Andrea Costantino
@policlinico.mi.it
Gastroenterology and Endoscopy
Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
M.D. Gastroenterologist at the Unit of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy of Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Celiac Disease
- Sonographer at "Centro di riferimento per l'ecografia gastroenterologica", I perform upper abdomen ultrasound, bowel ultrasound, Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), Shear Wave elastography, ultrasound guide for percutaneous biopsies, transanal ultrasounds.
- other interests: irritable bowel syndrome and functional disorders
EDUCATION
Medicine degree, cum laude (honours)
Specialty Board in Gastroenterology, cum laude (honours)
Università degli Studi di Palermo
Medical National Board, vote 270/270
2011: Doctor of Medicine, visiting at the Department of Hepatology of the Hospital Clínic of Barcelona
2010: Medical student, intern at the Unit of Hepatology of the Istituto mediterraneo per i trapianti e terapie ad alta
specializzazione/ University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (ISMETT/UPMC) of Palermo
2010: Medical student, intern at the Unity of Internal Medicine of Klinikum Rechts der Isar of the Technische Universität of
Munich, where I attended lessons, exams and courses
2009: Medical student, intern at the Unit of General and Transplantation Surgery of the Universitätsklinikum of Münster
2008: Medical student, intern at the Unit of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy of the Universitätsklinik of Innsbruck
English: C1
German: B1
French: B1
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Ultrasound
Pocket-Size Ultrasound
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Celiac Disease
IBS
Telemedicine
Scopus Publications
Scholar Citations
Scholar h-index
Scholar i10-index
Scopus Publications
Tommaso Pessarelli, Matilde Topa, Andrea Sorge, Nicoletta Nandi, Daniela Pugliese, Fabio Salvatore Macaluso, Ambrogio Orlando, Simone Saibeni, Andrea Costantino, Francesco Stalla,et al.
MDPI AG
Background/Objectives: Limited data exist on the epidemiology and clinical management of short bowel syndrome (SBS) and chronic intestinal failure (CIF) in Crohn’s disease (CD). This study aimed to evaluate these aspects in Italy. Methods: Members of the Italian Group for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IG-IBD) were invited to complete a cross-sectional web survey. A subgroup analysis examined the influence of different clinical settings on SBS and CIF management in CD. Results: A total of 47/128 (36.7%) IG-IBD centers participated. Among them, 31.9% were teduglutide (TED) prescribers, and 48.9% were academic centers. The median estimated prevalence of CIF among small bowel CD patients was 1%, and it was significantly higher in academic centers (2.0% [IQR 1–5%] vs. 0.13% [IQR 0–1%], p = 0.02). Seventy-eight percent of centers managed fewer than 10 SBS and CD patients. Routine small bowel measurement and nutritional assessment were performed in only 15% and 42.6% of centers, respectively. TED was prescribed by 12 centers to 35 patients, with a treatment success rate exceeding 50% in 81.8% of centers. Conclusions: The estimated prevalence of CIF in CD patients with small bowel involvement in Italy is 1%. The diagnosis and management practices for SBS and CIF are suboptimal, and TED use is limited.
Salvatore Crucillà, Federico Caldart, Marco Michelon, Giovanni Marasco, and Andrea Costantino
MDPI AG
(1) Background: Functional abdominal bloating and distension (FAB/FAD) are common disorders of the gut–brain interaction. Their physiopathology is complex and not completely clarified, although gut microbiota imbalances play a central role. The treatment of FAB/FAD still represents a clinical challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. Gut microbiota modulation strategies might play a crucial role in their management. The aim of this narrative review was to update the current evidence on FAB/FAD, with a focus on gut microbiota. (2) Methods: In October 2023, a review was conducted through the Medline, PubMed, and Embase databases. Selected literature included all available English-edited studies (randomized controlled trials and cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control studies). (3) Results: Twelve studies were selected, most of which investigated the relationship between IBS and microbiota, with bloating being one of its symptoms. The studies suggest that restoring a balanced microbiome appears to be the most promising solution for better management of FAB/FAD. Targeted approaches, such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics such as rifaximin or dietary modifications, may hold the key to alleviating symptoms. Other therapeutic options, such as diet, neuromodulators, and brain–gut behavioral therapies (i.e., cognitive-behavioral therapy) have shown promising outcomes, but strong data are still lacking. (4) Conclusions: Targeted approaches that focus on the gut microbiota, such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and antibiotics, are essential in managing FAB/FAD. Understanding the complex relationship between gut microbiota and FAB/FAD is crucial for developing effective treatments. Further studies are needed to explore the specific roles of different microbial populations in patients with FAB/FAD to enhance therapeutic strategies.
Andrea Costantino, Alessandra Piagnani, Riccardo Caccia, Andrea Sorge, Marco Maggioni, Riccardo Perbellini, Francesca Donato, Roberta D'Ambrosio, Nicole Piazza O Sed, Luca Valenti,et al.
Elsevier BV
Nicole Piazza O Sed, Daniele Noviello, Elisabetta Filippi, Francesco Conforti, Federica Furfaro, Mirella Fraquelli, Andrea Costantino, Silvio Danese, Maurizio Vecchi, Gionata Fiorino,et al.
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Abstract Background and Aims Endoscopic activity is associated with an increased risk of surgery in patients with ulcerative colitis [UC]. Transmural activity, as defined by Milan Ultrasound Criteria [MUC] > 6.2, reliably detects endoscopic activity in patients with UC. The present study aimed to assess in UC patients whether transmural severity is a better predictor of colectomy as compared to endoscopy. Methods Consecutive adult UC patients were recruited in two IBD Referral Centres and underwent colonoscopy and intestinal ultrasound in a blinded fashion. The need for colectomy was assessed at follow-up. Univariable and multivariable logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed. Receiver operating characteristic [ROC] analysis was used to compare MUC baseline values and Mayo Endoscopic Scores [MES] in predicting colectomy risk. Results Overall, 141 patients were enrolled, and 13 underwent colectomy in the follow-up period. Both MES (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18–8.37, p = 0.02) and MUC [HR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.19–1.76, p < 0.001] were associated with colectomy risk, but only MUC was independently associated with this event on multivariable analysis [HR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.06–2.02, p = 0.02]. MUC was the only independent variable associated with colectomy risk in patients with clinically active disease (odds ratio [OR]: 1.53 [1.03–2.27], p = 0.03). MUC demonstrated higher accuracy than MES (area under ROC curve [AUROC] 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75–0.92 vs 0.71, 95% CI: 0.62–0.80) and better performance for predicting colectomy [p = 0.02]. The optimal MUC score cut-off value for predicting colectomy, as assessed by the Youden index, was 7.7. Conclusions A superior predictive value was found for transmural vs endoscopic severity for colectomy risk in UC patients.
Ilaria Elena Zais, Alessandro Sirotti, Samuele Iesari, Edoardo Campioli, Andrea Costantino, Serena Delbue, Andrea Collini, Andrea Guarneri, Federico Ambrogi, Roberto Cacciola,et al.
Wiley
AbstractBackgroundHuman‐cytomegalovirus (hCMV) infection involving the gastrointestinal tract represents a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among kidney transplant (KT) recipients (KTRs). Signs and symptoms of the disease are extremely variable. Prompt anti‐viral therapy administration and immunosuppression modification are key factors for optimizing management. However, complex work‐up strategies are generally required to confirm the preliminary diagnosis. Unfortunately, solid evidence and guidelines on this specific topic are not available.We consequently aimed to summarize current knowledge on post‐KT hCMV‐related gastrointestinal disease (hCMV‐GID).MethodsWe conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023399363) about hCMV‐GID in KTRs.ResultsOur systematic review includes 52 case‐reports and ten case‐series, published between 1985 and 2022, collectively reporting 311 cases. The most frequently reported signs and symptoms of hCMV‐GID were abdominal pain, diarrhea, epigastric pain, vomiting, fever, and GI bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy were the primary diagnostic techniques. In most cases, the preliminary diagnosis was confirmed by histology. Information on anti‐viral prophylaxis were extremely limited as much as data on induction or maintenance immunosuppression. Treatment included ganciclovir and/or valganciclovir administration. Immunosuppression modification mainly consisted of mycophenolate mofetil or calcineurin inhibitor minimization and withdrawal. In total, 21 deaths were recorded. Renal allograft‐related outcomes were described for 26 patients only. Specifically, reported events were acute kidney injury (n = 17), transplant failure (n = 5), allograft rejection (n = 4), and irreversible allograft dysfunction (n = 3).ConclusionsThe development of local and national registries is strongly recommended to improve our understanding of hCMV‐GID. Future clinical guidelines should consider the implementation of dedicated diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Andrea Costantino, Marco Michelon, Daniele Noviello, Fabio Salvatore Macaluso, Salvo Leone, Nicole Bonaccorso, Claudio Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, and Flavio Caprioli
MDPI AG
Background: The vaccination status of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should be investigated before starting any treatment, and patients should eventually be vaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Patients with IBD may have suboptimal vaccination rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vaccination coverage, attitude towards vaccinations, and determinants among an Italian cohort of patients with IBD. Methods: AMICI, the Italian IBD patients’ association, sent an anonymous web-based questionnaire in February 2021. Previous vaccination status and patients’ attitudes towards vaccinations were recorded. We examined the factors influencing their attitudes using crude and adjusted odds ratios (adjORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Among the 4039 patients invited, 1252 patients (including 729 women, median age 47.7 [37–58]) completed the questionnaire, with a response rate of 25.3%. Respondents declared being vaccinated against tetanus (74.1%), flu (67.7%; last season), MMR (43.3%), HBV (37.1%), pneumococcus (29.1%), meningitis (20%), HAV (16%), VZV (15.3%), and HPV (7.6%). Complete vaccination history was not remembered by 20.7% of the patients. One thousand one hundred and twelve (88.8%) expressed a positive attitude towards vaccination, 91 (7.3%) were indifferent, and 49 (3.9%) reported being opposed to vaccinations. The belief of a possible return of VPDs with a decline in vaccination coverage rates was the factor most strongly related to a positive attitude towards vaccinations (adjOR 5.67, 95% CI 3.45–9.30, p-value < 0.001). Conclusions: A low vaccination rate against some VPDs was found among a national cohort of patients with IBD, despite a generally positive attitude towards vaccinations.
Elia Fracas, Andrea Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, and Massimiliano Buoli
MDPI AG
Gender differences were identified in the frequency and clinical presentations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and depressive and anxiety disorders, which are more common in IBD patients than in the general population. The present manuscript provides a critical overview of gender differences in the frequency and clinical course of mood and anxiety disorders in IBD patients, with the aim of helping clinicians provide individualized management for patients. All of the included studies found that IBD patients reported a higher frequency of depressive and anxiety disorders than the general population. These findings should encourage healthcare providers to employ validated tools to monitor the mental health of their IBD patients, such as the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). In addition, most studies confirm that women with IBD are more likely than men to develop affective disorders and show that up to 65% of women with IBD have depressive and anxiety disorders. Women with IBD require close mental health monitoring and ultimately a multidisciplinary approach involving mental health professionals. Drug treatment in women should be individualized and medications that may affect mental health (e.g., corticosteroids) should be thoroughly reconsidered. Further data are needed to ensure individualized treatment for IBD patients in a framework of precision medicine.
Vincenza Lombardo, Alice Scricciolo, Andrea Costantino, Luca Elli, Giorgia Legnani, Ángel Cebolla, Luisa Doneda, Federica Mascaretti, Maurizio Vecchi, and Leda Roncoroni
MDPI AG
Introduction and aim: Usually, adherence to the gluten-free diet (GFD) in celiac patients is indirectly assessed through serological analysis, questionnaires, or invasive methods such as intestinal biopsy. The detection of gluten immunogenic peptides in urine (urinary gluten immunogenic peptides—uGIP) is a novel technique that directly evaluates the ingestion of gluten. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of uGIP in the follow-up of celiac disease (CD). Methods: From April 2019 to February 2020, CD patients reporting complete adherence to the GFD were prospectively enrolled but were unaware of the reason for the tests. Urinary GIP, the celiac dietary adherence test (CDAT), symptomatic visual analog scales (VAS), and tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTGA) titres were evaluated. Duodenal histology and capsule endoscopy (CE) were performed when indicated. Results: A total of 280 patients were enrolled. Thirty-two (11.4%) had a positive uGIP test (uGIP+). uGIP+ patients did not show significant differences in demographic parameters, CDAT, or VAS scores. The tTGA+ titre was not related to the positivity of uGIP (14.4% vs. 10.9% in patients with tTGA+ and tTGA−). Regarding histology, 66.7% of the GIP+ patients had atrophy compared to 32.7% of the GIP patients (p-value 0.01). However, the presence of atrophy did not correlate with tTGA. Mucosal atrophy was detected in 29 (47.5%) out of 61 patients by CE. With this method, no noticeable dependence on uGIP results (24 GIP− vs. 5 GIP+) was observed. Conclusions: The single uGIP test was positive in 11% of CD cases referring a correct GFD adherence. Furthermore, uGIP results significantly correlated with the duodenal biopsy, formerly considered the gold standard for assessing CD activity.
Luca Elli, Pietro Soru, Leda Roncoroni, Francesca Gaia Rossi, Valeria Ferla, Luca Baldini, Nicoletta Nandi, Lucia Scaramella, Alice Scricciolo, Alessandro Rimondi,et al.
Elsevier BV
Torsten Kucharzik, Rune Wilkens, Maria-Antonietta D’Agostino, Giovanni Maconi, Manuela Le Bars, Marjolein Lahaye, Ivana Bravatà, Maciej Nazar, Lioudmila Ni, Elena Ercole,et al.
Elsevier BV
Elisabetta Degasperi, Maria Paola Anolli, Sara Colonia Uceda Renteria, Dana Sambarino, Marta Borghi, Riccardo Perbellini, Caroline Scholtes, Floriana Facchetti, Alessandro Loglio, Sara Monico,et al.
Elsevier BV
Tommaso Pessarelli, Andrea Sorge, Luca Elli, and Andrea Costantino
Frontiers Media SA
This review summarizes current knowledge on the role of low-FODMAP diet and gluten-free diet in functional abdominal bloating and distension, an emerging disorder of gut-brain interaction characterized by remarkable costs for healthcare systems and a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life. Ingested food plays a key role in the pathophysiology of disorders of gut-brain interaction as up to 84% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) report food-triggered symptoms. Potential pathogenetic mechanisms of food-related symptoms in these patients are discussed, focusing on bloating and abdominal distension. These mechanisms provide the rationale for dietary treatment in patients with functional abdominal bloating and distension. The role of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) and gluten in functional abdominal bloating and distension is examined. Current literature evaluating the efficacy of the low-FODMAP diet and the gluten-free diet in abdominal bloating and distension is analyzed. Available evidence originates mainly from studies on patients with IBS, since clinical studies on selected cohorts of patients with only functional abdominal bloating and distension have been missing to date. Promising evidence on the potential efficacy of the low-FODMAP diet in functional abdominal bloating and distension is provided by the reduction of the bloating observed in patients with IBS. Regarding the gluten-free diet, there is insufficient evidence to recommend it to reduce bloating and abdominal distension. In conclusion, this review asserts the need for a close collaboration with experts in nutrition to optimize the management of these patients and reduce the risks associated with elimination diets.
Andrea Costantino, Letizia Morlacchi, Maria Francesca Donato, Andrea Gramegna, Elisa Farina, Clara Dibenedetto, Mariarosaria Campise, Matteo Redaelli, Marta Perego, Carlo Alfieri,et al.
MDPI AG
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination hesitancy is a threat as COVID-19 vaccines have reduced both viral transmission and virus-associated mortality rates, particularly in high-risk subgroups. Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are particularly vulnerable, as the underlying causes of their organ failure and the chronic immunosuppression are associated with a lower immune response to COVID-19 vaccines, and with an excessive risk of death due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. We aimed to evaluate COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy and its reasons in a population of SOTRs. Methods: All the SOTRs attending our post-transplant clinics were asked to fill in a vaccination status form with specific validated questions related to their willingness to receive a third vaccine dose. In the case of negative answers, the patients were encouraged to explain the reasons for their refusal. Among the SOTRs (1899), 1019 were investigated (53.7%). Results: Overall, 5.01% (51/1019) of the SOTRs raised concerns regarding the future third dose vaccination. In more detail, hesitancy rates were 3.3% (15/453), 4.2% (7/166), and 7.3% (29/400) among the investigated liver, lung, and kidney transplant recipients, respectively (p = 0.0018). The main reasons for hesitancy were fear of adverse events (30/51, 58.8%) and perceived lack of efficacy (21/51, 41.2%). Conclusions: Full adherence to ongoing or future vaccination campaigns is crucial to prevent, or at least reduce, COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in fragile patients. The identification of the reasons influencing COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in these patients is very important to establish appropriate and targeted patient–doctor communication strategies, and to further implement specific vaccination campaigns.
Andrea Costantino, Tommaso Pessarelli, Marco Vecchiato, Maurizio Vecchi, Guido Basilisco, and Andrea Ermolao
Elsevier BV
Andrea Costantino, Gloria Maria Aversano, Giovanni Lasagni, Veronica Smania, Luisa Doneda, Maurizio Vecchi, Leda Roncoroni, Elide Anna Pastorello, and Luca Elli
Frontiers Media SA
Many patients report symptoms after wheat ingestion experiencing a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Three possible diagnoses have been recognized: celiac disease (CD), wheat allergy (WA), and non-celiac (gluten) wheat sensitivity (NCGS/NCWS). CD is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the small bowel caused by exposure to dietary gluten in genetically predisposed individuals, with a prevalence of approximately 1%. It is characterized by mucosal inflammation and atrophy following exposure to gluten and improvement after gluten withdrawal. Food allergies are immunological responses to a food antigen. WA is the expression of an immunologically mediated process that can be immunoglobulin E (IgE) or non-IgE mediated; its many symptoms include urticaria/angioedema, asthma, rhinitis, and anaphylaxis. NCGS/NCWS is characterized by gastrointestinal and/or extra-intestinal symptoms after ingestion of gluten-containing food in subjects not affected by CD or WA. The aim of this review is to help physicians and nutritionists diagnose the cause of symptoms reported after wheat ingestion, thus avoiding patient frustration, inappropriate testing, and incorrect or missed diagnoses. An algorithm for the diagnostic approach in these patients is provided, to help to diagnose CD, WA, NCGS/NCWS or to identify possible functional disorders as the wheat-sensitive irritable bowel syndrome. A personalized approach, regular follow-up, and the help of a skilled healthcare professional are mandatory for patients with symptoms following wheat ingestion is provided. A gluten-free-diet is often recommended for patients with self-reported gluten/wheat-dependent symptoms; for patients with symptoms similar to those of functional diseases while there is evidence that a low-FODMAP diet could be the first option.
A. Scricciolo, V. Lombardo, L. Elli, K.A. Bascuñán, L. Doneda, F. Rinaldi, D. Pinto, M. Araya, A. Costantino, M. Vecchi,et al.
Elsevier BV
Andrea Costantino, Marco Michelon, Leda Roncoroni, Luisa Doneda, Vincenza Lombardo, Claudio Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, and Luca Elli
MDPI AG
(1) Background: The identification of vaccination status and attitudes towards vaccines among celiac disease (CD) patients is of great importance, but it has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate coverage against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), attitudes towards vaccinations, and its determinants among CD patients. (2) Methods: An anonymous web-based validated questionnaire was sent to a mailing list of CD adult patients. Patients were asked to self-report their previous vaccinations and attitudes towards vaccinations, which were defined as positive, negative, and partially positive/negative. The influencing factors towards vaccinations were investigated, and crude and adjusted odds ratios (AdjORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. (3) Results: The questionnaire was sent to 412 patients, with a response rate of 31.6% (130 patients, 105 women, median age 40 years, interquartile range 36–51). Patients self-reported vaccination against the following diseases: 73.8% tetanus, 42.3% flu, 20% measles, mumps and rubella, 19.2% meningitis, and 16.2% pneumococcus. Thirty-two people (24.6%) did not remember all of their previous vaccinations. In total, 104 (80%) respondents had a positive attitude towards vaccines, 25 (19.2%) a partially positive/negative one, and 1 a negative one. The determinants significantly influencing the positive attitude were being a graduate (AdjORs 7.49) and a belief in the possible return of VPDs with declining vaccination coverage rates (AdjORs 7.42), while the use of complementary and alternative medicines (AdjORs 0.11) and past negative experience (AdjORs 0.16) were associated with a negative attitude. (4) Conclusions: Despite four out of five CD patients showing a strong positive attitude towards vaccinations, one out of five had a partially negative one. Only a minority (16–20%) reported being vaccinated against some VPDs potentially harmful to their CD because of hyposplenism, such as meningitis and pneumococcus. The low vaccination rate against some VPDs, in spite of the 80% of CD patients stating a positive attitude towards vaccination, may be explained in part by patients’ vaccine hesitancy and in part by a possible role of physicians in under-prescribing vaccinations to these patients. These results may be a starting point for developing specific vaccination campaigns to increase vaccination rates against VPDs in CD patients.
Luca Elli, Erica Centorrino, Andrea Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, Stefania Orlando, and Mirella Fraquelli
The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Background/Aims: Capsule enteroscopy (CE) and intestinal ultrasonography (IUS) are techniques that are currently used for investigating small-bowel (SB) diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the main imaging findings and the lesion detection rate (LDR) of CE and IUS in different clinical scenarios involving the SB.Methods: We retrospectively enrolled patients who underwent CE and IUS for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB), complicated celiac disease (CeD), and suspected or known inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We evaluated the LDR of both techniques. The accuracy of IUS was determined using CE as the reference standard.Results: A total of 159 patients (113 female; mean age, 49±19 years) were enrolled. The LDR was 55% and 33% for CE and IUS (p<0.05), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that the LDR of CE was significantly higher than that of IUS in patients with OGIB (62% vs. 14%, p<0.05) and CeD (55% vs. 35%, p<0.05). IUS showed a similar LDR to CE in patients with suspected or known IBD (51% vs. 46%, p=0.83).Conclusions: CE should be preferred in cases of OGIB and CeD, whereas IUS should be considered an early step in the diagnosis and follow-up of IBD even in patients with a proximal SB localization of the disease.
Andrea Costantino, Alessandra Piagnani, Nicoletta Nandi, Valentina Sciola, Marco Maggioni, Francesca Donato, Maurizio Vecchi, Pietro Lampertico, Giovanni Casazza, and Mirella Fraquelli
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Objective Fibrosis is the key prognostic factor in chronic liver disease patients. Liver surface nodularity (LSN) is the ultrasonographic sign with the highest accuracy to detect advanced liver fibrosis. The use of pocket-sized ultrasound devices (PUDs) has been assessed in several clinical settings but never as regards chronic liver disease (CLD) severity. Our study aimed at evaluating the feasibility, reproducibility, and diagnostic accuracy of PUD in LSN identification. Methods We enrolled all the consecutive adults referred for percutaneous liver biopsy. Two independent operators evaluated LSN by PUD; one sonographer used standard ultrasound (US). Transient elastography (TE) and liver biopsy were performed on all the patients. PUD reproducibility was evaluated by Cohen’s k statistic. PUD, standard US, and TE results were compared with histology staging. Results A total of 104 consecutive patients (aged 54 ± 14 years) with mixed-etiology CLD were studied. Assessment by PUD was feasible in all the patients and showed very good inter-observer agreement with Cohen’s k = 0.87 (95% CI 0.72–0.95). The diagnostic accuracy estimates for PUD in diagnosing compensated cirrhosis (F = 4) were 87.5% sensitivity, 76.8% specificity, positive likelihood ratio (LR) 3.78, and negative likelihood ratio (LR-) 0.16, while those for standard US and TE (> 12.5 kPa) were, respectively, 87.5% sensitivity, 72.6% specificity, LR+ 3.2, and LR- 0.17, and 87.5% sensitivity, 90.5% specificity, LR + 9.2, and LR- 0.13. Conclusions PUD reproducibility in assessing LSN was excellent even with operators of different experience. PUD performed very well in excluding advanced CLD. PUD can be used as a first-line tool for screening patients to undergo more invasive techniques, thus shortening the time for clinical decision-making. Key Points • PUD is highly reproducible in assessing the sign of liver surface nodularity. • PUD showed high diagnostic accuracy in excluding the presence of advanced chronic liver disease. • PUD can be used as a first-line tool for screening patients with CLD who should undergo more invasive techniques.
Andrea Costantino, Daniele Noviello, Claudio Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, and Flavio Caprioli
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Andrea Costantino, Daniele Noviello, Francesco Simone Conforti, Marina Aloi, Alessandro Armuzzi, Fabrizio Bossa, Ferdinando Ficari, Salvo Leone, Francesco Manguso, Giammarco Mocci,et al.
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Received for publications: May 1, 2021. Editorial Decision: June 8, 2021 © 2021 Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com. COVID-19 Vaccination Willingness and Hesitancy in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Analysis of Determinants in a National Survey of the Italian IBD Patients’ Association
Leda Roncoroni, Rachele Gori, Luca Elli, Gian Eugenio Tontini, Luisa Doneda, Lorenzo Norsa, Marialaura Cuomo, Vincenza Lombardo, Alice Scricciolo, Flavio Caprioli,et al.
MDPI AG
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) affect the gastrointestinal tract: they include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Each has a different phenotypic spectrum, characterized by gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal manifestations. People living with IBD are very interested in diet, but little is known about the impact of diet on these patients; no guidelines are available yet. In this review, we analyze the dietary patterns of patients with IBD and the approach to the choices of foods both in adults and pediatric patients. Very often, IBD patients report an intentional avoidance of gluten to manage the disease; furthermore, a proportion of IBD patients believe that dairy products worsen their symptoms and that avoidance may help the disease. They have a low compliance with the Mediterranean Diet, which is considered to have potential benefits but is little used in practice. In conclusion, the review underscores the pivotal role of nutritional counselling in IBD patients, and the importance of future clinical studies to evaluate the beneficial effects of dietary recommendations in the management of IBD.
Felice Cinque, Annalisa Cespiati, Rosa Lombardi, Andrea Costantino, Gabriele Maffi, Francesca Alletto, Lucia Colavolpe, Paolo Francione, Giovanna Oberti, Erika Fatta,et al.
MDPI AG
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown dramatically changed people’s lifestyles. Diet, physical activity, and the PNPLA3 gene are known risk factors for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Aim: To evaluate changes in metabolic and hepatic disease in NAFLD patients after the COVID-19 lockdown. Three hundred and fifty seven NAFLD patients were enrolled, all previously instructed to follow a Mediterranean diet (MD). Anthropometric, metabolic, and laboratory data were collected before the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy and 6 months apart, along with ultrasound (US) steatosis grading and information about adherence to MD and physical activity (PA). In 188 patients, PNPLA3 genotyping was performed. After the lockdown, 48% of patients gained weight, while 16% had a worsened steatosis grade. Weight gain was associated with poor adherence to MD (p = 0.005), reduced PA (p = 0.03), and increased prevalence of PNPLA3 GG (p = 0.04). At multivariate analysis (corrected for age, sex, MD, PA, and PNPLA3 GG), only PNPLA3 remained independently associated with weight gain (p = 0.04), which was also associated with worsened glycemia (p = 0.002) and transaminases (p = 0.02). During lockdown, due to a dramatic change in lifestyles, half of our cohort of NAFLD patients gained weight, with a worsening of metabolic and hepatologic features. Interestingly, the PNPLA3 GG genotype nullified the effect of lifestyle and emerged as an independent risk factor for weight gain, opening new perspectives in NAFLD patient care.
Daniele Noviello, Andrea Costantino, Antonio Muscatello, Alessandra Bandera, Dario Consonni, Maurizio Vecchi, and Guido Basilisco
Wiley
BACKGROUND
Gastrointestinal infections represent a risk factor for functional gastrointestinal and somatoform extraintestinal disorders. We investigated the prevalence and relative risk (RR) of gastrointestinal and somatoform symptoms 5 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection compared with a control cohort.
METHODS
One hundred and sixty-four SARS-CoV-2 infected patients and 183 controls responded to an online questionnaire about symptoms and signs during the acute phase of the infection and after 4.8 ± 0.3 months. Presence and severity of gastrointestinal symptoms, somatization, anxiety, and depression were recorded with standardized questionnaires. Stool form and presence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were also recorded. Any association between exposure to infection and symptoms was evaluated by calculating crude and adjusted RR values and score differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
KEY RESULTS
Fever, dyspnea, loss of smell/taste/weight, diarrhea, myalgia, arthralgia, and asthenia were reported by more than 40% of patients during the acute phase. Compared with controls, adjusted RRs for loose stools, chronic fatigue, and somatization were increased after infection: 1.88 (95% CI 0.99-3.54), 2.24 (95% CI 1.48-3.37), and 3.62 (95% CI 1.01-6.23), respectively. Gastrointestinal sequelae were greater in patients with diarrhea during the acute phase.
CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES
Mild gastroenterological symptoms persist 5 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection, in particular in patients reporting diarrhea in the acute phase. Infected patients are at increased risk of chronic fatigue and somatoform disorders, thus supporting the hypothesis that both functional gastrointestinal and somatoform disorders may have a common biological origin.
F. Bossa, M. R. Valvano, L. Vetrone, M. Guerra, L. Lopetuso, S. Carparelli, I. Mignini, F. Cocomazzi, D. Napolitano, A. Costantino,et al.
OBJECTIVE
Telemedicine (TM) has had a powerful impact in recent years, particularly on managing chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Knowing patients' expectations and concerns is essential to increase their confidence in this mode of medical care.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
We interviewed a large cohort of IBD patients enrolled at two Italian tertiary referral centers to investigate their trust in TM.
RESULTS
A total of 376 patients completed the survey and were included in the study: 293 (77.9%) considered TM valuable for managing their disease, and 307 (85%) wanted to have TM service at their center. However, only 99 patients (26.3%) believed that TM guarantees the same level of care as the in-person visit. Among the socio-demographic variables, those independently associated with trust in TM were the higher education qualification (p=0.02) and the level of competence in information and communication technologies (ICT) (p=0.03).
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings highlighted the importance of equipping IBD patients with basic ICT skills to utilize TM services and increase their confidence in ICT with the help of caregivers. Additionally, to improve the perceived value of TM, it will be helpful to use additional tools such as telemonitoring of disease activity using patients' reported outcomes or remote measurement of fecal calprotectin.
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GRANT DETAILS
In 2020: Starting Gran "Bando della ricerca finalizzata anno 2019" Ministero della Salute
Principal Investigator of the project entitled "Oxidative stress biomarkers as clinical indicators in complicated celiac disease", Valide Score 7.5 (eight classified out 256 projects).
In 2019: awarded travel grant from the United European Gastroenterology for the abstract "Diagnostic accuracy
of a pocket-size ultrasound device in indentifying liver surface nodularity for fibrosis staging in chronic liver diseases".
In 2019: 1st classified at the concourse for PhD in Clinical Research at the University of Milan; titled High-throughput
mutation screening of pure T-cell subpopulations as a guide to personalized medicine in celiac patients with a refractory
disease. Total score of 86 points.