Disease duration did not influence the rates of loss of efficacy of the anti-TNF therapy in Latin American Crohn’s disease patients.

Background/aims: The efficacy of both Infliximab (IFX) and Adalimumab (ADA) can be reduced over time. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence of loss of efficacy (LOE) of both IFX and ADA, and outline the influence of disease duration on its occurrence.

Methods: Retrospective, multicenter, observational cohort study, with CD patients treated with anti-TNF therapy.

T300A genetic polymorphism: a susceptibility factor for Crohn's disease?

Context: Crohn's disease is characterized by a chronic and debilitating inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Several factors may contribute to its development. From extensive studies of the human genome, the polymorphism T300A of the gene ATG16L1 (autophagy-related 16-like 1) has been related to increased risk of developing this disease.

Abnormal advanced hemorrhoidal disease: the need of a staged resection.

We present an unusual case of advanced hemorrhoidal disease in an 57-year-old man presenting with anemia, persistent bleeding, anal protrusion. Conventional hemorrhoidectomy was not feasible because of the risk of a massive hemorrhage caused by hypertrophic protruded vascular anal cushions. A two-stage resection was then undertaken.

[Assessment of patients with pressure sores admitted in a tertiary care center].

Background: To determine the prevalence and analyze the profile of patients with pressure sores, focusing on risk factors, the patients' clinical characteristics at a tertiary care center, as well as stage and location of the lesions on the body.

Methods: This was a cross sectional not controlled observational study, all patients admitted from April to June of 2005 were observed daily to identify all cases of pressure sores. The affected patients were evaluated by a standard questionnaire and the Scale of Braden was applied to define the risk of developing ulcers.

Longitudinal multiple rubber band ligation: an alternative method to treat mucosal prolapse of the anterior rectal wall.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to present a new approach for the treatment of mucosal prolapse of the anterior rectal wall using a multiple longitudinal rubber band ligation procedure.

Methods: The therapeutic approach using multiple longitudinal rubber band ligations on anterior rectal wall was undertaken in 17 patients after failure of conventional medical treatment.

Results: Double rubber band ligation was undertaken in seven patients and triple ligation in nine patients.