What is Barett's esophagus?

• I. Definition: A. Intestinal metaplasia: occurs in the distal esophagus B. Columnar intestinal mucosa: replaces the normal squamous mucosa • II. Etiology: A. Caused by exposure of the lower esophagus to acid or nonacid reflux B. Occurs in 5%–20% o patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) C. Approximately 0.5% of patients per year will develop cancer. • III. Diagnosis : Detected at endoscopy by its characteristic tongues of salmoncolored mucosa in the lower esophagus. When suspected, multiple biopsies are recommended to assess for dysplasia or malignancy