Control of epileptic activities in a cortex network of multiple coupled neural populations under electromagnetic induction.

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal junction cancer has increased over time in Western countries. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is considered to be a major risk factor. We prospectively studied the prevalence of clinical, histological and endoscopic GERD, and premalignant changes among dyspeptic Iranian patients referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE).

METHODS

Consenting patients referred for UGIE to our clinic were enrolled. Their symptoms were recorded, UGIE was conducted, and biopsies from all suspicious lesions and across the Z-line were taken.

RESULTS

Of the 344 enrolled patients, 269 (135 women, 134 men; mean age: 41.6 years) were evaluated. One major GERD symptom (heart burn, acid regurgitation, dysphagia and chest pain) was seen in 209 (77.6%) patients, and 207 patients (76.1%) had endoscopic esophagitis. Thirteen patients (5%) had specialized intestinal metaplasia at the gastrointestinal junction (SIM-GEJ), and three had glandular dysplasia (two low-grade, one high-grade). No symptom could predict the presence of histological or endoscopic findings. Patients with dysplasia had more advanced degrees of endoscopic esophagitis.

CONCLUSION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is common among Iranian patients referred for diagnostic endoscopy. The prevalence of SIM-GEJ among this population was comparable to that reported in Western countries.