Detection of Intestinal Metaplasia in Barrett's Esophagus: An Observational Comparator Study Suggests the Need for a Minimum of Eight Biopsies

The data suggest that at least 8 random biopsies is the minimum to be taken and analyzed with conventional H&E staining to diagnose benign intestinal metaplasia. Taking more biopsies did not statistically increase the diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia except when greater than 16 were taken when 100% yield was obtained.