Barrett esophagus/Definition

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Revision as of 08:47, 30 April 2014 by imported>Robert Badgett (moved Barrett's esophagitis/Definition to Barrett esophagus/Definition: better name per NLM)
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A definition or brief description of Barrett esophagus.

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.(National Library of Medicine)