Barrett's Esophagus

About the author

Dr. Minocha (http://www.diagnosishealth.com/minocha.htm) is Professor of Medicine and Director, Division of Digestive Diseases at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS, and is the author of How to Stop Heartburn; Simple Ways to Heal Heartburn and Acid Reflux.

In a study from the journal Gastroenterology 1997, acid reflux is more common in family members of patients with Barrett's esophagus than in the control group of spouses (46% vs 27%). The researchers also found that GERD was also more common in family members of patients with esophageal cancer than the control (43% vs 23%).

The good news is that whereas there is a genetic component, we as humans can make choices to overcome the role played by genetics.

Although heartburn is the commonest symptom of GERD, conversely symptoms may be reduced in elderly with Barrett's. This occurs because the altered lining of the wall Barrett's esophagus may make the subject less sensitized to acid reflux. Thus patients may have lesser or no symptoms despite high degree of acid reflux.

                                                   >>Top of Barrett's esophagus

Endoscopy is diagnostic of GERD if erosive esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus is found.

Barrett's esophagus can not be diagnosed clinically or by x-rays. An endoscopy is required to visualize if the wall of esophagus may be altered to Barrett's. Biopsies are then undertaken to make the final determination by looking at the biopsies under the microscope.

Patients should be aggressively treated with acid blocking medications of the PPI class. In addition, they require periodic surveillance endoscopies (upper GI scope every 1-3 years), usually every 2 years. Those with low grade dysplasia require more frequent endoscopic surveillance. Those with high grade dysplasia should undergo surgery since on surgery, many of these cases will be found to have co-existing cancer.

As of this writing, PDT is not the mainstream therapy for Barrett's esophagus in order to eliminate its cancerous potential. It is performed through an endoscope and is an investigational tool, which may be employed in lieu of surgery among patients who may otherwise be poor risk for surgery.