Volume 4 Issue 3, March 2007

Leptin is involved in many biological processes that implicate it in the development of colorectal cancer. This Viewpoint discusses the biological plausibility of a relationship between leptin and colorectal cancer, and the evidence available to support such a relationship.

Diagnosis of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding is challenging for gastroenterologists. Capsule endoscopy has revolutionized examination of the small bowel in this setting, but has several limitations. Double balloon enteroscopy is a new technique that also allows for extensive evaluation of the small bowel. This Viewpoint examines the usefulness of these techniques in clinical practice.

Bariatric surgery is an effective long-term treatment for morbid obesity. This Review discusses the indications for bariatric surgery and the early and late complications associated with the two most commonly performed bariatric procedures–laparoscopic gastric bypass and laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding. Laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy are also briefly discussed.

MRI, and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in particular, is completely noninvasive and allows imaging of the pancreas, as well as the biliary and pancreatic ducts. Technical advances, including the administration of secretin, have improved the quality of the pancreas and pancreatic duct images obtained. The authors of this Review assess the current status of MRI for the evaluation of benign pancreatic disease.

In this Review, the authors examine the most recent clinical evidence for the use of sulfasalazine and mesalazine for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Evidence for the role of mesalazine as a chemoprophylactic agent that protects against the development of colorectal cancer is also discussed.