Gastroenterology

Question 1

GERD - indications for endoscopy?

Answer 1

1. Age >55
2. Dysphagia
3. Symptoms >4 weeks or persisting despite therapy
4. Relapsing symptoms
5. Weight loss

If endoscopy normal => 24hr pH testing

Question 2

Contraindications to percutaneous liver biopsy

Answer 2

deranged clotting (e.g. INR > 1.4)
low platelets (e.g. < 60 * 109/l)
anaemia
extrahepatic biliary obstruction
hydatid cyst
haemoangioma
uncooperative patient
ascites