Is intestinal metaplasia bad?

I've seen this term: Used ti describe barret's esophagus. The normal esophagus is lined with mosaic tile like cell called squamous cells. If instead of squamous, it looks like intestinal mucosa with mucin, the tissue has "changed" in response to he environment, and possibly ph (acid flow-back). It is considered a potential pre-cursor of invasive cancer, but warrants observation not surgery.

It can get better: "barrett's esophagus" is the most common "intestinal metaplasia.". Repeated irritation of the esophagus from stomach acid causing heartburn can make the lining of the esophagus change to look like the intestinal lining. This is a warning sign; if repeated injury continues a cancer could form. A GI doctor can help your body fix things by minimizing the reflux & checking the area with a scope.