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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Barrett's Esophagus?
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Barrett's Esophagus?
by An__0__0, Feb 02, 1999 12:00AM
If you have precancerous or cancerous cells in your esophagus,
is that the same as Barrett's Esophagus? My dad had an endoscopy 6 months ago which HE said came out fine. However, the gastro doctor prescribed Prilosec. I did not realize that, due to the cost, my dad did not take it. A few weeks ago he went 31 hours without being able to swallow even water. A new endoscopy revealed what he called precancerous cells, but a friend of his said the doctor said cancerous cells. The doc said he must stop smoking and take the Prilosec, so he's trying. At no time was Barrett's Esophagus mentioned to him. If he does have "cancerous" cells in there, will stopping the cigs and Prilosec "help"? Is there any treatment for cancer of the esophagus? If they are "precancerous", can Prilosec possibly heal them? Thanks
Dear Ann,
Barrett's esophagus refers to a change in the lining of the lower esophagus. Esophageal adenocarcinoma may develop in patients with Barrett's esophagus. Adenocarcinomas develop in Barrett's esophagus at the rate of about one cancer per 125 patient years of follow-up. This converts to an annual incidence in an adult patient with Barrett's esophagus of 0.8%. Before adenocarcinoma develops, it appears that the esophageal lining undergoes a process of glandular distortion called dysplasia. High grade dysplasia is associated with a high risk of cancer and surgery is usually advised to resect the area of the esophagus with the abnormal lining. Prilosec and smoking cessation have not been shown to reverse "cancerous" cells. These modalities have also not been proven to reverse Barrett's esophagus. Early esophageal cancer is usually treated surgically or with surgery combined with radiation and chemotherapy. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians’ Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: Barrett's esophagus, adenocarcinoma
