[Endobrachyesophagus and adenocarcinoma]

During 6168 esophagoscopies (ENT Clinic, Medical School of Lausanne and Hospital of Yverdon: 1963-1974), 164 cylindrical epithelial patches (26%) have been detected endoscopically with a regular progressive incidence from year to year (optical improvement, interest and progressive training of endoscopists). Endoscopically, a distinction can be drawn between: 1. the cylindrical epithelial islets of the upper (19%) or lower (4%) esophagus; 2. widespread cylindrical epithelial lining of the lower esophagus (77%). The first type cannot be associated in any significant manner with any organic pathology. It is of congenital origin and is, as a rule, without pathological significance. Statistically, however, the second type would seem to enter into the category of peptic esophagitis in its chronic form, and appears to constitute a form of cicatrization. The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the lower esophagus in association with this second form of cylindrical epithelial lining is significant. It would, therefore, be advisable for peptic esophagitis to be treated before it reaches its chronic stage and, in particular, before the appearance of cylindrical epithelial scars.