University of Pittsburgh
The purpose of this study is to identify markers in the blood and tissue that could indicate risk factors for the development and progression of esophagus cancer. This research aims to collect medical history, blood, and tissue samples from patients who present with an esophageal disorder. Identifying genetic and behavioral risk factors involved in the development of esophageal cancer might allow for early detection and prevention. Survival and an opportunity for a cure with esophageal cancer will depend greatly on the stage of diagnosis. Tumors can develop changes in their genetic (hereditary) make-up, and these changes can sometimes be seen in normal tissues before the development of cancer. These genetic (hereditary) changes can serve as tumor markers and can be detected using methods that study changes in genetic material like DNA and RNA. The analysis of proteins can provide additional information. By identifying changes in these molecules that are different or altered in cancer, the investigators can use methods and tests for the detection of these changes.
We will enroll patients with esophageal cancer, patients who are at risk for developing esophageal cancer, and patients who have a non-cancerous esophageal disorder. All patients will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about their general health and personal habits, and about their relatives' medical history; this will be done during the preoperative clinic visit. Prior to or at the time of the surgical procedure(s), and at the time of routine follow-up visits, a sample of blood (about 3 tablespoons) will be drawn for research. For patients undergoing an endoscopy after the normal biopsies…
Inclusion Criteria: * Known or suspected esophageal or gastroesophageal junction malignancy * Known Barrett's metaplasia * Clinical management of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) * Achalasia * Hiatal hernia Exclusion Criteria: * Elevated pre-operative bloodwork will not have the additional biopsies taken. * Platelet count less than 150,000, partial thromboplastin time (PTT) of 50 or above, and/or International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 1.8 or above will not have the additional biopsies taken.
A questionnaire is administered at the time of consent.
Blood specimen is collected prior to surgery or at the time of scheduled routine surgical procedure(s), and at the time of routine follow-up visits
Tissue from the biopsies is collected intraoperatively.
Tissue from the biopsies, oral (saliva) and/or secretions, washings or mucosal scrapings/brushings are collected intraoperatively.
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