For patients

We save lives by catching cancer early

Early detection holds the key to saving the lives of millions of patients.

7 in 10 patients are currently diagnosed with cancer in the esophagus (food pipe) at a late stage. Of these patients, less than 15% will survive for more than five years. When detected at an early, pre-cancerous stage, called Barrett's Esophagus, the condition can be monitored and any cancerous or precancerous cells can be treated and cured.

Cytosponge™

Detecting esophageal cancer early

The Cytosponge is an early detection test for cancer in the esophagus (food pipe). Patients swallow a small pill on a string that expands into a sponge after a few minutes in the stomach. The sponge is withdrawn and collects cells on the way up which are analysed in a medical laboratory.

The test is intended for people with heartburn or reflux symptoms who might have a condition called Barrett’s Esophagus. This condition puts patients at an increased risk for developing cancer. Traditionally, Barrett’s Esophagus is diagnosed by performing an invasive endoscopy, where a long tube with a camera is passed into your body through your mouth. The Cytosponge test offers an easier, quicker and less painful alternative.

The Cytosponge is already available in many hospitals throughout England and Scotland.

Ask your GP if you are worried about your heartburn or reflux symptoms.

“It was fine at the end when [the nurse] pulled it out. There was no problems whatsoever. You can literally be in and out in about 30 minutes.”

Cytosponge patient

“There is no sedation, no endoscopy, no pain whatsoever. You are just swallowing a pill and then you go home. It’s as simple as that.”

Dip Mukherjee, Consultant Upper GI & Laparoscopic Surgeon. Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust

What happens if my Cytosponge test is positive?

A positive Cytosponge diagnostic test identifies those who are at highest risk of esophageal cancer. Patients with a positive test are then referred for confirmation with endoscopy and, as required, treatment to allow patients to continue normally with their lives.

The Cytosponge device ('pill on a string') before being swallowed

If you would like to know when the
Cytosponge is available in your area

Get in touch

How can I get a Cytosponge test?

The Cytosponge is already available in many hospitals throughout England and Scotland.

Ask your GP if you are worried about your heartburn or reflux symptoms.

If you would like to know when the Cytosponge is available in your area, get in touch

How long does it take?

The test takes around 10 minutes in total. You can expect to be with the nurse for around 30 minutes before you can go home.

How big is the Cytosponge?

Before swallowing the Cytosponge, it is about the same size as a paracetamol capsule. Once swallowed, the capsule dissolves inside your stomach and a small, soft sponge expands.

Does it hurt?

The Cytosponge is a relatively painless experience, and a numbing spray is available for your throat if you would like to have it.

What happens if the thread breaks?

This is extremely unlikely. However, if it does happen, the sponge is harmless and will be removed by a same day endoscopy.

What are the side effects of the Cytosponge?

During the procedure, some people can experience discomfort by the thread at the back of their throat and retrieving the Cytosponge can be uncomfortable, but very brief. You might have a sore throat for a few hours after the procedure, which can be soothed like a usual sore throat.

How should I prepare for the test?

We will ask you to not eat or drink for 4 hours before the test. If you take any medication that acts to thin your blood, we will ask you to temporarily stop this prior to the procedure, based on advice from your doctor. After the test, you will be able to continue with your day as normal.

For patients

We save lives by catching cancer early

Early detection holds the key to saving the lives of millions of patients.

Cytosponge™

Detecting esophageal cancer early

“It was fine at the end when [the nurse] pulled it out. There was no problems whatsoever. You can literally be in and out in about 30 minutes.”

“There is no sedation, no endoscopy, no pain whatsoever. You are just swallowing a pill and then you go home. It’s as simple as that.”

What happens if my Cytosponge test is positive?

If you would like to know when the
Cytosponge is available in your area

FAQ

How can I get a Cytosponge test?

How long does it take?

How big is the Cytosponge?

Does it hurt?

What happens if the thread breaks?

What are the side effects of the Cytosponge?

How should I prepare for the test?

Find out how we are
leading a revolution in diagnostics

For patients

We save lives by catching cancer early

Early detection holds the key to saving the lives of millions of patients.

“It was fine at the end when [the nurse] pulled it out. There was no problems whatsoever. You can literally be in and out in about 30 minutes.”

“There is no sedation, no endoscopy, no pain whatsoever. You are just swallowing a pill and then you go home. It’s as simple as that.”

What happens if my Cytosponge test is positive?

If you would like to know when the Cytosponge is available in your area

FAQ

How can I get a Cytosponge test?

How long does it take?

How big is the Cytosponge?

Does it hurt?

What happens if the thread breaks?

What are the side effects of the Cytosponge?

How should I prepare for the test?

Find out how we are leading a revolution in diagnostics

If you would like to know when the
Cytosponge is available in your area

Find out how we are
leading a revolution in diagnostics