Tuesday, 15 March 2011

Barrett's esophagus

The Key word :
BARRett's = Becomes Adenocarcinoma, Results from Reflux.

Barrett's esophagus is a Glandular metaplasia ,or replacement of non keratinized (stratified) squamous epithelium with intestinal (columnar) epithelium in the distal esophagus as a serious uncommon complication of chronic acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) .

By endoscope :
the color and composition of the tissue lining the lower esophagus change. Instead of pink, the tissue turns a salmon color.
Under a microscope, the tissue resembles that of the small intestine "metaplasia".
This Metaplasia is brought on by repeated and long-term exposure to stomach acid and is associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

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