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How Is Barrett's Esophagus Diagnosed?

By Sharon Gillson, About.com

Updated September 18, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Question: How Is Barrett's Esophagus Diagnosed?
Answer: Diagnosing Barrett's esophagus is not easy. At the present time, it cannot be diagnosed on the basis of symptoms, physical exam, or blood tests. The only way to be sure if you have Barrett's esophagus will require an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD or upper GI endoscopy). Biopsies are performed, to check for abnormal cells which have the potential of becoming malignant.
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