Nutrition Considerations in Patients with Functional Diarrhea
AbstractPurposeFunctional diarrhea (FD) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects a great percentage of the population and has damaging nutritional and psychological effects. In this review, evidence has been assessed and analyzed to provide nutrition considerations and recommendations for patients with functional diarrhea.Recent FindingsThe traditional irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diet, the low FODMAP diet, and general recommendations for diarrhea have been established as interventions for FD. Additionally, nutrition outcomes such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, hydration levels, and mental health stat...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - June 17, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Evaluation of Esophageal Dysphagia in Elderly Patients
AbstractPurpose of ReviewWhile guidelines exist for the evaluation and management of esophageal dysphagia in the general population, dysphagia disproportionately affects the elderly. In this article, we reviewed the literature on evaluating esophageal dysphagia in elderly patients and proposed a diagnostic algorithm based on this evidence.Recent FindingsIn older patients, dysphagia is often well compensated for by altered eating habits and physiologic changes, underreported by patients, and missed by healthcare providers. Once identified, dysphagia should be differentiated into oropharyngeal and esophageal dysphagia to gui...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - June 14, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Anastomotic Ulcers: Current Understanding of the Pathogenesis and Management
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAnastomotic ulceration following intestinal resection is an under- recognized problem in pediatrics. We discuss the relevant literature regarding this condition.Recent FindingsAnastomotic Ulceration following intestinal resection is a potentially life threatening cause of refractory anemia. Evaluation should include correction of micronutrient deficiencies and endoscopic evaluation by upper and lower endoscopy and small intestinal endoscopy if necessary. Initial treatment by medical therapy may consist of anti-inflammatory agents as well as antibiotics to treat small intestinal bacterial overgrowth...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - June 12, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Indications and safety of newer IBD treatments in the older patient
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTreatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the elderly requires special attention to treatment efficacy while considering drug safety, other medical comorbidities, and the patients ’ risk for treatment related adverse events. In this article, we reviewed the indications and safety of the newer IBD therapies in the older IBD patient beyond anti-TNF agents, thiopurines, and corticosteroids.Recent FindingsVedolizumab, ustekinumab, and risankizumab have favorable side effect profiles with regards to infections and malignancy. Ozanimod has a favorable side effect profile with regards to infectio...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - May 25, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Colorectal Cancer Screening and Surveillance in the Geriatric Population
AbstractPurpose of the ReviewOur national guidelines regarding screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer recommend individualized discussions with patients 75 –85 years of age. This review explores the complex decision-making that surrounds these discussions.Recent FindingsDespite updated guidelines for colorectal cancer screening and surveillance, the guidance for patients 75 years of age or older remains unchanged. Studies exploring the risks to colonoscopy in this population, patient preferences, life expectancy calculators and additional studies in the subpopulation of inflammatory bowel disease patients provi...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - May 23, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Should All Patients with Barrett ’s Esophagus Receive Ablation?
This article reviews the current data on Barrett ’s esophagus and its risk for cancer progression, and it outlines several factors which impact progression that should be considered in the management approach to nondysplastic Barrett’s esophagus. (Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports)
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - May 19, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research

Intestinal Disaccharidase Deficiency in Adults: Evaluation and Treatment
This article discusses the diagnosis and treatment of disaccharidase deficiency within the context of recent literature.Recent FindingsDisaccharidase deficiency in adults is more common than previously thought, which includes lactase, sucrase, maltase and isomaltase enzymes. Deficiency in disaccharidases, which are produced by the intestinal brush border, will interfere with the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates and may result in abdominal pain, gas, bloating and diarrhea. Patients deficient in all 4 disaccharidases are known as having “pan-disaccharidase” deficiency, which has a distinct phenotype with more re...
Source: Current Gastroenterology Reports - May 18, 2023 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research