ESOPHAGEAL CANCER Esophageal Cancer is a serious form of cancer that develops in the esophagus, the long tube that connects the back of your mouth with your stomach. The most common types of esophageal cancer are adenocarcinoma, which starts in the glandular cells producing fluids such as mucus, and squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in flat cells of the esophageal lining. Although the causes of esophageal cancer aren’t known, chronic irritation from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, smoking, obesity, and heavy alcohol use are leading risk factors for the disease. SYMPTOMS: • Difficulty in Swallowing • Unintentional Weight Loss • Chest Pain • Heart Burn • Indigestion • Coughing • Hoarse Voice DIAGNOSIS: • Endoscopy – During endoscopy, your doctor passes a flexible tube equipped with a video lens (videoendoscope) down your throat and into your esophagus. Using the endoscope, your doctor examines your esophagus, looking for cancer or areas of irritation. Samples of suspicious tissue can be collected (biopsy). The tissue sample is sent to a laboratory to look for cancer cells. • Determining the Extent of the Cancer – Once a diagnosis of esophageal cancer is confirmed, additional tests may be ordered to determine whether your cancer has spread to your lymph nodes or to other areas of your body. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), Computerized tomography (CT), Positron emission tomography (PET).

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