Although a cure is possible, treatment for esophageal cancer takes place over an extended period of time, which infringes on quality of life. The treatment options include esophagectomy, a procedure to remove all or part of the esophagus. This method carries a high rate of mortality. Nonsurgical treatment includes radiation and chemotherapy, either alone or concurrently.
Esophageal Cancer is Subdivided into Two Categories
- Adenocarcinoma, which makes up 50 percent of all new cases. It is linked to the development of a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This occurs when the amount of stomach acid that flows backwards into the esophagus is greater than the normal limit. This backwards flow, or reflux, can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, in which the lining of the esophagus becomes damaged, and normal mature cells are replaced with immature abnormal ones.
- Squamous cell carcinoma, which is linked to smoking and alcohol consumption.
Patients with Early Stage Disease are Asymptomatic
Patients do not initially present with symptoms; however as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weight loss
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Frequent choking during meals
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Persistent coughing or hoarseness
Other Causes of Esophageal Cancer
- Vitamin and nutritional deficiencies, especially riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Tylosis palmaris et plantaris, a genetic disorder in which there is thickening of the palms and soles and white patches in the mouth
Asbestos Exposure Linked to Esophageal Cancer
In 2005, the Institute of Medicine, which is a division of the National Academies, published a report titled “Asbestos: Selected Cancers” that investigated the relationship between asbestos and certain cancers. Here is what it said about esophageal cancer: