Barrett's Esophagus

One complication of advanced gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be a columnar-lined esophagus (CLE) known as Barrett's esophagus. The etiology, epidemiology, pathological characteristics, and clinical features of Barrett's esophagus are reviewed, as well as diagnostic methods such as Barium esophagram, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, and laser-induced fluorescence. Medical therapy usually is based on H2-receptor antagonists and omeprazole. Antireflux surgery has not been shown to cause regression of CLE, but Nissen fundoplication to control GERD and, especially, new laser ablation techniques, may provide the best potential therapies for Barrett's esophagus.