Barrett’s esophagus is a rare but serious condition in which there are precancerous changes in the cells that line the esophagus, the tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Doctors believe Barrett’s esophagus is most commonly caused by repeated exposure to stomach acid due to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
Over time, acid that rises into the esophagus may injure the esophageal lining and lead to Barrett’s esophagus. A small percentage of people with the condition develop esophageal cancer.
At NYU Langone’s Center for Esophageal Disease, gastroenterologists use specialized tests to examine the esophagus and diagnose the condition. Our multidisciplinary team of experts offers cutting-edge therapies to manage Barrett’s esophagus and prevent cancer.
Treatment for Barrett’s esophagus includes medications to manage reflux, as well as minimally invasive endoscopic and surgical procedures to destroy or remove precancerous cells.