Barrett's Esophagus – Top USMLE Diseases

Dysphagia is the subjective sensation of difficulty swallowing. Symptoms can range from a complete inability to swallow, to the sensation of solids or liquids becoming “stuck.” Dysphagia is classified as either oropharyngeal or esophageal, with esophageal dysphagia having 2 sub-types: functional and mechanical. Common causes of functional dysphagia include achalasia, scleroderma, and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES). Mechanical causes of dysphagia include esophageal rings, webs, strictures, and cancer. Oropharyngeal dysphagia may be due to structural abnormalities or abnormal neuromuscular function and coordination. The diagnostic workup depends on the patient’s presenting symptoms, but may include manometry, barium esophagram, or direct visualization with nasopharyngeal laryngoscopy or endoscopy. Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause.

Barrett’s esophagus is a chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that leads to the replacement of stratified squamous epithelium with gastric columnar epithelium in the esophagus. The condition is associated with an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Workup includes an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showing proximal displacement of the squamocolumnar junction (Z-line) from the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). Biopsies will confirm the diagnosis by revealing columnar epithelium and goblet cells in the distal esophagus. Treatment is primarily with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and lifestyle modifications. Surveillance with repeated EGD and biopsy is necessary to monitor for early signs of dysplasia.

Gastritis refers to inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Gastritis may occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or slowly over time (chronic gastritis). Gastritis may be asymptomatic or with symptoms, including burning abdominal pain (which either worsens or improves with eating), dyspepsia, nausea, and vomiting. The most common etiologies for gastritis are Helicobacter pylori infection and autoimmune disease. Chronic gastritis is a risk factor for gastric cancer. Management involves the use of proton pump inhibitors with antibiotics (in case of H. pylori infection), avoidance of offending agents, and replacement of associated deficiencies.