Current status of management of malignant disease: what are the options for premalignant lesions of the esophagus and stomach?

INTRODUCTION: Premalignant lesions of the foregut (esophagus and stomach) are common entities usually incidentally identified on either endoscopic or radiographic imaging studies. SYMPTOMS: These lesions are often asymptomatic or associated with vague gastrointestinal symptoms. TREATMENT: Current management of benign and premalignant lesions of the foregut includes primarily ablative and resective endoscopic techniques as well as thoracoscopic, laparoscopic, and open surgical techniques of enucleation and segmental resections. The appropriate procedure, however, is based on the depth of penetration, lesion location, and suspicion for underlying malignant potential.