2011 March ; 140(3): e18–e13 | STUART J. SPECHLER, PRATEEK SHARMA, RHONDA F. SOUZA, JOHN M. INADOMI, NICHOLAS J. SHAHEEN
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has developed a technical review on the management of patients with Barrett's esophagus, focusing on diagnostic and management strategies. The review aims to improve healthcare quality by integrating evidence-based research with clinical expertise and patient values. Key topics include the definition of Barrett's esophagus, the risk of esophageal cancer, the impact on life expectancy and quality of life, risk factors, and screening guidelines. The AGA emphasizes the importance of intestinal metaplasia in diagnosing Barrett's esophagus and recommends endoscopic surveillance for patients with dysplasia. The review also discusses the natural history of dysplasia, the challenges in diagnosing and managing it, and the limitations of current screening practices. Despite the availability of risk factors, the utility of endoscopic screening remains controversial due to logistical and conceptual difficulties. The AGA concludes that decisions on screening should be individualized, considering the potential benefits and drawbacks.The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has developed a technical review on the management of patients with Barrett's esophagus, focusing on diagnostic and management strategies. The review aims to improve healthcare quality by integrating evidence-based research with clinical expertise and patient values. Key topics include the definition of Barrett's esophagus, the risk of esophageal cancer, the impact on life expectancy and quality of life, risk factors, and screening guidelines. The AGA emphasizes the importance of intestinal metaplasia in diagnosing Barrett's esophagus and recommends endoscopic surveillance for patients with dysplasia. The review also discusses the natural history of dysplasia, the challenges in diagnosing and managing it, and the limitations of current screening practices. Despite the availability of risk factors, the utility of endoscopic screening remains controversial due to logistical and conceptual difficulties. The AGA concludes that decisions on screening should be individualized, considering the potential benefits and drawbacks.