Could your esophagus change into intestine?
The answers to the above question are not, but there is a condition called Barrett’s esophagus where cells that make the intestines start to transform into cells similar to that we have in our intestine.
What is Barrett’s esophagus?
It is a rare medical condition where the esophagus cells start to transform into cells similar to those we have in our intestine. Despite being a rare condition, it is more common in men and especially those who are above 75 years old.
What causes Barrett’s esophagus?
It was found that Barrett’s esophagus usually develops after several years of esophagus exposure to stomach acid. Moreover, Barrett’s esophagus can develop without GERD, but patients with GERD are 3 to 5 times more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus. Some research claimed that around 0.5% of Barrett’s cases could transform into cancer.
What are the symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus?
- Swallowing problems
- Heartburn
- Frequent burping
- Less commonly, chest pain
- Consistent cough with no improvement
- Voice hoarseness
- Appetite loss
- Loss of no energy
- Throat pain
How to treat Barrett’s esophagus?
Usually, the treatment of Barrett’s esophagus depends on the level and stage of the condition. In case the condition is without dysplasia, treatment will include general GERD recommended treatment and endoscopy to monitor the disease progression and response. In the case of pre-dysplasia conditions, the treating physician will request an endoscopy test with a higher frequency. In case of high-grade dysplasia, the treating physician will recommend endoscopic resection, radiofrequency ablation, or cryotherapy. Porfimer sodium was already approved by FDA for the ablation of high-grade dysplasia in Barrett’s esophagus patients who do not undergo esophagectomy.
In case Barrett’s esophagus transformed into cancer, the condition should be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
