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Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Diagnosis of Neoplasia in Barrett’s Esophagus using Vital-dye Enhanced Fluorescence Imaging
Published on: May 11, 2014
[Barrett esophagus in children]
J Bókay1, G Rákóczy, K Jellinek
1Semmelweis Orvostudományl Egyetem I. sz. Gyermekklinika, Budapest.
Insights
A young boy
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Esophageal Pathology
Background:
- Recurrent vomiting and abdominal pain in children can indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues.
- Diagnosing esophageal conditions requires a combination of imaging, monitoring, and direct visualization.
Observation:
- A 6.5-year-old boy presented with persistent vomiting and abdominal pain.
- 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring revealed consistently low pH levels (<4).
- Esophagoscopy showed moderate inflammation, but standard X-rays were inconclusive.
Findings:
- Histological examination of esophageal biopsies confirmed the presence of gastric mucosa above the lower esophageal sphincter.
- This finding is indicative of Barrett's syndrome, a rare condition in children.
Implications:
- Barrett's syndrome in children, though uncommon, should be considered in cases of persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent long-term complications.
Abstract:
The case of a 6.5 years old boy, hospitalised because of recurrent vomiting, epigastrial, periumbilical abdominal pain, is reported. The contrast--medium swallow--x-ray examination showed no alteration, while during repeated continuous 24 hours pH monitoring of the distal esophagus, the pH values permanently were wound to remain under 4. By esophagoscopy, only moderate inflammatory signs could be detected. The long-lasting complaints and the results of pH monitoring indicated serial biopsy from the esophagus-wall. The histological finding showed gastric mucosa 2 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter, i.e. a Barrett syndrome. Upon the treatment administered according to the diagnosis, the complaints of the child considerably improved.
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