Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer is more common in men. It is usually associated with chronic alcohol use and smoking.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the type found in the mid and upper esophagus. Adenocarcinoma occurs in the lower esophagus due to the reflux of columnar epithelium as seen in Barrett's Metaplasia, as discussed in Chapter 5.

Tumors Located above the EG Junction
Adenocarcinoma extended up through the EG junction

Symptoms include progressive dysphagia, substernal pain, anorexia and weight loss. Unfortunately symptoms do not occur until the tumor is quite large and almost to the point of obstruction.

From:  Endoscopy: " An Insiders Look" by Krista M. Stayton, RN.  Used with permission.