EsophaCap for the Detection of Early Esophageal Carcinoma

EsophaCap for the Detection of Early Esophageal Carcinoma

This study is to identify potential biomarkers for the early detection of Barrett's Esophagus, esophageal carcinoma (both adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), and gastric cancer via sponge cytology.

This study is to identify potential biomarkers for the early detection of Barrett's Esophagus, esophageal carcinoma (both adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma). Esophageal and gastric cytology will be collected via sponge capsule. Candidate genes will be tested with DNA isolated from these samples in order to identify optimal biomarkers to differentiate between Barrett's esophagus and esophageal/gastric cancer versus normal esophageal/gastric tissue.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Johns Hopkins Hospital from 1/2016 to 12/2025
• Age greater than 18 years
• Patients must be able to swallow a capsule

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients in either arm with extra-esophageal malignancies including head and neck and gastric cancer
• Patients who have undergone esophagectomy
• Patients who have undergone radiation to the chest
• Patients who are younger than 18
• Patients with esophageal stents
• Patients with esophageal strictures disabling passage of the capsule