Light and Sensors Can Help Detect Esophageal Cancer

Researchers from Duke University suggest adding a light source and sensors at the end of an endoscope could potentially help physicians accurately identify pre-cancerous cells in the esophagus more quickly and in a less-invasive manner, according to a report by the Duke Office of News & Communications.

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The endoscopic device, called angle-resolved low coherence interferometry, is used to reach the esophagus through the nose. Physicians can then shine light in short intervals, and the sensors capture and interpret the light as it is reflected back to the physician. The method helps spot abnormal changes in cells occurring in the epithelium, where approximately 85 percent of all cancers begin.

Researchers say the technique can be used as testing for patients who may have Barrett’s esophagus and also has potential as a testing system for other types of cancer, such as colon cancer and cervical cancer.

Read the report about angle-resolved low coherence interferometry.

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