Gastroenterology and hepatology

Article Abstract:

Gastroenterology, the specialty concerned with the stomach and digestive tract, deals with a variety of different disorders. One of these is gastroesophageal reflux, commonly called heartburn. The powerful acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach sometimes splash back up into the esophagus, causing tremendous pain. If the condition cannot be controlled by regulating diet and drinking habits, then drug therapy is necessary. Antacids may first be tried, followed by histamine-2 receptor blockers or the drug sucralfate. If these measures fail, omeprazole may be effective. This powerful drug acts to block the secretion of hydrogen ions from the lining of the stomach; these hydrogen ions constitute the excessive stomach acid. Omeprazole is unsurpassed in reducing stomach acid and controlling the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux; once the symptoms are reduced, the natural healing processes are given time to work. Another area of rapid change in the field of gastroenterology is in cholelithiasis, or gallstones. Great enthusiasm has emerged for the techniques of lithotripsy, in which the 'stones' are broken up using ultrasonic sound waves or powerful lasers. The techniques generally reduce the hospital stay and the recovery period tremendously, but the actual value of the techniques compared with conventional surgery have yet to be firmly established. Closely related to gastroenterology is hepatology, the study of the liver. One of the many diseases of concern to hepatologists is non-A, non-B hepatitis; many of these cases are caused by a newly identified virus called hepatitis C virus. The natural immune modulator alpha interferon has been used for treating acute C hepatitis with some success, although half of all patients relapse when treatment is stopped. This therapy also is expensive and there are many side effects. Many decades of patient follow-up may be needed to determine if the short-term improvements associated with this treatment result in a decrease in the long-term consequences of hepatitis, such as cirrhosis and cancer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Reports, Liver diseases, Gastrointestinal diseases, Gastroenterology

---

Gastroenterology and hepatology

Article Abstract:

The unrestrained growth of cells in colon cancer may be linked to gene mutations, either acquired or inherited. A defective gene, believed to be carried by one in every 200 people, may cause up to 15% of all colon cancer. DNA testing may soon be able to identify the gene. Colonoscopic polypectomy, removal of adenomatous polyps, may prevent colon cancer. Fecal occult blood test screening continues to be advocated because it can reduce the mortality of the cancer. Duodenal and gastric ulcer patients infected with H pylori should be treated with antimicrobial agents. Newborns should be immunized for hepatitis B. Three million Americans may be carriers of hepatitis C. Many are infectious and could develop cirrhosis.

Care and treatment, Physiological aspects, Genetic aspects, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B

---

Gastroenterology and hepatology

Article Abstract:

The hepatitis viruses continue to be the focus of intensive research. In 1995, a new virus was discovered that is related to hepatitis C virus but does not seem to cause serious disease. Most infants are now being vaccinated against hepatitis B but there are still many carriers who must be treated. Helicobacter pylori is known to be responsible for peptic ulcer disease and some types of gastrointestinal cancers. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening all people over 50 for colorectal cancer but it is not clear whether this will lower mortality rates.

Health aspects, Research, Diagnosis, Testing, Helicobacter infections, Hepatitis viruses, Occult blood, Fecal occult blood test

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Obstetrics and gynecology. Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Abstracts: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia: new insights into biology and therapy. Genetic relatedness of lymphoid malignancies: transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia as a model
• Abstracts: Fat distribution, androgens, and metabolism in nonobese women. Imaging techniques for measuring adipose-tissue distribution - a comparison between computed tomography and 1.5-T magnetic resonance
• Abstracts: Pharmacokinetics of acyclovir in the term pregnancy and neonate. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of acyclovir in late pregnancy for the reduction of herpes simplex virus shedding and cesarean delivery
• Abstracts: In utero diagnosis and management of fetal subdural hematoma. The impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on frontal cortex development in utero

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.