Screening for Barrett's esophagus by balloon cytology
Fennerty, M.B.; DiTomasso, J.; Morales, T.G.; Peterson, D.; Karmakar, A.; Fernandez, T.; Sampliner, R.
American Journal of Gastroenterology 90(8): 1230-1232
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9270 PMID: 7639220 Document Number: 450749
Objective: To determine whether balloon cytology would allow a nonendoscopic diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus. Methods: In 10 unselected patients with Barrett's esophagus, balloon cytology was performed with a Brandt esophageal cytology balloon catheter prior to endoscopy/esophageal biopsy. Specimens were cytologically evaluated for the presence of goblet cells and/or dysplasia. Results: No patient had goblet cells or definitive columnar cell dysplasia. Conclusion: This technique with a commercially available balloon catheter does not allow for a nonendoscopic diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus.