[Barrett's esophagus: Diagnosis, treatment and minimizing of risk]

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by regurgitation of gastric juices into the esophagus. This has an erosive effect on the mucosa with accompanying symptoms, such as heartburn, acid regurgitation and positional-/exertion--induced chest pain. The associated inflammation in the multi-layered squamous epithelium of the esophagus (esophagitis) can usually be seen macroscopically at gastroscopy and is always possible to demonstrate microscopically as well-characterized changes. GERD is abundant in the adult population in the Western world, and the incidence appears to be increasing. Serious manifestations of GERD include the appearance of esophageal injury (esophagitis) and columnar lined esophagus (Barrett's esophagus) and, in rare cases, peptic stricture. The glandular-transformed (metaplastic) mucosa carries its clinical significance by constituting the basis for continued cell transformation (development of dysplasia), which eventually might lead to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). EAC is an aggressive form of cancer whose incidence continues to increase in particular in the Western part of the world. In this article the potential mechanisms for the development of the metaplastic glandular epithelium and its progression to dysplasia and cancer is reviewed. In addition, recommendations are given on how important signals about future risks can be captured and managed and how these risks can be minimized and preferably prevented.