Imaging, Screening and Diagnosis of gastric and liver diseases

Imaging, screening, and diagnosis of gastric and liver diseases play a crucial role in early detection, treatment planning, and disease management. For gastric diseases, techniques such as endoscopy, barium swallow tests, and CT scans are commonly used. These methods help visualize the stomach lining, detect ulcers, tumors, and structural abnormalities, and assess the severity of conditions like gastritis and gastric cancer.

For liver diseases, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and elastography are essential imaging tools. They help in identifying liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, tumors, and fatty liver disease. Screening methods like liver function tests and biomarkers (e.g., AFP for liver cancer) complement imaging, providing a comprehensive view for diagnosis. Early diagnosis through these methods improves treatment outcomes, particularly in chronic conditions like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Delving into the latest advancements in understanding IBD, this session will cover the genetic and pathogenic factors contributing to IBD, novel therapeutic approaches, and the significant role of the microbiome. It will also address pediatric challenges, offering a comprehensive look at current and future IBD management.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

This session will focus on the complex pathophysiology of IBS, emphasizing the importance of diet, lifestyle, and pharmacological treatments. It will also explore the psychological aspects of IBS and discuss emerging therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The GERD session will provide insights into the mechanisms behind the disease, the latest surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and the management of extra-esophageal manifestations. Special attention will be given to GERD in pediatric and elderly populations, highlighting unique challenges.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Attendees will explore the cutting-edge applications of EUS in diagnostics and therapy, including fine needle aspiration, staging of GI cancers, and therapeutic interventions. This session will also address training and skill development in EUS, ensuring the highest standards in clinical practice.

Neurogastroenterology

Neurogastroenterology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the complex interactions between the nervous system and the gastrointestinal (GI) system. It studies how the enteric nervous system (ENS), often called the "second brain," regulates digestion, gut motility, and the communication between the gut and brain, also known as the gut-brain axis.

Neurogastroenterology plays a key role in understanding and managing various GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroparesis, functional dyspepsia, and chronic constipation. These disorders often involve dysfunctions in gut motility, sensitivity, or signaling between the gut and central nervous system.

Celiac Disease

Focusing on the pathophysiology, genetic predisposition, and diagnosis of celiac disease, this session will also cover dietary management and novel therapeutic approaches. The long-term complications and quality of life in celiac patients will be key discussion points, providing a holistic view of the condition.

Pediatric Gastroenterology

Pediatric Gastroenterology is a specialized field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating digestive system disorders in children, from infancy through adolescence. It addresses conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and nutrition.

Common conditions in pediatric gastroenterology include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, lactose intolerance, chronic constipation, food allergies, and malabsorption disorders. Pediatric gastroenterologists also manage complex cases like congenital abnormalities, liver diseases, and failure to thrive.

Gastrointestinal Cancers

The session will provide a deep dive into the molecular and genetic aspects of GI cancers, early detection and screening strategies, and advances in both surgical and non-surgical treatments. The focus will also be on survivorship and improving the quality of life for GI cancer patients.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

This session will cover the pathogenesis, epidemiology, and diagnostic challenges of NAFLD, alongside lifestyle interventions and pharmacotherapy. Discussions will include the link between NAFLD and cardiovascular risk, emphasizing the need for comprehensive management strategies.

GI Tract Cancer and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

GI Tract Cancer includes cancers of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and colon. Risk factors are genetics, lifestyle, chronic infections, and inflammation. Diagnosis involves endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging. Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer, linked to cirrhosis, hepatitis B/C, alcohol, and fatty liver disease. Screening involves ultrasound and AFP testing. Treatments include surgery, liver transplantation, and targeted therapies. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes.

Liver Transplantation

Attendees will explore the latest innovations in liver transplantation, including surgical techniques, post-transplant care, and managing complications. Ethical considerations and allocation policies will also be discussed, ensuring a thorough understanding of this life-saving procedure.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

The session on HCV will address the epidemiology, natural history, and the latest advancements in antiviral therapy. It will also focus on HCV-related liver cancer prevention, public health strategies for elimination, and the broader impact of HCV on global health.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

This session will delve into the virology, immunology, and treatment strategies for chronic HBV infection, including preventive measures such as vaccination. The challenges of managing HBV co-infections will also be explored, offering a comprehensive overview of HBV management.

Liver Fibrosis

The session will explore the mechanisms of liver fibrosis, non-invasive diagnostic tools, and emerging therapies aimed at reversing fibrosis. Special focus will be given to the intersection of liver fibrosis and NAFLD, providing insights into one of the most critical aspects of liver disease.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

In this session, attendees will learn about the risk factors, early detection methods, and advanced treatment options for HCC, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy. The role of liver transplantation in managing HCC will also be a key discussion point.

Autoimmune Liver Diseases

This session will explore the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of autoimmune liver diseases, including autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis. The focus will be on understanding overlap syndromes and the latest therapeutic strategies to manage these conditions effectively.

Fatty Liver Disease

Attendees will gain insights into the pathophysiology, risk factors, and diagnostic challenges of fatty liver disease, distinguishing between NAFLD and alcoholic liver disease. The session will also discuss lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatments to manage the condition

Hepatic and Biliary Disorders

Hepatic and Biliary Disorders refer to diseases affecting the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. These disorders include conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer on the hepatic side, and gallstones, cholangitis, and biliary atresia on the biliary side.

Liver diseases often result from infections (like hepatitis B and C), alcohol abuse, or metabolic conditions, leading to liver inflammation, fibrosis, or liver failure. Biliary disorders typically involve blockages or inflammation of the bile ducts, causing jaundice, pain, and digestive issues.

Diagnosis includes blood tests, imaging (ultrasound, MRI), and sometimes liver biopsy. Treatment ranges from medications and lifestyle changes to surgery and transplantation, depending on the severity of the condition.

Cholestatic Liver Diseases

The session will delve into the mechanisms, diagnosis, and management of cholestasis, with a focus on conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and cholestasis in pregnancy.

Gut microbiome

The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that reside in the human gastrointestinal tract. This complex ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health by aiding in digestion, synthesizing essential nutrients, regulating the immune system, and protecting against harmful pathogens. Emerging research has linked the gut microbiome to various aspects of human health, including metabolism, mental health, and chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. The dynamic interactions between the microbiome, host genetics, and environmental factors continue to reveal its profound influence on health and disease, making it a critical area of study in modern medicine.

Gastrointestinal Infections and Immunology

Gastrointestinal infections are a major global health concern, affecting millions of individuals each year. These infections can be caused by a wide variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, all of which target the digestive system. The role of the immune system in combating these infections is critical, as it helps protect the gut from harmful pathogens while maintaining a delicate balance with the microbiota that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract.

The field of gastrointestinal infections and immunology focuses on understanding the immune responses to various pathogens, the mechanisms by which these infections disrupt normal gut function, and the development of therapeutic strategies to treat or prevent them. This includes topics such as the immune system’s role in controlling bacterial infections like Clostridioides difficile, the impact of viral infections on gut health, and the influence of gut immunity in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Advancements in understanding the interplay between pathogens, the immune system, and the gut microbiome are paving the way for more targeted treatments, including vaccines, immunotherapies, and microbiome-based interventions. This session will explore the latest research and developments in combating gastrointestinal infections, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and enhancing our understanding of the complex immune mechanisms involved.