BARRETT-ESOPHAGUS AND ADENOCARCINOMA

Barrett esophagus has become a common lesion in the esophagus; it is presumably caused by reflux esophagitis. Double-contrast barium esophagraphy improves radiographic evaluation of Barrett esophagus. The presence of midesophageal stricture, mucosal reticular pattern, and deep esophageal ulceration suggests the presence of Barrett esophagus. Other findings, such as hiatal hernia, thickened mucosal folds, and gastroesophageal reflux, are also frequently seen in Barrett esophagus but are not specific. Adenocarcinoma may complicate Barrett mucosa, usually with severe dysplasia. Adenocarcinoma has morphologic forms similar to squamous cell carcinoma in the esophagus. Barium esophagram, CT scans, and endoscopic sonography are used to evaluate and stage adenocarcinoma in the esophagus.