Increase in distal esophageal wall thickness with time in adult patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.

Background And Aim: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease which may progress to a fibro-stenotic phenotype due to esophageal sub-epithelial fibrosis. Esophageal wall thickening in patients with EoE has been demonstrated in a few studies using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). The aim of this study was to longitudinally assess the endoscopic appearance, wall thickness, histology, and dysphagia score of EoE patients.

High rates of treatment stage migration for early hepatocellular carcinoma and association with adverse outcomes: An Australian multicenter study.

Background And Aim: The rate of contraindications to percutaneous ablation (PA) for inoperable early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and subsequent outcomes is not well described. We investigated the prevalence and outcomes of inoperable early HCC patients with contraindications to PA, resulting in treatment stage migration (TSM).

Methods: Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) 0/A patients diagnosed between September 2013 and September 2019 across five hospitals were identified.

Assessing effectiveness and patient perceptions of a novel electronic medical record for the management of inflammatory bowel disease.

Background And Aim: There is an increasing prevalence of chronic disease worldwide, resulting in multiple management challenges. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an exemplar chronic disease requiring coordinated longitudinal care. We propose that Crohn's Colitis Care (CCCare), a novel IBD-specific, structured electronic medical record is effective at improving data capture and is acceptable to patients.

Medication adherence and complementary therapy usage in inflammatory bowel disease patients during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Background And Aim: Medication nonadherence is common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and has been associated with worse outcomes. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to significant consumer and medical concern regarding the possible risks of immunosuppressive medications during the pandemic. This study aimed to examine medication adherence and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) usage during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on surveillance colonoscopies in South Australia.

Background And Aim: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic has affected elective procedures, including colonoscopy, worldwide. Delayed colorectal cancer surveillance may increase cancer risk. This study aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the proportion of surveillance colonoscopies booked and completed and the extent to which that surveillance was delayed.

Distinguishing gastroesophageal reflux disease and eosinophilic esophagitis in adults: The role of esophageal mucosal immunoglobulin G4.

Background And Aim: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be difficult to distinguish as many of their clinical and histological features overlap. Preliminary data suggest a potential association between EoE and immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) but not GERD. This study aimed to examine the role of esophageal mucosal IgG4 staining when differentiating EoE from GERD.

Psychological distress is highly prevalent in inflammatory bowel disease: A survey of psychological needs and attitudes.

Background And Aim: Data on patient needs and access to psychological services in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are scarce. This study aimed to describe the levels of distress and the needs, attitudes, and access to psychological services for people within Australia against established Australian IBD Standards.

Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted with Australians ≥16 years old recruited via Crohn's & Colitis Australia membership, public and private clinics, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.