What is the primary risk associated with Barrett's Esophagus?

Barrett's Esophagus is a condition where the normal squamous cell lining of the esophagus is replaced with columnar cells due to chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This change in the cellular structure is known as intestinal metaplasia and is considered a precancerous condition. The primary risk associated with Barrett's Esophagus is the increased incidence of adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that arises from glandular tissue, which is the type of tissue that develops in Barrett's Esophagus.

Patients with Barrett's Esophagus are at a higher risk for developing dysplasia, which is the presence of abnormal cells that can progress to adenocarcinoma. Regular monitoring through endoscopy is often recommended to catch any signs of cancerous changes early. Therefore, the association between Barrett's Esophagus and the risk of developing adenocarcinoma highlights the need for careful screening and management of individuals with this condition.