EsoGuard Esophageal Precancer Test in Los Angeles, CA
EsoGuard from Lucid Diagnostics is a non-invasive test that detects abnormal DNA changes in esophageal cells, which can indicate Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can lead to esophageal adenocarcinoma. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, EsoGuard offers patients with chronic heartburn and other risk factors a quick, in-office way to screen for esophageal precancer and cancer.
Request an AppointmentHow EsoGuard Works
EsoGuard analyzes DNA from cells collected from the lower esophagus. It looks for specific genetic markers associated with Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Cells are collected with EsoCheck, a small, swallowable balloon capsule.
Who May Benefit From EsoGuard?
Talk with our physicians about whether EsoGuard is right for you if you have any of the following:
- Chronic heartburn or reflux
- Age over 50
- Obesity
- A history of smoking
- A family history of esophageal precancer or cancer
- Current or past use of acid reducers such as famotidine, omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, or antacids
- Nausea after eating, regurgitation, a sour taste, or chest pain
- Coughing, choking, wheezing, hiccups, or frequent burping
- Hoarseness, sore throat, or a feeling of food getting stuck
How Effective Is EsoGuard?
EsoGuard has about 90% sensitivity for detecting esophageal precancer and cancer, meaning it identifies most people who have these conditions. It also has about a 99% negative predictive value, so a negative result provides strong reassurance that disease is unlikely.
EsoGuard Test Facts
- For established patients only
- $1,995
- No insurance billing and no superbills
The Testing Process
Preparation: do not eat or drink for 2 hours before your cell collection.
Procedure: you swallow a tethered balloon capsule about the size of a vitamin. The balloon inflates to gently collect cells from the lower esophagus and is then withdrawn. The collection takes about 3 minutes in the office, and you can resume normal activities right away. Cells are sent to the Lucid laboratory for analysis.
Results: results are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks and are sent to the ordering provider, who will review them with you.
Understanding Your Results
Positive result: DNA changes were detected, but this does not necessarily mean you have cancer. An upper endoscopy with biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine any stage of disease.
Negative result: the DNA changes associated with esophageal precancer or cancer were not detected, so the likelihood of disease is very low. A negative result does not rule out disease with complete certainty, and your doctor will decide whether further testing is needed.
Heartburn and Esophageal Cancer
Repeated exposure to stomach acid can irritate the esophagus and cause cellular changes that may progress to precancer and, in some cases, cancer. Heartburn medications may control symptoms, but they do not eliminate this risk. Esophageal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the U.S., with fewer than 1 in 5 people surviving five years after diagnosis, yet precancer can often be successfully treated when found early. EsoGuard is part of our broader cancer screening services and complements stomach cancer screening and the Galleri test.
EsoGuard FAQs
What does EsoGuard detect?
EsoGuard detects DNA changes associated with Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition, and esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Is EsoGuard an endoscopy?
No. EsoGuard uses a swallowable balloon capsule to collect cells in about 3 minutes, without sedation. A positive result is followed by an upper endoscopy.
Do heartburn medications prevent esophageal cancer?
No. Acid-reducing medications can relieve symptoms, but they do not eliminate the risk of precancerous changes.
How much does EsoGuard cost?
EsoGuard is $1,995 for established patients. Insurance billing and superbills are not available for this test.
How long until I get results?
Results are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after cell collection.
What if my EsoGuard result is positive?
A positive result means further evaluation is needed. Your doctor will recommend an upper endoscopy with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Ask About EsoGuard Testing in Los Angeles, CA
If you have chronic heartburn or other risk factors for esophageal cancer, call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to discuss EsoGuard screening.