Barrett's esophagus is a precancerous condition that is caused by chronic acid reflux. The lining of the esophagus is not equipped to handle stomach acid and becomes burned and damaged as a result. This can cause the cells to develop changes that can predispose the patient to develop cancer of the esophagus. Treatment of Barrett's esophagus depends on the severity of the disease.
Diagnosis
Barrett's esophagus is a condition that causes the cells that line the esophagus to change into a different sort of cell. As the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK) notes, it is usually diagnosed via endoscopy, in which a thin flexible camera is passed through the patient's mouth and throat into the esophagus. If the physician notices any abnormalities, he may request a tissue sample from the esophagus for further analysis.
Dysplasia
The Mayo Clinic explains that the treatment of Barrett's esophagus is typically determined by the extent of dysplasia in the esophagus. Dysplasia explains the extent to which the cells that line the esophagus appear abnormal. This can be ascertained by looking at tissue samples under a microscope. High-grade dysplasia describes cells that appear to be very abnormal, and this condition is thought to be the final step before the cells turn cancerous.
Low-Grade Dysplasia Treatments
MedlinePlus notes if a patient's esophageal cells show little or no dysplasia, the main course of treatment is to keep the Barrett's esophagus from getting worse. This generally means treating any underlying acid reflux that may be causing the changes. This can be done with the use of some medications, such as antacids, H-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Many patients also benefit from lifestyle changes that include dietary restrictions as well.
High-Grade Dysplasia
As the NIDDK explains, patients with high-grade esophageal dysplasia will need more aggressive treatment because of the likelihood of the cells becoming cancerous. If possible, the damaged portions of the esophagus will be surgically removed. Sometimes this procedure can be done with an endoscope, in which case it is called an endoscopic mucosal resection. Alternately, the precancerous and cancerous cells can be destroyed using a laser beam.
Follow-Up
Patients who have been diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, even if it is of the mild or low-grade variety, require periodic endoscopies and biopsies to ensure that the disease is not progressing. The Mayo Clinic explains that one year after the initial diagnosis, patients may receive a follow-up endoscopy. If no dysplasia is detected, the patient will then only need an endoscopy every three years thereafter.
