Suspicion of Upper-GI cancer

What was seen on your gastroscopy?

During your gastroscopy, the endoscopist saw an abnormal area in either your windpipe (oesophagus), stomach, or small intestine (duodenum) that will need further investigation.

There can be several reasons for there to be an abnormal area, such as inflammation.

Biopsies (samples of tissue) have been taken to confirm a diagnosis.


What happens next?

The biopsies taken at endoscopy will be sent to be tested in the lab.

While waiting for these results, a CT scan of your chest, abdomen and pelvis will be arranged, unless you have had one recently, or one has been booked for you before your endoscopy.

This may require you to have a blood test, and you will be contacted if that is needed.

The CT scan is done so that your treatment options can be discussed by our teams at hospital.


What is a CT scan?

A CT scan is a type of x-ray, which allows the soft tissue inside your body to be seen in greater detail. This scan requires you to lie on an x-ray couch, and you will be moved into the scanner.

The scanner is open at both ends so it is easy to see around the room. You may be given an injection, which helps to show areas inside your body more clearly.


When biopsies and CT reports are back

The biopsies and CT results can take up to 14 days to be reported, but sometimes require further specialist testing, which will mean the results take longer. 

Once the biopsy and CT results are back, they will be reviewed by our teams.

After the results have been discussed, you may be asked to come to clinic, or for further tests. A member of the team will be in contact with you to discuss the outcome.


Contact Us

A member of the team will be in contact with you within three working days after your initial endoscopy, to introduce themselves and their role.

If you have any questions with what has been discussed, or would like to talk sooner, please contact the UGI clinical nurse specialist (see below).

Upper GI Clinical Nurse Specialists and Navigators
Telephone: 01332 786561 (with answerphone)