Barrett's esophagus. Epidemiology, ecology, pathogenesis, morphological description, capabilities of endoscopy

Barrett's esophagus develops as a result of the chronic, pathological reflux of gastro-duodenal contents into the esophagus. It predisposes to the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Confocal laser endomicroscopy is a new endoscopic technique which allows subsurface in vivo microscopic analysis during ongoing endoscopy. It allows targeted biopsies to be taken, potentially improving the diagnostic rate in certain gastrointestinal diseases. Worldwide experience with confocal laser endomicroscopy for upper gastrointestinal malignant and premalignant lesions, including Barrett's esophagus is still reduced.