Barrett’s esophagus is a serious complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
In Barrett’s esophagus, the normal tissue lining the esophagus-the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach-is transformed into tissue that resembles that lining the intestines. About 10% of people with chronic gastroesophageal reflux symptoms develop Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Although the risk is small, it is important that patients undergo regular checkups for precancerous cells that, if discovered, can be treated to prevent cancer development.
