Indications and techniques for lower intestinal endoscopy.

The search for inflammatory and neoplastic lesions are the main indications for colonoscopy. A high rate of detection of polyps has become a quality criterion that depends on skilled handling of the colonoscope, on expertise and concentration during the examination, on excellent bowel preparation, and on a high standard of technical equipment. The diagnostic benefits outweigh the risk of bleeding, perforation and infection in almost all situations.

Can an endocytoscope system (ECS) predict histology in neoplastic lesions?

Background And Study Aims: An endocytoscope system (ECS) has recently been developed with the possibility of super-high magnification of gastrointestinal mucosa, thus allowing in vivo imaging of living cells. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential of ECS in the prediction of histology in both normal gastrointestinal mucosa and neoplastic lesions.

Patients And Methods: In total, 76 patients (57 men, 19 women; age range 37-86 years) with neoplastic lesions in the esophagus, stomach, or colon were enrolled into the study and underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy.

[Meningitis caused by Streptococcus suis].

History And Admission Findings: A 42-year-old man was admitted to hospital because of headache and fever for two days and showing signs of meningism. As a butcher he had had frequent cuts on his hands and forearms.

Investigations And Diagnosis: Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid revealed an elevated leukocyte count (81% segmented neutrophils).

[Abdominal ultrasound after endoscopic or percutaneous stenting and drainage].

Stents and prostheses in the hepatobiliary system are visible by ultrasound examination and can be checked for their function. The reappearance of mechanical cholestasis, stent dislocation or formation of sludge on the stent tip is signs of stent dysfunction. Graduation of the biliary obstruction can help to find the best time for changing the stent.