Description

Welcome to the third issue of 2005, the main theme of which is the
application of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the diagnosis and
management of upper gastrointestinal disorders. Two excellent,
well targeted articles serve this purpose. Dr Steven Mesenas, a Consultant
Gastroenterologist at Singapore General Hospital, gives us a superb state of
the art account of the uses of EUS in the diagnosis and management of
pancreatic and biliary problems and pertinently delineates the appropriate
use of EUS in relation to ERCP. In the same review he gives us a clear
description of the equipment available along with a concise description of
its applications and provides us with a perspective on training issues. Laura
Doig, an experienced nurse endosonographer from St Thomas Hospital in
London, completes coverage of the theme of EUS for the upper
gastrointestinal tract, with a clear and concise account of the diagnostic
capabilities and use of EUS in the diagnosis and staging of lesions of the
oesophagus and stomach. Both articles are well illustrated with tables and
EUS images and serve both as general updates to anyone with an interest
in gastroenterology as well as a valuable companions to those training in
this new imaging technique.
Dr Despina Papadeli, a gastroenterologist based in Athens, continues
our series on the interphase between gastroenterology with other medical
specialties, by providing a comprehensive review of common
gastroenterological problems in patients with chronic renal disase.
As usual, the issue is completed by two case reports. Drs Williams
Crajkowski and Duane present an unusual case of acute hepatitis from
South Wales which reminds us that sporadic cases of Hepatitis E do occur
in the United Kingdom. Drs Gordon and Hossenbocus present a case of
massive obscure gastrointestinal haemorrhage, the cause of which was
finally elucidated by abdominal computerized tomography a reminder
that although not a first line investigation in such cases, CT should not be
omitted where the diagnosis defies repeated endoscopic examination.
As always I welcome discussion and your comments at my personal email
address.