Reviews
The importance of sarcopenia and malnutritio in chronic liver diseases
A common complication of liver cirrhosis is malnutrition or malnutritio, which is associated with the progression of liver failure and a higher rate of complications of liver damage, including infections, hepatic encephalopathy, and ascites. Malnutrition and sarcopenia can worsen the prognosis of patients with cirrhosis hepatis and reduce their survival. Therefore, nutritional monitoring and therapeutic intervention are crucial in patients with chronic liver disease.
Reviews
Treatment options of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm
Thanks to sophisticated modern diagnostic tools and a comprehensive pathologic diagnostic arsenal, the number of the diagnosed gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) has been steadily increasing. In recent years, more detailed therapeutic algorithms have been developed, and additional clinical trial data have become available. The aim of our review is to summarize the current therapeutic options based on the available guidelines.
Reviews
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage: indications and outcomes
Ultrasound-guided endoscopic biliary drainage (EUS-BD) has become an increasingly common method for treating biliary obstruction, with many advantages over surgical, percutaneous, and even conventional endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) techniques if utilized in proper indications. EUS-BD has a lower incidence of complications (e.g. bile leakage, drain obstruction, or infections) due to its direct, short route to the bile duct. The procedure achieves a higher rate of long-term decompression of the bile ducts, thus improving patient outcomes in cases of malignant biliary obstruction. As EUS-BD continues to evolve, it presents a compelling case for its incorporation into standard practice for managing challenging biliary conditions, ultimately improving care and outcomes for gastroenterology patients.
Original publication
The role of home parenteral nutrition in maintaining nutritional status and survival in patients with malignant intestinal failure: a retrospective study
Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a crucial therapeutic option for patients with intestinal failure; however, its effectiveness in the context of malignant underlying disease remains less well understood. In our study, we analyzed data from 17 patients with chronic intestinal failure caused by malignancy. During HPN, body weight, BMI, and muscle mass remained stable, and the median overall survival was 9 months. Complications occurred on four occasions in total. Our findings support the conclusion that HPN is a safe and effective method for maintaining nutritional status and potentially prolonging survival.