Barrett's Esophagus:
What is Barrett’s esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which normal cells that line the esophagus, known as simple squamous cells, turn into specialized columnar cells, which are cells that are not typically found in humans. Damage to the lining of the esophagus causes the simple squamous cells to turn into columnar cells, and because the cells are unable ever to revert back, there is no cure to Barrett’s esophagus. Currently, this condition affects approximately 700,000 adults within the United States. A very small percentage of people with this condition develop cancer of the esophagus.
What causes Barrett’s esophagus:
Barrett’s esophagus can develop in some people who have been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). People diagnosed with esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) can also be affected. It is believed that the damage to the cells that line the esophagus is what causes Barrett’s esophagus.
What are the symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus?
Some people with Barrett’s esophagus may be asymptomatic; however, there are some very common symptoms, which may include:
- Waking in the night due to heartburn pain
- Vomiting
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Difficulty swallowing
Sometimes the damaged lining of the esophagus will become hardened and thick, which can cause a narrowing of the esophagus. This narrowing, known as strictures, may interfere with eating and drinking. Strictures can be treated by dilation, a procedure in which the strictures are gently stretched and expanded in order to allow food and beverages to pass through the esophagus.
How is Barrett’s esophagus diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a physical examination, as well as an endoscopy, in which your physician will insert a long, thin tube down the esophagus and examine at the lining of the esophagus. Your physician will remove a small sample, a biopsy, and will send the biopsy to a laboratory in order to determine whether the simple squamous cells have turned into columnar cells.
Treatment options:
If the results from the laboratory determine that the simple squamous cells have been replaced with columnar cells, your physician will determine the best treatment option for you. Medications, such as H2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors may be prescribed in order to prevent further damage. Surgery to remove damaged tissue may be another option your physician recommends. Since there is currently no cure for Barrett’s esophagus, all treatment options are focused on preventing further damage.
Related websites and information:
- What is GERD?
- What is the esophagus?
- Jackson Gastroenterology
- MayoClinic.Com
- BarrettsInfo.Com
- National Digestive Disease Information
- More GI disorders and procedures
| University of Missouri Health Care | This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. |
