The International Working Group for the Classification of Oesophagitis IWGCO

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a very common problem worldwide and patients are frequently evaluated by endoscopic visualization of the surface lining of the oesophagus

In the past, criteria for the diagnosis and grading of the severity of oesophageal mucosal consequences of reflux disease have been devised ad hoc, with insufficient consultation and critical evaluation. The result has been a confusion of inadequately defined criteria which impair the quality of communication about endoscopic findings in both routine patient care and research studies

The IWGCO brings together expertise from around the world. Members of the Group are energetically engaged in researching and testing criteria that are designed to meet the needs of routine patient care and research that are suitable for adoption as a worldwide standard

Notably, the group developed and validated the Los Angeles Classification of reflux oesophagitis which has become an internationally recognised diagnostic standard. Several years of research by the group has led to the publication in November 2006 of the Prague C&M Criteria for Barrett's oesophagus. Early indications are that these criteria will also be widely adopted

Extensive consultation, education and research are core IWGCO activities, which are pursued through:

• wide international representation in the Group
  
• interactive educational activities around the world
  
• peer-reviewed publications on original research of the Group
  
• development and dissemination of educational resources
  
• ongoing research projects . Since 1991, the work of the IWGCO has been supported by unconditional educational grants from first Astra-Hässle and OMGE, then Astra and currently AstraZeneca