| Disease | Injury | Nutrition | Poison |
| Special Topic | Surgery | Symptoms | Test |
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| Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention |
Barrett’s esophagus |
| Definition: |
| A disorder in which the lining of the esophagus (the tube which carries food from the throat to the stomach) has cellular changes caused by irritation from stomach acid which has leaked into the esophagus. This leakage of acid is commonly known as "heartburn" (gastroesophageal reflux).
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| 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 (heartburn). The condition carries an increased risk of cancer of the esophagus. |
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/1/2002).
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