Detecting early esophageal cancer using sponge cytology
Official title: EsophaCap for the Detection of Early Esophageal Carcinoma
Run by Johns Hopkins University · NCT04214119 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a sponge can help find early signs of esophageal cancer and Barrett's Esophagus in people having an endoscopy at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 2500 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Johns Hopkins University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 2 sites (Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 12, 2016 |
| Main results expected | December 19, 2028 |
| Study ends | December 19, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | December 16, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04214119 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 who are scheduled for esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with extra-esophageal malignancies, those who have undergone esophagectomy, or have conditions that prevent capsule swallowing will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to identify potential biomarkers for the early detection of Barrett's Esophagus, esophageal carcinoma, and gastric cancer through the use of sponge cytology. Participants undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Johns Hopkins Hospital will have cytology samples collected via a sponge capsule. The study will analyze DNA from these samples to identify optimal biomarkers that can differentiate between Barrett's esophagus and cancerous conditions versus normal tissue. The goal is to enhance early detection methods for these serious conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of esophageal and gastric cancers, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using cytology for cancer detection, but this specific approach with sponge cytology is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Johns Hopkins Hospital from 1/2016 to 12/2025 * Age greater than 18 years * Patients must be able to swallow a capsule Exclusion Criteria: * Patients in either arm with extra-esophageal malignancies including head and neck and gastric cancer * Patients who have undergone esophagectomy * Patients who have undergone radiation to the chest * Patients who are younger than 18 * Patients with esophageal stents * Patients with esophageal strictures disabling passage of the capsule
Where it's running
-
Bayview Medical Center
Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting -
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stephen Meltzer, M.D. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Stephen J Meltzer, M.D.
- Email: smeltzer@jhmi.edu
- Phone: 4105026071
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.