A Practical Approach to Screening and Surveillance of Barrett’s Esophagus

Abstract

Barrett’s esophagus (BE) can progress to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma (EAC), which has associated high morbidity and mortality. As such, societal guidelines suggest endoscopic screening in select individuals with multiple BE risk factors. However, cheaper and less invasive new technologies may allow for more widespread BE screening practices in the future. In patients with established BE, endoscopic surveillance is recommended with intervals based primarily on histology and to a lesser degree, BE segment length. Similar to BE screening, endoscopic surveillance can further be optimized with improved techniques, innovative technology, and further understanding of risk stratification for EAC.