Barrett’s esophagus (Barrett), which is not malignant, is an esophagus in which the squamous epithelium of the lower esophagus is replaced by gastric columnar epithelium.
Barrett’s esophagus can be congenital, but is often secondary to reflux esophagitis, in which the acid-intolerant squamous epithelium of the lower esophagus is gradually replaced by acid-resistant gastric columnar epithelium due to the presence of gastroesophageal reflux over a long period of time.
Patients have typical reflux symptoms, mainly manifested as recurrent lower retrosternal pain and burning sensation after eating cold or hot food, especially acidic food, or eating in the prone position, and the pain may radiate to the neck, scapula, or both arms. In the advanced stage, there may be dysphagia, vomiting, black stools, etc., and may be accompanied by ulcers. Some of these patients may develop esophageal cancer.
It is recommended that once diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus, one should seek immediate medical attention and actively carry out targeted treatment under the guidance of the doctor.