Esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is malignancy of the esophagus. There are various subtypes. Esophageal tumors usually lead to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), pain and other symptoms, and is diagnosed with biopsy. Small and localized tumors are treated with surgery, and advanced tumors are treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or combinations. Prognosis depends on the extent of the disease and other medical problems, but is fairly poor.

Follow-up and prognosis

Patients are followed up frequently after a treatment regimen has been completed. Frequently, other treatments are necessary to improve symptoms and maximize nutrition.

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Prognosis of esophageal cancer is fairly poor. Five-year prognosis is about 6-16%. Options are limited when the cancer recurs, and emphasis is on symptom control and palliative care when it does.

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