A member asked:

How does gerd lead to barrett's esophagus?

8 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Acidity+cell changes: Your esophagus is not designed to handle acidic secretions. In gerd, the cells in the esophagus are frequently exposed to acidity and become damaged. Over time, the tissue adapts by changing its cells into ones similar to cells in the stomach. This called metaplasia. Because these kinds of cells are abnormal in the esophagus, people with barrett's are at greater risk for esophageal cancer.

Answered 11/26/2013

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Metaplasia: Reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus prompts changes in the epithelial lining of esophagus. The epithelium changes from squamous to columnar to better resist the effects of acid. The change, metaplasia is the key component of barrett's.

Answered 9/16/2012

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Related Questions

A member asked:

How long of not treting GERD can it cause harm to my esophagus?

A doctor has provided 1 answer