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Esophageal Cancer

  • Esophageal cancer is a cancer that develops in the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
  • It usually begins in the inner lining of the esophagus and can spread to deeper tissues.
  • Commonly affects older adults.
  • Often diagnosed at advanced stages.
  • Difficulty swallowing is a common symptom.

Types of Esophageal Cancer

  • Adenocarcinoma
    • Develops in glandular cells
    • Common in the lower esophagus
    • Associated with acid reflux and Barrett’s esophagus
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma
    • Arises from squamous cells lining the esophagus
    • More common in the upper and middle esophagus

Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Indigestion
  • Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer

  • Endoscopy
  • Biopsy
  • CT scan
  • PET scan
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
  • Barium swallow study

Treatment of Esophageal Cancer

  • Surgery
    • Esophagectomy
    • Removal of affected tissue
  • Radiation Therapy
    • External beam radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
    • Often combined with radiation
  • Targeted & Immunotherapy
    • HER2-targeted therapy
    • Immune checkpoint inhibitors
  • Palliative Care
    • Stent placement
    • Nutritional support
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