EsoGuard + EsoCheck for Barrett's Esophagus
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to develop a new office-based test to detect Barrett's esophagus, a condition caused by acid reflux damaging the esophagus lining. The trial will evaluate a capsule balloon test called EsoCheck, with samples analyzed by the EsoGuard test. Participants will also undergo a standard upper endoscopy. Ideal candidates are individuals without frequent heartburn but with risk factors like central obesity or a smoking history, who have not had an esophagus examination in the past ten years.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could lead to easier detection methods for Barrett's esophagus.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are on chronic anticoagulation therapy that cannot be temporarily stopped.
What prior data suggests that this method is safe for detecting Barrett's esophagus?
Previous studies have shown the EsoCheck and EsoGuard system to be safe. Research indicates that the FDA has approved the EsoCheck device, confirming its safety for use. EsoGuard, which examines cells collected by EsoCheck, detects Barrett's esophagus, a condition affecting the esophagus due to acid reflux.
These tools are designed to be user-friendly and non-invasive. Patients generally handle both the capsule balloon test (EsoCheck) and the follow-up test (EsoGuard) without major issues. Studies have not reported any significant negative effects from these methods, suggesting that the procedures are safe and well-tolerated by participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about EsoCheck and EsoGuard for Barrett's Esophagus because these tools offer a less invasive way to detect changes in the esophagus that could lead to cancer. Unlike traditional endoscopies, which require sedation and involve inserting a flexible tube down the throat, EsoCheck is a swallowable, balloon-like capsule that collects cells from the esophagus lining. These cells are then analyzed using the EsoGuard assay, which can identify DNA markers associated with Barrett's Esophagus. This non-invasive approach could make screening more accessible and comfortable, potentially catching issues earlier and improving patient outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this method is effective for detecting Barrett's esophagus?
Research has shown that EsoGuard, when used with EsoCheck, holds promise for detecting Barrett's esophagus. In this trial, participants will undergo an EsoCheck test, and the sample will be analyzed using the EsoGuard assay. Studies indicate that EsoGuard accurately identifies 92.9% of true cases and effectively rules out the condition 98.6% of the time. One study found that using EsoGuard with EsoCheck improves the chances of detecting the condition compared to traditional methods alone. Previous uses of these tests reported no serious side effects. Overall, these findings suggest that EsoGuard and EsoCheck could be effective tools for screening Barrett's esophagus.23678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amitabh Chak, MD
Principal Investigator
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who may be at risk of Barrett's esophagus but do not have chronic symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Participants will answer a questionnaire, undergo the EsoCheck test, and have their samples analyzed with EsoGuard. They must also be willing to have an upper endoscopy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Diagnostic Testing
Participants undergo a questionnaire, EsoCheck test, and EsoGuard assay to detect Barrett's esophagus
Endoscopy
Participants undergo upper endoscopy as part of standard of care to confirm Barrett's esophagus
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after diagnostic testing and endoscopy
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- EsoCheck
- EsoGuard
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor