Barrett’s Esophagus

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D. Guests: Cadman L. Leggett, M.D., and Chamil C. Codipilly, M.D. Occasional heartburn from gastroesophageal reflux is usually nothing more than an occasional nuisance for most patients.  However, when the reflux becomes chronic, it can become more serious.  One complication is Barrett’s esophagus. On occasion, Barrett’s can develop into esophageal adenocarcinoma, an aggressive malignancy with a survival rate of only around 20% at 5 years.  Although usually seen in those with chronic acid reflux, Barrett’s can occasionally occur in those without any clinical evidence of acid reflux.  When should a patient with acid reflux receive an upper endoscopy?  What’s the significance of finding Barrett’s esophagus on an endoscopy?  How often does Barrett’s develop into esophageal cancer and does treatment prevent this from happening?  In this podcast, these are just some of the questions I’ll be asking our guests, Cadman L. Leggett, M.D., and Chamil C. Codipilly, M.D., both from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Mayo Clinic as we discuss Barrett’s Esophagus. Connect and listen with Mayo Clinic Podcasts | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development