Antireflux and Endoscopic Therapies for Barrett Esophagus and Superficial Esophageal Neoplasia

Abstract

Barrett esophagus (BE), defined as intestinal metaplasia of the distal esophageal mucosa, typically results from chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and is the only known precursor of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The standard of care for the management of early esophageal neoplasia in the setting of BE has changed drastically over the past 15 years. Further investigation into diagnostic and therapeutic adjuncts will continue to improve our ability to control or cure BE before its advancement to a life-threatening malignancy.

Keywords: Barrett esophagus; Endoscopic resection; Esophageal adenocarcinoma; Gastroesophageal reflux disease; Radiofrequency ablation.