Evaluation of brush cytology as an independent technique for detection of esophageal carcinoma.
In this study the accuracy of indirect brush cytology for detection of esophageal carcinoma is evaluated against current standard methods of diagnosis and is compared with the known accuracy rate of endoscopically directed brush cytology. A standard endoscopic nylon brush placed inside a nasogastric tube was used in 203 patients with various esophageal problems. Correct diagnosis was made in 78% of cancers, 95% of potentially premalignant cases, and 100% of cases of normal esophageal mucosa with both indirect and directed brushing procedures. The technique meets most requirements of a new screening procedure as being simple, safe (no complications), relatively inexpensive, and acceptable to patients (98% compliance). Currently it is employed to monitor high-risk esophageal conditions and post-treatment courses of patients with pharyngoesophageal tumors for local recurrence or a new primary lesion in the esophagus.
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000473:pathology*; D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000473:pathology*; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged