Barrett's Oesophagus

Question 1

Define Barrett’s Oesophagus:

Answer 1

Dysplastic change in the Squamous epithelium of the oesophagus leading to replacement with metaplastic columnar epithelium often due to the refluxate of GORD

Question 2

What is the main problem associated with Barrett’s Oesophagus?

Answer 2

Could progress to oesophageal adenocarcinoma

Question 3

Epidemiology of Barrett’s Oesophagus?

Answer 3

3-5% with GORD go on to develop Barrett’s

Question 4

Presenting symptoms of Barrett’s Oesophagus​?

Answer 4

Symptoms of GORD:

Heartburn
Nausea
Water-brash (sour taste in mouth)
Bloating
Belching
Burning pain when swallowing

Question 5

What are the appropriate investigations for Barrett’s Oesophagus?

Answer 5

OGD - shows redder patches of columnar tissue

Biopsy of endoscopically visible columnisation

Question 6

What proportion of patients with Barrett’s Oesophagus will develop Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma?

Answer 6

5-10% over 10-20 years

Still a 30-60x higher risk than the general population