1.
Management guidelines of eosinophilic esophagitis in childhood.
Papadopoulou, A, Koletzko, S, Heuschkel, R, Dias, JA, Allen, KJ, Murch, SH, Chong, S, Gottrand, F, Husby, S, Lionetti, P, et al
Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition. 2014;(1):107-18
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) represents a chronic, immune/antigen-mediated esophageal disease characterized clinically by symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction and histologically by eosinophil-predominant inflammation. With few exceptions, 15 eosinophils per high-power field (peak value) in ≥1 biopsy specimens are considered a minimum threshold for a diagnosis of EoE. The disease is restricted to the esophagus, and other causes of esophageal eosinophilia should be excluded, specifically proton pump inhibitor-responsive esophageal eosinophilia. This position paper aims at providing practical guidelines for the management of children and adolescents with EoE. METHODS Relevant literature from searches of PubMed, CINAHL, and recent guidelines was reviewed. In the absence of an evidence base, recommendations reflect the expert opinion of the authors. Final consensus was obtained during 3 face-to-face meetings of the Gastroenterology Committee and 1 teleconference. RESULTS The cornerstone of treatment is an elimination diet (targeted or empiric elimination diet, amino acid-based formula) and/or swallowed, topical corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids are reserved for severe symptoms requiring rapid relief or where other treatments have failed. Esophageal dilatation is an option in children with EoE who have esophageal stenosis unresponsive to drug therapy. Maintenance treatment may be required in case of frequent relapse, although an optimal regimen still needs to be determined. CONCLUSIONS EoE is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disease with largely unquantified long-term consequences. Investigations and treatment are tailored to the individual and must not create more morbidity for the patient and family than the disease itself. Better maintenance treatment as well as biomarkers for assessing treatment response and predicting long-term complications is urgently needed.
2.
Guidelines for specialized nutritional and metabolic support in the critically-ill patient: update. Consensus SEMICYUC-SENPE: nutritional assessment.
Ruiz-Santana, S, Arboleda Sánchez, JA, Abilés, J, ,
Nutricion hospitalaria. 2011;:12-5
Abstract
Current parameters to assess nutritional status in critically-ill patients are useful to evaluate nutritional status prior to admission to the intensive care unit. However, these parameters are of little utility once the patient's nutritional status has been altered by the acute process and its treatment. Changes in water distribution affect anthropometric variables and biochemical biomarkers, which in turn are affected by synthesis and degradation processes. Increased plasma levels of prealbumin and retinol -proteins with a short half-life- can indicate adequate response to nutritional support, while reduced levels of these proteins indicate further metabolic stress. The parameters used in functional assessment, such as those employed to assess muscular or immune function, are often altered by drugs or the presence of infection or polyneuropathy. However, some parameters can be used to monitor metabolic response and refeeding or can aid prognostic evaluation.
3.
Nutrition for distance events.
Burke, LM, Millet, G, Tarnopolsky, MA, ,
Journal of sports sciences. 2007;:S29-38
Abstract
The goal of training is to prepare the distance athlete to perform at his or her best during major competitions. Whatever the event, nutrition plays a major role in the achievement of various factors that will see a runner or walker take the starting line in the best possible form. Everyday eating patterns must supply fuel and nutrients needed to optimize their performance during training sessions and to recover quickly afterwards. Carbohydrate and fluid intake before, during, and after a workout may help to reduce fatigue and enhance performance. Recovery eating should also consider issues for adaptation and the immune system that may involve intakes of protein and some micronutrients. Race preparation strategies should include preparation of adequate fuel stores, including carbohydrate loading for prolonged events such as the marathon or 50-km walk. Fluid and carbohydrate intake during races lasting an hour or more should also be considered. Sports foods and supplements of value to distance athletes include sports drinks and liquid meal supplements to allow nutrition goals to be achieved when normal foods are not practical. While caffeine is an ergogenic aid of possible value to distance athletes, most other supplements are of minimal benefit.
4.
Other supportive therapies in sepsis.
Pérez, J, Dellinger, RP, ,
Intensive care medicine. 2001;:S116-27
Abstract
Patients who survive the circulatory and organ deficits in sepsis may still fall victim to complications such as pulmonary embolism and stress ulcer bleeding. Although there is no clearcut evidence to quantitate the impact of such complications on mortality, the anticipated impact is grave when considering the compromised physiological reserve of these patients. For this reason it is important to institute effective prophylaxis to minimize the impact. In addition, catabolism associated with sepsis likely influences the recovery of patients with sepsis and moreover can compromise the response of the immune system against an infectious insult. Early and adequate nutritional support therefore appears important. There is much controversy and lack of prospective research regarding effect of supportive therapies on outcome in patients with severe sepsis. This research is needed.