Fluorescent In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) is performed on samples of Barrett’s epithelium of the esophagus, determining the risk of developing dysplasia and malignancy in patients with known Barrett’s Esophagus.

This Assay is tested using cytology brushings from known Barrett’s esophagus (BE) patients and/or suspected BE nodules to help determine the risk of developing dysplasia and adenocarcinoma. Cytology specimens collected via endoscopic brushing result in more comprehensive and wide area tissue sampling than biopsies alone. FISH testing is performed on the cytology sample as an adjunct to the four quadrant biopsies. Studies have shown progression to High-Grade Dysplasia & Esophageal Adenocarcinoma in spite of no dysplasia being seen on traditional biopsies within 33 months of significant genetic abnormalities and if polysomy is seen on the FISH testing. Barrett’s FISH uses probes that help identify genes, including MYC, p16, HER2, and ZNF217.