What is esophageal cancer?

Making up about 1% of cancer cases in the U.S., esophageal cancer is one of the rarest types. It begins in the esophagus—a long, muscular tube connecting your mouth to your stomach—and can develop in any part of the esophagus but is most common in the lower part. Esophageal cancer can be either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, depending on the type of cells affected.

What causes esophageal cancer?

Risk factors that increase your chances of developing esophageal cancer include: 

• Achalasia
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• History of bulimia or other eating disorders
• Obesity
• Poor nutrition
• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Frequently drinking very hot liquids
• Drinking excessive alcohol

The most common symptom of esophageal cancer is pain or difficulty when swallowing. This symptom often feels mild at first, but it may become difficult to swallow very soft foods. Other symptoms include:

• Chronic cough or hoarseness
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Pain or pressure in the chest or behind the breastbone
• Unintended weight loss
• Vomiting or hiccups

Esophageal cancer screenings and diagnosis

While examining your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can get a better look at your condition through one of these diagnostic tests:

• Barium swallow: Requires someone to drink a liquid with barium—a silvery metal—in it, which is easier to detect in an X-ray.
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): Uses a thin, flexible tube to view the inside of your esophagus.
• Imaging
  • CT scan
  • Ultrasound
• Biopsy

Esophageal cancer treatment and surgery

Treatment plans will vary based on your general health and the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. Your doctor may suggest:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy 

Our multidisciplinary team at St. Luke’s Health works with patients to recommend what treatment options are best for each case and each person. Talk to your physician for more information.