Barrett’s esophagus may cause esophageal fistula and esophageal cancer.
The normal mucosa of the lower esophagus is a complex layer of squamous epithelium, while barrett esophagus is a condition in which the normal epithelium is replaced by a single layer of columnar epithelium due to acid reflux or other factors. In general, patients with barrett’s esophagus tend to have their lesions under control and in remission after standardized drug therapy.
Without timely intervention, barrett’s esophagus may perforate leading to esophageal fistula, or malignant transformation causing esophageal cancer. Esophageal fistula is a perforation of the esophagus caused by long-term acid reflux, etc. Barrett’s esophagus itself has malignant potential and may progress to esophageal cancer.
Therefore, it is recommended to follow up regularly and standardize the treatment.