Barrett's Esophagus

Definition & Facts

Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of your intestine replaces the tissue lining your esophagus. People with Barrett's esophagus may develop a rare cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms & Causes

Experts don't know the exact cause of Barrett's esophagus. However, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) increases your chances of developing the condition.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose Barrett's esophagus with an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and a biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment options for Barrett's esophagus include repeated surveilleance endoscopy, endoscopic ablative therapies, endoscopic mucosal resection, and surgery.

Eating, Diet, & Nutrition

Your diet can relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, but there is no evidence that what you eat prevents Barrett's esophagus.

Clinical Trials

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and other components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct and support basic and clinical research into many digestive disorders.

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Related Research

See more about digestive diseases research at NIDDK.

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