Overview of imaging modalities
| Imaging technique | Comment |
|---|---|
| HD-WLE | Becoming the default standard |
| Magnification endoscopy | Evaluated in case series; not directly compared with standard endoscopy Only allows visualisation of very focal areas |
| Chromoendoscopy | Relatively inexpensive to use Variability in use of stains and spray catheter Lack of standardisation of technique |
| Virtual chromoendoscopy (eg, NBI, BLI, FICE, i-scan) | Relatively easy to use, showing yield that is similar to that of routine biopsies Can be combined with magnification endoscopy to enhance imaging of mucosa surface |
| Autofluorescence imaging | Allows broad-based imaging High false positive rates with subjective colour interpretation |
| Confocal microscopy | High quality and detailed imaging Challenges include imaging of very focal areas, intravenous fluorescence agent and image interpretation |
BLI, blue laser imaging; FICE, flexible intelligent colour enhancement; HD-WLE, high definition white light endoscopy; NBI, narrow band imaging.