Objective:

To determine the prevalence of gastric mucosa heterotopia of the cervical esophagus (GMH), its endoscopic, histopathological characteristics and presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients with an elective indication of upper endoscopy.

Material and methods:

An observational, prospective and cross-sectional study was performed for endoscopic detection of GMH. Inclusion criteria were patients of both sexes, any age, with elective upper endoscopy performed by the same endoscopist.

Results:

In 722 upper endoscopies, 4 patients presented GMH, with a prevalence of 0.5%. 50% with 6 to 10 mm islets and the other 50% with lesions greater than 1 cm. The type of gastric mucosa was fundic in 50% and 50% were associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of GMH in this study was lower than reported in the world literature. Although it is rare, it can be symptomatic and complicated, so we recommend its detection in the usual endoscopic practice.