Barrett Esophagus

**Definition:** A condition with damage to the lining of the lower ESOPHAGUS resulting from chronic acid reflux (ESOPHAGITIS, REFLUX). Through the process of metaplasia, the squamous cells are replaced by a columnar epithelium with cells resembling those of the INTESTINE or the salmon-pink mucosa of the STOMACH. Barrett's columnar epithelium is a marker for severe reflux and precursor to ADENOCARCINOMA of the esophagus.

**Tree numbers:** - C04.834.154 - C06.405.117.102

**Synonyms:** - Barrett's Esophagus - Esophagus, Barrett - Barrett's Syndrome - Barrett Syndrome - Barrett Metaplasia