Detection of Barrett's Metaplasia of the Esophagus
Tech ID: 06-92-58
University of Washington scientists have developed a system for detecting Barrett's metaplasia, an important precursor and risk factor for cancer of the esophagus.
The system consists of a flexible catheter with a probe containing an illuminator and a light detector. This system can be used with or without an imaging agent.
Background:
Twenty five million Americans suffer chronic heartburn. Chronic heartburn or reflux damages the lining of the esophagus by repeatedly exposing it to stomach acid. Barrett's metaplasia or Barrett's esophagus is characterized by the change of the normal white epithelial cells lining the esophagus to resemble pink columnar epithelial cells of the stomach. Up to 20% of chronic heartburn sufferers will develop Barrett's metaplasia, a precursor and risk factor for cancer of the esophagus.
Currently, Barrett's metaplasia is diagnosed by endoscopy once heartburn symptoms have become severe. By the time patients who have Barrett's metaplasia are endoscopically examined, 5% to 10% already have cancer of the esophagus. Cancer of the esophagus is both fairly common and deadly, with at least 10,000 cases a year and a 7% survival rate after 5 years. Most worrisome is that between 1976 and 1990 the incidence of cancer associated with Barrett's increased more rapidly than that of any other cancer in North America. At present, diagnosis of Barrett's is delayed, as endoscopy is too expensive and time-consuming for routine screening.
An inexpensive screening system to detect Barrett's metaplasia is needed.
Advantages:
This technology provides a method and apparatus for detecting Barrett's metaplasia that:
detects the color of the esophagus wall can be used with or without an imaging or contrast agent is suitable for routine screening is simpler to perform than an endoscopic exam is more comfortable for the patient.
Patents:
U.S. Patent No. 6,035,229, issued March 7, 2000, claims systems for use in detecting Barrett's metaplasia. Washington Research Foundation is managing the licensing of rights under this patent.
For additional information or to discuss licensing terms, please contact:
Beth G. Etscheid, Ph.D.
Director of Licensing
Washington Research Foundation
2815 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98102
Tel: 206.336.5600
Fax: 206.336.5615
betschei@wrfseattle.org
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