Endoscopy - Is This Usual?

[MissCommando]

My husband had a Gastroscopy yesterday due to his swallowing probs. He didn't know he was supposed to have the test but the Nurse told him they wanted to check for cancer! Eek.

Anyway, the Consultant kindly did it through his nose so he didn't have to swallow it. He said my husband's stomach is very red and inflamed in places so he has prescribed lansoprazole 30mg due to acid. He said it could be from an infection such as Campylobacter, which he had a few years ago which hasn't fully cleared. He said there were no blockages causing swallowing probs.

He took about 5 biopsies altogether, 3 from stomach and 2 from esophagus. He wants to see my husband in 6 weeks but will be in touch sooner depending on results.

So now I am a little worried. I understand why they took biopsies from stomach but not from esophagus. Just wanted reassurance I guess...

[ChillDoubt]

From my (very limited) knowledge I'd hazard a guess that the surgeon is just covering the bases.
If he saw something outside of the norm he'd biopsy it, as he did. Chances are it's nothing too serious, he's just covering the angles.
It certainly doesn't sound as though he's found a 'nasty', he's just making sure.
Try not to worry too much.

I'm sure Sqad will be along shortly to provide more in-depth analysis for you.

[ChillDoubt]

Should have added that yes, from what I see in work it does sound normal/routine practice.

[daffy654]

Acid reflux can lead to an increased risk of cancer of the oesophagus. It is common practice to take these biopsies so I wouldn't worry too much.

[daffy654]

http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Barrett's-Oesophagus.htm

[Sqad]

I agree with the above posters.........routine procedures.

[MissCommando]

Ok, thanks all. I'm just a worrier, especially as they used the 'c' word. I definitely feel more reassured.