Barrett's esophagus is a precancerous condition in which the cells that line the lower part of the esophagus are changed or replaced with abnormal cells.

Patients with Barrett's esophagus face an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer, although only an estimated 1 in 200 patients with Barrett's esophagus develops cancer, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The exact cause of Barrett's esophagus is unknown, but it is sometimes associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a disorder in which stomach contents flow back (reflux) into the esophagus and damage its lining. Although GERD is common, the number of patients who develop Barrett's esophagus due to GERD is small.

Caucasians, Hispanics, men, people over age 50, smokers and obese individuals also have an increased risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus.

Barrett's espophagus does not produce any symptoms. However, patients may experience heartburn, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite as a result of GERD, which is sometimes associated with Barrett's esophagus.

Barrett's esophagus may be diagnosed by a physician during a physical examination with a medical history and list of medications. The condition is usually diagnosed during an endoscopy that includes a biopsy. Patients with a higher risk of developing Barrett's esophagus may receive regular endoscopies to screen for the condition or monitor its progression.

Early detection and treatment of GERD may help prevent the onset of Barrett’s esophagus in some cases.

There is no cure for Barrett's esophagus, but treatment is similar to that for GERD. This may include lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol and foods that cause reflux. Treatment may also include taking acid-reducing medications such as proton pump inhibitors. In severe cases, patients may undergo a surgical procedure such as esophagectomy to remove the esophagus.