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In a person with Barrett’s esophagus, the tissue lining of the esophagus (food pipe) slowly begins to resemble intestinal tissue. This condition occurs in people who suffer from long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux. The cell change in the esophagus is produced as it tries to heal itself from the effects of digestive acids that back up from the stomach.
A person with Barrett’s esophagus is at risk of developing esophageal cancer. Screenings for this kind of cancer, called adenocarcinoma, are important, as early detection increases the possibility of effective treatment.
Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition where the normal lining of the esophagus changes, usually due to long-term acid reflux (GERD). It is considered a precancerous condition because it increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Treatment and monitoring help prevent the condition from progressing.
Medical professionals often recommend screening for people who suffer from GERD and acid reflux. The specific screening performed is an upper endoscopy, in which a camera on a small tube is inserted into the esophagus. The medical professional is able to examine the tissue of the esophagus lining and look for abnormalities. A biopsy (the collecting of tissue samples) enables a pathologist to look for dysplasia or early signs of precancerous tissue changes.
Treatment depends on whether dysplasia is present. Common options include:
No Dysplasia (mild cases)
Low-Grade Dysplasia
High-Grade Dysplasia or Early Cancer
No. If there is no dysplasia, treatment may focus on controlling acid reflux and scheduling follow-up endoscopies.
Endoscopic therapy is usually recommended only if dysplasia is present.
Frequency depends on the severity:
Orlando Gastroenterology will determine the specific schedule.
Treatment and routine surveillance significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer, but they do not eliminate it completely.
Regular follow-up is essential.
Patients are often advised to:
These lifestyle steps help reduce acid exposure and prevent further esophageal damage.
The most common are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
They reduce stomach acid and help prevent progression.
Some patients may also take H2 blockers or medications that improve gastric emptying.
You should see a specialist if:
