Investigations
Gastroscopy or OGD (Oesophagogastroscopy)
This is the name for an endoscopy test to look at the lining of the Oesophagus, stomach and first part of the duodenum. This is the most important test used for diagnosing Oesophageal cancer. Biopsies of the cancer can be taken at the same time. Other tests are used to stage disease and find out whether it is curable and what the best options for treatment are.
Barium swallow
This is another way of examining the Oesophagus that is not often used in modern practice. It is useful in people who have a very tight narrowing of the Oesophagus which cannot be passed with an endoscope.
Ultrasound scan of the abdomen
Especially of the liver to look for metastases.
Endoluminal ultrasound (EUS)
This is done during an endoscopy as a day case procedure and is used for staging.
Blood tests
Liver function tests (LFTs) show jaundice, full blood count may show anaemia.
Laparoscopy
Keyhole surgery may be used to examine the upper part of the stomach and surrounding area to check for spread of cancer and to see whether the disease is operable.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (MRI)
Used to identify disease staging.
Computed Tomography scan (CT)
Used to identify disease staging.
Positron Emission Tomography scan (PET)
Used to identify disease staging.
Uses low dose radioactive glucose to measure any cancer activity in different parts of the body to assess if the disease is operable
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Amended November 2008
