Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the normal squamous lining of the lower esophagus is replaced by intestinal-type columnar tissue, typically in response to chronic acid reflux (GERD). It is considered a precancerous condition because it increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma — a cancer with a rapidly rising incidence in the United States.
Who is At Risk?
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Adults with chronic GERD (5 or more years of heartburn)
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Men over 50 — Barrett's is significantly more common in men
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Obesity, especially central (abdominal) obesity
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Smoking history
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White race
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Family history of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer
Diagnosis
Barrett's esophagus is diagnosed by upper endoscopy (EGD) with biopsy. The gastroenterologist visually identifies abnormal-appearing tissue in the lower esophagus and takes biopsy samples for pathologic confirmation. Most patients with Barrett's have no symptoms beyond their typical GERD complaints — the condition is discovered during endoscopy.
Dysplasia and Cancer Risk
Barrett's without dysplasia carries a relatively low annual cancer risk (~0.1–0.3%). The presence of dysplasia — either low-grade or high-grade — significantly increases that risk. Patients with dysplasia require more intensive surveillance or endoscopic eradication therapy (ablation). Our gastroenterologists risk-stratify each patient and recommend the appropriate surveillance interval per ACG and AGA guidelines.
Surveillance Intervals
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Barrett's without dysplasia: surveillance endoscopy every 3–5 years
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Low-grade dysplasia: every 6–12 months or consideration of ablation therapy
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High-grade dysplasia: endoscopic eradication therapy recommended
Book a Barrett's Esophagus Evaluation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online