Endoscopic ablation of Barrett's esophagus

Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 1999 Jun;1(3):210-3. doi: 10.1007/s11894-999-0036-0.

Abstract

Barrett's esophagus is a premalignant lesion of the esophagus that arises as an abnormal tissue response to epithelial injury from gastroesophageal reflux. Barrett's esophagus has previously been considered an irreversible lesion that required life-long surveillance to prevent malignant transformation. Recently, combination therapy with pharmacologic or surgical control of acid reflux combined with endoscopic delivery of a mucosal injury appears to have the capability of reversing superficial Barrett's tissue, and perhaps deeper tissue as well. Whether Barrett's esophagus is cured and cancer/dysplasia prevented by these techniques will require long-term follow-up of these patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Barrett Esophagus / diagnosis
  • Barrett Esophagus / surgery*
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Esophagoscopy*
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy
  • Precancerous Conditions / diagnosis
  • Precancerous Conditions / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome