Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What is the term for damage of the distal esophagus from stomach acid that can lead to cancer?

1. Esophagitis

2. Barrett's esophagus

3. Achalasia

4. Lymphoma

The correct answer is: Barrett's esophagus

The term that refers to damage of the distal esophagus caused by stomach acid, which can predispose an individual to cancer, is Barrett's esophagus. This condition occurs when the normal squamous cells lining the esophagus are replaced by abnormal columnar cells. It typically arises as a complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where persistent exposure to stomach acid leads to inflammation and damage of the esophageal lining. Barrett's esophagus is significant because it is considered a precancerous condition, meaning that individuals with this diagnosis have an increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in the esophagus. Regular monitoring and management are essential in patients diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus to detect any dysplastic changes early. In contrast, esophagitis refers to the inflammation of the esophagus and is a result of similar exposure to acid, but it does not inherently indicate the risk of cancer. Achalasia is a disorder affecting the esophagus that results in difficulty swallowing and does not specifically involve cancer risk related to acid damage. Lymphoma involves cancer of the lymphatic system and is not a direct consequence of acid exposure in the esophagus. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the