Abstract: A retractable brush structure is attached to a cylindrical rigid rod which in the closed position passes through a channel in an endoscope. After the closed brush passes through the endoscope, the brush is opened and moves transversely to the tissue in order to remove cells from an area under examination. The brush is closed and withdrawn from the endoscope and sample tissue is removed from said brush for examination after it is withdrawn from the endoscope.

Abstract: A non-lacerational method and system employing an abrasive brush for obtaining a transepithelial sample of an epithelial lesion which may be keratinized is disclosed in which an analytical system including an imaging system is provided to detect precancerous and cancerous cells. The transepithelial non-lacerational brush produces sufficient cells from all three layers of the epithelium so that an analytical system comprising a programmed computer can detect which cells require further examination because of a likely suspicion of said pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions. The method and system can apply to the diagnosis non-cancerous conditions as well.

Abstract: A sample of an epithelial lesion which may be keratinized is disclosed in which an analytical system including an imaging system is provided to detect precancerous and cancerous cells. A transepithelial non-lacerational brush produces sufficient cells from all three layers of the epithelium so that an analytical system comprising a programmed computer can detect which cells exhibit abnormal keratinization and require further examination because of a likely suspicion of said pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions. The method and system can apply to the diagnosis non-cancerous conditions as well.