Esophageal Cancer

About

Esophageal cancer occurs when cancerous cells begin to grow in the tube that connects your mouth to the stomach, responsible for transporting food.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the cancer stage and the exact location. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintended and sudden weight loss
• Pain, pressure, and burning sensation in the chest
• Heartburn
• Worsening digestion
• Hoarseness
• Persistent coughing

Causes

There are no proper studies for the exact cause of this condition begins when healthy cells in the esophagus divide and multiply abnormally at an unusual speed. This change in the rate of cell division is a result of a mutation in the cell that further results in the formation of a tumor. Common risk factors for the development of esophageal cancer include:

• History of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Smoking
• Barrett’s esophagus (precancerous changes)
• Obesity
• Heavy drinking
• History of bile reflux
• Drinking very hot liquids consistently
• Inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables

Diagnosis

Doctors may order tests based on your risk and symptoms:

• Barium swallow study
• Endoscopy
• Biopsy

Additional tests after diagnosis may include:

• Bronchoscopy
• Endoscopic ultrasound
• CT scan

Treatment

Esophageal cancer treatment is decided based on the type and stage of cancer. There are several different modules available for effective treatment. Common alternatives include:
Surgery – Different types of surgeries are advised to remove tumors from the esophagus. Based on the location and size of the tumor, your doctor will perform one of the following surgical procedures:

• Surgery to remove small tumors
• Surgery to remove a portion of the esophagus
• Surgery to remove part of the esophagus and upper portion of the stomach – Known as esophagogastrectomy
• Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment in which certain drugs and medications are administered to help destroy cancer cells and stop them from spreading. This treatment is usually given before or after surgery for maximum benefits.

Our Esophageal Cancer Specialists

Dr. Mandeep Singh

Director - Pulmonary Medicine Department

MBBS, MD, DM(T.B, Res. Disease)

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Dr. Navdeep Singh Nanda

Thoracic Surgeon

MBBS(Gold Medalist), MS(General Surgery), DNB(Thoracic Surgery), MNAMS

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Dr. Dilbag Singh

Consultant Pulmonologist Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Specialist

MD Pulmonary Medicine , DNB Respiratory Medicine, MRCP UK SCE , Eupoean Diploma Respiratory Medicine , Fellowship Sleep Medicine ( ISDA ) , Fellowship Critical Care Medicine ( Gurgaon Fortis ) Ex DM Fellow ( SKIMS )

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Dr. Neeraj Vijay Gajwani

Resident - TB & Chest

MBBS

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