An Ineffective Lower Esophageal Sphincter Could Lead to Barrett Esophagus

Question

An ineffective lower esophageal sphincter could lead to Barrett esophagus.

Accepted Answer

Barrett esophagus is a complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) where the tissue lining the esophagus is replaced by tissue similar to that of the intestine. An ineffective lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle ring that controls the flow of food and stomach acid from the esophagus to the stomach, can allow stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, contributing to the development of Barrett esophagus.