Barrett esophagus after chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and 5-fluorouracil (CMF): an iatrogenic injury?
Article Abstract:
Barrett esophagus is a condition in which the epithelium, or outer cell layer, of the esophagus undergoes abnormal changes. These changes may result from a birth-related disorder or, more commonly, from gastroesophageal reflux, the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Barrett esophagus has also been associated with chemotherapy in children. Cases are described of eight women who developed Barrett esophagus after chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and 5-fluorouracil (CMF) for breast cancer. Methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil can cause inflammation of the mouth, resulting in the development of lesions in the mucous membranes, which may extend to the esophagus. Inflammation of the esophagus may lead to disruption of the sphincter that prevents the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Subsequent gastroesophageal reflux can cause changes in the cells of the esophageal epithelium. Chemotherapeutic agents can destroy the squamous epithelium of the esophagus, and recovery may involve the development of abnormal cell types in the esophageal epithelium. Although, in general, Barrett esophagus increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer, patients treated with CMF do not have a greater risk of esophageal cancer than untreated patients. It is possible that once chemotherapy is discontinued, a regression of the cell changes occurs. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1991
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Effect of Segment Length on Risk for Neoplastic Progression in Patients with Barrett Esophagus
Article Abstract:
There may be no greater risk of developing esophageal cancer in patients whose Barrett's esophagus affects large sections of the esophagus. Barrett's esophagus is an abnormality in esophageal tissue that is believed to be a precursor of esophageal cancer. In a study of 309 patients with Barrett's esophagus, those whose abnormal tissue covered larger areas of the esophagus were no more likely to develop esophageal cancer than those whose abnormality affected smaller areas. However, more research is necessary to confirm this observation.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 2000
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The association between use of certain medicines and cancer of the esophagus
Article Abstract:
Drugs that relax the esophageal sphincter may increase the risk of esophageal cancer. In a study of 1,438 people, those who took these drugs had four times the risk of developing esophageal cancer as those who did not.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 2000
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