Clinical approach to indeterminate biliary strictures: Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and workup.

Despite advances in cross-sectional imaging and endoscopic technology, bile duct strictures remain a challenging clinical entity. It is crucial to make an early determination of benign or malignant nature of biliary strictures. Early diagnosis not only helps with further management but also minimizes mortality and morbidity associated with delayed diagnosis.

Role of balloon enteroscopy for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding in those with surgically altered anatomy: A systematic review.

Background: Obscure gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is defined as persistent bleeding despite negative evaluation with both esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy and can be secondary to small intestinal pathology. Standard endoscopy as well as push endoscopy can be a challenge in those with altered anatomy given inaccessible areas as well as perforation risk. Single and double balloon enteroscopy can be warranted in this patient population in instances of obscure GI bleed.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: GIST Another Duodenal Ulcer.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), although exceedingly rare, are the most common mesenchymal tumors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. GISTs are often asymptomatic; approximately 10% are found incidentally on imaging or endoscopy for other indications, although GI bleeding, intestinal obstruction, and perforation can occur. We present a case of upper GI bleeding from a duodenal GIST.

Translational and clinical perspectives on sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction is a complex pathophysiologic entity that is associated with significant morbidity causing abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The purpose of this review is to describe the anatomy and physiology of the sphincter of Oddi, to understand the pathologic mechanisms thought to be responsible for symptomatology, review recent major studies, explore endoscopic and pharmacologic therapies and their efficacy, and to explore future research avenues.