A 66-year-old man has progressively worsening dysphagia for solids and has lost weight. What does NICE advise?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Suspected cancer pathway referral for upper GI endoscopy
- Step 1: Dysphagia at any age is a red flag.
- Step 2: NICE NG12 advises a suspected cancer pathway referral (appointment within 2 weeks) for dysphagia, in practice for urgent endoscopy.
Answer
Suspected cancer pathway referral for upper GI endoscopy.
Why not the others: A barium swallow booked electively in six months: Elective delay is unsafe. Dietary advice and reassurance with no tests: Diet alone would not exclude cancer. A trial of antacids and review after three months: A trial is inappropriate for alarm symptoms.
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