Esophageal Cancer

What Is Esophageal Cancer?

The esophagus is the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Its wall is made up of several layers of tissue, including the innermost lining, where most cancers begin. Esophageal cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the esophagus grow uncontrollably and spread outward through the wall. Once cancer reaches blood or lymphatic vessels, it can spread to other parts of the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

Symptoms of esophageal cancer can vary, but may include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain or discomfort in the throat or chest
• Persistent heartburn or indigestion
• Hoarseness or changes in the voice
• Chronic cough or hiccups
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia
• Bone pain
• Vomiting or dark stools
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• A sensation of a mass in the throat

These symptoms may also be caused by other conditions. It is important to see a doctor for evaluation if you experience any of them.

How Is Esophageal Cancer Detected?

Our specialists begin with a detailed review of your medical, surgical, social, and family history, supported by laboratory testing and imaging studies. Diagnostic tools may include:

• CT scan (Computed Tomography): Provides detailed cross-sectional images using X-rays.
• Endoscopy: Uses a flexible tube with a camera to view the inside of the esophagus.
• PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Detects cancer cells using a small amount of radioactive tracer.
• PET-CT scan: Combines PET and CT imaging for greater accuracy.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses magnetic fields to create high-resolution images of soft tissues.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to generate images of organs and tissues.

If a suspicious mass is identified, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer type.

Stages of Esophageal Cancer

Staging describes how far colorectal cancer has spread and helps guide treatment. According to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC):

Stage 0

Abnormal cells are found only in the innermost lining of the esophagus. This stage is also called carcinoma in situ.

Stage I

Cancer has grown into the deeper layers of the esophageal wall but has not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.

Stage II

Cancer has spread more deeply into the muscle layer of the esophagus and may involve nearby lymph nodes.

Stage III

Cancer has extended through the esophageal wall into nearby tissues and has often spread to lymph nodes.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or other organs.

How Is Esophageal Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the stage and type of esophageal cancer. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These may be used alone or in combination based on your doctor’s recommendations. Factors considered when creating a treatment plan include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The stage of your cancer
• Any other medical conditions you have
• The urgency of beginning treatment
• Your doctor’s recommendations about timing and options
• The likelihood that treatment will control or cure your cancer
• Possible side effects of each treatment

It is important to ask questions and work closely with your care team to weigh the potential benefits and risks of each treatment approach.

Our Approach

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary. Here at The New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our teams around you. Our expert oncologists will help guide you through this difficult time, answering any questions you may have along the way. We are here for you and will do everything in our power to meet your specific needs and exceed your expectations. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to cancer, please call us as soon as possible at (855) 528-7322 or make an appointment online.