esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is the sixth most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. It presents with symptoms that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life such as swallowing disorders (dysphagia), heartburn, and unintentional weight loss. The two main types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Diagnosis is most often made by upper endoscopy procedure with biopsy. Early treatment is imperative for a better prognosis and enhances the chance of survival. Cancer limited to the surface of the esophagus may be treated by endoscopy. Most patients with esophageal cancer require surgery to remove the cancer which may be performed through a minimally invasive approach. Patients may also undergo combined modality treatment with chemoradiotherapy.