EsoGuard
EsoGuard: Esophageal DNA Test
EsoGuard is a convenient, fifteen-minute simple procedure performed in an office setting to detect and diagnose Barrett’s esophagus and precancerous cells. The test itself is usually just three minutes and utilizes next generation sequencing to detect precancerous cells in the esophagus for early intervention and to potentially prevent the development of esophageal cancer.
High risk patients?
- Male gender
- White race
- Obese
- Over age 50
- Tobacco and/or alcohol use
- GERD/heartburn
- Family history of esophageal cancer
What to expect?
A clinician performs a noninvasive, cell collection procedure to gather cells from the lower esophagus by having a patient swallow a small capsule (about the size of a vitamin), connected to a thin, soft tether. Once swallowed, the clinician gently inflates the capsule (like a balloon), exposing textured ridges which collect cells from the lower esophagus. The balloon is then deflated, pulling the cells back into the capsule before gently pulling the capsule back up. Following the procedure, collected cells are sent to a laboratory for testing and results are typically available within 2-3 weeks.
A negative test result means the test did not detect the DNA changes in cells associated with esophageal precancer or cancer. The likelihood of you having the disease is very low.
A positive test result means DNA changes were detected in your cells, but it does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Further evaluation is needed. It is recommended you follow-up with your healthcare provider to schedule an upper endoscopy, with a biopsy, to confirm diagnosis and the exact stage of any disease.
Insurance
Lucid will submit a claim for the Esoguard DNA test to your insurance provider directly and will send a notification of submission with a consent form that allows Lucid to appeal on your behalf if your insurance denies the claim.
Once your claim has been processed, your insurance provider will send you an Explanation of Benefits.
If your claim is approved, there may be an out-of-pocket cost for patient responsibility due to co-insurance or deductible requirements set by your insurance provider. Lucid Diagnostics will bill you for the patient responsibility portion.
If your insurance provider denies the claim, Lucid Diagnostics will work with you to appeal the denial on your behalf with your insurance provider. If the claim is denied after appeals, Lucid Diagnostics considers it settled, and no further patient follow-up occurs.