| Theme | Barrett's Esophagus | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Pathogenesis of Barrett's Esophagus | |
| Publish Date | 2007/01 | |
| Author | Ken Haruma | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Noriaki Manabe | Division of Endoscopy and Ultrasonography, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Tomoari Kamada | Division of Healthcare, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Akiko Shiotani | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Toshiaki Tanaka | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Motonori Sato | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Hiroaki Kusunoki | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Keisuke Honda | Division of Gastroenterology, Kawasaki Medical School |
| Author | Jiro Hata | Division of Endoscopy and Ultrasonography, Kawasaki Medical School |
| [ Summary ] | Barrett's esophagus is a premalignant condition related to esophageal adenocarcinoma and is becoming more prevalent is increasing in western countries. Several recent studies have indicated that Barrett's esophagus is related to increased acid levels, alkaline reflux, or both. This is due to decreased lower esophageal sphincter tone and reduced esophageal contractions. The duration of reflux symptoms, the severity of reflux esophagitis, and environmental factors such as sex ratio, obesity, smoking, or Helicobacter pylori infection play roles in the development of Barrett's esophagus. In this article we review recent studies on the pathogenesis of Barrett's esophagus. | |