Endoscopy 2004; 36(2): 110-119
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-814178
State of the Art Review
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Diagnosis of Esophagogastric Tumors

R.  Lambert1
  • 1International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyons, France
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Publication History

Publication Date:
06 February 2004 (online)

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Introduction

This review focuses on the topic of neoplastic lesions that develop from the epithelium of the esophagogastric mucosa; other malignant lesions have been discussed in a previous review in Endoscopy [1]. Neoplastic lesions develop in the stratified squamous epithelium (esophagus) and in the columnar epithelium (Barrett9s esophagus and stomach). The standardized incidence of esophageal squamous-cell cancer has been relatively stable in recent times, in contrast to an increasing incidence of adenocarcinoma in the esophagus and a decreasing incidence of noncardia stomach cancer.

The detection of esophagogastric tumors rarely occurs at the preclinical stage, and their prognosis is poor. Common sense suggests a need to increase the rate of early detection. This strategy raises some questions, however: is early diagnosis always beneficial for the patient? What technological facilities are needed in order to detect preclinical neoplastic flat lesions and stage them? Can molecular biology make a contribution? Which guidelines should be adopted for quality assurance in diagnostic endoscopy?

References

R. Lambert, M. D. 

International Agency for Research on Cancer

150, cours Albert Thomas · Lyon 69372, Cedex 8 · France

Fax: +33-4-72738650

Email: lambert@iarc.fr