Esophageal Cancer:
What is esophageal cancer?
Cancer of the esophagus is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form within the tissues of the esophagus. There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Since the esophagus is normally lined with squamous cells, squamous cell carcinoma can affect the entire length of the esophagus. Adenocarcinoma typically starts n the glandular tissue, which normally does not cover the esophagus. If the squamous cells of the esophagus are replaced with glandular cells, adenocarcinoma may occur. This occurs primarily in the lower esophagus, near the stomach.
Causes of esophageal cancer:
Smoking and extreme consumption of alcohol are both risk factors for developing esophageal cancer. Persons who have been diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus also have a higher risk of esophageal cancer. Other risk factors include:
- Tobacco use
- Older age
- Being male
- Being African-American
- GERD – the most common cause of adenocarcinoma
Symptoms of esophageal cancer:
The most common indications of esophageal cancer are weight loss and painful swallowing. Other symptoms include pain behind the breast bone, hoarseness and cough, and indigestion or heartburn. If any of these signs are present, a primary care physician should be contacted.
How is esophageal cancer diagnosed?
The following tests may be used to diagnose esophageal cancer:
- Chest x-ray: an x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest
- Esophagoscopy: a procedure in which the physician will look inside the esophagus
- Biopsy: the removal of a sample of tissue or cells
Treatment options:
Many treatment options are available to patients who have esophageal cancer. Which treatment option is best for each patient greatly depends upon the extent to which the disease has developed. Surgery to remove the tumor is typical for patients whose cancer is confined within the esophagus alone. If a patient has esophageal cancer and the cancer has spread outside the tissue of the esophagus, both radiation and chemotherapy may be suggested by the physician. Other possible treatment options include photodynamic therapy, multipolar electrocautery and laser therapy. A physician will determine the best and most effective treatment based on the individual circumstances of the patient.
Related information:
| University of Missouri Health Care | This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. |
