Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus, which is the organ responsible for transporting food and liquids from the throat to the stomach. When the cancerous growth becomes large, it can narrow the esophagus, making it difficult for the patient to swallow food. Various factors are associated with the development of esophageal cancer, including daily lifestyle habits, physical condition, and genetics. Prolonged unhealthy behaviors or lifestyle choices may contribute to the onset of esophageal cancer.
There are two main types of esophageal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type originates from the cells lining the walls of the esophagus and often occurs in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus.
- Adenocarcinoma: This type develops from glandular tissue in the lower part of the esophagus, near the junction with the stomach.
Key risk factors include the consumption of pickled foods, foods high in nitrosamines (such as red meat and processed animal products), and a preference for hot and spicy foods. Additionally, habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known to increase the risk.
Symptoms of esophageal cancer may not manifest in the early stages. Typically, patients become aware of the condition when symptoms worsen. Common signs include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), a sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest, and regurgitation. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild, and chewing food thoroughly or opting for a soft diet may ease swallowing. However, as the cancer grows larger, symptoms become more severe, potentially causing difficulty even with liquids. Patients may also experience excessive mucus production or saliva.
Other symptoms that may accompany esophageal cancer include:
- Chest pain, feeling of tightness, discomfort, or a burning sensation in the chest
- Unexplained weight loss due to difficulty swallowing and loss of appetite
- Hoarseness
- Persistent cough
- Vomiting
- Hiccups
- Black stools, indicating bleeding in the esophagus. Excessive bleeding can lead to weakness and, in severe cases, anemia.
Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer
When suspecting esophageal cancer, the doctor may inquire about various symptoms. A physical examination, especially of the neck and chest areas, may be conducted, and additional diagnostic tests may include the following:
- Endoscopy (Esophagoscopy): A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the inside of the esophagus. If abnormalities are detected, the doctor may perform a biopsy, obtaining a tissue sample for laboratory analysis.
- Barium Swallow Test: The patient swallows a barium solution, and X-ray images are taken to examine the esophagus for abnormalities and tumors.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This three-dimensional imaging technique provides detailed pictures of internal organs, aiding the doctor in locating the disease and assessing its extent more precisely than a regular X-ray.
Treatment of Esophageal Cancer:
Depends on the Stage and Location of the Disease In the early stages, surgical intervention may be employed, possibly in combination with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. As the cancer progresses, a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be used to alleviate swallowing difficulties. Alternatively, palliative treatments, such as feeding tube insertion or direct feeding tube placement into the stomach through surgery, may be considered. Additionally, esophageal stent placement may be performed to widen the esophagus, enabling the patient to consume food more comfortably. These approaches aim to improve the quality of life for patients with esophageal cancer.
Building B, 8th floor
