Cancer in the esophagus (swallowing tube).

What is esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer is a cancer that develops in the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach.

There are two main types of esophageal cancer:

  • Adenocarcinoma, which most commonly develops in the lower part of the esophagus and is the most common type in the United States
  • Squamous cell carcinoma, which typically develops in the upper or middle portion of the esophagus

Early-stage esophageal cancer may not cause symptoms. As the cancer grows, swallowing and other digestive symptoms can develop.

What causes esophageal cancer?
The exact cause of esophageal cancer is not known, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the disease.

Risk factors include:

Long-term acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus and lead to Barrett's esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms of esophageal cancer
Symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable as the cancer grows.

Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Food getting stuck when swallowing
  • Persistent heartburn
  • Vomiting
  • Chronic cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Unintentional weight loss

Diagnosing esophageal cancer
Your provider will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Additional testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer.

Testing may include:

These tests help determine the location, size, and extent of the cancer and guide treatment planning.

Treatment for esophageal cancer
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health.

Treatment options may include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

Some treatments focus on relieving symptoms and improving swallowing. These may include:

  • Esophageal stent placement
  • Esophageal dilation

Your care team will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs.

When to seek care
Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Difficulty swallowing food or liquids
  • Food getting stuck in your chest
  • Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Ongoing vomiting
  • Hoarseness or a chronic cough

Early evaluation can help identify the cause of your symptoms and determine whether additional testing is needed.

Contact us
If you have questions about esophageal cancer or treatment options, please contact our office at 612-871-1145.

Additional Resources for esophageal cancer