Dr Rebecca Fitzgerald

MRC Cancer Cell Unit
University of Cambridge
Cambridge

Can a sponge help to prevent oesophageal cancer?

Dr Rebecca Fitzgerald from the University of Cambridge is leading a trial of a new screening test to detect a condition called Barrett’s oesophagus, which increases the risk of oesophageal (foodpipe) cancer. The new test could identify people who need treatment to remove any pre-cancerous cells, helping to prevent them from developing the disease in the first place.

Barrett’s oesophagus

People with Barrett’s oesophagus have cells in their foodpipe that have changed to look more like cells in the intestine. It is most likely to be diagnosed in people who have a long history of burning indigestion - a sign of acid reflux. Although most people with the condition won’t develop oesophageal cancer, it’s still important for them to be regularly checked for early signs of the disease.

The problem is that most people with Barrett’s oesophagus don’t even know they have it, and the only way to diagnose it is a procedure called an endoscopy. This can be uncomfortable, so a test that is easier for patients would be big step forward.

The ‘Cytosponge’ test

Dr Fitzgerald hopes that her new ‘Cytosponge’ test could be the answer. The test involves swallowing a capsule that, after a few minutes, expands into a mesh 'sponge' inside the body. The sponge is pulled back up the oesophagus using a string, taking samples of the lining as it goes. The ball is sent to the lab and the cells are tested for the presence of ‘molecular flags’ that could be a sign of Barrett’s oesophagus. Dr Fitzgerald has already carried out a small study that gave promising results, and showed patients preferred the Cytosponge test to endoscopy.

The new trial will show if the test is an effective way to detect Barrett’s oesophagus by comparing it with endoscopy. The results from the study could lead on to a larger clinical trial to find out if screening with the Cytosponge, coupled with endoscopic treatment for those who need it, can prevent people dying from oesophageal cancer.

If the trial is a success, this innovative new test could form part of a potential new screening programme held at GP surgeries, which could help to save more lives in the future.

International Cancer Genome Consortium

As part of a worldwide collaboration called the International Cancer Genome Consortium, Dr Fitzgerald and her team are decoding the genes at the heart of oesophageal cancer to find the faults that drive the disease. This work will uncover vital clues for new tests and treatments – find out more on our blog.