Surveillance and screening for Barrett's esophagus: What to do when we have so many patients and so little evidence

Abstract

Commentary

Screening and surveillance of Barrett's esophagus has been recommended by gastroenterology professional society guidelines in hopes of decreasing the mortality rate from esophageal adenocarcinoma. Although a large number of clinicians believe in the efficacy of both screening and surveillance for Barrett's esophagus, the evidence regarding their value is primarily inferential and based on relatively weak data. Dr. Kenneth Wang examines the current recommendations for screening and surveillance of Barrett's esophagus and reviews the most recent literature assessing their utility.

Grace H. Elta, MD

Editor