Database: MEDLINE <1966 to May Week 4 2002> Search Strategy: (Gastrointestinal complaints in sports people) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 exp Gastrointestinal Diseases/ (419154) 2 exp sports/ (42232) 3 1 and 2 (384) 4 limit 3 to english language (304) 5 limit 4 to yr=1996-2002 (114) 6 exp *Gastrointestinal Diseases/ and 5 (68) 7 limit 6 to yr=1998-2002 (48) 8 limit 6 to review (6) 9 from 8 keep 1-6 (6) 10 from 8 keep 2,5-6 (3) 11 7 or 10 (50) 12 from 11 keep 1-50 (50) 13 from 12 keep 1-50 (50) *************************** <1> Unique Identifier 11151937 Medline Identifier 21025255 Authors Nguyen MH. Ernsting KS. Proctor DD. Title Massive variceal bleeding caused by scuba diving. Source American Journal of Gastroenterology. 95(12):3677-8, 2000 Dec. <2> Unique Identifier 10364027 Medline Identifier 99290695 Authors Peters HP. Bos M. Seebregts L. Akkermans LM. van Berge Henegouwen GP. Bol E. Mosterd WL. de Vries WR. Institution Department of Medical Physiology and Sports Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands. Title Gastrointestinal symptoms in long-distance runners, cyclists, and triathletes: prevalence, medication, and etiology. Source American Journal of Gastroenterology. 94(6):1570-81, 1999 Jun. Abstract OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of exercise-related gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and the use of medication for these symptoms among long-distance runners, cyclists, and triathletes, and to determine the relationship of different variables to GI symptoms. METHODS: A mail questionnaire covering the preceding 12 months was sent to 606 well-trained endurance type athletes: 199 runners (114 men and 85 women), 197 cyclists (98 men and 99 women), and 210 triathletes (110 men and 100 women) and sent back by 93%, 88%, and 71% of these groups, respectively. Symptoms were evaluated with respect to the upper (nausea, vomiting, belching, heartburn, chest pain) or lower part of the GI tract (bloating, GI cramps, side ache, urge to defecate, defecation, diarrhea). For statistical analysis, Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher exact test, or Student t test were used. RESULTS: Runners experienced more lower (prevalence 71%) than upper (36%) GI symptoms during exercise. Cyclists experienced both upper (67%) and lower (64%) symptoms. Triathletes experienced during cycling both upper (52%) and lower (45%) symptoms, and during running more lower (79%) than upper (54%) symptoms. Bloating, diarrhea, and flatulence occurred more at rest than during exercise among all subjects. In general, exercise-related GI symptoms were significantly related to the occurrence of GI symptoms during nonexercise periods, age, gender, diet, and years of training. The prevalence of medication for exercise-related GI symptoms was 5%, 6%, and 3% for runners, cyclists, and triathletes, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Long-distance running is mainly associated with lower GI symptoms, whereas cycling is associated with both upper and lower symptoms. Triathletes confirm this pattern during cycling and running. The prevalence of medication for exercise-related GI symptoms is lower in the Netherlands in comparison with other countries, in which a prevalence of 10-18% was reported. More research on the possible predisposition of athletes for GI symptoms during exercise is needed. <3> Unique Identifier 9820403 Medline Identifier 99036289 Authors Lucas W. Schroy PC 3rd. Institution Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Massachusetts 02118, USA. Title Reversible ischemic colitis in a high endurance athlete. Source American Journal of Gastroenterology. 93(11):2231-4, 1998 Nov. Abstract Ischemic colitis is a rare but serious consequence of long distance running. Herein we report a well documented case of severe ischemic colitis in an elite class marathon athlete in whom an extensive diagnostic evaluation, including magnetic resonance angiography and hypercoagulation profile, was performed. Our results suggest that physiologic shunting due to splanchnic vasoconstriction, intravascular volume depletion due to chronic dehydration, and possibly some element of hypercoaguability due to secondary polycythemia may have been causative factors. The patient's full recovery, both clinically and endoscopically, with conservative treatment and ability to resume a vigorous training schedule further support a reversible nonocclusive etiology. <4> Unique Identifier 10086654 Medline Identifier 99184458 Authors Loudon CP. Corroll V. Butcher J. Rawsthorne P. Bernstein CN. Institution Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation Studies and Department of Internal Medicine, University of manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. Title The effects of physical exercise on patients with Crohn's disease. Source American Journal of Gastroenterology. 94(3):697-703, 1999 Mar. Abstract OBJECTIVE: Despite the suggested benefits of exercise training in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, few data exist regarding the safety of exercise in Crohn's disease and whether or not exercise may have beneficial effects on patients' health. We performed a pilot study to evaluate the effects of regular light-intensity exercise on sedentary patients with Crohn's disease. METHODS: Sedentary patients with inactive or mildly active Crohn's disease were eligible for the study. A thriceweekly, 12-wk walking program was supervised, although if subjects could not attend the group walking sessions they were allowed to walk on their own. Logbooks of performance were maintained, and individual exercise heart rate goals were established. Measures performed at baseline and at study completion included the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Stress Index, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Quality of Life Score, the Harvey and Bradshaw Simple Index, the Canadian Aerobic Fitness Test, VO2 Max, and body mass index (BMI). RESULTS: Twelve subjects completed the 12-wk exercise program. Subjects walked an average of 2.9 sessions/wk, at an average of 32.6 min/session, and for an average distance of 3.5 km/session. Statistically significant improvements at study end were seen by all measures, with a trend toward reduction in BMI. No patient's disease flared during the study. CONCLUSIONS: Sedentary patients with Crohn's disease can tolerate low-intensity exercise of moderate duration without an exacerbation of symptoms. Twelve weeks of walking was adequate to elicit psychological and physical improvements and did not adversely affect disease activity. <5> Unique Identifier 10327928 Medline Identifier 99259912 Authors Ferron SM. Title Occult gastrointestinal bleeding with anorexia nervosa. Source American Journal of Psychiatry. 156(5):801, 1999 May. <6> Unique Identifier 11576991 Medline Identifier 21460353 Authors Bass D. Title Duodenal haematoma occurs in children with bicycle injuries. Source BMJ. 323(7315):754-5, 2001 Sep 29. <7> Unique Identifier 10027060 Medline Identifier 99151122 Authors Thomas RH. Thomas GO. Title Painful incarcerated hernia following a rugby union lineout. Source British Journal of Sports Medicine. 33(1):52-3, 1999 Feb. Abstract Discussion related to hernias in sport usually involves the diagnosis and treatment of chronic musculotendinous groin disruption. A case of acute trauma in an incarcerated inguinal hernia, occurring in a rugby union player during a lineout, is presented. The injury arose as a result of a change in the laws of the game. <8> Unique Identifier 9631220 Medline Identifier 98294681 Authors Orchard JW. Read JW. Neophyton J. Garlick D. Institution School of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. Title Groin pain associated with ultrasound finding of inguinal canal posterior wall deficiency in Australian Rules footballers. Source British Journal of Sports Medicine. 32(2):134-9, 1998 Jun. Abstract OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence of inguinal canal posterior wall deficiency (sports hernia) in professional Australian Rules footballers using an ultrasound technique and correlate the results with the clinical symptom of groin pain. METHODS: Thirty five professional Australian footballers with and without groin pain were investigated blind with a dynamic high resolution ultrasound technique for presence of posterior wall deficiency. RESULTS: Fourteen players had a history of significant recent groin pain and ten of these were found to have bilateral inguinal canal posterior wall deficiency (p < 0.01). The relative risk for a history of groin pain with bilateral deficiency was 8.0 (95% confidence interval 1.73 to 37.1). Groin pain was also found to be associated with increasing age (p < 0.01) which was an independent risk factor. Surgical, clinical, and ultrasound follow up for players who underwent hernia repair confirmed the validity of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic ultrasound examination is able to detect inguinal canal posterior wall deficiency in young males with no clinical signs of hernia. This condition is very prevalent in professional Australian Rules footballers, including some who are asymptomatic. There was a correlation between bilateral deficiency and groin pain, although the temporal relationship between the clinical and ultrasound findings is not established by the current study. Ultrasound shows promise as a diagnostic tool in athletes with chronic groin pain who are considered possible candidates for hernia repair. <9> Unique Identifier 10372020 Medline Identifier 99300608 Authors Casey P. Casey MT. Institution Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS. Title Simultaneous pyloric and colonic obstruction associated with hiatus hernia in a weightlifter: a case report. Source Canadian Journal of Surgery. 42(3):220-2, 1999 Jun. Abstract Hiatus hernia is usually attributed to conditions that cause a chronic increase in intra-abdominal pressure such as multiple pregnancies and obesity. A 30-year-old man, a weightlifter, had a massive hiatus hernia causing both high and low gastrointestinal obstruction but no involvement of the gastroesophageal junction or fundus. The onset of the obstruction is attributed to an extreme increase in intra-abdominal pressure caused by the action of lifting weights. <10> Unique Identifier 10463963 Medline Identifier 99393664 Authors Tsang J. Ryan F. Institution University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. jtsang@interchange.ubc.ca Title Delayed diaphragmatic herniation masquerading as a complicated parapneumonic effusion. Source Canadian Respiratory Journal. 6(4):361-6, 1999 Jul-Aug. Abstract Injury to the diaphragm following blunt or penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma is not uncommon. Recognition of this important complication of trauma continues to be a challenge because of the lack of specific clinical and plain radiographic features, the frequent presence of other serious injuries and the potential for delayed presentation. Delayed diaphragmatic herniation often presents with catastrophic bowel obstruction or strangulation. Early recognition of diaphragmatic injury is required to avoid this potentially lethal complication. The case of a 35-year-old man with a history of a knife wound to the left flank 15 years previously, who presented with unexplained acute hypoxemic respiratory failure and a unilateral exudative pleural effusion that was refractory to tube thoracostomy drainage, is reported. After admission to hospital, he developed gross dilation of his colon; emergency laparotomy revealed an incarcerated colonic herniation into the left hemithorax. Interesting clinical features of this patient's case included the patient's hobby of weightlifting, a persistently deviated mediastinum despite drainage of the pleural effusion and deceptive pleural fluid biochemical indices. <11> Unique Identifier 10717609 Medline Identifier 20183509 Authors Ramsey SD. Andersen MR. Etzioni R. Moinpour C. Peacock S. Potosky A. Urban N. Institution Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA. Title Quality of life in survivors of colorectal carcinoma. Source Cancer. 88(6):1294-303, 2000 Mar 15. Abstract BACKGROUND: Colon carcinoma is a common malignancy that accounts for a substantial share of all cancer-related morbidity and mortality. However, little is known with regard to general and disease specific quality of life in survivors of colorectal carcinoma, particularly from communitybased samples of cases across stage and survival times from diagnosis. METHODS: Subjects with colorectal carcinoma were recruited from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry. Subjects completed two self-administered surveys: the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Scales for Colorectal Cancer (FACT-C) and the Health Utilities Index (HUI) Mark III. RESULTS: One hundred seventy-three respondents (average age: 70.4 years, 71.4% female) completed the survey. In the first 3 years after diagnosis, quality of life was lower and varied substantially among respondents. After 3 years, respondents in all TNM stages of disease except Stage IV reported a relatively uniform and high quality of life. Pain, functional well-being, and social well-being were affected most substantially across all stages and times from diagnosis. Low income status was associated with worse outcomes for pain, ambulation, and social and emotional well-being. Only emotional well-being scores improved significantly over time in both surveys. CONCLUSIONS: Those individuals who achieve a long term remission from colorectal carcinoma may experience a relatively high quality of life, although deficits remain for several areas, particularly in those of low socioeconomic status. Sampling design may have excluded the most severely ill patients. Copyright 2000 American Cancer Society. <12> Unique Identifier 9448949 Medline Identifier 98110437 Authors Lacroix VJ. Kinnear DG. Mulder DS. Brown RA. Institution Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Title Lower abdominal pain syndrome in national hockey league players: a report of 11 cases. Source Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine. 8(1):5-9, 1998 Jan. Abstract PURPOSE: Groin injuries are a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in sports medicine. The aim of this review is to describe the clinical and surgical findings associated with an atypical lower abdominal pain syndrome occurring in elite ice hockey players. CASE SUMMARIES: Eleven professional ice hockey players from various National Hockey League teams were referred to the Montreal General Hospital between 1989 and 1996, suffering from atypical refractory pain and paraesthesia in the lower abdomen. Despite the use of conventional investigative procedures such as physical examination, ultrasound, bone scan, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging scan, preoperative findings were consistently negative. Operative findings revealed varying degrees of tearing of the external oblique aponeurosis and external oblique muscle associated with ilioinguinal nerve entrapment. Repair of the external oblique tear, ablation of the ilioinguinal nerve, followed by a 12-week planned course of physiotherapy allowed all to return to professional ice hockey careers. DISCUSSION: While soft tissue injuries are the most common cause of groin pain in the athlete, tears of the external oblique aponeurosis and superficial inguinal ring have rarely been cited as a consistent cause of lower abdominal pain in athletes. Inguinal nerve entrapment is also rare in patients without a history of previous lower abdominal surgery. RELEVANCE: These 11 cases emphasize the importance of including another diagnostic possibility in the differential diagnosis of chronic overuse injuries of the lower abdomen. <13> Unique Identifier 10442629 Medline Identifier 99369233 Authors Archer MC. Title Use of oral creatine to enhance athletic performance and its potential side effects. [letter; comment.]. Comments Comment on: Clin J Sport Med. 1998 Oct;8(4):286-97 ; 9884793, Comment on: Clin J Sport Med. 1998 Oct;8(4):298-304 ; 9884794 Source Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine. 9(2):119, 1999 Apr. <14> Unique Identifier 10600658 Medline Identifier 20069285 Authors Jeukendrup AE. Vet-Joop K. Sturk A. Stegen JH. Senden J. Saris WH. Wagenmakers AJ. Institution Department of Human Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. A.E.Jeukendrup@bham.ac.uk Title Relationship between gastro-intestinal complaints and endotoxaemia, cytokine release and the acute-phase reaction during and after a longdistance triathlon in highly trained men. Source Clinical Science. 98(1):47-55, 2000 Jan. Abstract The aim of the present study was to establish whether gastro-intestinal (GI) complaints observed during and after ultra-endurance exercise are related to gut ischaemia-associated leakage of endotoxins [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] into the circulation and associated cytokine production. Therefore we collected blood samples from 29 athletes before, immediately after, and 1, 2 and 16 h after a long-distance triathlon for measurement of LPS, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 (IL6). As the cytokine response would trigger an acute-phase response, characteristic variables of these responses were also measured, along with creatine kinase (CK) to obtain an indicator of muscle damage. There was a high incidence (93% of all participants) of GI symptoms; 45% reported severe complaints and 7% of the participants abandoned the race because of severe GI distress. Mild endotoxaemia (5-15 pg/ml) was evident in 68% of the athletes immediately after the race, as also indicated by a reduction in IgG anti-LPS levels. In addition, we observed production of IL-6 (27-fold increase immediately after the race), leading to an acutephase response (20-fold increase in C-reactive protein and 12% decrease in pre-albumin 16 h after the race). The extent of endotoxaemia was not correlated with the GI complaints or the IL-6 response, but did show a correlation with the elevation in C-reactive protein (r(s) 0.389; P=0.037). Creatine kinase levels were increased significantly immediately post-race, and increased further in the follow-up period. Creatine kinase levels did not correlate with those of either IL-6 or C-reactive protein. It is therefore concluded that LPS does enter the circulation after ultra-endurance exercise and may, together with muscle damage, be responsible for the increased cytokine response and hence GI complaints in these athletes. <15> Unique Identifier 11022390 Medline Identifier 20476964 Authors Stafford R. Neville G. Towner C. McCall B. Institution Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit, Coopers Plains, Queensland. russell_stafford@health.qld.gov.au Title A community outbreak of Cryptosporidium infection associated with a swimming pool complex. Source Communicable Diseases Intelligence. 24(8):236-9, 2000 Aug. Abstract A case-control study was conducted to investigate the cause of a sudden increase in cases of cryptosporidiosis notified to the Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit from January to March 1998. Fifty-two eligible cases were identified over a three-week period early in 1998. Thirty-one of these cases and 21 control subjects participated in the study. Swimming in the 2 weeks before onset of illness was identified as a likely risk factor for cryptosporidiosis infection (OR 3.1, CI 0.8-12.6, P = 0.06). Analysis of swimming pool attendance identified swimming at Pool Complex A as a significant risk factor for the acquisition of cryptosporidiosis (OR 8.9, CI 1.5-67.4, P = 0.004). No other potential risk factors were significantly associated with illness. The detection of cryptosporidium oocysts in three of the four pools at Pool Complex A supported the findings of the case-control study. As a response to this outbreak, Queensland Health has developed a Code of Practice outlining measures for the control and prevention of future outbreaks of swimming poolassociated cryptosporidiosis and/or giardiasis. <16> Unique Identifier 11828558 Medline Identifier 21686027 Authors Petri NM. Vranjkovic-Petri L. Institution Aras N. Druzijanic N. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Department, Naval Medical Institute, P.O. 196 (HRM), 21000 Split, Croatia. nadan.petri@morh.hr Title Gastric rupture in a diver due to rapid ascent. Source Croatian Medical Journal. 43(1):42-4, 2002 Feb. Abstract A 37-year-old, experienced female diver developed gastric rupture due to rapid ascent from a depth of 37 meters. The incident was preceded by a heavy meal, intake of soda beverages, swallowing of air and water under water, and panic. Sharp abdominal pain was present immediately after surfacing and afterwards. Full abdominal distension developed within two hours after the ascent. No other diving-related pathology was found. Surgery was performed around three hours after the accident and revealed pneumoperitoneum, gastric rupture, gastric content in the abdomen cavity, and signs of acute peritonitis. On surgery, a 4-cm rupture of the lesser curvature was found and sutured. The patient was discharged eight days after the event. <17> Unique Identifier 9747762 Medline Identifier 98418534 Authors Furtado C. Adak GK. Stuart JM. Wall PG. Evans HS. Casemore DP. Institution PHLS Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, London, UK. Title Outbreaks of waterborne infectious intestinal disease in England and Wales, 1992-5. Source Epidemiology & Infection. 121(1):109-19, 1998 Aug. Abstract Following the introduction of an improved surveillance system for infectious intestinal disease outbreaks in England and Wales, the Public Health Laboratory Service Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre received reports of 26 outbreaks between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 1995 in which there was evidence for waterborne transmission of infection. In these 26 outbreaks, 1756 laboratory confirmed cases were identified of whom 69 (4%) were admitted to hospital. In 19 outbreaks, illness was associated with the consumption of drinking water from public supplies (10 outbreaks) or private supplies (9 outbreaks). The largest outbreak consisted of 575 cases. In 4 of the remaining 7 outbreaks, illness was associated with exposure to swimming pool water. Cryptosporidium was identified as the probable causative organism in all 14 outbreaks associated with public water supplies and swimming pools. Campylobacter was responsible for most outbreaks associated with private water supplies. This review confirms a continuing risk of cryptosporidiosis from chlorinated water supplies in England and Wales, and reinforces governmental advice to water utilities that water treatment processes should be rigorously applied to ensure effective particle removal. High standards of surveillance are important for prompt recognition of outbreaks and institution of control measures. As microbiological evidence of water contamination may be absent or insufficient to implicate a particular water supply, a high standard of epidemiological investigation is recommended in all outbreaks of suspected waterborne disease. <18> Unique Identifier 10098778 Medline Identifier 99196414 Authors Paunio M. Pebody R. Keskimaki M. Kokki M. Ruutu P. Oinonen S. Vuotari V. Siitonen A. Lahti E. Leinikki P. Institution University of Helsinki, Department of Public Health, Mannerheimintie, Finland. Title Swimming-associated outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7. Source Epidemiology & Infection. 122(1):1-5, 1999 Feb. Abstract In 1997 the first outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections involving 14 cases occurred in Finland. A case was defined as a resident of Alavus with an episode of diarrhoea between 5 and 17 July 1997, and from whom E. coli O157:H7 was isolated from stool. The investigation included case searching and a population-based case control study. Five primary and eight symptomatic secondary cases of E. coli O157:H7 illness were detected. In the 10 days before the outbreak, all 5 primary patients (aged 3-8 years), but only 6 of 32 population controls from the same age range (Fisher's test, P < 0.001) and 4 of 10 sibling controls (P < 0.05) had visited (but had not necessarily bathed in) a shallow beach popular among young children. Four out of 5 primary cases had remained within 5 m of the beach while swimming and had swallowed lake water compared to 1 of 5 population controls. These analytical epidemiologic findings incriminated fresh lake water as the vehicle of E. coli O157:H7 transmission. <19> Unique Identifier 11467796 Medline Identifier 21360426 Authors Puech MC. McAnulty JM. Lesjak M. Shaw N. Heron L. Watson JM. Institution Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Westmead Hospital, NSW, Australia. Title A statewide outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in New South Wales associated with swimming at public pools. Source Epidemiology & Infection. 126(3):389-96, 2001 Jun. Abstract From December 1997 to April 1998, 1060 laboratory-confirmed cryptosporidiosis cases were reported in New South Wales, Australia. In a case-control study, compared with 200 controls, the 100 cases were younger (mean age 42 versus 71 years; P < 0.0001), more likely to report swimming at a public pool (59% versus 38%; adjusted OR and 95% CI = 27; 1.4-5.1) and swimming in a dam, river or lake (OR = 48; 1.1-20.3) but less likely to report drinking bottled water (OR = 0.4; 0.2-0.9). In subgroup analyses, in rural areas illness was associated mainly with contact with another person with diarrhoea, and in urban areas illness was associated with swimming in a public pool. Cryptosporidium oocysts were more commonly detected in pools to which at least two notified cases had swum (P = 004). Outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis can be prolonged, involve multiple pools and be difficult to control. <20> Unique Identifier 11564961 Medline Identifier 21448508 Authors Choi SC. Choi SJ. Kim JA. Kim TH. Nah YH. Yazaki E. Evans DF. Institution Department of Gastroenterology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine and Wonkwang Health Science College, Iksan, Korea. Title The role of gastrointestinal endoscopy in long-distance runners with gastrointestinal symptoms. Source European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 13(9):1089-94, 2001 Sep. Abstract BACKGROUND: Exercise-related gastrointestinal symptoms are not uncommon among athletes. The occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding has been reported, especially in long-distance runners. We studied gastrointestinal mucosal damage, using gastrointestinal endoscopy, in competitive long-distance runners. Gastrointestinal blood loss and anaemia before and after running were also assessed. METHODS: Sixteen competitive long-distance runners (all men; age range 16-19 years) participated in the study. All runners completed a symptom questionnaire prior to a 20 km race. Stool occult blood and haematological studies (haemoglobin, haematocrit, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity [TIBC] and ferritin) were performed before and immediately after the race. Gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed to assess macroscopic changes. Colonoscopy was also performed on the patients who had positive stool occult blood before or after the race. RESULTS: Gastrointestinal symptoms were frequently experienced by the runners. Gastritis (n = 16), oesophagitis (n = 6) and gastric ulcer (n = 1) were found at gastroscopy. Colonoscopy was performed on four patients who had positive stool occult blood. One had multiple erosions at the splenic flexure and one had a rectal polyp. Five runners had anaemia, and all of these had at least one endoscopic lesion (three gastritis, two oesophagitis and one multiple erosion at the splenic flexure). There were significant changes in the following haematological parameters after the race: iron (decreased, P = 0.02), ferritin (decreased, P = 0.001) and TIBC (increased, P = 0.00005). CONCLUSIONS: Gastrointestinal symptoms and gastrointestinal mucosal damage are prevalent among long-distance runners. Prior to treatment, gastrointestinal endoscopy should be considered in long-distance runners with gastrointestinal symptoms and/or anaemia. <21> Unique Identifier 10532269 Medline Identifier 20000069 Authors Pomberger G. Hallwirth U. Pumberger W. Horcher E. Institution Department of Surgery, University of Vienna, Medical School, Austria/Europe. Title Short-bowel syndrome associated with subtotal necrosis of small intestine after rectal trauma. Source European Journal of Pediatric Surgery. 9(4):251-2, 1999 Aug. Abstract We report on a 4-year-old girl who experienced rectal trauma during swimming, sitting on an uncovered draining valve in the swimming pool. This resulted in a powerful suction effect on her rectum, followed by rupture of the sigmoid colon and evisceration of the small intestine. Laparotomy showed a near complete necrosis of the small bowel because of thrombotic lesions and wall lacerations of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). A subtotal bowel removal associated with a jejuno-ileostoma was carried out, a total length of about 35 cm of the small intestine could be left in situ. Parenteral nutrition was stopped after eight months. At the moment defecation takes place 2-3 times a day, growth and weight gain are quite normal. <22> Unique Identifier 10908752 Medline Identifier 20370868 Authors Cullinane DC. Institution Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Department of Surgery, Division of Gastrointestinal and General Surgery, 200 First Street, SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. Title Incarcerated, strangulated handlebar hernia. Source Injury. 31(7):551-3, 2000 Sep. <23> Unique Identifier 10404059 Medline Identifier 99352334 Authors Tang R. Wang JY. Lo SK. Hsieh LL. Institution Colorectal Section, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Medical Center, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan. Title Physical activity, water intake and risk of colorectal cancer in Taiwan: a hospital-based case-control study. Source International Journal of Cancer. 82(4):484-9, 1999 Aug 12. Abstract The age-adjusted mortality rates of colorectal cancer have been rising in Taiwan over the past 2 decades, and colorectal cancer is now the third leading cause of cancer mortality in the country. We conducted a hospital-based case-control study to clarify the nature of the association between physical activity, water intake and colorectal-cancer risk in Taiwan. A total of 163 subjects (aged 33-80 years) with histologically confirmed primary colorectal cancer and 163 hospital controls were enrolled during 1992. Dietary intake, physical activity and other lifestyle activities were assessed using a comprehensive foodfrequency and lifestyle-activity questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic-regression analysis. A strong inverse dose-response relation between increased water intake and rectal cancer was found among men after adjustment for other risk factors (p for trend = 0.0005). The OR for rectal cancer among men in the highest tertile of water intake was 0.08 (95% CI, 0.02-0.35) compared with that among men in the lowest tertile (OR = 1). Similar but not significant trends were seen among women (p = 0.29). The OR for colon cancer among men with active leisuretime physical activity was 0.19 (95% CI, 0.05-0.77) times that among sedentary men (p for trend = 0.03). However, physical activity was not associated with colon-cancer risk among women (p = 0.48). No differences in the amount of water intake were found related to level of physical activity. These findings add to the evidence that leisure-time activity may reduce colon-cancer risk, not only in high-risk but also in low-risk populations, and support the potential beneficial effect of increased water intake in reducing colorectal-cancer risk. Copyright 1999 WileyLiss, Inc. <24> Unique Identifier 9602415 Medline Identifier 98265125 Authors van Asperen IA. Medema G. Institution Borgdorff MW. Sprenger MJ. Havelaar AH. Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands. Title Risk of gastroenteritis among triathletes in relation to faecal pollution of fresh waters. Source International Journal of Epidemiology. 27(2):309-15, 1998 Apr. Abstract BACKGROUND: We conducted a prospective cohort study among endurance athletes to investigate the effects of microbiological water quality on the risk of gastroenteritis after bathing in fresh waters that meet current water quality standards. We aimed to establish quantitative relationships, in order to evaluate current bathing water standards. METHODS: The study was spread over two summers, during which 827 triathletes (swimmers) in seven Olympic distance triathlons and 773 participants in 15 run-bike-runs (non-swimming controls) participated. Intensive water quality monitoring was used to assess exposure to faecal indicator organisms and detailed questionnaires were used to collect data on the occurrence of health complaints and potential confounding factors. RESULTS: The microbiological water quality at the time of the triathlons met current Dutch and European bathing water standards. Dependent on the case definition studied, gastroenteritis developed in 0.4-5.2% of swimmers and 0.1-2.1% of non-swimmers in the week following exposure (odds ratio [OR] = 1.6-2.3). Attack rates and burden of disease varied with the case definition used. Among swimmers, the attack rate of gastroenteritis was significantly increased when the geometric mean concentration of thermotolerant coliforms in the water at the time of exposure was > or = 220/100 ml or the geometric mean concentration of Escherichia coli was > or = 355/100 ml (OR comparing high versus low exposure 2.9-4.7 dependent on the case definition studied). Thermotolerant coliform concentrations at these triathlons ranged from 100/100 ml (the EU guide level) to 960/100 ml (the EU imperative level is 2000/100 ml). Below the threshold levels attack rates were comparable with attack rates among non-swimmers. A relation with other indicators of faecal pollution was not observed. CONCLUSIONS: We observed that swimming in fresh waters that met the European imperative level for thermotolerant coliforms but failed the European guide level was associated with a significant risk of gastroenteritis among triathletes. This means that the current European imperative level for thermotolerant coliforms provides insufficient protection to gastrointestinal illness for those who are comparable with triathletes. <25> Unique Identifier 9563686 Medline Identifier 98223175 Authors Pruss A. Institution World Health Organization, Urban Environmental Health, Division of Operational Support in Environmental Health, Geneva, Switzerland. Title Review of epidemiological studies on health effects from exposure to recreational water. [Review] [46 refs] Source International Journal of Epidemiology. 27(1):1-9, 1998 Feb. Abstract BACKGROUND: In order to facilitate the setting of guidelines, this review article evaluates the health risks caused by poor microbiological quality of recreational natural water. METHODS: Studies on uncontrolled waters, such as sea, lakes and rivers were considered in this review through MEDLINE and WHO resources. Out of the 37 studies identified, 22 were reviewed because they addressed associations of interest and fulfilled the validity criteria. RESULTS: Most studies reported a doserelated increase of health risk in swimmers with an increase in the indicator-bacteria count in recreational waters. Relative risk (RR) values for swimming in polluted water versus clean water were often significant (usually 1.0 < RR < 3.0). The indicator microorganisms that correlate best with health outcomes were enterococci/faecal streptococci for both marine and freshwater, and Escherichia coli for freshwater. In both marine and freshwater, increased risk of gastro-intestinal symptoms was reported for water quality values ranging from only a few indicator counts/100 ml to about 30 indicator counts/100 ml. These values are low compared with the water qualities frequently encountered in coastal recreational waters. Studies which showed a higher threshold for increased risk and case-rate values in some countries may suggest immunity due to endemicity or a lower pathogen-to-indicator ratio in the natural waters. CONCLUSIONS: The review strongly suggests a causal doserelated relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and recreational water quality measured by bacterial indicator counts. [References: 46] <26> Unique Identifier 10452229 Medline Identifier 99379298 Authors Buchman AL. O'Brien W. Ou CN. Rognerud C. Alvarez M. Dennis K. Ahn C. Institution Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Texas Houston Health Science Center, USA. abuchman@heart-med.uth.tmc.edu Title The effect of arginine or glycine supplementation on gastrointestinal function, muscle injury, serum amino acid concentrations and performance during a marathon run. Source International Journal of Sports Medicine. 20(5):315-21, 1999 Jul. Abstract Gastrointestinal bleeding and increased intestinal permeability have been observed in marathon runners. We sought to determine if L-arginine would be useful for prevention of these complications. Twenty-three runners were randomized to receive L-arginine (A) or glycine (placebo) (G), 10 grams 3 times daily for 14 days prior to the 1997 HoustonMethodist Marathon. Serum, stool hemoccults and lactulose:mannitol permeabilities were obtained at baseline, immediately after completion of the marathon and approximately 48 hours later. Runners rated their symptoms of nausea and vomiting, belching and indigestion, abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and extremity pain on a 1-5 scale of increasing severity. The L:M was unchanged in either group during the three collections. Occult bleeding occurred in 8%/20% in A and G groups, respectively, p = NS) immediately post-marathon. No runners had occult bleeding 48 hours post-race. Gastrointestinal symptom scores were minimal to nonexistent. Extremity pain scores were similar for groups A and G (2.11.4 and 2.81.6, respectively, (p = NS). Fluid intake was similar between both groups (18751547 vs. 1506970 ml, p = NS). Serum amylase was normal at baseline and remained virtually unchanged. Serum lipase was normal at baseline and immediately post-race in both groups, but increased at 48 hours post-race (82.234.3 to 121.553.3 mg/dl [A], p = 0.02 and 114.355.7 to 181.9162.2 mg/dl [G], p = 0.09). CPK increased significantly and similarly in both groups immediately post-race, and even more dramatically 48 hours post-race (130.3130.8 to 738.8902.9, p = 0.007 to 1966.53.166.0 mg/dl [A] and 140.977.9 to 863.0772.3, p = 0.003 to 561910636.8mg/dl [G]). Modest post-race decreases were seen in most serum amino acids in both groups. Finish times were longer than predicted (2321 and 97 min for A and G groups, respectively, p = 0.049). Our study failed to show a clear benefit of arginine supplementation for the prevention of intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury associated with endurance running, but either a detrimental affect on performance with arginine, or enhanced performance with glycine. Skeletal muscle injury was unaffected by arginine or glycine supplementation. The delayed increase in serum lipase suggests mild pancreatic injury, affected by either arginine or glycine supplementation. <27> Unique Identifier 9570057 Medline Identifier 98231576 Authors Hunter JD. Roobottom CA. Bryson PJ. Brown C. Institution Directorate of Imaging, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK. Title Conservative management of gastric rupture following scuba diving. Source Journal of Accident & Emergency Medicine. 15(2):116-7, 1998 Mar. Abstract Gastric rupture is an uncommon surgical problem which normally presents with an acute abdomen and peritonism. An unusual case following underwater ascent and its conservative management is presented. <28> Unique Identifier 10372935 Medline Identifier 99300150 Authors Smith AB. Dickerman RD. McGuire CS. East JW. McConathy WJ. Pearson HF. Institution Department of Surgery, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth 76107-2699, USA. Title Pressure-overload-induced sliding hiatal hernia in power athletes. Source Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. 28(4):352-4, 1999 Jun. Abstract Sliding hiatal hernias are a common condition thought to occur with increasing age secondary to a degenerative process. The incidence of sliding hiatal hernias in the general population is 0.5%. Although the prevalence in the Western world is thought to be significantly higher, with approximately 60% of geriatric patients in North America having a hiatal hernia on radiologic studies. Thus, the primary etiology of the sliding hiatal hernia is thought to be degeneration of the phrenoesophageal ligament. Most hiatal hernias occurring in young adults are idiopathic. There has been speculation of a stress-induced hiatal hernia from repeated episodes of elevated intra-abdominal pressure, and to date there is one report of a pressure-overload-induced hiatal hernia occurring in an elite body builder. The prevalence of hiatal hernia in young male power athletes has yet to be examined. Therefore, we examined eight male elite power athletes and seven male non-weightlifters, matched for age, via fluoroscopy with barium swallow to test the hypothesis that pressure overload can induce hiatal hernias in young adults. <29> Unique Identifier 9412919 Medline Identifier 98074399 Authors Dickerman RD. McConathy WJ. Smith AB. Institution Department of Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth 76107-2699, USA. Title Can pressure overload cause sliding hiatal hernia? A case report and review of the literature. [Review] [29 refs] Source Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. 25(1):352-3, 1997 Jul. Abstract We describe a hiatal hernia of moderate size in a 31-year-old competitive bodybuilder to raise the question of whether such hernias are more likely in young elite resistance-trained athletes as a consequence of attempts to increase intra-abdominal pressure and thus decrease the strain on the lumbar spine. [References: 29] <30> Unique Identifier 11694361 Medline Identifier 21551299 Authors Grover JK. Adiga G. Vats V. Rathi SS. Institution Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, 110029, New Delhi, India. jkgrover@hotmail.com Title Extracts of Benincasa hispida prevent development of experimental ulcers. Source Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 78(2-3):159-64, 2001 Dec. Abstract Benincasa hispida (B. hispida) is recommended in Ayurveda for the management of peptic ulcers. Therefore, anti-ulcerogenic activity of different extracts of B. hispida (fresh juice, supernatant and residue fraction of centrifuged juice, alcoholic and petroleum ether extract) were studied in aspirin plus restraint, swimming stress, indomethacin plus histamine and serotonin-induced ulcers in rats and mice. The oral feeding of different doses of the extract significantly reduced the ulcer index produced by various ulcerogens. The anti-ulcerogenic effect was dose-dependent in stress induced model of ulcer and not in other models. B. hispida probably has a CNS component in prevention of stress induced ulceration. However, antihistaminic, anti-cholinergic effects and prevention of disturbance in gastric micro-circulation as possible modes of action cannot be ruled out. Chronic toxicity studies carried out for 3 months revealed no deleterious effect of fresh juice of B. hispida on various hematological and biochemical parameters studied. Thus, extracts of B. hispida may be considered to be a drug of natural origin possessing anti-ulcer activity. <31> Unique Identifier 10204621 Medline Identifier 99219315 Authors Maemura T. Yamaguchi Y. Yukioka T. Matsuda H. Shimazaki S. Institution Department of Traumatology and Critical Care Medicine, Kyorin University, Tokyo, Japan. Title Laparoscopic drainage of an intramural duodenal hematoma. Source Journal of Gastroenterology. 34(1):119-22, 1999 Feb. Abstract A 21-year-old man was admitted with vomiting and abdominal pain 3 days after sustaining blunt abdominal trauma by being tackled in a game of American football. A diagnosis of intramural hematoma of the duodenum was made using computed tomography and upper gastrointestinal tract contrast radiography. The hematoma caused obstructive jaundice by compressing the common bile duct. The contents of the hematoma were laparoscopically drained. A small perforation was then found in the duodenal wall. The patient underwent laparotomy and repair of the injury. Laparoscopic surgery can be used as definitive therapy in this type of abdominal trauma. <32> Unique Identifier 10619502 Medline Identifier 20084520 Authors Brown PD. Stafford SL. Schild SE. Martenson JA. Schiff D. Institution Division of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. Title Metastatic spinal cord compression in patients with colorectal cancer. Source Journal of Neuro-Oncology. 44(2):175-80, 1999 Sep. Abstract BACKGROUND: A retrospective study was performed to examine the outcome of patients with colorectal cancer who had metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) and received radiation therapy (RT). METHODS: Forty episodes of MSCC were treated with external beam RT in 34 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The median total dose was 3000 cGy (18004750 cGy), and the daily fraction size was 300 cGy (151-400 cGy). All patients were followed until death. RESULTS: Median overall survival for the entire cohort was 4.1 months. Of 21 patients ambulatory before RT, 20 remained ambulatory after treatment, whereas only 2 of 9 patients who were nonambulatory regained full ambulatory status. Patients with rectal primary tumors had improved survival (median 7.9 months) compared with those who had colon primary tumors (2.7 months) (P = 0.002). Patients who received a total dose of more than 3000 cGy had a better survival (7 months) than those who received 3000 cGy or less (3.1 months) (P = 0.024). There was a trend for improved survival in patients fully ambulatory at diagnosis (P = 0.056) and after RT (P = 0.07). Unlike other primary sites in which approximately 70% of lesions are located in the thoracic spine, the location of epidural metastasis in colorectal primary tumors was most frequently in the lumbar spine (55% of lesions). CONCLUSIONS: Prognostic features and outcomes for MSCC with primary colorectal cancer are similar to those for other primary sites. There is a suggestion that rectal primary tumors may be associated with an improved outcome compared with colon primary tumors. Patients who received more than 3000 cGy total dose had a longer survival than those who received lower total doses. <33> Unique Identifier 11533573 Medline Identifier 21424417 Authors Babic Z. Papa B. Sikirika-Bosnjakovic M. Prkacin I. MisigojDurakovic M. Katicic M. Institution University Clinic for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Vuk Vhrovac, Zagreb, Croatia. Title Occult gastrointestinal bleeding in rugby player. Source Journal of Sports Medicine & Physical Fitness. 41(3):399-402, 2001 Sep. Abstract BACKGROUND: Local ischemia and mechanical trauma to hollow abdominal organs are quoted as a cause of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding during and after long distance running. There are no data on athletes from rugby and other contact sports where mechanical trauma of the abdomen is frequent. METHODS: Occult bleeding in the stool of Croatian national rugby team players has been investigated during and after qualification match with Italy for the World Cup 1999 on June 6th 1998 in Makarska, Croatia. One player with positive test was followed and examined in detail after the game. RESULTS: Among 11 Croatian players authors discovered one with a history of GI symptoms and one with conversion of negative to positive test for occult bleeding in stool after the match. The latter player had no GI symptoms or diseases, took no medications, played only 20 minutes in the match on forward position. Conversion has been found in the second stool sample after game (24 to 48 hours after game). The athlete was followed for 18 months. Persistent low values of hemoglobin, hematocrit and serum iron were revealed, as well as expressed hemorrhoids without signs of haemorrhage or inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: Lower incidence of GI bleeding among rugby players than among long distance runners minimize the importance of mechanical abdominal trauma in the etiology of GI bleeding during sports activity. Hemorrhoids are not quoted as a cause of GI bleeding after sport activity among athletes. <34> Unique Identifier 11421601 Medline Identifier 21316926 Authors Clark JL. Institution Surgery Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Minneapolis Veterans Administration Medical Center, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55417, USA. Title Ventral incisional hernia recurrence. Source Journal of Surgical Research. 99(1):33-9, 2001 Jul. Abstract During the period October 1993 to December 1996, 31 patients were operated on by the author for primary or recurrent ventral incisional hernia (VIH). Three patients were excluded from analysis because their records were unavailable for review. The median age of the 28 remaining patients at their initial procedure was 57.5 years (range, 37-78 years). The repair was performed with interrupted O-Ethibond sutures in all but 3 cases where Prolene suture was used secondary to noniatrogenic contamination or recurrent hernia. There were no unplanned enterotomies in the entire series and prophylactic intravenous antibiotics were used in all cases. The only significant complications were skin hyperemia after five repairs in 3 patients who were treated empirically with intravenous antibiotics, and 1 patient who had an antibiotic-associated rash. There were no 30-day mortalities. Prolene mesh was used exclusively in all repairs performed with mesh. Seven of these repairs (25%) were for recurrent VIH. Three of these seven patients had previous mesh repairs. Six of these seven patients who presented with recurrent VIH had a mesh repair and four developed a recurrence. Five of seven were active smokers, with one having severe obstructive lung disease. Four of seven related significant occupational lifting. Of the 21 patients having initial repair of VIH, mesh was used in 8 (38%). After a median follow-up of 13 months, there were 2 recurrent hernias (25%). The remaining 13 patients had primary closure of their hernias. After median follow-up of 25 months, there were 5 recurrences (38%). A total of 34 VIH repairs were performed on these 28 patients, of which 13 were for recurrent hernias. Five of thirteen (38%) of the mesh repairs for recurrent VIH failed. The median body mass index (BMI) for the 13 patients having primary repair was 26.4, and that for all 21 cases having mesh repair was 28.8. Patients with recurrent VIH frequently recur despite use of mesh, avoidance of contamination, and consistent technique. No difference in BMI was apparent in those who recurred. Continued smoking and occupational lifting may be important risk factors for recurrent VIH. Copyright 2001 Academic Press. <35> Unique Identifier 10340079 Medline Identifier 99271438 Authors Dabareiner RM. White NA. Institution Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Leesburg 22077, USA. Title Surgical repair of a diaphragmatic hernia in a racehorse. Source Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 214(10):15178, 1496, 1999 May 15. Abstract A 9-year-old Thoroughbred was evaluated for clinical signs of acute abdominal pain. During laparotomy, a rent in the diaphragm and herniation of the small intestine into the thoracic cavity were detected. Because edges of the rent were smooth and fibrous, which suggested the defect was chronic, the abdomen was closed without repairing the rent. After recurrence of clinical signs, a second laparotomy was performed, during which the intestines were found to have reherniated. The diaphragmatic rent was repaired, using a polypropylene mesh secured with stainless steel staples. The horse recovered and subsequently returned to racing and jumping. A diaphragmatic hernia should be suspected in horses that have moderate to severe signs of abdominal pain for which a definitive cause can not be identified. Thoracic ultrasonography or radiography can be used to confirm the hernia. Diaphragmatic hernias in horses can be successfully repaired using mesh implants secured with staples. <36> Unique Identifier 10319180 Medline Identifier 99252738 Authors Zekas LJ. Ramirez S. Brown MP. Institution Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0136, USA. Title Ablation of the nephrosplenic space for treatment of recurring left dorsal displacement of the large colon in a racehorse. Source Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 214(9):1361-3, 1335, 1999 May 1. Abstract Left dorsal displacement of the large colon was diagnosed in a 3-yearold Thoroughbred gelding. Conservative treatment that included lunging after administration of phenylephrine and rolling while under general anesthesia was not successful. The displaced segment of colon was reduced surgically through a ventral midline incision, but displacement recurred 4 days after surgery. Ablation of the nephrosplenic space by suturing the nephrosplenic ligament to the splenic capsule was performed through the left flank. At followup 1 year after surgery, the horse had not had further signs of colic and had returned to racing. Other methods to prevent large colon displacement, including colon resection and colopexy, are not recommended for athletic horses. Ablation of the nephrosplenic space, however, may be efficacious. <37> Unique Identifier 9783640 Medline Identifier 98454961 Authors Iuchtman M. Title Rarity of traumatic abdominal wall hernias. [letter; comment.]. Comments Comment on: J Trauma. 1998 Mar;44(3):568 ; 9529196 Source Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care. 45(4):853, 1998 Oct. <38> Unique Identifier 11791065 Medline Identifier 21650833 Authors Chanson C. Hahnloser D. Nassiopoulos K. Petropoulos P. Institution Department of Surgery, Hopital Cantonal, Fribourg, Switzerland. Title Gastric and omental incarceration through an occult traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in a scuba diver. Source Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care. 52(1):146-8, 2002 Jan. <39> Unique Identifier 9529196 Medline Identifier 98188045 Authors Perez VM. McDonald AD. Ghani A. Bleacher JH. Institution Department of Surgery, Western Reserve Care System, Youngstown, Ohio, USA. Title Handlebar hernia: a rare traumatic abdominal wall hernia. [see comments.]. Comments Comment in: J Trauma. 1998 Oct;45(4):853 ; 9783640 Source Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care. 44(3):568, 1998 Mar. <40> Unique Identifier 11791070 Medline Identifier 21650838 Authors Holmes JH 4th. Hall RA. Schaller RT Jr. Institution Department of General Surgery, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98111, USA. resjhh@vmmc.org Title Thoracic handlebar hernia: presentation and management. Source Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care. 52(1):165-6, 2002 Jan. <41> Unique Identifier 11438136 Medline Identifier 21332032 Authors Basnyat B. Graham L. Lee SD. Lim Y. Institution Nepal International Clinic and Himalayan Rescue Association, Kathmandu, Nepal. rishibas@wlink.com.np Title A language barrier, abdominal pain, and double vision. Source Lancet. 357(9273):2022, 2001 Jun 23. <42> Unique Identifier 9240020 Medline Identifier 97384216 Authors Mechrefe A. Wexler B. Feller E. Institution George Washington University, USA. Title Sports anemia and gastrointestinal bleeding in endurance athletes. [Review] [7 refs] Source Medicine & Health, Rhode Island. 80(7):216-8, 1997 Jul. <43> Unique Identifier 10694128 Medline Identifier 20155820 Authors Morton DP. Callister R. Institution Discipline of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia. darren.morton@avondale.edu.au Title Characteristics and etiology of exercise-related transient abdominal pain. Source Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 32(2):432-8, 2000 Feb. Abstract PURPOSE AND METHODS: In order to investigate the characteristics of the exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP) commonly referred to as "stitch," a questionnaire was administered to a total of 965 regular sporting participants involved in six sports. RESULTS: The percentage of respondents claiming to have experienced ETAP within the past year for the respective sports were: running (69%, N = 439), swimming (75%, N = 103), cycling (32%, N = 76), aerobics (52%, N = 126), basketball (47%, N = 121), and horse riding (62%, N = 100). ETAP appears to be most prevalent in activities that involve repetitive torso movement, either vertical translation or longitudinal rotation. ETAP appears to be a single condition, common in its manifestation to most sufferers, and was described by respondents as a well-localized pain (79%), mostly experienced in the right or left lumbar regions of the abdomen (78%). The sensation of ETAP may be related to the severity of pain with less intense ETAP being described as cramping, aching, or pulling, and greater severity ETAP as sharp or stabbing in nature. Fourteen percent of respondents indicated that they experience shoulder tip pain (STP), which being the diaphragmatic-referred site could suggest irritation of the diaphragm. Respondents claiming to have experienced ETAP were more likely to report STP (r = 0.14, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the present study provide perspective on previously suggested etiologies of ETAP, which include diaphragmatic ischemia and stress on the visceral "ligaments," and form the basis for examining alternative etiologies such as cramp of the musculature and irritation of the parietal peritoneum. <44> Unique Identifier 11071673 Medline Identifier 20486787 Authors Becker KM. Moe CL. Southwick KL. MacCormack JN. Institution Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA. kbecker@osophs.dhhs.gov Title Transmission of Norwalk virus during football game. Source New England Journal of Medicine. 343(17):1223-7, 2000 Oct 26. Abstract BACKGROUND: During a college football game in Florida, diarrhea and vomiting developed in many of the members of a North Carolina team. The next day, similar symptoms developed in some of the players on the opposing team. METHODS: We interviewed those who ate the five meals served to the North Carolina team before the game and some of the players on the opposing team who became ill. Patients with primary cases were members or staff of the team who had vomiting or diarrhea at least 10 hours after but no more than 50 hours after eating a box lunch served the day before the game. Patients with secondary cases had a later onset of symptoms or had symptoms without having eaten the box lunch. Stool samples were examined by electron microscopy and by a reversetranscription-polymerase-chain-reaction (RT-PCR) assay. RESULTS: The two football teams shared no food or beverages and had no contact off the playing field. Of five meals served to the North Carolina team before the game, only the box lunch was associated with a significant risk of illness (relative risk of illness, 4.1; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.6 to 10.0). The rate of attack among those who ate the box lunch was 62 percent. There were 11 secondary cases among the members and staff of the North Carolina team and 11 such cases among the Florida players. All four stool samples obtained from North Carolina patients were positive for Norwalk-like virus on electron microscopy. All four samples as well as one of two stool samples from players on the Florida team were positive for a Norwalk-like virus of genogroup I on RT-PCR assay; the RT-PCR products had identical sequences. CONCLUSIONS: This investigation documents person-to-person transmission of Norwalk virus among players during a football game. Persons with acute gastroenteritis should be excluded from playing contact sports. <45> Unique Identifier 10777225 Medline Identifier 20237004 Authors Brieseman M. Hill S. Holmes J. Giles S. Ball A. Institution Crown Public Health, Christchurch. Title A series of outbreaks of food poisoning?. Source New Zealand Medical Journal. 113(1104):54-6, 2000 Feb 25. Abstract A series of independently occurring episodes which were notified individually as 'food poisoning' were, after investigation, linked to a common source water supply. <46> Unique Identifier 11493828 Medline Identifier 21385750 Authors Ramsook C. Institution Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Emergency Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA. caramsoo@pol.net Title Traumatic appendicitis: fact or fiction?. Source Pediatric Emergency Care. 17(4):264-6, 2001 Aug. <47> Unique Identifier 10415303 Medline Identifier 99346372 Authors Kubota A. Shono J. Yonekura T. Hoki M. Asano S. Hirooka S. Kosumi T. Kato M. Oyanagi H. Institution Department of Surgery II, Kinki University School of Medicine, 377-2 Onohigashi, Osakasayama 589-8511, Japan. Title Handlebar hernia: case report and review of pediatric cases. [Review] [15 refs] Source Pediatric Surgery International. 15(5-6):411-2, 1999 Jul. Abstract The authors describe a rare case of handlebar hernia in a 9-year-oldboy. All layers of his abdominal wall were disrupted by a fall on a bicycle; however, his skin and intra-abdominal organs were completely intact. Computed tomography demonstrated subcutaneous intestinal loops protruding through the rent. Surgical repair was performed, and his postoperative course was uneventful. [References: 15] <48> Unique Identifier 11455807 Medline Identifier 21349478 Authors Karas JA. Nicol MP. Martinson N. Heubner R. Institution Karas, Isaacson and Associates, PO Box 14566, Hatfield, 0028 Pretoria. Title An outbreak of food poisoning among children attending an international sports event in Johannesburg. [see comments.]. Comments Comment in: S Afr Med J. 2001 May;91(5):402, 404 ; 11455802 Source South African Medical Journal. 91(5):417-21, 2001 May. Abstract OBJECTIVES: To describe an outbreak of food poisoning at a major international sports event in Johannesburg and to determine the likely cause and source of the outbreak. DESIGN: A descriptive, case-control study. SETTING: An international sports event in Johannesburg. METHODS: A questionnaire survey of involved children was used to conduct a casecontrol study. Microbiological and chemical analysis of the implicated food was undertaken. Site visits to the premises involved in food preparation were conducted. RESULTS: A total of 578 children were involved. Of the 361 children who returned questionnaires, 134 were affected by an acute-onset emetic-type illness, while 53 children developed diarrhoea. Consumption of fruit juice was associated with acute illness, while diarrhoea was associated with the consumption of maizemeal porridge (pap) and chicken stew. Microbiological analysis revealed high bacterial loads in samples of the fruit juice and the presence of Shigella flexneri in the maize-meal porridge. Visits to the suppliers of the implicated foods revealed several deficiencies in terms of food hygiene precautions. CONCLUSION: The likely vehicles and causes of this outbreak are distribution Furthermore, outbreaks in elucidated. Guidelines for monitoring the supply and of food to future similar events should be established. hospitals should have protocols in place to deal with such a manner that facilitates epidemiological investigation. <49> Unique Identifier 9885094 Medline Identifier 99100832 Authors Gil SM. Yazaki E. Evans DF. Institution St Bartholomew's, London, England. Title Aetiology of running-related gastrointestinal dysfunction. How far is the finishing line?. [Review] [163 refs] Source Sports Medicine. 26(6):365-78, 1998 Dec. Abstract 30 to 65% of long distance runners experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms related to exercise. Several hypotheses have been postulated; however, the aetiology and pathophysiology are far from clear. The mechanical effect of running on the viscera must be involved in the development of GI symptoms in this sport. Reduction of splanchnic blood flow due to visceral vasoconstriction is another widely supported theory; nevertheless, it does not explain many of the clinical findings. Examination of the GI tract during exercise is a difficult task, and measurements of both orocaecal and whole-gut transit time have shown equivocal results. GI hormones, and especially prostaglandins, may be of crucial importance for the production of symptoms. Intestinal absorption, secretion and permeability may also be altered during exercise, provoking intestinal dysfunction. Factors such as stress, diet, dehydration, infections and other factors need to be analysed in order to present a global view of the hypotheses regarding the aetiology of this common and often overlooked problem. [References: 163] <50> Unique Identifier 11269552 Medline Identifier 21166061 Authors Rosen M. Garcia-Ruiz A. Malm J. Mayes JT. Steiger E. Ponsky J. Institution Department of General Surgery, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195, USA. Title Laparoscopic hernia repair enhances early return of physical work capacity. Source Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy & Percutaneous Techniques. 11(1):2833, 2001 Feb. Abstract Several researchers have documented less postoperative pain and a quicker return to daily activities after laparoscopic herniorrhaphy. However, little objective data that validates this hypothesis exists. This study compares the rate of postoperative physical work capacity with return to preoperative levels, which is measured by a standard treadmill test in patients who underwent laparoscopic and conventional open hernia repair. Patients completed a 6-minute walking test preoperatively and 1 week postoperatively using a nonmotorized treadmill. The distance walked was recorded. If the distance that a patient achieved at 1 week was not within 0.02 miles of the preoperative values of the patient, the patient was asked to return at 1 month for repeat testing. Patients were enrolled prospectively in this study from October 1997 to February 1999. Sixty-six patients participated in the study (27 laparoscopic herniorrhaphies and 39 open herniorrhaphies were performed). There was no significant difference in age, body mass index, or preoperative distance achieved among the two groups. At 1 week, patients who underwent laparoscopic repair demonstrated a mean increase of 18 meters from preoperative distance (P = 0.07). In the open group, patients demonstrated a mean decrease of 90 meters at 1 week (P = 0.001). The change in distance at 1 week between the laparoscopic and the open groups was statistically significant (P = 0.001). However, at 1 month, there was no significant difference among the two groups. Measured using treadmill walking, laparoscopic hernia repair seems to offer an early advantage to open repair in return-to-physical-work capacity.