Comparison of high-resolution magnification narrow-band imaging and white-light endoscopy in the prediction of histology in Barrett's oesophagus.

Objective: To evaluate whether there is any appreciable difference in imaging characteristics between high-resolution magnification white-light endoscopy (WLE-Z) and narrow-band imaging (NBI-Z) in Barrett's oesophagus (BE) and if this translates into superior prediction of histology.

Material And Methods: This was a prospective single-centre study involving 21 patients (75 areas, corresponding NBI-Z and WLE-Z images) with BE. Mucosal patterns (pit pattern and microvascular morphology) were evaluated for their image quality on a visual analogue scale (VAS) of 1-10 by five expert endoscopists.

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and the small intestine.

Purpose Of Review: The small intestine may be a more common site for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug toxicity than the gastroduodenal mucosa. Two-thirds of regular nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug users develop subclinical small bowel enteropathy. This review highlights this emerging issue in patients requiring antiinflammatory drugs.

Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors.

Purpose Of Review: The purpose of this review is to summarize new information regarding the use of selective inhibitors of the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme, emphasizing recent developments regarding cardiovascular risk.

Recent Findings: Selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors are as effective as nonselective nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs in relieving pain and inflammation but are associated with significantly fewer gastric, duodenal, and intestinal ulcers and ulcer complications. Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors may also reduce colorectal polyp development or recurrence as well as reduce the risk of colorectal and esophageal cancer.

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and the small intestine.

Purpose Of Review: The small intestine is a more common site for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) toxicity than the well-recognized effects on the stomach and duodenum. Although NSAID strictures and perforation are rare, two thirds of regular NSAID users may be prone to small bowel enteropathy. This review highlights this emerging issue in patients requiring antiinflammatory drugs.