Occult Blood Test Research Articles

Gastrointestinal pathology in patients presenting with iron deficiency anaemia: A single-centre cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: About a third of the world’s population is estimated to suffer from anaemia, and iron deficiency is expected to account for about half of all anaemia cases. This study was designed to get an estimate of the proportion of patients with iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) who have a significant gastrointestinal (GI) pathology, in particular a GI malignancy, and to identify any risk factors or predictors for the same. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a hospital in Eastern India. The study population comprised males above the age of 18 and postmenopausal females with IDA, excluding those haemodynamically unstable or with chronic diseases. Data collection included a detailed history, sociodemographic details, dietary habits, GI symptoms, and severity of anaemia. Faecal occult blood tests (OBTs) were conducted, and patients were referred for upper and lower GI endoscopy with biopsies. Results: Out of the 257 patients, 50.97% (n = 131) had a significant GI pathology, and 25.68% (n = 66) had a GI malignancy. Male gender (AOR: 5.203, 95% CI: 1.725–15.698) and a positive stool OBT (AOR: 6.516, 95% CI: 2.255–18.828) were found to be independent risk factors for any GI pathology. Age 40 years or above (AOR: 11.376, 95% CI: 1.199–107.946), loss of appetite (AOR: 15.548, 95% CI: 1.416–170.735), pain abdomen (AOR: 5.566, 95% CI: 1.149–26.953), dysphagia (AOR: 7.945, 95% CI: 1.036–60.915), family history of malignancy (AOR: 46.726, 95% CI: 4.076–535.645), and positive OBT (AOR: 22.430, 95% CI: 3.933–127.915) were found to be independent risk factors of GI malignancy. Conclusions: This study shows that a large proportion of adult males and postmenopausal females presenting with IDA in India have significant GI pathology. Furthermore, a significant proportion of them have GI malignancies. Thus, bidirectional endoscopy should be considered for these patients. Male patients, age >40, those with history of loss of appetite or weight, pain abdomen or dysphagia, positive family history, and positive OBT should be prioritised for the investigation.

Screening Adherence for Second Primary Malignancies in Breast Cancer Survivors: Behaviors, Facilitators, and Barriers to Enhance Quality Care

Due to genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, alongside increased life expectancy, breast cancer (BC) survivors have an increased risk of developing a second primary malignancy. Therefore, regular screening for other types of cancer is of utmost importance for their comprehensive care. This cross-sectional study evaluated BC survivors’ compliance with cervical, lung, and colorectal cancer screening, and identified facilitators and barriers influencing adherence. Fifty-two BC survivors answered the study's survey. A total of three (6%) cases of second primary malignancies were self-reported. Cervical cancer screening was performed within the past 3 years among 37/50 (74%) eligible participants. Only 7/24 (29%) eligible participants underwent colorectal cancer screening within the last 10 years, including six colonoscopies and 1 occult blood test. No participant had an indication for lung cancer screening. The primary reason for noncompliance with both cervical and colorectal cancer screening was lack of physician's recommendation, accounting for 79% and 88% of cases, respectively. Nearly all participants (98%) affirmed that BC survivors should undergo screening for other types of cancer. Most (96%) stated that, if recommended by a physician, they would agree to undergo screening for other neoplasms. Even though most BC survivors acknowledged its importance, screening particularly for colorectal cancer exhibited suboptimal rates. Oncologists could play a crucial role in increasing cancer screening uptake by reminding patients of their corresponding recommendations to detect other types of cancer.

Abstract PO4-12-02: Screening adherence for second primary malignancies in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study assessing behaviors, facilitators, and barriers to enhance quality care

Abstract Background: Continuous advancements in medical care have significantly increased the life expectancy of breast cancer (BC) patients. Due to this increased lifespan, combined with genetic, hormonal and environmental factors, BC patients have an increased risk of developing a 2nd primary malignancy. Therefore, regular screening for other types of cancer is of utmost importance for comprehensive care of BC survivors (BCS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of compliance with screening for cervical, lung, and colorectal cancer among BCS. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the facilitators and barriers influencing cancer screening (CS) adherence. Methods: An online survey for BCS was developed to assess sociodemographic data, risk perception of developing a 2nd primary malignancy, attitudes towards CS, and compliance with CS. It was distributed through the social media of Mexican oncology-related NGOs. Results: In total, 52 BCS (median age: 44 years, range: 28-67 years) answered the survey. Most were diagnosed with stage III (38%) or II (29%) BC. The majority had completed at least high-school education (90%), had public health insurance (60%) or no insurance (25%), and reported a monthly income < 500 USD (52%). A total of 3 (6%) cases of 2nd primary malignancies were reported, including 2 cases of contralateral BC and 1 cervical carcinoma. Among 50 participants with an indication for cervical CS, 37 (74%) had a pap smear within the past 3 years. Only 7/24 (29%) eligible participants underwent colorectal CS within the last 10 years. Screening modalities included 6 colonoscopies and 1 occult blood test. The primary reason for non-compliance in both cervical and colorectal CS was the absence of a physician's recommendation, accounting for 79% and 88% of the cases, respectively. None of the participants had an indication for lung CS, thus no low-dose computed tomographies were performed for this purpose. Participants demonstrated a mean knowledge score of 72/100 (SD=19) regarding CS. Most respondents mentioned that, compared to the general population, they considered themselves to be at no/very low/low risk of developing cervical (75%), colon (73%), or lung cancer (75%). In terms of attitudes towards CS, an overwhelming majority of participants (98%) affirmed that BCS should undergo screening for other types of cancer. Most stated that, if recommended by a physician, they would agree/strongly agree (96%) to undergo screening for other neoplasms. Nearly all agreed/strongly agreed (98%) that being screened for other types of cancer would be beneficial for their own health; and agreed/strongly agreed (98%) that CS is the most effective way to approach other types of cancer. Additionally, most agreed/strongly agreed (96%) their CS would benefit their family members. On univariate analysis, no sociodemographic or clinical factors were associated with CS adherence. However, it is important to note that the study may have been underpowered to detect significant associations due to the limited sample size. Conclusion: In conclusion, even though most BCS acknowledge its importance, screening for 2nd primary malignancies in this group exhibits suboptimal rates. This study highlights the potential role that BC oncologists could play on increasing CS uptake by reminding patients of their corresponding recommendations to detect other types of cancer. Further research is crucial to enhance our understanding of the key factors influencing these outcomes and to contribute to the development of targeted strategies aimed at enhancing CS adherence. Citation Format: Fernanda Mesa-Chavez, Misael Salazar-Alejo, Cynthia Villarreal-Garza. Screening adherence for second primary malignancies in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study assessing behaviors, facilitators, and barriers to enhance quality care [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-12-02.

The Burden of Protozoal and Helminth Intestinal Infections and Related Risk Factors Among the Households of Migrant Construction Workers in Bhopal.

There are a few existing gaps and paucity of literature from Southeast Asia on the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among migrant construction workers. The present cross-sectional study was conducted to address this gap among migrant construction workers and their households in Bhopal. The study design included an interview questionnaire survey prior to the enrollment of participants and stool sample collection. The stool samples were processed according to the study protocol of macroscopy, occult blood testing, microscopy techniques combined with modified acid-fast, and sedimentation techniques. Participants were deemed positive if they exhibited microscopic findings in one out of three stool samples per recruit.We recommended clinical consultation for these cases and provided a report. Direct therapeutic intervention was not part of the study. The total recruits were 361. The predominant age group was young, i.e., aged 21 to 30 years(122/361, 33.8%), with the majority of females (55.2%). Most workers were occupied with work of digging soil (47.4%). The majority of participants (93.1%) practiced open field defecation (OFD). The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among migrant workers and households was 36.9% (133/361). Monoinfection was 88.7%, with 41% fromEntamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar.MonoinfectionwithHymenolepis nana (10.2%)was apredominant helminth. The most commoncoinfection observed was ofGiardia intestinalis with Ancylostoma duodenale (26.7%). Hand washing was the only independent predictor with an odds ratio of 3.6. Migrant behavior of the construction workers and their households was the major reason for not reaching the benefits of deworming schemes for childrenand vulnerability to intestinal parasitic infections.

IRF4 induces M1 macrophage polarization and aggravates ulcerative colitis progression by the Bcl6-dependent STAT3 pathway.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic chronic intestinal inflammation. An increasing body of evidence shows that macrophages play an important role in the pathogenesis of UC. Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is crucial for the development of autoimmune diseases via regulating immune cells. This research was designed to explore the function of IRF4 in UC and its association with macrophage polarization. The in vitro model of UC was established by stimulating colonic epithelial cells with tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). A mouse model of UC was constructed by injecting C57BL/6 mice with dextran sulfate sodium salt. Flow cytometry was used to assess percentage of CD11b+ CD86+ and CD11b+ CD206+ cells in bone marrow macrophages. Occult blood tests were used to detect hematochezia. Hematoxylin and eosin staining assay was used to assess colon pathological changes. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect concentrations of inflammatory cytokines. The interaction of IRF4 and B-cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl6) was confirmed using GST pull-down and coimmunoprecipitation assays. Our findings revealed that IRF4 promoted cell apoptosis and stimulated M1 macrophage polarization in vitro. Furthermore, IRF4 aggravated symptoms of the mouse model of UC and aggravated M1 macrophage polarization in vivo. IRF4 negatively regulated Bcl6 expression. Downregulation of Bcl6 promoted apoptosis and M1 macrophage polarization in the presence of IRF4 in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, Bcl6 positively mediated the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. In conclusion, IRF4 aggravated UC progression through promoting M1 macrophage polarization via Bcl6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway. These findings suggested that IRF4 might be a good target to competitively inhibit or to treat with UC.

Latin America and the Caribbean Code Against Cancer 1st Edition: Medical interventions including hormone replacement therapy and cancer screening

Prostate, breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers are the leading cause of cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) accounting for nearly 50% of cancer cases and cancer deaths in the region. Following the IARC Code Against Cancer methodology, a group of Latin American experts evaluated the evidence on several medical interventions to reduce cancer incidence and mortality considering the cancer burden in the region. A recommendation to limit the use of HRT was issued based on the risk associated to develop breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer and on growing concerns related to the over-the-counter and without prescription sales, which in turn bias estimations on current use in LAC. In alignment with WHO breast and cervical cancer initiatives, biennial screening by clinical breast examination (performed by trained health professionals) from the age of 40 years and biennial screening by mammography from the age of 50 years to 74, as well as cervical screening by HPV testing (either self-sampling or provider-sampling) every 5–10 years for women aged 30–64 years, were recommended. The steadily increasing rates of colorectal cancer in LAC also led to recommend colorectal screening by occult blood testing every two years or by endoscopic examination of the colorectum every 10 years for both men and women aged 50–74 years. After evaluating the evidence, the experts decided not to issue recommendations for prostate and lung cancer screening; while there was insufficient evidence on prostate cancer mortality reduction by prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, there was evidence of mortality reduction by low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) targeting high-risk individuals (mainly heavy and/or long-term smokers) but not individuals with average risk to whom recommendations of this Code are directed. Finally, the group of experts adapted the gathered evidence to develop a competency-based online microlearning program for building cancer prevention capacity of primary care health professionals.

Autoimmune pancreatitis associated with inflammatory bowel diseases: A retrospectively bidirectional case-control study in China.

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare and enigmatic immune-mediated inflammatory disease. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and associated factors of AIP-inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China. A retrospective bidirectional case-control study was performed. The diagnoses of IBD and AIP were made based on the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization guidelines and the International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria. IBD controls were matched by age, sex, and IBD type at a ratio of 1:4, while AIP controls were matched by AIP types. The age-standardized prevalence of AIP-IBD patients in the IBD and AIP population were 292.0 and 8151.93 per 100 000 population, respectively. IBD patients had a higher risk of AIP compared to non-IBD patients (odds ratio 8.4, 95% confidence interval 4.7-14.9, P < 0.0001), and AIP patients had a higher risk of developing IBD compared to the general population in China. The mean age at diagnosis of IBD and AIP was 34.83 years and 40.42 years. IBD was diagnosed before AIP in seven cases. The median total IBD and AIP duration was 43.5 months and 13.5 months. Use of mesalamine and tuberculosis were associated with AIP in IBD patients (P = 0.031). And fecal occult blood test was associated with IBD in AIP patients (P = 0.008). Most AIP-IBD patients had ulcerative colitis and type 2 AIP. IBD patients are more likely to develop AIP compared to the general population, and vice versa. Use of mesalamine and tuberculosis infection were associated with AIP, and fecal occult blood test was associated with IBD.

Optimization of screening strategies for colorectal cancer based on fecal DNA and occult blood testing.

Fecal DNA and occult blood testing have been gradually developed for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Comparison of different testing strategies for these methods in CRC screening is in urgent need. This study aims to examine the efficacy of different testing strategies including multi-target fecal DNA testing, qualitative and quantitative fecal immunoassay tests (FITs). Fecal samples were collected from patients diagnosed by colonoscopy. Tests using fecal DNA, quantitative FIT or qualitative FIT were performed on same fecal samples. Efficiency of different testing strategies within different populations was investigated. For high-risk populations (CRC and advanced adenoma), the positive rate of the three methods alone was 74.3-80%; the positive predictive values (PPVs) ranged from 37.3% to 77.8%, and the negative predictive values (NPVs) ranged from 86.3% to 92.2%. For combined testing strategies, the positive rate was 71.4-88.6%, PPVs ranged from 38.3% to 86.2%, and NPVs ranged from 89.6% to 92.9%. Parallel fecal multi-target DNA test and quantitative FIT appears to be superior when using a combined testing strategy. For the normal population, no significant difference was identified in efficacy between these methods when used alone and in combination. Single testing strategy among the three methods is more suitable for the general population screening, and the combined testing strategy is more suitable for high-risk populations screening. The use of different combination strategies may have superiority in CRC high-risk population screening, but cannot conclude significant differences which may be attributed to the small sample size, large samples controlled trials are needed.

Сolorectal cancer screening: how the problem is solved in Russia and the world

Colorectal cancer is an urgent health problem in Russia and other countries. The aim is to present up-to-date data on CRC screening programs. A review of current recommendations has shown the effectiveness of screening programs using occult blood tests and fibrocolonoscopy in reducing morbidity and mortality from colorectal cancer. The implementation of screening programs in Russia is presented as part of the development of preventive medicine in general.

SWIFT DIAGNOSIS OF COLORECTAL CANCER AND MITIGATION BY PHYTOMOLECLES: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Colorectal cancer is one of the dreadful diseases of the present century. For detail investigation and exploration of its pathogenesis usage of animal model was essential. Here we demonstrated induction of colorectal cancer in balb/c mice using by azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate combination. Mice were randomised into different treatment groups. Mice of group III and Group IV were given extract of Cynodon dactylon and Aloe barbadensis respectively. Screening parameters were chosen as occult blood test, Faecal smear and impression cytology of colonic mucosa. Results revealed anti cancer activity in both the phytomolecules used in this study.

An observational study of workflows to support fecal testing for colorectal cancer screening in primary care practices serving Medicaid enrollees

BackgroundScreening supports early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Provision of fecal immunochemical tests/fecal occult blood tests (FIT/FOBT) in primary care can increase CRC screening, particularly in populations experiencing health disparities. This study was conducted to describe clinical workflows for FIT/FOBT in Oregon primary care practices and to identify specific workflow processes that might be associated (alone or in combination) with higher (versus lower) CRC screening rates.MethodsPrimary care practices were rank ordered by CRC screening rates in Oregon Medicaid enrollees who turned age 50 years from January 2013 to June 2014 (i.e., newly age-eligible). Practices were recruited via purposive sampling based on organizational characteristics and CRC screening rates. Data collected were from surveys, observation visits, and informal interviews, and used to create practice-level CRC screening workflow reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, qualitative data analysis using an immersion-crystallization process, and a matrix analysis approach.ResultsAll participating primary care practices (N=9) used visit-based workflows, and four higher performing and two lower performing used population outreach workflows to deliver FIT/FOBTs. However, higher performing practices (n=5) had more established workflows and staff to support activities. Visit-based strategies in higher performing practices included having dedicated staff identify patients due for CRC screening and training medical assistants to review FIT/FOBT instructions with patients. Population outreach strategies included having clinic staff generate lists and check them for accuracy prior to direct mailing of kits to patients. For both workflow types, higher performing clinics routinely utilized systems for patient reminders and follow-up after FIT/FOBT distribution.ConclusionsPrimary care practices with higher CRC screening rates among newly age-eligible Medicaid enrollees had more established visit-based and population outreach workflows to support identifying patients due for screening, FIT/FOBT distribution, reminders, and follow up. Key to practices with higher CRC screening was having medical assistants discuss and review FIT/FOBT screening and instructions with patients. Findings present important workflow processes for primary care practices and may facilitate the implementation of evidence-based interventions into real-world, clinical settings.

Polymeric microsphere enhanced surface plasmon resonance imaging immunosensor for occult blood monitoring

Occult blood testing is a routine screening method for evaluating the function of the urinary system and digestive tract. The hemoglobin (Hb) content in human excreta is an important indicator of the presence of occult blood. In this study, a surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi)-based immunosensor with high sensitivity was developed for the detection of Hb. The immunosensor was constructed by physically immobilizing anti-Hb antibodies on the detection channels. Samples for evaluation were pre-incubated with the polymeric microsphere-antibody conjugate. The shift in resonance wavelength induced by the specific binding of microsphere-antibody-antigen and immobilized antibodies was monitored in real time. Owing to the amplification effect of microspheres, the detection limit of the immunosensor was reduced 42-fold to 4.8 ng/mL under the optimized concentration of immobilized antibody (10 μg/mL) with microsphere-antibody conjugate dilution ratio of 1:200 and incubation time of the microsphere-antibody conjugate and samples (10 min). The immunosensor displayed a good linear response to Hb ranging from 10 ng/mL to 500 ng/mL in both test solutions and in 1:30 urine sample, as well as a good specificity toward Hb and an acceptable recovery rate for spiked Hb solution in urine sample. The immunosensor was also exploited to detect the Hb concentration in 50 clinical urine samples. Therefore, the proposed SPRi immunosensor developed in this study provides a simple, rapid, high-throughput, and sensitive immunology strategy for the detection of occult blood.

Disruptions in cancer screening and diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

315 Background: The pandemic resulted in reductions in cancer screenings, potentially compromising the ability to detect cancers early. We add new data to this growing research, and report screening and cancer diagnosis (Dxs) rates for four cancer types: breast (BC), cervical (CC), colorectal (CRC), and lung (LC). To learn whether home-based cancer screening options for colorectal cancer exhibited similar patterns, we examined screening rates for fecal occult blood (FOBT), fecal immunochemical (FIT), and Cologuard (CG) tests. Methods: We conducted retrospective analyses using de-identified medical claims data (2018-2020) from a national US health insurer. To assess screening rates, no indication of cancer Dxs prior to screening event were included. BC screenings (BCS), LC screenings (LCS), and CRC screenings (CRCS) were identified from CPT and HCPCS codes for digital mammography, low dose CT-scans (LDCT), colonoscopies, and home-based CRC tests. CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 codes defined CC screenings (CCS). Cancer Dxs were defined if individuals had ≥1 claim with an ICD-10 cancer code and no prior cancer dx within 24 months of continuous eligibility. Advanced cancer Dxs (ADxs) were defined if a malignancy code on a claim with a date of service (DOS) within 60 days of diagnosis DOS was present. Screening and Dxs changes were compared circa mid-March (5 weeks prior and 5 weeks after). Adjustments were made for changes in enrollment. Results: The table summarizes screening changes. Dxs decreased circa shutdown in LC, BC, CS, and CRC by -40%, -61%, -55%, -55%, respectively. Compared to 2019, DXs decreased in LC, BC, CS, and CRC -19%, -16%, -6%, -18%, respectively. Compared to 2019, ADxs in LC, BC, and CRC were -14%, -9%, -8%, respectively. CS exhibited an increase in ADxs by 2%. Conclusions: The pandemic impacted cancer care for multiple cancer types. Dxs and ADxs decreased during the pandemic except advanced CS. While cancer screenings increased after the shutdown, only LCS and Cologuard returned to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2020, though these had low utilization even in the periods prior to the pandemic. Limitations include that administrative programs supporting home-based tests (e.g. FIT and FOBT) may not generate claims, and procedures received may have been incorrectly coded. Future studies will assess the clinical impact of missed care and whether certain groups were disproportionately impacted.[Table: see text]

Temporal trends and regional disparities in cancer screening utilization: an observational Swiss claims-based study

BackgroundWe examined colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer screening utilization in eligible populations within three data cross-sections, and identified factors potentially modifying cancer screening utilization in Swiss adults.MethodsThe study is based on health insurance claims data of the Helsana Group. The Helsana Group is one of the largest health insurers in Switzerland, insuring approximately 15% of the entire Swiss population across all regions and age groups. We assessed proportions of the eligible populations receiving colonoscopy/fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), mammography, or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing in the years 2014, 2016, and 2018, and calculated average marginal effects of individual, temporal, regional, insurance-, supply-, and system-related variables on testing utilization using logistic regression.ResultsOverall, 8.3% of the eligible population received colonoscopy/FOBT in 2014, 8.9% in 2016, and 9.2% in 2018. In these years, 20.9, 21.2, and 20.4% of the eligible female population received mammography, and 30.5, 31.1, and 31.8% of the eligible male population had PSA testing. Adjusted testing utilization varied little between 2014 and 2018; there was an increasing trend of 0.8% (0.6–1.0%) for colonoscopy/FOBT and of 0.5% (0.2–0.8%) for PSA testing, while mammography use decreased by 1.5% (1.2–1.7%). Generally, testing utilization was higher in French-speaking and Italian-speaking compared to German-speaking region for all screening types. Cantonal programs for breast cancer screening were associated with an increase of 7.1% in mammography utilization. In contrast, a high density of relevant specialist physicians showed null or even negative associations with screening utilization.ConclusionsVariation in cancer screening utilization was modest over time, but considerable between regions. Regional variation was highest for mammography use where recommendations are debated most controversially, and the implementation of programs differed the most.

Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Lesions in Patients with Unexplained Iron Deficiency Anaemia- A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Anaemia, due to iron deficiency, is very common in India. In many cases, the underlying cause of iron deficiency remains unknown even after detailed laboratory investigations. It is often due to malabsorption of iron from the gut and occult blood loss from the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Bidirectional GI endoscopy can help in finding these causes. Aim: To study the upper and lower GI endoscopic lesions in patients with unexplained Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA). Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study, conducted on 75 patients with unexplained IDA in Dr. DY Patil Medical College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India, between June 2019 to June 2020. Patients above the age of 18 years and with Haemoglobin (Hb) of less than 13 g/dL (males) and less than 12 g/dL (females) underwent upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy with biopsies, after ethics committee approval and informed consent. Complete haemogram with blood indices, iron studies and faecal Occult Blood Test (OBT) were conducted for all the patients. The patients were divided into Group A, those with upper/lower GI endoscopy lesions thought to be responsible for IDA and Group B, those without GI endoscopic lesions. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21.0 and statistical tests (Chi-square test, Student’s t-test and multivariate logistic regression analysis, with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and p-value &lt;0.05 was taken as significant) were used when required. Results: There were 44 females and 31 males in the study, with the age range of 20-81 years. The mean age of patients in Group A (n=44) was 58.57±11.68 years and Group B (n=31) was 49.68±14.45 years. On multivariate analysis, advance age, history of weight loss and faecal occult blood were statistically significantly associated with the presence of GI endoscopic lesions responsible for IDA (p-value&lt;0.05). Maximum lesions responsible for IDA were found in stomach (48%), erosive and inflammatory lesions causing IDA were more common in upper GI tract. Peptic ulcers were found in 12% cases. The GI malignancies were found in 14.66% subjects. Colorectal cancers (8%) were more common than upper GI cancers (6.66%). Conclusion: In patients with IDA, erosive oesophagitis and haemorrhagic gastritis were commonly found followed by peptic ulcers and malignant GI lesions on bidirectional endoscopy. GI endoscopy is a very important tool to diagnose the cause of IDA. All patients with advanced age, history of weight loss and a positive faecal OBT should undergo bidirectional GI endoscopy routinely.

Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening Modality Among Newly Age-Eligible Medicaid Enrollees

This study examines individual- and practice-level predictors of screening modality among 1,484 Medicaid enrollees who initiated colorectal cancer screening (fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood tests or colonoscopy) within a year of turning age 50 years. Understanding screening modality patterns for patients and health systems can help optimize colorectal cancer screening initiatives that will lead to high screening completion rates. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted in 2019 to analyze Medicaid claims data (January 2013-June 2015) to explore predictors of colonoscopy screening (versus fecal testing). Overall, 64% of enrollees received a colonoscopy and 36% received a fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood test. Male (OR=1.21, 95% CI=1.08, 1.37) compared with female enrollees and those with 4-6 (OR=1.57, 95% CI=1.15, 2.15), 7-10 (OR=2.23, 95% CI=1.64, 3.03), and ≥11 (OR=1.79, 95% CI=1.22, 2.65) primary care visits compared with 0-3 visits had higher odds of colonoscopy screening. Non-White, non-Hispanic enrollees (OR=0.71, 95% CI=0.58, 0.87) compared with White, non-Hispanics Whites had lower odds of colonoscopy screening. Practices with an endoscopy facility within their ZIP code (OR=1.50, 95% CI=1.08, 2.08) compared with practices without a nearby endoscopy facility had higher odds of colonoscopy screening. Among newly age-eligible Medicaid enrollees who received colorectal cancer screening, non-White, non-Hispanic individuals were less likely and male enrollees and those with ≥4 primary care visits were more likely to undergo colonoscopy versus fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood test. Colonoscopy also was the more common modality among adults whose primary care clinic had an endoscopy facility in the same ZIP code. Future research is needed to fully understand patient, provider, and practice preferences regarding screening modality.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding occurs when a pathologic process such as ulceration, inflammation, or neoplasia leads to erosion of a blood vessel. Bleeding can occur in the upper gastrointestinal tract (50%) or the lower gastrointestinal tract (40%) or may be obscure (10%), meaning that no definitive source is identified. Gastrointestinal bleeding is common, with major bleeding leading to 1 million hospitalizations every year in the United States. This review details the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal bleeding and the stabilization and assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and disposition and outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. Situations requiring special consideration are also discussed. Figures show how gastrointestinal bleeding occurs when a pathologic process causes erosion of the mucosa and exposes a submucosal blood vessel; an ulcer with a raised, red, variceal spot; a Mallory-Weiss tear; the formation of varices; vascular ectasia; treatment of esophageal varices with balloon tamponade; and a wireless capsule. Tables list the major causes of gastrointestinal bleeding, terms relating to gastrointestinal bleeding and their definitions, Blatchford score, substances that interfere with occult blood testing, clinical factors differentiating gastrointestinal bleeding placed in descending order of likelihood ratio, and a summary of American College of Radiology recommendations for angiography in nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding. This review contains 8 figures, 15 tables, and 107 references. Key Words: gastrointestinal bleeding, inflammation, occult blood testing, UGIB, LGIB, Blatchford score, angiography, wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE)

S3439 Not All That Bleeds Is of Gastrointestinal Origin: Hemorrhagic Anemia From the Nasopharynx

INTRODUCTION: There is a vast differential diagnosis as to the underlying etiology for acute blood loss anemia, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage is often the culprit. When signs and symptoms are unclear and initial routine endoscopy is unremarkable, capsule endoscopy can be a beneficial test to better ascertain the location of the bleed. While capsule endoscopy is often utilized to identify occult gastrointestinal bleeding, it can also pinpoint alternative etiologies to blood loss. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential when approaching acute blood loss anemia. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 62-year-old female with a history of chronic pain on daily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication presented to the emergency room with weakness and malaise. Initial hemoglobin was 3.4 g/dL, down-trending to 2.8 g/dL with concern for acute blood loss. Further studies revealed iron deficiency anemia with an iron level less than 15 and a ferritin of 12.6; occult blood testing was negative. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated a hiatal hernia, Schatzki’s ring, and poor dentition with loose teeth, but no active bleed was identified. Colonoscopy showed mild sigmoid diverticulosis and distal colitis, however no bleeding was located to account for the patient’s profound anemia. Capsule endoscopy revealed an active bleed from the mouth (Figure A) with bright red blood in the esophagus and stomach along with dark blood in the small intestine without active bleed. These findings suggested acute blood loss from hemorrhagic gingivitis versus traumatized gingiva around the teeth. Computed tomography of the neck with contrast identified an ulcerated malignancy occluding the nasopharyngeal airway. Positron emission tomography confirmed the large nasopharyngeal mass without distant metastatic disease (Figure B), and subsequent biopsy revealed a non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma secondary to human papillomavirus sixteen (Figure C). Though deemed a poor surgical candidate, the patient underwent chemoradiation and was eventually discharged to a skilled nursing facility and continues to do well several months later. DISCUSSION: This case reveals the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis as to the underlying etiology for acute blood loss anemia, especially when initial suspected gastrointestinal hemorrhage workup is unremarkable. Capsule endoscopy is a useful tool in the evaluation of anemia when upper and lower endoscopy do not reveal the underlying etiology for anemia.Figure 1.: Capsule endoscopy identifying the underlying mass accounting for the hemorrhage.Figure 2.: Positron emission tomography highlighting the nasopharyngeal mass.Figure 3.: H&E of the non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma at 200 magnification.

Clinical and imaging findings of discharged patients with SARS-CoV-2 positive anal swab samples: a descriptive study

BackgroundTo explore the clinical features and CT findings of clinically cured coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with viral RNA positive anal swab results after discharge.MethodsForty-two patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to Yongzhou Central Hospital, Hunan, China, between January 20, 2020, and March 2, 2020, were tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) using anal swab viral RT-PCR. In this report, we present the clinical characteristics and chest CT features of six patients with positive anal swab results and compare the clinical, laboratory, and CT findings between the positive and negative groups.ResultsThe anal swab positivity rate for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in discharged patients was 14.3% (6/42). All six patients were male. In the positive group, 40% of the patients (2/5) had a positive stool occult blood test (OBT), but none had diarrhea. The median duration of fever and major symptoms (except fever) in the positive patients was shorter than that of the negative patients (1 day vs. 6 days, 4.5 days vs. 10.5 days, respectively). The incidence of asymptomatic cases in the positive group (33.3%) was also higher than that of the negative group (5.6%). There were no significant differences in the CT manifestation or evolution of the pulmonary lesions between the two groups.ConclusionIn our case series, patients with viral RNA positive anal swabs did not exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms, and their main symptoms disappeared early. They had similar CT features to the negative patients, which may be easier to be ignored. A positive OBT may indicate gastrointestinal damage caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Evaluating the effects of a risk-adapted screening program for familial colorectal cancer in individuals between 25 and 50 years of age: study protocol for the prospective population-based intervention study FARKOR

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common malignant disease and the second most common cause of cancer death in Germany. Official CRC screening starts at age 50. As there is evidence that individuals with a family history of CRC have an increased risk of developing CRC before age 50, there are recommendations to start screening for this group earlier. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and economic effects of a risk-adapted screening program for CRC in individuals between 25 and 50 years of age with potentially increased familial CRC risk.MethodsFARKOR (Familiäres Risiko für das Kolorektale Karzinom) is a population-based prospective intervention study. All members of cooperating statutory health insurance companies between 25 and 50 years of age living in a model region in Germany (federal state of Bavaria, 3.5 million inhabitants in this age group) can participate in the program between October 2018 and March 2020. Recruitment takes place through physicians and through a public campaign. Additionally, insurances contact recently diagnosed CRC patients in order to encourage their relatives to participate in the program. Physicians assess a participant’s familial history of CRC using a short questionnaire. All participants with a family history of CRC are invited to a shared decision making process to decide on further screening options consisting of either undergoing an immunological test for fecal occult blood or colonoscopy. Comprehensive data collection based on self-reported lifestyle information, medical documentation and health administrative databases accompanies the screening program. Longterm benefits, harms and the cost-effectiveness of the risk-adapted CRC screening program will be assessed by decision analytic modeling.DiscussionThe data collected in this study will add important pieces of information that are still missing in the evaluation of the effects and the cost-effectiveness of a risk-adapted CRC screening strategy for individuals under 50 years of age.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register, DRKS-IDDRKS00015097.