When Is Abnormal Cells Removal From The Esophagus Advisable While Treating Barrett's Esophagus?

Posted on Fri, 5 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 5 Aug 2016 Answered on

Thu, 25 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : In a Barrett's esophagus Abnormal cells may be found through endoscopy of the esophagus in the lining. However a biophy may indicate that the cells show no sign of dsplasia or cancer. Therefore surveillance is recommended rather than endoscopy removal of the lining. Is it wise not continue watching rather then remove such cells in the lining? Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Patient decision

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.

The decision about treatment modality should be beased on some other parameters,not just presenc of Barrtes esophagus- it includes grade of dysplasia, circumference of mucosal changes, other risk factors(smoking,obesity alcohol). However,if there is no dysplasia then we recommend conservative managements with yearly surveillance since the risk of alteration into esophageal cancer is very low (<0.2% per year) and with adequate follow ups, cancer development may be prevented and treated in time. SO endoscopic removal of mucosa or ablation is not required,it may cause certain complications as well. Of course, patient can decide the treatment type at the end. Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D