Barrett's Esophagus
Frequently Asked Questions
None Available At This Time
Description
Barrett's Esophagus is a condition caused by intestinal metaplasia, when the tissue lining the esophagus is replaced by tissue that is similar to the lining of the intestine.
While there are no symptoms specifically associated with Barrett's Esophagus, many people with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) develop it. Rarely, Barrett's Esophagus can develop into a deadly type of cancer.
Men develop Barrett's Esophagus about twice as frequently as women, and the average age of diagnosis is 50 years old.
(Image used by permission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.)
Sources of Additional Information
- American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
- GERD, Barrett's Esophagus and the Risk for Esophageal Cancer
- (A review of the testing, screening, and treating of Barrett's Esophagus.)
- Understanding Barrett's Esophagus
- (A review of the testing, screening, and treating of Barrett's Esophagus.)
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
- Barrett's Esophagus
- (An overview of Barrett's Esophagus, GERD, how it's diagnosed, and links to other resources.)
Free Pamphlet From NDDIC: Barrett's Esophagus
