title: Confocal endomicroscopy for in vivo microscopic analysis of upper gastrointestinal tract premalignant and malignant lesions.
abstract: Confocal LASER endomicroscopy (CLE) is a new endoscopic technique which allows subsurface in vivo microscopic analysis during ongoing endoscopy, using systemically or topically administered fluorescent agents. It allows targeted biopsies to be taken, potentially improving the diagnostic rate in certain gastrointestinal diseases. Worldwide experience with CLE for upper gastrointestinal malignant and premalignant lesions is still reduced. Potential clinical applications are presented, including diagnosis of NERD, Barrett's esophagus, atrophic gatritis, gastric intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia, gastric adenomatous or hyperplastic polyps, gastric cancer.
authors.affiliation: Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Fundeni Street 258, 022328, Bucharest, Romania. drgheorghe@xnet.ro
authors.forename: Cristian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Gheorghe
authors.forename: Razvan
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Iacob
authors.forename: Gabriel
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Becheanu
authors.forename: Mona
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dumbrav Abreve
mesh_terms: D004724:Endoscopy; D005770:Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal / Q000379:methods*; D011230:Precancerous Conditions / Q000473:pathology*