Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in
the tissues of the esophagus. The esophagus is a muscular tube that moves
food and liquids from the throat to the stomach.
The most common types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma
and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma begins in flat cells lining
the esophagus. Adenocarcinoma begins in cells that make and release mucus
and other fluids.
Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and Barrett esophagus can increase the risk
of esophageal cancer.
Esophageal cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because there
are no early signs or symptoms. The esophagus and stomach are part of
the upper gastrointestinal (digestive) system.
Key points to consider
- Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in
the tissues of the esophagus.
- Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and Barrett esophagus can increase the risk
of esophageal cancer.
- Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer are weight loss and painful or
difficult swallowing.
- Tests that examine the esophagus are used to detect (find) and diagnose
esophageal cancer.
- Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
- Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer are weight loss and painful or
difficult swallowing.
The two most common forms of esophageal cancer are named for the type of
cells that become malignant (cancerous):
-
Squamous cell carcinoma: Cancer that forms in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells lining the esophagus.
This cancer is most often found in the upper and middle part of the esophagus,
but can occur anywhere along the esophagus. This is also called epidermoid
carcinoma.
-
Adenocarcinoma: Cancer that begins in glandular (secretory) cells. Glandular cells in
the lining of the esophagus produce and release fluids such as mucus.
Adenocarcinomas usually form in the lower part of the esophagus, near
the stomach.
Risk factors include the following:
- Tobacco use.
- Heavy alcohol use.
- Barrett esophagus: A condition in which the cells lining the lower part
of the esophagus have changed or been replaced with abnormal cells that
could lead to cancer of the esophagus. Gastric reflux (the backing up
of stomach contents into the lower section of the esophagus) may irritate
the esophagus and, over time, cause Barrett esophagus.
- Older age.
These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by esophageal cancer or
by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Painful or difficult swallowing
- Weight loss
- Pain behind the breastbone
- Hoarseness and cough
- Indigestion and heartburn
Source: National Cancer Institute
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For more information or to talk with a Cancer Nurse Navigator, please call
540.741.1211.
Our Cancer Nurse Navigators can help with:
- Answering questions and providing educational materials on cancer and specific
types of cancer
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appointments
- Coordination on your plan of care between your primary care and oncology
physicians
- Access to clinical trials
- Recommendations on resources for nutrition, rehabilitation, transportation,
support groups, financial assistance, and spiritual and emotional guidance
- Making important connections with community support services and resources
- Survivorship support
For more information, or to talk with a Cancer Nurse Navigator, please
call 540.741.1211.