowed determination of the location, size and type of neoplasm, which were crucial pieces of information for the correct diagnosis and surgical planning, thus contributing for the successful management of the patient.

EXPRESSÃO DE E-CADERINA E CLAUDINA-3 NO EPITÉLIO CÓLICO APÓS TERAPIA COM INFLIXIMABE: MODELO EXPERIMENTAL DE COLITE DE EXCLUSÃO

ABSTRACT - BACKGROUND:The etiopathogenesis of disuse colitis (DC) has not yet been fully elucidated. The main theories consider that the disease may be related to an increase in anaerobic bacteria, the lack of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) supply, and immunological disorders that develop in the colorectal segments devoid of fecal transit.AIM: The aim of this study was to verify whether the application of infliximab modifies the tissue content of E-cadherin and claudin-3 proteins in colonic epithelium of rats devoid of intestinal transit.METHODS: A total of 22 rats underwent intestinal transit bypass using Hartmann’s procedure. They remained with the shunt for 12 weeks to allow the development of DC. Later, they were divided into three experimental groups: six animals received 2.0 mL saline solution/week, eight received infliximab at a dose of 5 mg/kg/week, and eight received infliximab at a dose of 10 mg/kg/week for 5 consecutive weeks. At the end of this period, the animals were euthanized, and the colonic segments with and without intestinal transit were removed. DC was diagnosed based on the histological changes defined by a previously validated scale. The tissue expression of E-cadherin and claudin-3 was assessed by immunohistochemistry, and the tissue content of both proteins was quantified by computer-aided image analysis.RESULTS: The colonic segments excluded from fecal transit showed a higher degree of inflammation than those exposed to fecal transit. The degree of inflammation was lower in animals treated with infliximab, regardless of the dose used. The levels of E-cadherin and claudin-3 were reduced in the excluded colon. Treating animals with infliximab increased the levels of both proteins in the colonic segments without intestinal transit, especially in animals receiving a dose of 10 mg/kg/week.CONCLUSION: Infliximab therapy reduces inflammation in the colonic segments excluded from intestinal transit and increases the tissue content of E-cadherin and claudin-3 proteins, especially when used at a concentration of 10 mg/kg/week.

Endoscopic Recognition and Management Strategies for Malignant Colorectal Polyps: Recommendations of the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer.

Endoscopic Recognition and Management Strategies for Malignant Colorectal Polyps: Recommendations of the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer.

Evaluation of Low-Dose Multidetector Computed Tomography Whole Gastroenterography With Oral Administration of Contrast Agents.

To evaluate the degree of gastric, enteric, colonic, and rectal filling in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) whole gastroenterography. In this prospective study involving 124 patients, 78 and 46 patients underwent MDCT whole gastroenterography using positive and neutral oral contrast agents, respectively. The degree of filling of the stomach, small and large bowel, was qualitatively analyzed by experienced radiologists using a 3-point scoring system. The majority of patients received a score of ≥2 for small intestine filling using both positive and neutral contrast agents (90.5% and 78.2%, respectively), and <9% of the patients had a score of 0. The highest score for the degree of filling in the small intestine was observed in the ileum, followed by the duodenum and jejunum. There was a significant difference in the degree of filling achieved with positive and neutral contrast agents in the duodenum (P = .013) and jejunum (P = .047). More than 74% of cases had an optimal filling of the stomach, whereas >80% of the cases had an optimal filling of the colorectal segments. Only ≤5.1% had a score of 0 for the analyzed segments of the colorectum. Positive and neutral contrast agents were associated with similar degree of filling in the stomach and colon segments without a significant difference in the extent of contrast agent filling (P > .05). Multidetector computed tomography whole gastroenterography was found to be a simple, safe, noninvasive, painless, and effective modality for the diagnosis of stomach and bowel complications in clinical settings.

Complete Resolution of Mucosal Neutrophils Associates With Improved Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Ulcerative Colitis

We investigated correlations between histologic features of the colonic mucosa in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and clinical outcomes during a 3-year follow-up period. We obtained baseline biopsies from all colorectal segments (n = 889) from 281 patients with UC enrolled in a prospective study at a single center from 2009 through 2013. Biopsies were assessed in a blinded manner using validated histologic scoring systems (the Geboes score, Nancy histopathologic index, and Robarts histopathologic index). Clinical, endoscopic, and histologic data were collected and tested for correlations with systemic corticosteroid use, hospitalization, and colectomy within 3 years of the index colonoscopy. We found histologic evidence of UC activity (Geboes score ≥ 2B.1) in biopsies from 182 patients (65%) and endoscopic evidence of UC activity in 149 patients (53%) (substantial agreement, κ= 0.60). Histologic features of UC activity were associated with increased rates of systemic corticosteroid use, colectomy, and hospitalization in the entire cohort (P < .05 for all) and associated with increased rates of systemic corticosteroid use in an analysis limited to patients in endoscopic remission (P < .001). In patients in endoscopic remission, only histologic activity was independently associated with use of systemic corticosteroids (multivariate odds ratio, 6.34; 95% CI, 2.20-18.28; P = .001). Similar results were seen when the entire cohort was analyzed. Compared with patients without histologic evidence of UC activity, patients with only a small number of mucosal neutrophils still had higher rates of systemic corticosteroid use (P < .001). Histologic evidence of UC activity, including small numbers of neutrophils in the colonic mucosa, is the only factor independently associated with use of systemic corticosteroids. Complete resolution of neutrophil-associated inflammation should be a target for treatment of UC.