How to optimize HCV therapy in genotype 1 patients: management of side-effects.

Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C has dramatically changed with the advent of triple therapy incorporating direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) such as the protease inhibitors (PI) boceprevir and telaprevir. Such triple-therapy is associated with a new spectrum of side-effects which can hamper quality of life. These may lead to dosage reduction and sometimes discontinuation of therapy.

Recent advances in small bowel diseases: Part II.

As is the case in all areas of gastroenterology and hepatology, in 2009 and 2010 there were many advances in our knowledge and understanding of small intestinal diseases. Over 1000 publications were reviewed, and the important advances in basic science as well as clinical applications were considered. In Part II we review six topics: absorption, short bowel syndrome, smooth muscle function and intestinal motility, tumors, diagnostic imaging, and cystic fibrosis.

Recent advances in small bowel diseases: Part I.

As is the case in all parts of gastroenterology and hepatology, there have been many advances in our knowledge and understanding of small intestinal diseases. Over 1000 publications were reviewed for 2008 and 2009, and the important advances in basic science as well as clinical applications were considered. In Part I of this Editorial Review, seven topics are considered: intestinal development; proliferation and repair; intestinal permeability; microbiotica, infectious diarrhea and probiotics; diarrhea; salt and water absorption; necrotizing enterocolitis; and immunology/allergy.

Recent advances in celiac disease.

Celiac disease now affects about one person in a hundred in Europe and North America. In this review, we consider a number of important and exciting recent developments, such as clinical associations, HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 predispositions, the concept of potential celiac disease, the use of new imaging/endoscopy techniques, and the development of refractory disease. This review will be of use to all internists, pediatricians and gastroenterologists.

Simultaneous liver and kidney transplants: optimizing use of this double resource.

Simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation is a life saving procedure for patients with combined liver and kidney failure; however, it remains controversial because of the need to balance individual patient need versus resource allocation. As waiting lists for transplantation become longer and patients become increasingly ill, there will be greater numbers of patients referred for liver and kidney transplantation. Acute kidney injury even requiring dialysis may potentially be reversible making combined transplant decisions difficult.