title: [Virtual chromoendoscopy].
abstract: Precise endoscopic assessment of gastrointestinal mucosal features is important in order to detect neoplastic lesions at an early stage. Electronic virtual chromoendoscopy markedly improves capillary pattern contrast and is an in vivo method for visualizing microvessel morphological changes in superficial neoplastic lesions. The scientific basis for this technique is that short wavelength light falls within the hemoglobin absorption band, thereby facilitating clearer visualization of vascular structures and pit pattern. Narrow Band Imaging (NBI, Olympus) and Multi-Band Imaging (FICE) are real-time, on-demand endoscopic imaging techniques available with high-definition endoscope. Potential indications include both the detection of premalignant lesions and differentiation between neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions. The ease and readiness of use and the routine availability of virtual chromoendoscopy will probably contribute to its popularity. This does not alleviate the need to better define the role of these techniques in daily endoscopy practice by conducting well-designed prospective studies.
authors.affiliation: philippebulois@yahoo.fr
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Bulois
mesh_terms: D004396:Coloring Agents; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000379:methods*; D004945:Esophagoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000379:methods; D005753:Gastric Mucosa / Q000473:pathology; D005770:Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D007413:Intestinal Mucosa / Q000473:pathology; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014584:User-Computer Interface
chemical_list: D004396:Coloring Agents