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816-836-2200
Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
Request An Appointment
816-836-2200
Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
Esophageal Cancer is a condition that effects the esophagus; the tube connecting the throat to the stomach that transports foods and liquids.
Also referred to as an Esophageal Tumor, esophageal cancer is caused by malignant cancer cells that grow in the walls of the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus consists of multiple layers of tissue. Esophageal cancer grows in the inner walls of the tissue and moves outward through the esophagus.
Esophageal cancer can show up in two forms:
The esophageal cancer can be found anywhere in the esophagus, but is usually located in the upper and middle parts of the esophageal walls.
Cancer is more likely to be found in the lower portion of the esophagus in the secretory gland cells. This is more common in the United States.
Most symptoms of esophageal cancer begin with difficulties in the throat. Trouble swallowing is usually the number one symptom. Because the tumor closes the walls of the esophagus, difficulty eating and swallowing are likely to occur. Other symptoms include weight loss, heartburn, and continual pain behind the breastbone.
At Midwest Gastroenterology, we perform an endoscopy (EGD) to evaluate the esophagus and determine esophageal cancer. During this procedure, a patient is comfortably sedated while a small camera is inserted through the mouth or nose so that our doctors can get a good look at your upper GI, or the track from your throat to your stomach. If doctors see any suspicious growth or cells, they will biopsy the area to test for esophageal cancer.
Esophageal cancer tends to be more common outside of the United States; however, those in the US are still at risk for esophageal cancer.
Patients who suffer from Barrett esophagus, a condition that affects the lower section of the esophagus and is caused by abnormal cell change in the esophageal walls, are at greater risk for esophageal cancer.
Your risk for esophageal cancer may be higher if:
Especially for those who experience frequent heartburn, do not delay in seeing a physician. By receiving frequent checkups and proper treatment, you may reduce your risk of esophageal cancer.
