Barrett's esophagus is a disorder in which the lining of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach) is damaged because of stomach acid that leaks back into and irritates the esophagus. This leakage of acid is commonly known as "heartburn" (gastroesophageal reflux).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Irritation of the lining of the esophagus by gastric acid secretions (stomach acid) causes Barrett's esophagus. It occurs more frequently in men than women. Risk factors are frequent and long-standing gastroesophageal reflux. The condition carries an increased risk of cancer of the esophagus.
Review Date: 10/18/2004
Reviewed By: Updates to specific sections made by Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D. Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (7/16/2004).
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