First-of-Its-Kind Test Determines Future Risk of Esophageal Cancer in Patients with Barrett's Esophagus

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 24 Nov 2023

Image: The Esopredict test enables accurate prognosis and detection data for those prone to esophageal cancer (Photo courtesy of Previse)

Barrett's esophagus, a condition characterized by the esophageal lining becoming similar to the intestinal tissue, typically arises from prolonged acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). As the sole known precursor and a significant risk factor for esophageal cancer, a notably aggressive cancer with only a 20% five-year survival rate following diagnosis, Barrett's esophagus demands consistent monitoring and management. Identifying patients with Barrett's esophagus who are likely to progress to high-grade dysplasia or esophageal cancer is crucial for improving survival rates. Now, a first-of-its-kind test enables accurate prognosis and detection of patients with Barrett's esophagus who may be prone to esophageal cancer.

Previse (Baltimore, MD, USA) has launched Esopredict, an innovative laboratory-developed test that empowers gastroenterologists with the tools to customize Barrett's esophagus treatment. Esopredict offers reliable risk assessments for a five-year period by analyzing DNA methylation changes in four specific genes within a sample of the patient's Barrett's esophagus cells. The test results in an Esoscore, a detailed report that gauges the patient's risk of developing esophageal cancer in the future. The Esoscore is pivotal in aiding gastroenterologists to decide on the most suitable treatment, necessary steps, and surveillance intensity for patients with Barrett's esophagus. Esopredict allows for a more personalized treatment approach, taking into account each patient's unique health profile and needs. This advancement in medical testing marks a significant step forward in accurately predicting and managing the risks associated with Barrett's esophagus.

"After dedicating decades of my career to cancer research, I am proud to launch Esopredict™ with the Previse team," said Dr. Stephen Meltzer, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Previse. “With the specific data provided by Esopredict, GI specialists can now provide critical information to patients and health care providers, effectively managing risk of a future cancer diagnosis which could ultimately lead to lives.”

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