Key Points for This Section

Tests are used to screen for different types of cancer. There is no standard or routine screening test for esophageal cancer. Tests that may detect (find) esophageal cancer are being studied: Esophagoscopy Biopsy Brush cytology Balloon cytology Chromoendoscopy Fluorescence spectroscopy

Tests are used to screen for different types of cancer.

Some screening tests are used because they have been shown to be helpful both in finding cancers early and in decreasing the chance of dying from these cancers. Other tests are used because they have been shown to find cancer in some people; however, it has not been proven in clinical trials that use of these tests will decrease the risk of dying from cancer.

Scientists study screening tests to find those with the fewest risks and most benefits. Cancer screening trials also are meant to show whether early detection (finding cancer before it causes symptoms) decreases a person's chance of dying from the disease. For some types of cancer, finding and treating the disease at an early stage may result in a better chance of recovery.

There is no standard or routine screening test for esophageal cancer.

Screening for esophageal cancer is under study with screening clinical trials taking place in many parts of the country. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available from the NCI Cancer.gov Web site.

Tests that may detect (find) esophageal cancer are being studied:

Esophagoscopy

A procedure to look inside the esophagus to check for abnormal areas. An endoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through the mouth or nose and down the throat into the esophagus. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.

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Esophagoscopy. A thin, lighted tube is inserted through the mouth and into the esophagus to look for abnormal areas.

Biopsy

The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope to check for signs of cancer. Taking biopsies from several different areas in the lining of the lower part of the esophagus may detect early Barrett's esophagus. This procedure may be used for patients who have risk factors for Barrett's esophagus.

Brush cytology

A procedure in which cells are brushed from the lining of the esophagus and viewed under a microscope to see if they are abnormal. This may be done during an esophagoscopy.

Balloon cytology

A procedure in which cells are collected from the lining of the esophagus using a deflated balloon that is swallowed by the patient. The balloon is then inflated and pulled out of the esophagus. Esophageal cells on the balloon are viewed under a microscope to see if they are abnormal.

Chromoendoscopy

A procedure in which a dye is sprayed onto the lining of the esophagus during esophagoscopy. Increased staining of certain areas of the lining may be a sign of early Barrett's esophagus.

Fluorescence spectroscopy

A procedure that uses a special light to view tissue in the lining of the esophagus. The light probe is passed through an endoscope and shines on the lining of the esophagus. The light given off by the cells lining the esophagus is then measured. Malignant tissue gives off less light than normal tissue.