Endoscopic laser ablation of nondysplastic Barrett's epithelium: is it worthwhile?

The clinical value of endoscopic ablation of nondysplastic Barrett's epithelium is controversial. It has been stated that ablation, combined with acid suppression or antireflux surgery, may reduce the risk of adenocarcinoma, thereby obviating the need for endoscopic surveillance in these patients. Eighteen symptomatic patients were enrolled in a prospective study of Nd:YAG laser ablation of Barrett's esophagus followed by treatment with proton pump inhibitors or antireflux surgery.

Endoscopic palliation of oesophageal cancer: results of a prospective comparison of Nd:YAG laser and ethanol injection.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of intratumoral alcohol injection compared with Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of unresectable fungating cancers of the oesophagus.

Design: Prospective, randomised clinical study.

Setting: University hospital, Italy.

Improving results of esophageal stenting: a study on 160 consecutive unselected patients.

Background And Study Aims: Esophageal stenting is a valuable treatment in the management of malignant dysphagia. Recently, self-expanding stents have proved effective in reducing morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early and late results of esophageal stenting in a series of 160 consecutive unselected patients with unresectable esophageal and cardial carcinoma treated between November 1992 and December 1996.

Lack of association between porphyria cutanea tarda and alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency.

Objective: To determine whether alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency is involved in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease in patients with porphyria cutanea tarda and in their recently described high prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection.

Design: Consecutive patients diagnosed as having porphyria cutanea tarda and chronic liver disease.

Setting: A northern Italian hospital.