Pharmacokinetics of levodopa in patients with Parkinson disease and motor fluctuations depending on the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection.

Background: According to recent investigations, the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may influence levodopa (LD) pharmacokinetics (PK) and improve the motor function of infected patients with Parkinson disease (PD). The aim of this study was to compare PK of LD and its metabolite 3-O-methyldopa (3-OMD), between H.

Does a melatonin supplement alter the course of gastro-esophageal reflux disease?

Symptomatic gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very common disease. The consequence of GERD is not only erosive esophagitis, but also esophageal stricture, Barrett's esophagus and extra-esophageal damage (including the lungs, throat, sinuses, middle ear and teeth). GERD and Barrett's esophagus are also identified as major risk factors for esophageal carcinoma.

Identifying the best therapy for chronic anal fissure.

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is a painful tear or crack which occurs in the anoderm. The optimal algorithm of therapy for CAF is still debated. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is a surgical treatment, considered as the 'gold standard' therapy for CAF.

[Frequency of side effects after botulinum toxin A injections in neurology, rehabilitation and gastroenterology].

Unlabelled: Botulinum toxin type A is one of the most potent biological toxins, recently used clinically (Botox, Dysport) for wide range of indications. THE AIM OF THE STUDY was to assess the frequency and severity of side effects during BTX-A therapy for different indications and underlying possible mechanisms.

Material And Methods: Material consisted of 327 patients (F202, M125) who underwent 1043 sessions of BTX-A injections for: cervical dystonia--CD (n=58), blepharospasm--BLP (n=31), hemifacial spasm--HFS (n=39), spasticity due to cerebral palsy--CP (n=96), chronic anal fissure--CAF (n=96), esophageal achalasia--AE (n=7).

Side effects of botulinum toxin injection for benign anal disorders.

Background: Botulinum toxin A (BT-A) is a powerful biological toxin. Nevertheless, it has proved to be a remarkable therapeutic agent for the treatment of benign anal disorders. Higher doses of BT-A could change the outcome of treatment.