Barrett’s Esophagus

In regards to Barrett’s esophagus, do the pre-cancer cells mean cancer?

Barrett’s esophagus is an advanced stage of reflux where there have been changes in the lining of the esophagus which is thought to be precancerous by some. It is known that the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is higher in people with Barrett’s esophagus than in the general population. This of course, does not mean that all patients with Barrett’s esophagus will get cancer if the esophagus.

At present there is little known about children and cancer of the esophagus. We know that Barrett’s esophagus is a precancerous condition in adults and strongly recommend evaluation, treatment and monitoring.

Once Barrett’s esophagus has been diagnosed and managed appropriately, an EGD should be done annually for several years to ascertain resolution. There has been a single case report of an adult with adenocarcinoma of the bowel following a diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus.

TK 7-13-10

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