About Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the lower portion of the esophagus changes from the normal esophageal composition to a composition that closely resembles the lining of the intestines. A person with this condition is at a slightly increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a cancer of the esophagus; however, less than 1 percent of people with Barrett's esophagus develop this type of cancer each year states a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Symptoms

There often aren't any symptoms associated with Barrett's esophagus. Symptoms of acid reflux may be present. These include difficulty swallowing food, vomiting blood and frequent heartburn.

Risk Factors

A person who has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for at least 10 years is at risk of developing this condition. Men are more likely to develop the condition than women. People over the age of 40 are more likely than younger patients to get the disease, although it can occur at any age. Whites and Hispanics are the races most likely to suffer from this condition.

Diagnosis

An upper endoscopy, in which a thin, lighted tube is placed in your throat, is the most common diagnostic procedure for Barrett's esophagus. While the endoscope is in the throat, tissue samples are usually taken to study the degree of change, or dysplasia that has occurred. An upper-GI test may also be done.

Stages of Dysplasia

High-grade dysplasia is the most severe form of Barrett's esophagus. This occurs when most cells appear abnormal. This is thought to be the stage that leads to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Low-grade dysplasia occurs when only small changes are noted in the tissue sample. No dysplasia occurs when there isn't any noticeable change in the sample.

Lifestyle Changes

Making small changes to keep reflux under control is necessary to help reduce the risk of Barrett's esophagus, and to help keep the condition under control if it is already present. Sitting up for at least 30 minutes to an hour, eating small meals that aren't fried or fat-laden, and avoiding tight clothing over the stomach may help.

Treatment

The treatment of the Barrett's esophagus is dependent upon the severity of the disease. Endoscopic treatments that destroy the abnormal portions of the esophagus are sometimes appropriate for all stages of the condition, depending on the amount of tissue that has been affected.

Surgery is sometimes needed to remove the affected portion of the esophagus is sometimes necessary. When the affected portion of the esophagus is removed, the remaining portion of the esophagus is attached to stomach.

Conclusion

A person with Barrett's esophagus is likely to suffer from acid reflux. With lifestyle changes and medical treatments, this condition is treatable.

Sources:

Shaheen N, Ransohoff DF. Gastroesophageal reflux, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal cancer. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2002;287(15):1982-1986