Locations

Back

Physicians

Back

Advanced Practice Providers

Back

Contact & Important Links

Back

Medical Oncology

Back

Hematology

Back

Radiation Oncology

Back

Breast Health & Surgery

Back

Patient Education

Back

Helpful Patient Information

Back

Patient Forms

Back

Esophageal Cancer

A written page with the definition of "bladder cancer" highlighted in pink

Esophageal cancer is cancer of the esophagus which is the tube in which food and liquids pass from the throat to the stomach. The esophagus is divided into 3 sections: distal, middle and upper. There are two main types of esophageal cancer: adenocarcinoma and squamous cell. Esophageal cancer is the 6th most common cause of cancer related deaths globally and 7th in the United States. There are not any screening tests to detect this cancer early. Therefore, it’s important for individuals to recognize symptoms early and seek care from their providers sooner than later.

Risk Factors May Include:

Barrett’s esophagus
Being male increases risk 2-3 times
Being Caucasian
Being obese
- Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater increases one’s risk 16-fold
Heavy smoking
Heavy alcohol use
Diagnosis of GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease)
Diagnosed with HPV (human papillomavirus)

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms are different for each patient. It’s important to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your physician. They may include:

Difficulty swallowing or sensation of food getting stuck
Unexplained weight loss
Hoarseness and/or persistent cough
Indigestion and/or sour acid taste in the back of throat
Blood in sputum
Pain or tenderness behind the breastbone or chest

Screening & Diagnostic Testing

Screening and diagnostic testing will include a physical exam, various types of tests such as endoscopy, bronchoscopy or flexible laryngoscopy to examine the anatomy of the esophagus and nearby structures. If tissue appears suspicious, a biopsy may be taken to be further examined under a microscope. To help facilitate diagnosis, radiological exams such as chest X-ray, a CT scan or PET scan may be ordered.