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Anorectal dysfunction and delayed colonic transit in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis
G Basilisco1, R Barbera, M Vanoli
1Cattedra di Patologia Medica III, IRCCS, Università degli Studi di, Milano, Italy.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) can cause constipation by impairing anal sphincter function and delaying colonic transit. This study investigated these gastrointestinal issues in PSS patients, revealing significant anorectal and colonic dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
- Physiology
Background:
- Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) is a multisystem autoimmune disease.
- Gastrointestinal involvement is common in PSS, often manifesting as constipation.
- The underlying mechanisms of constipation in PSS are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate anorectal and colonic function in patients with PSS and constipation.
- To compare these functions with PSS patients without constipation and control groups.
Main Methods:
- Anorectal manometry using perfused catheters.
- Segmental colonic transit measurement with radiopaque markers.
- Comparison between PSS patients (with and without constipation), idiopathic constipation patients, and healthy controls.
Main Results:
- Reduced resting anal canal pressure in PSS patients with constipation.
- Absence of rectoanal inhibitory reflex in most constipated PSS patients.
- Significantly delayed total and right colonic transit times in constipated PSS patients and those with idiopathic constipation.
Conclusions:
- Constipation in PSS is associated with impaired anal sphincter function and delayed colonic transit.
- The disease appears to affect both the colon and anorectum in constipated PSS patients.
- These findings highlight the significant gastrointestinal impact of PSS.