Recurrence of intestinal metaplasia and early neoplasia after endoscopic eradication therapy for Barrett's esophagus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

DNA flow cytometry for detection of genomic instability as a cancer precursor in the gastrointestinal tract

One of the earliest applications of flow cytometry was the measurement of DNA content in cells. This method is based on the ability to stain DNA in a stoichiometric manner (i.e., the amount of stain is directly proportional to the amount of DNA within the cell). For more than 40years, a number of studies have consistently demonstrated the utility of DNA flow cytometry as a potential diagnostic and/or prognostic tool in patients with most epithelial tumors, including pre-invasive lesions (such as dysplasia) in the gastrointestinal tract. However, its availability as a clinical test has been limited to few medical centers due to the requirement for fresh tissue in earlier studies and perceived technical demands. However, more recent studies have successfully utilized formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue to generate high-quality DNA content histograms, demonstrating the feasibility of this methodology. This review summarizes step-by-step methods on how to perform DNA flow cytometry using FFPE tissue and analyze DNA content histograms based on the published consensus guidelines in order to assist in the diagnosis and/or risk stratification of many different epithelial tumors, with particular emphasis on dysplasia associated with Barrett's esophagus and inflammatory bowel disease.

Location and appearance of dysplastic Barrett's esophagus recurrence after endoscopic eradication therapy: no additional yield from random biopsy sampling neosquamous mucosa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Surveillance after complete remission of intestinal metaplasia (CRIM) is essential. Current recommendations are to sample visible lesions first, followed by random 4-quadrant biopsy sampling of the original Barrett's esophagus (BE) length. To inform post-CRIM surveillance protocols, we aimed to identify the anatomic location, appearance, and histology of BE recurrences.

METHODS

We performed an analysis of 216 patients who achieved CRIM after endoscopic eradication therapy for dysplastic BE at a Barrett's Referral Unit between 2008 and 2021. The anatomic location, recurrence histology, and endoscopic appearance of dysplastic recurrences were evaluated.

RESULTS

After a median of 5.5 years (interquartile range, 2.9-7.2) of follow-up after CRIM, 57 patients (26.4%) developed nondysplastic BE (NDBE) recurrence and 18 patients (8.3%) developed dysplastic recurrence. From 8158 routine surveillance biopsy samplings of normal-appearing tubular esophageal neosquamous epithelium, the yield for recurrent NDBE or dysplasia was 0%. One hundred percent of dysplastic tubular esophageal recurrences were visible and in BE islands, whereas 77.8% of gastroesophageal junction dysplastic recurrences were nonvisible. Four distinct endoscopic features suspicious for recurrent advanced dysplasia or neoplasia were identified: buried or subsquamous BE, irregular mucosal pattern, loss of vascular pattern, and nodularity or depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The yield of routine surveillance biopsy sampling of normal-appearing tubular esophageal neosquamous epithelium was zero. BE islands with indistinct mucosal or loss of vascular pattern, nodularity or depression, and/or signs of buried BE should raise clinician suspicion for advanced dysplasia or neoplasia recurrence. We suggest a new surveillance biopsy sampling protocol with a focus on meticulous inspection, followed by targeted biopsy sampling of visible lesions and random 4-quadrant biopsy sampling of the gastroesophageal junction.

Translating Molecular Biology Discoveries to Develop Targeted Cancer Interception in Barrett's Esophagus

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is a rapidly increasing lethal tumor. It commonly arises from a metaplastic segment known as Barrett's esophagus (BE), which delineates the at-risk population. Ample research has elucidated the pathogenesis of BE and its progression from metaplasia to invasive carcinoma; and multiple molecular pathways have been implicated in this process, presenting several points of cancer interception. Here, we explore the mechanisms of action of various agents, including proton pump inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, metformin, and statins, and explain their roles in cancer interception. Data from the recent AspECT trial are discussed to determine how viable a multipronged approach to cancer chemoprevention would be. Further, novel concepts, such as the repurposing of chemotherapeutic drugs like dasatinib and the prevention of post-ablation BE recurrence using itraconazole, are discussed.

Management of Post Ablative Barrett's Esophagus: a Review of Current Practices and Look at Emerging Technologies

Purpose of review

Endoscopic eradication therapy is an effective and durable treatment for Barrett's esophagus (BE) related neoplasia, but even after achieving successful eradication, these patients remain at risk for recurrence and require ongoing routine examinations. The optimal surveillance protocol including endoscopic technique, sampling strategy, and timing are still being refined. The aim of this review is to discuss current management principles for the post ablation patient and emerging technologies to guide clinical practice.

Recent findings

There is increasing evidence to support less frequent surveillance exams in the first year after complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia and a move towards targeted biopsies of visible lesions and sampling high-risk locations such as the gastroesophageal junction. Promising technologies on the horizon that could impact management include novel biomarkers, personalized surveillance intervals, and non-endoscopic approaches.

Summary

Ongoing high-quality examinations after endoscopic eradication therapy are key to limiting recurrent BE. Surveillance intervals should be based on the pretreatment grade of dysplasia. Future research should focus on technologies and surveillance practices that are most efficient for patients and the healthcare system.

Radio frequency ablation of dysplastic Barrett's esophagus: Outcomes of a single-center registry

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is associated with an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The use of radio frequency ablation (RFA) for complete eradication of BE with confirmed low-grade dysplasia (LGD) or high-grade dysplasia (HGD) has been promising in multicenter trials. Our aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy outcomes associated with RFA for patients with BE and LGD/HGD in a single-center setting.

METHODS

This was a retrospective single-center study conducted at Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Rigshospitalet, Denmark. Data were collected from all patients who had undergone RFA for LGD or HGD from January 2014 to December 2018. Effectiveness outcomes were based on histology: complete eradication of dysplasia (CE-D), defined as all esophageal biopsies being negative for dysplasia at the last biopsy session, and complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) defined as esophageal biopsies being without intestinal metaplasia. Safety outcomes were based on the proportion of complications to the RFA treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients were identified during the follow-up period (75% men, median age = 65 years); 83% had LGD and 17% had HGD. The median follow-up was 25 months. After the last RFA treatment, CE-D was achieved in 89%. CE-D and CE-IM were achieved in 60%. Complications occurred in 6.5% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with BE and confirmed LGD or HGD, RFA was associated with a high rate of CE-D and a low risk of complications. The observed safety and efficacy outcomes were comparable with those previously reported in multicenter trials, showing that the Danish treatment of BE with LGD and HGD is comparable with those of larger European expert centers.

Optimized Surveillance Intervals Following Endoscopic Eradication of Dysplastic Barrett's Esophagus: An International Cohort Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Recommended surveillance intervals after complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) after endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) are largely not evidence-based. Using recurrence rates in a multicenter international Barrett's esophagus (BE) CE-IM cohort, we aimed to generate optimal intervals for surveillance.

METHODS

Patients with dysplastic BE undergoing EET and achieving CE-IM from prospectively maintained databases at 5 tertiary-care centers in the United States and the United Kingdom were included. The cumulative incidence of recurrence was estimated, accounting for the unknown date of actual recurrence that lies between the dates of current and previous endoscopy. This cumulative incidence of recurrence subsequently was used to estimate the proportion of patients with undetected recurrence for various surveillance intervals over 5 years. Intervals were selected that minimized recurrences remaining undetected for more than 6 months. Actual patterns of post-CE-IM follow-up evaluation are described.

RESULTS

A total of 498 patients (with baseline low-grade dysplasia, 115 patients; high-grade dysplasia [HGD], 288 patients; and intramucosal adenocarcinoma [IMCa], 95 patients) were included. Any recurrence occurred in 27.1% and dysplastic recurrence occurred in 8.4% over a median of 2.6 years of follow-up evaluation. For pre-ablation HGD/IMCa, intervals of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, and then annually, resulted in no patients with dysplastic recurrence undetected for more than 6 months, comparable with current guideline recommendations despite a 33% reduction in the number of surveillance endoscopies. For pre-ablation low-grade dysplasia, intervals of 1, 2, and 4 years balanced endoscopic burden and undetected recurrence risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Lengthening post-CE-IM surveillance intervals would reduce the endoscopic burden after CE-IM with comparable rates of recurrent HGD/IMCa. Future guidelines should consider reduced surveillance frequency.

State-of-the-art management of dysplastic Barrett's esophagus

Endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) has become a standard of care for treatment of dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) and early Barrett's neoplasia. EET mainly consists of removal of any visible lesions via endoscopic resection and eradication of all remaining Barrett's mucosa using endoscopic ablation. Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection are the two available resection techniques. After complete resection of all visible lesions, it is crucial to perform endoscopic ablation to ensure complete eradication of the remaining Barrett's segment. Endoscopic ablation can be done either with thermal techniques, including radiofrequency ablation and argon plasma coagulation, or cryotherapy techniques. The primary end point of EET is achieving complete remission of intestinal metaplasia (CRIM) to decrease the risk of dysplastic recurrence after successful EET. After CRIM is achieved, a standardized endoscopic surveillance protocol needs to be implemented for early detection of BE recurrence.

Comparative cost-effectiveness of three post-radiofrequency ablation surveillance intervals for Barrett's esophagus

Background and study aims  Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) has resulted in a paradigm shift in the management of BE. Despite widespread adoption of RFA, the optimal surveillance interval of the ablated zone is unclear. Methods  A patient-level discrete time cycle Markov model was developed to model clinical surveillance strategies post-RFA for BE. Three surveillance strategies were examined: the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) strategy based on ACG guidelines for post-RFA surveillance, the Cotton strategy based on data from the USA and UK RFA registries, and the UK strategy in line with surveillance strategies in UK centers. Monte-Carlo deterministic and probabilistic analyses were performed over 10,000 iterations (i. e., representing 10,000 patient journeys) and sensitivity analyses were carried out on the variables used in the model. Results  On base-case analysis, the ACG strategy was the most cost-effective strategy, at a mean cost of £ 11,733 ($ 16,396) (standard deviation (SD) 1520.15) and a mean effectiveness of 12.86 (SD 0.07) QALYs. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the ACG model was the most cost-effective strategy with a net monetary benefit (NMB) of £ 5,136 ($ 7177) (SD 241) compared to the UK strategy and a NMB of £ 7017 ($ 9,806) (SD 379) compared to the Cotton strategy. At a willingness to pay (WTP) threshold of £ 20,000 ($ 27,949), the ACG model was superior to the other strategies as the most cost-effective strategy. Conclusions  A post-RFA surveillance strategy based on the ACG guidelines seems to be the most cost-effective surveillance option.

Adherence to Surveillance Endoscopies Posteradication of Barrett's Esophagus With High-grade Dysplasia or Carcinoma In Situ

GOALS

We aimed to evaluate factors associated with patient adherence to recommended surveillance guidelines during the first 3 years after endoscopic eradication of Barrett's esophagus (BE) with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or T1a carcinoma in situ (CIS) and the relationship between adherence and detection of recurrence.

BACKGROUND

While surveillance endoscopies after treatment of BE with HGD or T1a CIS are an important component of therapy, it is unclear whether these high-risk patients are adhering to recommended surveillance guidelines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 123 BE patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation±endoscopic mucosal resection for biopsy-proven HGD, or CIS between January 2010 and November 2018 underwent retrospective review for adherence to surveillance guidelines, patient factors related to adherence, and recurrence of dysplasia or CIS at 12, 24, and 36 months.

RESULTS

Of 123 BE patients (89 HGD and 34 CIS), adherence during the first year following treatment was 26.97% for HGD patients and 41.18% for CIS patients, with increasing adherence rates in subsequent years. Patients who received 3 to 4 surveillance endoscopies in the first year posttreatment had significantly higher rates of recurrence detection than patients who received 0 to 2 surveillance endoscopies over this interval (P=0.01). No patient factors were found to impact adherence significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to recommended surveillance intervals after endoscopic treatment of BE with HGD or CIS is low, with poor adherence during the first year associated with decreased detection of recurrence. Future studies are needed to evaluate risk factors and develop a potential intervention for poor adherence in this high-risk population.

Diagnosis and Management of Barrett's Esophagus: An Updated ACG Guideline

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a common condition associated with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. BE is the only known precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma, a highly lethal cancer with an increasing incidence over the last 5 decades. These revised guidelines implement Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology to propose recommendations for the definition and diagnosis of BE, screening for BE and esophageal adenocarcinoma, surveillance of patients with known BE, and the medical and endoscopic treatment of BE and its associated early neoplasia. Important changes since the previous iteration of this guideline include a broadening of acceptable screening modalities for BE to include nonendoscopic methods, liberalized intervals for surveillance of short-segment BE, and volume criteria for endoscopic therapy centers for BE. We recommend endoscopic eradication therapy for patients with BE and high-grade dysplasia and those with BE and low-grade dysplasia. We propose structured surveillance intervals for patients with dysplastic BE after successful ablation based on the baseline degree of dysplasia. We could not make recommendations regarding chemoprevention or use of biomarkers in routine practice due to insufficient data.

Utility of ancillary studies in the diagnosis and risk assessment of Barrett's esophagus and dysplasia

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a major risk factor for the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). BE patients undergo periodic endoscopic surveillance with biopsies to detect dysplasia and EAC, but this strategy is imperfect owing to sampling error and inconsistencies in the diagnosis and grading of dysplasia, which may result in an inaccurate diagnosis or risk assessment for progression to EAC. The desire for more accurate diagnosis and better risk stratification has prompted the investigation and development of potential biomarkers that might assist pathologists and clinicians in the management of BE patients, allowing more aggressive endoscopic surveillance and treatment options to be targeted to high-risk individuals, while avoiding frequent surveillance or unnecessary interventions in those at lower risk. It is known that progression of BE to dysplasia and EAC is accompanied by a host of genetic alterations, and that exploration of these markers could be potentially useful to diagnose/grade dysplasia and/or to risk stratify BE patients. Several biomarkers have shown promise in identifying early neoplastic transformation and thus may be useful adjuncts to histologic evaluation. This review provides an overview of some of the currently available biomarkers and assays, including p53 immunostaining, Wide Area Transepithelial Sampling with Three-Dimensional Computer-Assisted Analysis (WATS^3D), TissueCypher, mutational load analysis (BarreGen), fluorescence in situ hybridization, and DNA content abnormalities as detected by DNA flow cytometry.

The role of ablation in the treatment of dysplastic Barrett's esophagus

Endoscopic eradication therapy for Barrett's esophagus has been established as an effective management strategy for patients with Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia and early esophageal cancer. Among the endoscopic therapies, ablation techniques such as radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation are effective primary treatment interventions with acceptable low complication rates forming the spectrum of a multimodal approach. Appropriate selection of patients, high-definition endoscopic evaluation, and dedicated histological assessment are important cornerstones to help navigate to the best effective treatment method. Carefully structured surveillance programs and preventive measures will be needed to provide long-term durability for maintaining complete remission.

The evolution of endoscopic therapy for Barrett's esophagus

Barrett’s esophagus is the condition in which a metaplastic columnar epithelium replaces the stratified squamous epithelium that normally lines the distal esophagus. The condition develops as a consequence of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and predisposes the patient to the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The diagnosis and management of Barrett’s esophagus have undergone dramatic changes over the years and continue to evolve today. Endoscopic eradication therapy has revolutionized the management of dysplastic Barrett’s esophagus and early esophageal adenocarcinoma by significantly reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with the prior gold standard of therapy, esophagectomy. The purpose of this review is to highlight current principles in the management and endoscopic treatment of this disease.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: the long-term efficacy of Barrett's endoscopic therapy-stringent selection criteria and a proposal for definitions

BACKGROUND

Barrett's endoscopic therapy (BET) is well established for neoplasia in Barrett's oesophagus using a concept of complete eradication of all Barrett's. However, long-term efficacy is not known.

AIMS

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine long-term efficacy of BET for Barrett's neoplasia.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for studies meeting stringent criteria: (a) subjects with high-grade dysplasia and/or superficial adenocarcinoma who underwent BET (ablation ± endoscopic mucosal resection); (b) BET completion by confirmation of complete eradication of neoplasia (CE-N) and intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) with systematic sampling and (c) clearly defined follow-up (endoscopy and biopsy) protocol of ≥2 years thereafter for detection of recurrence. Pooled estimates of CE-N and CE-IM after BET completion and follow-up were analysed.

RESULTS

Eight studies met the stringent criteria (n = 794, males 89%, age 64.6 years). Despite high efficacy of BET at therapy completion (CE-N: 95.9 [91.7-98.7]%; CE-IM: 90.9 [83-96.6]%), this declined (CE-N: 89 [73.4-98.2]%; CE-IM: 77.8 [65.6-88]%) over 3.4 years of follow-up. There was considerable heterogeneity. Only two studies reported a post-BET follow-up of >5 years (CE-IM 50 [41.5%-58.5]%). Higher person years of follow-up seem to correlate with decrease in BET efficacy.

CONCLUSION

Using stringent criteria for appropriate study selection with sufficient follow-up, a lack of high-quality controlled intervention trials becomes evident for assessment of long-term durable remission rates of BET despite initial high success rates. We plea for a uniform documentation of study details which could be used in future trials.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation or surveillance in patients with Barrett's oesophagus with confirmed low-grade dysplasia: a multicentre randomised trial

OBJECTIVE

Due to an annual progression rate of Barrett's oesophagus (BO) with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) between 9% and 13% per year endoscopic ablation therapy is preferred to surveillance. Since this recommendation is based on only one randomised trial, we aimed at checking these results by another multicentre randomised trial with a similar design.

DESIGN

A prospective randomised study was performed in 14 centres comparing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) (maximum of 4 sessions) to annual endoscopic surveillance, including patients with a confirmed diagnosis of BO with LGD. Primary outcome was the prevalence of LGD at 3 years. Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of LGD at 1 year, the complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) at 3 years, the rate of neoplastic progression at 3 years and the treatment-related morbidity.

RESULTS

125 patients were initially included, of whom 82 with confirmed LGD (76 men, mean age 62.3 years) were finally randomised, 40 patients in the RFA and 42 in the surveillance group. At 3 years, CE-IM rates were 35% vs 0% in the RFA and surveillance groups, respectively (p<0.001). At the same time, the prevalence LGD was 34.3% (95% CI 18.6 to 50.0) in the RFA group vs 58.1% (95% CI 40.7 to 75.4) in the surveillance group (OR=0.38 (95% CI 0.14 to 1.02), p=0.05). Neoplastic progression was found in 12.5% (RFA) vs 26.2% (surveillance; p=0.15). The complication rate was maximal after the first RFA treatment (16.9%).

CONCLUSION

RFA modestly reduced the prevalence of LGD as well as progression risk at 3 years. The risk-benefit balance of endoscopic ablation therapy should therefore be carefully weighted against surveillance in patients with BO with confirmed LGD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01360541.

Persistent or recurrent Barrett's neoplasia after an endoscopic therapy session is associated with DNA content abnormality and can be detected by DNA flow cytometric analysis of paraffin-embedded tissue

Endoscopic therapy is currently the standard of care for the treatment of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or intramucosal adenocarcinoma (IMC) in patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE). Visible lesions are treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), which is often coupled with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). However, endoscopic therapy may require multiple sessions (one session every 2-3 months) and does not always assure complete eradication of neoplasia. Furthermore, despite complete eradication, recurrences are not uncommon. This study assesses which potential risk factors can predict a poor response after endoscopic sessions. Forty-five BE patients who underwent at least one endoscopic session (EMR alone or ablation with or without preceding EMR) for the treatment of HGD/IMC, low-grade dysplasia (LGD), or indefinite for dysplasia (IND) were analyzed. DNA flow cytometry was performed on 82 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from the 45 patients, including 78 HGD/IMC, 2 LGD, and 2 IND. Eight non-dysplastic BE samples were used as controls. Three to four 60-micron thick sections were cut from each tissue block, and the area of HGD/IMC, LGD, or IND was manually dissected. Potential associations between clinicopathologic risk factors and persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC following each endoscopic session were examined using univariate and multivariate Cox models with frailty terms. Sixty (73%) of the 82 specimens showed abnormal DNA content (aneuploidy or elevated 4N fraction). These were all specimens with HGD/IMC (representing 77% of that group). Of these 60 HGD/IMC samples with abnormal DNA content, 42 (70%) were associated with subsequent development of persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC (n = 41) or esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC; n = 1) within a mean follow-up time of 16 months (range: 1 month to 9.4 years). In contrast, only 6 (27%, all HGD/IMC) of the 22 remaining samples (all with normal DNA content) were associated with persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC. For outcome analysis per patient, 11 (24%) of the 45 patients developed persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC, despite multiple endoscopic sessions (mean: 3.6, range: 1-11). In a univariate Cox model, the presence of abnormal DNA content (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.8, p = 0.007), long BE segment ≥ 3 cm (HR = 3.4, p = 0.002), endoscopic nodularity (HR = 2.5, p = 0.042), and treatment with EMR alone (HR = 2.9, p = 0.006) were significantly associated with an increased risk for persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC. However, only abnormal DNA content (HR = 6.0, p = 0.003) and treatment with EMR alone (HR = 2.7, p = 0.047) remained as significant risk factors in a multivariate analysis. Age ≥ 60 years, gender, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m², presence of hiatal hernia, and positive EMR lateral margin for neoplasia were not significant risk factors for persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC (p > 0.05). Three-month, 6-month, 1-year, 3-year, and 6-year adjusted probabilities of persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC in the setting of abnormal DNA content were 31%, 56%, 67%, 79%, and 83%, respectively. The corresponding probabilities in the setting of normal DNA content were 10%, 21%, 28%, 38%, and 43%, respectively. In conclusion, in BE patients with baseline HGD/IMC, both DNA content abnormality and treatment with EMR alone were significantly associated with persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC following each endoscopic session. DNA content abnormality as detected by DNA flow cytometry identifies HGD/IMC patients at highest risk for persistent/recurrent HGD/IMC or EAC, and it also serves as a diagnostic marker of HGD/IMC with an estimated sensitivity of 77%. The diagnosis of HGD/IMC in the setting of abnormal DNA content may warrant alternative treatment strategies as well as long-term follow-up with shorter surveillance intervals.

A Practical Approach to Refractory and Recurrent Barrett's Esophagus

Endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) is recommended for patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE)-associated neoplasia and is effective in achieving complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM). However, BE that is refractory to EET, defined as partial or no improvement in dysplasia after less than or equal to 3 ablative sessions, and the development of recurrence post-EET is not uncommon. Identification of refractory BE or recurrent intestinal metaplasia should prompt esophageal physiologic testing and modification of antireflux strategy, as appropriate. In patients who ultimately fail standard EET despite optimization of reflux control, salvage EET with alternate modalities may need to be considered.

Optimizing Outcomes with Radiofrequency Ablation of Barrett's Esophagus: Candidates, Efficacy and Durability

The treatment of early Barrett's esophagus (BE) has undergone a paradigm shift from surgical subtotal esophagectomy to organ-saving endoluminal treatment. Over the past 15 years, several high-quality studies were conducted to assess safe oncological outcome of endoscopic resection of mucosal adenocarcinoma and high-grade dysplasia. It became clear that add-on ablative therapy with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) significantly reduces recurrence risk of neoplasia after resection. In this review, we highlight the most essential elements to optimize outcomes of RFA of BE, addressing the correct indication and patient selection in combination with the most efficient and safest treatment protocols to obtain long-term durability.

Recurrence Is Rare Following Complete Eradication of Intestinal Metaplasia in Patients With Barrett's Esophagus and Peaks at 18 Months

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There have been few studies describing the long-term durability of complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) in patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE)-related neoplasia who received endoscopic eradication therapy (EET). Data are needed to guide surveillance interval protocols and identify patients at risk for recurrence. We assessed the rate of recurrence of intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia, histologic features, and outcomes after recurrence of CE-IM, and identified factors associated with recurrence.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of 807 patients with BE who underwent EET, which produced CE-IM, at 4 tertiary-care referral centers, from January 2013 to October 2018. Kaplan-Meier estimates of cumulative incidence rates (IR) of recurrence were calculated for up to 5 years following CE-IM and were stratified by baseline level of histology. Density estimates of recurrence were used to determine the change in the rate of recurrence over time. We conducted logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with recurrence.

RESULTS

Intestinal metaplasia recurred in 121 patients (15%; IR, 5.2/100 person-years), and dysplasia recurred in 41 patients (5.1%; IR, 1.8/100 person-years), after a median follow-up time of 2317 person-years. The rate of recurrence was not constant and the time to any recurrence converged to a normal distribution; recurrences peaked at 1.6 y after patients had CE-IM. Baseline high-grade dysplasia or intramucosal cancer (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.19), presence of reflux symptoms (aOR, 12.1) or hiatal hernia (aOR, 13.8), and number of sessions required to achieve CE-IM (aOR, 1.8) were associated with recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

In a prospective study of a large cohort of patients with BE undergoing EET, we found a low rate of recurrence after CE-IM. The rate of recurrence peaked at 1-2 y after CE-IM. These findings indicate that aggressive surveillance might not be necessary more than 1 y after CE-IM and should be considered in surveillance guidelines. Clinicaltrials.gov no: NCT02634645.

The role of esophagectomy in the management of Barrett's esophagus with high-grade dysplasia

Barrett's esophagus (BE) with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) has previously been a routine indication for esophagectomy. Recent advances in endoscopic therapy have resulted in a shift away from surgery. Current international guidelines recommend endoscopic therapy for BE with HGD irrespective of recurrence or progression of dysplasia. Current guidelines do not address the ongoing role of esophagectomy as an adjunct in the setting of failed endoscopic therapy. This review examines the role of esophagectomy as an adjunct to endoscopy in the management of patients with BE and HGD, with a specific focus on patients with persistent, progressive, or recurrent disease, disease resistant to endoscopic therapy, in patients with concomitant esophageal pathology, and in those patients in whom lifelong surveillance may not be possible or desired.

Approach to the Post-Ablation Barrett's Esophagus Patient

Because of the rising incidence and lethality of esophageal adenocarcinoma, Barrett's esophagus (BE) is an increasingly important premalignant target for cancer prevention. BE-associated neoplasia can be safely and effectively treated with endoscopic eradication therapy (EET), incorporating tissue resection and ablation. Because EET has proliferated, managing patients after complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia has taken on increasing importance. Recurrence after complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia occurs in 8%-10% of the patients yearly, and the incidence may remain constant over time. Most recurrences occur at the gastroesophageal junction, whereas those in the tubular esophagus are endoscopically visible and distally located. A simplified biopsy protocol limited to the distal aspect of the BE segment, in addition to gastroesophageal junction sampling, may enhance efficiency and cost without significantly reducing recurrence detection. Similarly, research suggests that current surveillance intervals may be excessively frequent, failing to reflect the cancer risk reduction of EET. If validated, longer surveillance intervals could reduce the burden of resource-intensive endoscopic surveillance. Several important questions in post-EET management remain unanswered, including surveillance duration, the significance of gastric cardia intestinal metaplasia, and the role of advanced imaging and nonendoscopic sampling techniques in detecting recurrence. These merit further research to enhance quality of care and promote a more evidence-based approach.

Indications, contraindications and limitations of endoscopic therapy for Barrett's esophagus and early esophageal adenocarcinoma

Endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) has revolutionized management of Barrett's esophagus (BE)-associated neoplasia, traditionally treated by esophagectomy, which carries very high mortality and morbidity. EET, usually performed in the outpatient setting, has a safe risk profile. It is indicated in patients with BE with high-grade dysplasia and intramucosal cancer, confirmed, and persistent low-grade dysplasia, and in highly selected cases of non-dysplastic BE and submucosal cancers. Multiple EET modalities are available and can be categorized into two groups: ablation therapies and resection techniques with resection techniques usually reserved for nodular/raised lesions or lesions with suspected neoplasia. Patients usually require multiple ablation sessions with a goal of achieving complete eradication of metaplasia. Despite very good results, EET has its limitations and is not 100% effective: it targets a small subset of patients along the spectrum of BE and esophageal adenocarcinoma, as most patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma remain asymptomatic until the disease has progressed to advanced stages. Post-ablation surveillance is mandatory, as recurrences are common. An area of concern is buried metaplasia reported to occur following ablation therapy and thought to be from de novo growth of metaplastic tissue underneath the neosquamous epithelium, following ablation. The focus of this review article is to present the indications, contraindications and limitations of EET.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Endoscopic Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus With Dysplasia and/or Early Cancer: Expert Review

DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this best practice advice article is to describe the role of Barrett's endoscopic therapy (BET) in patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) with dysplasia and/or early cancer and appropriate follow-up of these patients.

METHODS

The best practice advice provided in this document is based on evidence and relevant publications reviewed by the committee. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: In BE patients with confirmed low-grade dysplasia, a repeat examination with high-definition white-light endoscopy should be performed within 3-6 months to rule out the presence of a visible lesion, which should prompt endoscopic resection. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: Both BET and continued surveillance are reasonable options for the management of BE patients with confirmed and persistent low-grade dysplasia. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: BET is the preferred treatment for BE patients with high-grade dysplasia (HGD). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: BET should be preferred over esophagectomy for BE patients with intramucosal esophageal adenocarcinoma (T1a). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: BET is a reasonable alternative to esophagectomy in patients with submucosal esophageal adenocarcinoma (T1b) with low-risk features (<500-μm invasion in the submucosa [sm1], good to moderate differentiation, and no lymphatic invasion) especially in those who are poor surgical candidates. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: In all patients undergoing BET, mucosal ablation should be applied to 1) all visible esophageal columnar mucosa; 2) 5-10 mm proximal to the squamocolumnar junction and 3) 5-10 mm distal to the gastroesophageal junction, as demarcated by the top of the gastric folds (ie, gastric cardia) using focal ablation in a circumferential fashion. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Mucosal ablation therapy should only be performed in the presence of flat BE without signs of inflammation and in the absence of visible abnormalities. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: BET should be performed by experts in high-volume centers that perform a minimum of 10 new cases annually. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: BET should be continued until there is an absence of columnar epithelium in the tubular esophagus on high-definition white-light endoscopy and preferably optical chromoendoscopy. In case of complete endoscopic eradication, the neosquamous mucosa and the gastric cardia are sampled by 4-quadrant biopsies. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: If random biopsies obtained from the neosquamous epithelium demonstrate intestinal metaplasia/dysplasia or subsquamous intestinal metaplasia, a repeat endoscopy should be performed and visible islands or tongues should undergo targeted focal ablation. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: Intestinal metaplasia of the gastric cardia (without residual columnar epithelium in the tubular esophagus) should not warrant additional ablation therapy. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: When consenting patients for BET, the most common complication of therapy to be quoted is post-procedural stricture formation, occurring in about 6% of cases. Bleeding and perforation occur at rates <1%. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 13: After complete eradication (endoscopic and histologic) of intestinal metaplasia has been achieved with BET, surveillance endoscopy with biopsies should be performed at the following intervals: for baseline diagnosis of HGD/esophageal adenocarcinoma: at 3, 6, and 12 months and annually thereafter; and baseline diagnosis of low-grade dysplasia: at 1 and 3 years. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 14: Endoscopic surveillance post therapy should be performed with high-definition white-light endoscopy, including careful inspection of the neosquamous mucosal and retroflexed inspection of the gastric cardia. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 15: The approach to recurrent disease is similar to that of the initial therapy; visible recurrent nodular lesions require endoscopic resection, whereas flat areas of columnar mucosa in the tubular esophagus can be treated with mucosal ablation. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 16: Patients should be counseled on cancer risk in the absence of BET, as well as after BET, to allow for informed decision-making between the patient and the physician.

Screening for esophageal adenocarcinoma and precancerous conditions (dysplasia and Barrett's esophagus) in patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease with or without other risk factors: two systematic reviews and one overview of reviews to inform a guideline of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC)

BACKGROUND

Two reviews and an overview were produced for the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care guideline on screening for esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) without alarm symptoms. The goal was to systematically review three key questions (KQs): (1) The effectiveness of screening for these conditions; (2) How adults with chronic GERD weigh the benefits and harms of screening, and what factors contribute to their preferences and decision to undergo screening; and (3) Treatment options for Barrett's esophagus (BE), dysplasia or stage 1 EAC (overview of reviews).

METHODS

Bibliographic databases (e.g. Ovid MEDLINE®) were searched for each review in October 2018. We also searched for unpublished literature (e.g. relevant websites). The liberal accelerated approach was used for title and abstract screening. Two reviewers independently screened full-text articles. Data extraction and risk of bias assessments were completed by one reviewer and verified by another reviewer (KQ1 and 2). Quality assessments were completed by two reviewers independently in duplicate (KQ3). Disagreements were resolved through discussion. We used various risk of bias tools suitable for study design. The GRADE framework was used for rating the certainty of the evidence.

RESULTS

Ten studies evaluated the effectiveness of screening. One retrospective study reported no difference in long-term survival (approximately 6 to 12 years) between those who had a prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy and those who had not (adjusted HR 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58-1.50). Though there may be higher odds of a stage 1 diagnosis than a more advanced diagnosis (stage 2-4) if an EGD had been performed in the previous 5 years (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.00-7.67). Seven studies compared different screening modalities, and showed little difference between modalities. Three studies reported on patients' unwillingness to be screened (e.g. due to anxiety, fear of gagging). Eleven systematic reviews evaluated treatment modalities, providing some evidence of early treatment effect for some outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Little evidence exists on the effectiveness of screening and values and preferences to screening. Many treatment modalities have been evaluated, but studies are small. Overall, there is uncertainty in understanding the effectiveness of screening and early treatments.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATIONS

PROSPERO (CRD42017049993 [KQ1], CRD42017050014 [KQ2], CRD42018084825 [KQ3]).

ENDOSCOPIC TREATMENT OF ESOPHAGEAL NEOPLASIA: A DECADE OF EVOLUTION

Traditional therapy for early esophageal neoplasia has been esophagectomy. In the past decade, the approach to these conditions has rapidly evolved, such that endoscopic therapy has become the primary modality to treat patients with esophageal dysplasia and superficial carcinoma. A variety of modalities are available, including thermal methods, such as radiofrequency ablation and argon plasma coagulation; cryotherapy, including spray liquid nitrogen cryotherapy and balloon-based nitrous oxide cryotherapy; and tissue resection methods, such as endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection. Level 1 evidence substantiates that patients treated with these therapies have a low risk of developing invasive cancer. These treatments demonstrate an excellent safety profile. Future work in this area will define the best modalities of treatment, assess the utility of endoscopic therapy in combination with radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and improve current screening regimens to allow earlier detection of neoplasia.

Anatomic location of Barrett's esophagus recurrence after endoscopic eradication therapy: development of a simplified surveillance biopsy strategy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Surveillance endoscopy is recommended after endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) for Barrett's esophagus (BE) because of the risk of recurrence. Currently recommended biopsy protocols are based on expert opinion and consist of sampling visible lesions followed by random 4-quadrant biopsy sampling throughout the length of the original BE segment. Despite this protocol, some recurrences are not visibly identified. We aimed to identify the anatomic location and histology of recurrences after successful EET with the goal of developing a more efficient and evidence-based surveillance biopsy protocol.

METHODS

We performed an analysis of a large multicenter database of 443 patients who underwent EET and achieved complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) from 2005 to 2015. The endoscopic location of recurrence relative to the squamocolumnar junction (SCJ), visible recurrence identified during surveillance endoscopy, and time to recurrence after CE-IM were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifty patients with BE recurrence were studied in the final analysis. Seventeen patients (34%) had nonvisible recurrences. In this group, biopsy specimens demonstrating recurrence were taken from within 2 cm of the SCJ in 16 of these 17 patients (94%). Overall, 49 of 50 recurrences (98%) occurred either within 2 cm of the SCJ or at the site of a visible lesion. Late recurrences (>1 year) were more likely to be visible than early (<1 year) recurrences (P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrence after EET detected by random biopsy sampling is identified predominately in the distal esophagus and occurs earlier than visible recurrences. As such, we suggest a modified biopsy protocol with targeted sampling of visible lesions followed by random biopsy sampling within 2 cm of the SCJ to optimize detection of recurrence after EET. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT02634645.).

Shorter time to achieve endoscopic eradication is not associated with improved long-term outcomes in Barrett's esophagus

Quality indicators have been proposed for endoscopic eradication therapy of Barrett's esophagus (BE). One such measure suggests that complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) should be achieved within 18 months of starting treatment. The aim of this study was to assess whether achievement of CE-IM within 18 months is associated with improved long-term clinical outcomes. This was a retrospective cohort study of BE patients who underwent endoscopic eradication. Time to CE-IM was recorded and categorized as ≤ or > 18 months. The main outcome measures were recurrence of IM and of dysplasia after CE-IM, defined as a single endoscopy without endoscopic evidence of BE or histologic evidence of intestinal metaplasia. Recurrence was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling. A total of 290 patients were included in the analyses. The baseline histology was high-grade dysplasia or intramucosal carcinoma in 74.2% of patients. CE-IM was achieved in 85.5% of patients, and 54.1% of the cohort achieved CE-IM within 18 months. Achieving CE-IM within 18 months was not associated with reduced risk of recurrence of IM or dysplasia in both unadjusted and adjusted analyses. In this cohort, older age and increased BE length were associated with IM recurrence, and increased hiatal hernia size was associated with dysplasia recurrence. Compared to longer times, achieving CE-IM within 18 months was not associated with a reduced risk of recurrence of IM or dysplasia. Alternative evidence-based quality metrics for endoscopic eradication therapy should be identified.

Timeline and location of recurrence following successful ablation in Barrett's oesophagus: an international multicentre study

OBJECTIVE

Surveillance interval protocols after complete remission of intestinal metaplasia (CRIM) post radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in Barrett's oesophagus (BE) are currently empiric and not based on substantial evidence. We aimed to assess the timeline, location and patterns of recurrence following CRIM to inform these guidelines.

DESIGN

Data on patients undergoing RFA for BE were obtained from prospectively maintained databases of five (three USA and two UK) tertiary referral centres. RFA was performed until CRIM was confirmed on two consecutive endoscopies.

RESULTS

594 patients achieved CRIM as of 1 May 2017. 151 subjects developed recurrent BE over a median (IQR) follow-up of 2.8 (1.4-4.4) years. There was 19% cumulative recurrence risk of any BE within 2 years and an additional 49% risk over the next 8.6 years. There was no evidence of a clinically meaningful change in the recurrence hazard rate of any BE, dysplastic BE or high-grade dysplasia/cancer over the duration of follow-up, with an estimated 2% (95% CI -7% to 12%) change in recurrence rate of any BE in a doubling of follow-up time. 74% of BE recurrences developed at the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) (24.1% were dysplastic) and 26% in the tubular oesophagus. The yield of random biopsies from the tubular oesophagus, in the absence of visible lesions, was 1% (BE) and 0.2% (dysplasia).

CONCLUSIONS

BE recurrence risk following CRIM remained constant over time, suggesting that lengthening of follow-up intervals, at least in the first 5 years after CRIM, may not be advisable. Sampling the GOJ is critical to detecting recurrence. The requirement for random biopsies of the neosquamous epithelium in the absence of visible lesions may need to be re-evaluated.

Management of Barrett Esophagus Following Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) effectively treats dysplastic Barrett esophagus (BE), reduces the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), and infrequently produces complications. Complications of RFA include chest discomfort, esophageal stricturing, and bleeding. However, chest discomfort is usually transient and mild, strictures are generally amenable to dilation, and clinically significant bleeding is rare. Following RFA, intestinal metaplasia recurs at a rate of approximately 10% per patient year of follow-up time. Postablation dysplastic BE and EAC are rare. Moreover, recurrent disease is generally responsive to further endoscopic therapy and is associated with a benign clinical course. Although RFA is effective at producing low rates of postablation EAC and dysplastic recurrence, data suggest that current consensus guidelines for postablation surveillance are overly aggressive, as they mirror those for treatment-naive cohorts. Future guidelines may attenuate surveillance intervals, reducing the burden of endoscopic surveillance while providing for adequate detection of recurrent disease. Additional studies are needed to determine the length of time patients should ultimately remain in surveillance programs. Uncertainty exists regarding the appropriate application of chemopreventive measures (including proton pump inhibitors, aspirin, and statins) and novel imaging and sampling modalities (such as optical coherence tomography and wide-area transepithelial sampling) to reduce the risk of recurrent disease and sampling error, respectively. These uncertainties represent targets for future investigations.

A cost-effectiveness analysis of endoscopic eradication therapy for management of dysplasia arising in patients with Barrett's oesophagus in the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) is the first line approach for treating Barrett's oesophagus (BE) related neoplasia globally. The British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) recommend EET with combined endoscopic resection (ER) for visible dysplasia followed by endoscopic ablation in patients with both low and high grade dysplasia (LGD and HGD). The aim of this study is to perform a cost-effectiveness analysis for EET for treatment of all grades of dysplasia in BE patients.

METHODS

A Markov cohort model with a lifetime time horizon was used to undertake a cost-effectiveness analysis. A hypothetical cohort of UK patients diagnosed with BE entered the model. Patients in the treatment arm with LGD and HGD received EET and patients with non-dysplastic BE (NDBE) received endoscopic surveillance only. In the comparator arm, patients with LGD, HGD and NDBE received endoscopic surveillance only. A UK National Health Service (NHS) perspective was adopted and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated. Sensitivity analysis was conducted on key input parameters.

RESULTS

EET for patients with LGD and HGD arising in BE is cost-effective compared to endoscopic surveillance alone (lifetime ICER £3006 per quality adjusted life year [QALY] gained). The results show that, as the time horizon increases, the treatment becomes more cost-effective. The 5 year financial impact to the UK NHS of introducing EET is £7.1m.

CONCLUSIONS

EET for patients with low and high grade BE dysplasia, following updated guidelines from the BSG, has been shown to be cost-effective for patients with BE in the UK.

Barrett's esophagus: novel strategies for screening and surveillance

Barrett’s esophagus is the precursor lesion for esophageal adenocarcinoma. Screening and surveillance of Barrett’s esophagus are undertaken with the goal of earlier detection and lowering the mortality from esophageal adenocarcinoma. The widely used technique is standard esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsies per the Seattle protocol for screening and surveillance of Barrett’s esophagus. Surveillance intervals vary depending on the degree of dysplasia with endoscopic eradication therapy confined to patients with Barrett’s esophagus and confirmed dysplasia. In this review, we present various novel techniques for screening of Barrett’s esophagus such as unsedated transnasal endoscopy, cytosponge with trefoil factor-3, balloon cytology, esophageal capsule endoscopy, liquid biopsy, electronic nose, and oral microbiome. In addition, advanced imaging techniques such as narrow band imaging, dye-based chromoendoscopy, confocal laser endomicroscopy, volumetric laser endomicroscopy, and wide-area transepithelial sampling with computer-assisted three-dimensional analysis developed for better detection of dysplasia are also reviewed.

Endoscopic therapy for Barrett’s esophagus and early esophageal cancer: Where do we go from here?

Since Barrett’s esophagus is a precancerous condition, efforts have been made for its eradication by various ablative techniques. Initially, laser ablation was attempted in non-dysplastic Barrett’s esophagus and subsequently, endoscopic ablation using photodynamic therapy was used in Barrett’s patients with high-grade dysplasia who were poor surgical candidates. Since then, various ablative therapies have been developed with radiofrequency ablation having the best quality of evidence. Resection of dysplastic areas only without complete removal of entire Barrett’s segment is associated with high risk of developing metachronous neoplasia. Hence, the current standard of management for Barrett’s esophagus includes endoscopic mucosal resection of visible abnormalities followed by ablation to eradicate remaining Barrett’s epithelium. Although endoscopic therapy cannot address regional lymph node metastases, such nodal involvement is present in only 1% to 2% of patients with intramucosal adenocarcinoma in Barrett esophagus and therefore is useful in intramucosal cancers. Post ablation surveillance is recommended as recurrence of intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia have been reported. This review includes a discussion of the technique, efficacy and complication rate of currently available ablation techniques such as radiofrequency ablation, cryotherapy, argon plasma coagulation and photodynamic therapy as well as endoscopic mucosal resection. A brief discussion of the emerging technique, endoscopic submucosal dissection is also included.

Natural History of the Post-ablation Esophagus

Endoscopic ablative therapy including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) represents the preferred management strategy for dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) and appears to diminish the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Limited data describe the natural history of the post-ablation esophagus. Recent findings demonstrate that recurrent intestinal metaplasia (IM) following RFA is relatively frequent. However, dysplastic BE and EAC subsequent to the complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CEIM) are uncommon. Moreover, data suggest that the risk of recurrent disease is probably highest in the first year following CEIM. Recurrent IM and dysplasia are usually successfully eradicated with repeat RFA. Future studies may refine surveillance intervals and inform the length of time surveillance should be conducted following RFA with CEIM. Further data will also be necessary to understand the utility of chemopreventive strategies, including NSAIDs, in reducing the risk of recurrent disease.

Controversies in Endoscopic Eradication Therapy for Barrett's Esophagus

Advances in endoscopic eradication therapy for Barrett's Esophagus-associated neoplasia have resulted in a significant paradigm shift in the diagnosis and management of this complex disease. A robust body of literature critically evaluating outcomes of resection and ablative strategies has allowed gastroenterologists to make quality, evidence-based decisions for their patients. Despite this progress, there are still many unanswered questions and challenges that remain. Ultimately, identification of a cost-effective screening modality, biomarkers for risk stratification, and strides to eliminate post surveillance endoscopy after endoscopic eradication therapy are essential to reach our long-term goal for eradication of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Update on the management of Barrett's esophagus in Austria

Background

Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is the premalignant manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with and without endoscopic resection (ER) is a novel treatment for BE.

Methods

Here we present a single-center update of the recommendations of a recent (June 2015) interdisciplinary expert panel meeting on the management of BE with dysplasia as well as cancer-positive and cancer-negative BE. We conducted a PubMed search of studies published in 2016 and 2017 on the topic of BE and RFA.

Results

Our update reconfirms that BE positive for T1a cancer as well as low- and high-grade dysplasia justifies the use of RFA ± ER, offering an 80–100% rate of BE clearance. RFA ± ER of dysplastic BE is tenfold more effective for cancer prevention when compared with surveillance. Risk factors for recurrence and follow-up treatments include baseline histopathology (dysplasia/T1a cancer), esophagitis, hiatal hernia >3 cm, smoking habits, BE segments >3 cm, and >10 years of GERD symptoms. A baseline diagnosis for dysplasia and T1a cancer should include a second expert pathologist opinion. Recent data justify the use of RFA for nondysplastic BE only in controlled clinical trials. Antireflux surgery can be offered to those with function-test-proven, GERD-symptom-positive BE before, during, or after RFA ± ER. Additionally, there is growing evidence that the intake of a sugar-rich diet is positively correlated with the development of GERD, BE, and cancer.

Conclusion

RFA ± ER should be offered for dysplastic BE and T1a cancer after ER as well as for nondysplastic BE with additional risk factors in controlled trials. Antireflux surgery can be offered to patients with function-test-proven GERD-symptom-positive BE. Diet considerations should be included in the management of GERD and BE.