Accurate prediction of biliary atresia with an integrated model using MMP-7 levels and bile acids.

Background: Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare fatal liver disease in children, and the aim of this study was to develop a method to diagnose BA early.

Methods: We determined serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), the results of 13 liver tests, and the levels of 20 bile acids, and integrated computational models were constructed to diagnose BA.

Results: Our findings demonstrated that MMP-7 expression levels, as well as the results of four liver tests and levels of ten bile acids, were significantly different between 86 BA and 59 non-BA patients (P < 0.

Clinical characteristics of intussusception secondary to pathologic lead points in children: a single-center experience with 65 cases.

Objective: Intussusception secondary to pathologic lead points (PLPs) is a challenging condition for pediatric surgeons, and few studies have been published on this subject. The aim of this study was to review and analyze clinical data on the diagnosis and management of intussusception secondary to PLPs in children.

Methods: Between 2002 and 2016, a total of 65 pediatric patients with a diagnosis of intussusception secondary to PLPs were retrospectively reviewed.

Risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in children with failed non-surgical reduction for intussusception.

Background: Intestinal necrosis is the most serious complication of intussusception. The risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in pediatric patients with intussusception have not been well characterized.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in pediatric patients with failed non-surgical reduction for intussusception.