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The esophagus is a muscular tube that carries food and liquid from the throat to the stomach. When cells in this inner lining begin growing uncontrollably, it can lead to esophageal cancer.
This cancer is relatively uncommon, accounting for about 1% of all diagnosed cancers in the U.S. It begins in the lining of the esophagus and progresses over time. Knowing what to expect can help ease some of the anxiety that often comes with this diagnosis.
There are two main types of esophageal cancer, based on where the cancer starts:
Squamous cell carcinoma: Begins in the flat cells lining the upper and middle esophagus. Less common in the U.S.
Adenocarcinoma: Begins in gland cells in the lower esophagus, where it meets the stomach. It is the most common type of esophageal cancer in the U.S.
Other rare forms include small cell carcinoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, melanoma, and choriocarcinoma.
Esophageal cancer symptoms or signs may include the following:
Unexplained weight loss
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Throat pain or pain behind the breastbone
Burning in the chest
Frequent choking on food
Coughing or hoarseness
If you notice any of these symptoms, check with your doctor. Many of these signs can also result from other conditions, so it's important to follow up
There are different esophageal cancer treatment options. Your care plan will depend on factors like the cancer’s type, stage, and your overall health. Always talk with your doctor to understand which approach is right for you.
Surgery is a common treatment for esophageal cancer. During an esophagectomy, part of the esophagus is removed. The remaining healthy portion is then connected to the stomach, allowing the patient to continue swallowing.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells.
External radiation therapy delivers radiation from a machine outside the body.
Internal radiation therapy places a radioactive substance inside the body, sealed in catheters near the cancer.
Chemotherapy uses medications that kill cancer cells or prevent them from dividing. These drugs may be used alone or alongside other treatments, depending on your specific situation.
Diagnosis begins with a review of your medical history and a physical exam. From there, doctors may recommend tests such as:
A thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera is inserted down the throat to look at the esophagus lining.
This test checks if a tumor is growing into the airway using a lighted tube inserted into the windpipe.
A scope is passed through the mouth or nose to look for abnormalities in the esophagus.
A small tissue sample is taken from the affected area for examination under a microscope. .
Our esophageal cancer specialists are dedicated to providing excellent patient care by prescribing effective, individualized treatment plans. Our team includes some of Florida's most experienced providers. Our professionals strive to create a supportive environment for patients and their families throughout their cancer journey.
MD, Hematology & Oncology
MD, Ph.D., Hematology/ Medical Oncology
MD, Radiation Oncologist
ACTC has a clinical team with over two decades of experience supporting our caregivers and staff. We are committed to providing patients with personalized treatments at every stage. Our facility comes equipped with an infusion room, medical and radiation oncology exam rooms, a treatment vault, and cutting-edge diagnostic technology for esophageal cancer treatment.
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
Stage 0 (high-grade dysplasia), stage I, stage II, stage III, and stage IV are the different stages of squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. In Stage 0, abnormal cells are found only in the innermost layer of the esophagus lining. Stage IV indicates the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body
Some risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux, and Barrett's esophagus (a condition where the cells lining the lower esophagus have changed or become abnormal).
The most common symptom is the sensation that food is stuck in the throat or the feeling of choking while eating. These symptoms may worsen over time and cause swallowing pain.
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
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15211 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville, Florida 34613