Individualizing Endoscopic Surveillance for Barrett’s Esophagus

Evidence to support regular surveillance endoscopy for patients with Barrett’s esophagus (see Figure 1) comes mainly from observational studies and expert opinion; evidence from randomized, controlled trials has been lacking. In this U.K. study, researchers randomized 3500 patients (mean age, 63; 99% with no dysplasia) to surveillance endoscopy every 2 years or to as-needed endoscopy based on symptoms (e.g., dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia, weight loss). Patients were followed for a median of 13 years.