Light-induced fluorescence endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract.

The early detection of dysplasia and superficial malignant lesions of the gastrointestinal tract is of significant clinical importance. Recent advances in fluorescence-based endoscopic imaging and spectroscopy of the gastrointestinal tract may offer alternative means of detecting and identifying premalignant and malignant lesions that were otherwise occult or nonspecific on conventional white-light endoscopy. The purpose of this article is to present a general overview of the current developments and possible clinical roles of light-induced fluorescence endoscopy as an adjunct to routine diagnostic endoscopy to enhance screening and surveillance for premalignant and malignant gastrointestinal lesions.