Description The esophagus is th...
Description
The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Esophageal cancer usually begins in the lower third of the esophagus, and occurs predominantly in adults over the age of 50. Esophageal cancer has often spread by the time it is diagnosed or soon after. It is more common in smokers, heavy alcohol drinkers and those with Barrett's esophagus.
Symptoms
Chest pain, vomiting undigested food, blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, black stools (melena).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: barium swallow, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and biopsy; a chest CT scan or MRI may be recommended to determine the extent of the disease.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), biopsy
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Surgical Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: barium swallow, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and biopsy; a chest CT scan or MRI may be recommended to determine the extent of the disease.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), biopsy
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Surgical Oncology
Treatment
If the cancer only involves the esophagus, surgery may be the only treatment needed. For more advanced cases chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may also be offered. If the cancer is far advanced palliative treatment may be the only appropriate option.