Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), often referred to as esophagoscopy, is a key diagnostic tool used in the evaluation of esophageal cancer. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end is inserted through the mouth and into the esophagus, allowing for visualization of the esophageal lining. This direct view helps identify any abnormalities, such as tumors, ulcers, or inflammation.

Biopsy is performed during esophagoscopy when a suspicious area is detected. Tissue samples are collected and sent to a pathology lab for examination under a microscope. The biopsy plays a critical role in confirming the diagnosis of esophageal cancer, determining the type of cancer, and assessing its grade.

In contrast, chest X-rays can provide general information about potential metastatic spread but lack specificity for diagnosing esophageal cancer. MRI, while useful for some cancers, is not typically the first-line imaging modality for evaluating esophageal tumors. CT and PET scans are valuable in staging and assessing the extent of the disease but are not primary diagnostic tests. Similarly, ultrasound and blood tests may contribute to the overall assessment of a patient but do not directly diagnose esophageal cancer. Thus, esophagoscopy combined with biopsy stands out as the