Ask the Experts
Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is the most common tumor of esophagus
Risk factors are
- More common in male
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Gastroesophageal reflux and Barrett’s esophagus
- Obesity
Symptoms
- Dysphagia (more for solid than liquids)
- Weight loss
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is confirmed by endoscopy and biopsy
Staging
- CECT, PET, EUS with or without FNA are essential tests for the staging of esophageal cancer
Treatment
- Surgery is the best treatment for early esophageal cancer
- Advanced cancers are treated by chemotherapy and radiotherapy and surgery
- For metastatic disease, esophageal stent can be placed for palliation of dysphagia
