Gastroent Hepat Barc
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Gastroent Hepat Barc · Aug 2008
Review Case Reports[Acute acalculous cholecystitis associated with acute hepatitis A virus infection].
Although acute cholecystitis in the context of acute hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection is extremely rare, previous cases have been reported. However, this manifestation of HAV infection is little known. In the present article, we briefly review previously documented cases and present a new case. ⋯ Diagnosis of acute cholecystitis was given by abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient underwent surgery. In the postoperative period, positive IgM antibody titers for HAV were obtained, confirming the diagnosis of HAV infection.
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Gastroent Hepat Barc · Apr 2008
[Effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication on iron deficiency anemia of unknown origin].
Iron deficiency anemia of unknown origin is a frequent cause of anemia in which etiological diagnosis is often not achieved, despite currently available diagnostic techniques. Recent studies suggest that, in the absence of digestive tract lesions, Helicobacter pylori infection could be the cause of iron deficiency anemia, due to the alterations produced in gastric iron absorption. ⋯ In the absence of lesions that could explain iron deficiency anemia, this disease can be related to H. pylori infection. Eradication of this infection is closely followed by disappearance of anemia and ferropenia.
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Epiploic appendages are fat-filled, serosa-covered pediculated formations originating in the external wall of the bowel, toward the peritoneal cavity. Torsion of the epiploic appendages produces strangulation and infarction of the pedicle, initially venous and, when prolonged, ischemic, resulting in epiploic appendagitis. ⋯ Diagnosis is established through imaging techniques (ultrasound and computed tomography). Treatment is conservative and the prognosis is excellent.
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Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a severe complication in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. Renal insufficiency is functional and is caused by renal vasoconstriction. HRS occurs in 10% of patients with advanced cirrhosis. ⋯ Therefore, these measures may be used as a bridge before liver transplantation is performed. Finally, the risk of developing HRS in the context of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis can be prevented by administering albumin together with the corresponding antibiotics. In cases of severe acute alcoholic hepatitis, pentoxifylline can be administered.