Esophageal Cancer: General Information

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Esophageal cancer originates from the lining of the esophagus and presents as either squamous cell carcinoma (cancer that begins in flat cells lining the esophagus) or adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).

The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has included Esophageal Cancer as a Compassionate Allowance to expedite a disability claim.

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Esophageal cancer alternate names: Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagus, Squamous cell carcinoma of the Esophagus.

Esophageal cancer spreads extensively through the esophagus and often extends far beyond the edges of the primary tumor (distant metastases). The cancer generally presents as an obstruction to swallowing with complaints of difficulty swallowing. The definitive test for esophageal cancer is esophagoscopy with visualization of cancer and biopsy.

Testing used to determine the causes of symptoms includes a barium swallow (esophagram), generally done with a series of x-rays of the esophagus, esophagoscopy (also called endoscopy) testing that examines the inside of the esophagus using a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope and a biopsy.

Testing used to determine whether the cancer has spread includes a CT (CAT) scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, a PET scan, a bone scan, and a bronchoscopy.

Historically, treatment of esophageal cancer has been surgery. Current multimodality therapy with radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery has begun to play a major role in treatment.

The prognosis for esophageal cancer is not good regardless of the treatment employed. When esophageal cancer is found very early, there is a better chance of recovery. Esophageal cancer is often in an advanced stage when it is diagnosed. At later stages, esophageal cancer can be treated but rarely can be cured.

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