Cytokine gene polymorphism in microscopic colitis association with the IL-6-174 GG genotype.

Objectives: Microscopic colitis (MC) is a chronic inflammatory disease with unknown pathogenesis. Very little is known about polymorphisms in the cytokine genes in MC. We have investigated the occurrence of well-characterized polymorphisms of interleukins (IL-6, IL-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-10) and CD14 in MC.

Gastroduodenal mucosa in microscopic colitis.

Background: We have assessed gastroduodenal, endoscopical and histopathological findings in a series of patients with microscopic colitis (MC).

Methods: We studied 75 patients with MC, 27 with collagenous colitis (CC) and 48 with lymphocytic colitis (LC), and 60 controls. Data of endoscopical findings were collected and biopsies were assessed.

[Update on current care guidelines. Safe use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs].

Pain medication should be based on patient's needs and risk profile. Age > 65 years, prior ulcer, co-morbidities, large daily dose, Helicobacter pylori infection, concurrent use of glucocorticoids, serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or warfarin increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeds. As a preventive strategy the use of concurrent proton pump inhibitors with non-selective NSAIDs is recommended.

Human leucocyte antigen and TNFalpha polymorphism association in microscopic colitis.

Objectives: Coeliac disease (CD) is common in patients with microscopic colitis (MC). The human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR3-DQ2 haplotype is strongly associated with CD, and there is evidence for an association with MC. We analysed the genetic background of MC by assessing the haplotypes of HLA-DR3-DQ2 and HLA-DR4-DQ8.

Epithelial cell proliferation and glandular atrophy in lymphocytic gastritis: effect of H pylori treatment.

Aim: Lymphocytic gastritis is commonly associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. The presence of glandular atrophy and foveolar hyperplasia in lymphocytic gastritis suggests abnormalities in cell proliferation and differentiation, forming a potential link with the suspected association with gastric cancer. Our aim was to compare epithelial cell proliferation and morphology in H pylori associated lymphocytic gastritis and H pylori gastritis without features of lymphocytic gastritis, and to evaluate the effect of H pylori treatment.

Apolipoprotein E and colon cancer. Expression in normal and malignant human intestine and effect on cultured human colonic adenocarcinoma cells.

Background: Apolipoprotein E (apo E) is a key regulatory protein in lipoprotein metabolism and it is also a potent inhibitor of cell proliferation. Although genetic alterations of apo E affect enterohepatic cholesterol transport and, presumably, the risk of colon carcinoma, the expression and potential functions of apo E in the human intestine are poorly known. Methods: The localization of apo E in normal and malignant gastrointestinal tract was studied using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization.