BARRETT ESOPHAGUS

Types & Symptoms

TYPES

There are three types of Barrett esophagus. These include:

• No dysplasia
• Low-grade dysplasia
• High-grade dysplasia

SYMPTOMS

The occurrence of Barrett esophagus can be contributed by your GERD. Here are the possible symptoms:

• Difficult to swallow
• Chest Pain
• Heartburn
• Vomiting

DIAGNOSIS

Determining Barret esophagus may include the following: 

• Endoscopy
• Endoscope
• Biopsy

TREATMENT

The patient’s esophageal cell growth and health status are taken into account when treating the problem. Hence, treatment may also vary for the following types:

No dysplasia

• Periodic monitoring. Monitoring the cells is important to assess their growth.A one-year follow-up visit is required, followed by three to five-year intervals. This is to distinguish if the cells made progress or not.  
• GERD Treatment. Changing your lifestyle and taking any medication can help lessen the signs of the condition. 
• Surgery. The surgery helps in tightening the lower part of the esophageal sphincter— it manages the acidity flow. 

Low-grade dysplasia

• Cryotherapy. It uses a very cold gas or liquid. The cells are stimulated and they will be frozen again. The cycle can help in destroying the abnormal cells.
• Endoscopic Resection. An endoscope is needed to get the destroyed cells. 
• Radiofrequency Ablation. It can be performed after the endoscopy resection. It utilizes heat to get rid of the abnormal esophagus tissue. 
• If the initial endoscopy shows that there is inflammation, the doctor will suggest a second endoscopy after obtaining the treatment within three to four months. 

High-grade dysplasia

• Radiofrequency Ablation

• Cryotherapy

• Endoscopic Resection

For some cases, surgery may be required. The affected part of the esophagus will be removed and the remaining part will be connected to the stomach. 

It is possible that the Barrett esophagus will reoccur after treating it. If it does, inform your physicians right away and they will decide your further treatment.