Familial Gastroesophageal Reflux and Development of Barrett's Esophagus

  1. DAVID W. CRABB, M.D.;
  2. MICHAEL A. BERK, M.D.;
  3. THOMAS R. HALL, M.D.;
  4. P. M. CONNEALLY, Ph.D.;
  5. ANGENIETA A. BIEGEL, M.D.; and
  6. GLEN A. LEHMAN, M.D.
  1. Indianapolis, Indiana; and Cincinnati, Ohio

    Abstract

    The family of an elderly man with Barrett's esophagus was examined for gastroesophageal reflux and development of Barrett's esophagus. All five living children have gastroesophageal reflux or esophagitis, or both, and three have unequivocal Barrett's esophagus. Two third-generation descendents have gastroesophageal reflux. This pattern suggests autosomal dominant transmission of the gastroesophageal reflux trait. The family also has a high prevalence of cancer, which may represent the cancer family syndrome.

    Article and Author Information

    • ▸From the Divisions of Gastroenterology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Medical Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.

    • ▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Glen A. Lehman, M.D.; Regenstrief Health Center, Room 614B, 1001 West Tenth Street; Indianapolis, IN 46202.

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    1. Ann Intern Med July 1, 1985 vol. 103 no. 1 52-54
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